Hi,
When changing Shopify Payments accounts, you will require the assistance of the Shopify Support team. Create a support request here: https://bit.ly/3cJkx8V
Topic summary
Topic: New owner of a purchased Shopify store cannot activate Shopify Payments (Shopify’s built-in payment processor).
Key issue and error:
- Activation fails with: “Could not activate Shopify Payments — Name has already been taken / you must disable Shopify Payments to use this provider.”
- A staff member notes this often occurs if the business address/location was changed to a different country in Settings > Store Details.
Support and actions taken:
- Community advises that only Shopify Support can fix this; use the support portal for 24/7 live chat/phone/email.
- The owner opened a ticket, then tried live chat; received replies but no resolution yet. Asked for escalation and potential refund due to store being unusable.
Policy context and constraints:
- Support staff cannot access accounts or escalate via the forum. Typical escalated response time is 3–5 business days, sometimes longer.
- Support reportedly cited the Terms of Service: a new owner may be ineligible for Shopify Payments.
Current status:
- Unresolved/ongoing. Owner remains frustrated; another member asks if it was solved.
- Open questions: confirmation of eligibility for Shopify Payments post-transfer, and any escalation path beyond standard support timelines.