This page outlines recent changes to the PAOneStop login system, including new email and password requirements, a Forgot Password feature, the one-time first login process, recommended account structures for different organizations, and where to find additional support.

Account Changes

New Email Requirements

All PAOneStop users are now required to have an email address connected to their account. This change enables self-service password recovery and strengthens account security. When creating a new account, you must provide a valid email address during registration. If you already have an existing account, you will be prompted to enter a valid email address the first time you log in after this update.

New Password Requirements

All new passwords must now meet updated security requirements. Passwords must be at least eight characters long and include at least one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number, and one special character. These requirements apply when creating a new account, when logging into an existing account for the first time after the update, and when resetting your password through the forgot password recovery process.

New Features

New Forgot Password Button

A forgot password button is now available for self-service password recovery. To use this feature, your account must already have a verified email address, meaning it is only available after you have completed the one-time account setup. When used, a password reset link will be sent to the email address on file for your account.

One Time Account Setup

Overview

All existing PAOneStop users will need to complete this one-time account setup to add an email address and reset their password. The steps are outlined below. A short instructional video is also available showing the complete process.

First-Time Login Process

The first time you log in after this update, you will be guided through a one-time setup process that includes email verification and a password reset.

  1. Log in to PAOneStop using your existing credentials.
  2. Enter the email address you would like to associate with your account.
  3. A verification email will be sent to that address. Click the link in the email to confirm it.
  4. After your email is verified, you will need to reset your password. Enter your account username.
  5. A password reset link will be sent to the email you just verified. Click the link and create a new password that meets the updated requirements.
  6. Once both steps are complete, you can log in with your new credentials and access PAOneStop as usual.

This process only needs to be completed once. Its purpose is to ensure that every PAOneStop account has a verified email address on file and that all passwords meet the new security standards. Multiple accounts can be associated with a single email address, and you can change your associated email address at any time after logging in.

Account Structure

Overview

We understand that these account changes could affect the way you organize your accounts and conduct business. To keep the disruption minimal, we have provided some recommended approaches to setting up accounts based on your organization type. In the future, we intend to develop additional recommended account structures that better support your workflows while getting the most out of PAOneStop.

Shared Email Structure

This approach is commonly used by Conservation District offices but can be applied by any organization that needs centralized account management. We recommend the following approach:

  1. Use an email address that can be accessed by multiple people, or one tied to a role with low turnover.
  2. Create separate accounts for each employee, all associated with your primary email address.
  3. If an employee leaves or needs new credentials, you can reset the password from the shared email.

In essence, the person who controls the email controls the account.

Account Transfer Structure

This approach is commonly used by commercial planners helping producers get started but can be applied by anyone who needs to create an account and transfer ownership. We recommend the following approach:

  1. Create the account using agreed-upon login information.
  2. Verify the email address upon account creation.
  3. Complete any work that must be done before transferring the account.
  4. When ready to transfer, change the email to the producer's email address on the account page.
  5. Send the new owner the account credentials.
  6. Once the owner has successfully logged in, have them reset their password to keep the account secure.

Note: You should never share a password over email or any other recorded method.

Additional Assistance

Account Recovery

If you are unable to recover your account or are having trouble logging in with your existing credentials, please send an email to PAOneStop Support. We can work with you to take the necessary steps to recover your account.

Account Structure

If you are having trouble or difficulty with account structure and want help figuring out what works best for you and your organization, please reach out to PAOneStop Support.