Tax restrictions - can't use ebay funds to purchase?

[very-random-stuff]

Hi,

Is it just me, or are purchases using one's ebay funds also restricted until you add your tax info? 

This is what I see when I try to buy something: I can't use the monies in my ebay balance:

[jckl1957]

If your funds are on hold because Ebay have asked for your NI number and you haven't supplied it, then you won't be able to withdraw your money or spend it on the site.

[very-random-stuff]

Thanks. Yes, indeed it seems they have blocked all use of funds if an NI number is not provided.

Perhaps I'm being pedantic, but I chose not to provide my NI number on the strength of eBay's advice that "payouts" would be suspended. Payouts, as I understand, means payment of monies to our account, not use of funds as credits within the eBay ecosystem.