> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://documentation.opencollective.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://documentation.opencollective.com/advanced/permmlinks-and-ids.md).

# Permalinks and Public IDs

Open Collective uses short **permalinks** and **public IDs** so you can share links to specific expenses, contributions, and other records. Permalinks open the correct dashboard view based on who is signed in.

## Public IDs

Each record has a public ID with a type prefix:

| Prefix | Record type          |
| ------ | -------------------- |
| `ex_`  | Expense              |
| `or_`  | Order (contribution) |

You can copy a public ID from the expense header (**Copy ID** chip) or from dashboard action menus.

## Permalink URLs

Permalink format:

```
https://opencollective.com/permalink/{publicId}
```

Short links also work at `/id/{publicId}` and redirect to the appropriate destination.

## Copy link actions

In dashboard lists and detail views, use **Copy link** from the row actions menu or **More Actions**. The copied URL is a permalink that routes viewers to the right place:

* **Fiscal host admins** - host expense or contribution views
* **Collective admins** - collective payment request or contribution views
* **Submitters** - submitted expenses or outgoing contributions
* **Guests** - public expense page or sign-in prompt when access is required

## Private accounts

Permalinks to records on private accounts redirect unauthorized viewers. If you do not have permission to view a private account, you may see an access-denied page rather than the record details.

See [Private Organizations](/organizations/private-organizations.md) for more on private account visibility.

## Legacy URLs

Older URLs using collective slugs and numeric IDs (for example `/{collective}/expenses/{id}`) may still work. Prefer permalinks when sharing links with teammates or between dashboard sections.


---

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