If you’ve been using Zelle to send money quickly and easily, recent changes might leave you wondering what’s next. The app is gone, and while many banks still support the service through their platforms, it’s a good moment to reassess your options.
Whether you want faster transfers, better security, or bonus features like investing tools and debit cards, these seven alternatives can help you stay flexible and in control of your money.
Pro Tip: If you’ve got at least $100,000 in investments, check out a free service called SmartAsset. You fill out a short questionnaire and instantly get matched with up to three vetted financial advisors in your area.
1. Your bank’s integrated Zelle service
While the Zelle app is gone, the service is still going strong. Now supported by over 2,200 financial institutions, Zelle is fully embedded in most banks’ digital platforms.
That deep integration is why the app was retired — fewer than 2% of transactions used it.
Major banks like Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citi, PNC, and TD offer Zelle directly through their apps and websites. Just log into your bank and find the Zelle option.
Pro Tip: Earn as much as possible on your emergency savings while maintaining easy access for transfers. For example, SoFi Checking is offering 3.8% interest, plus a potential $300 signup bonus. (May change without notice.)
2. Venmo for social payment experiences
If you’re looking for a payment platform with a social twist, Venmo offers a unique experience that combines financial transactions with social interactions. Venmo allows users to attach notes and emojis to payments, making the experience feel more personal when splitting dinner bills or paying friends back.
Venmo’s interface makes seeing your transaction history in group settings particularly easy. The platform links to your bank account or debit card, with standard transfers being free and instant transfers charging a small fee (1.75%) to your bank account.
As you manage multiple payment apps, staying on top of your overall financial health is important.
Pro Tip: Need cash, debt relief, or help funding a major expense? Find the best options tailored to your specific financial situation — fast, easy, and secure. Explore financial solutions here.
3. PayPal for versatile payment needs
As a digital payment pioneer, PayPal offers one of the most widely accepted and comprehensive solutions for both peer-to-peer transfers and online shopping.
It provides strong buyer protections, serving as a buffer between your bank account and merchants. Bank-linked person-to-person transfers are fee-free with standard delivery.
PayPal’s reliability makes it a great tool for managing everyday payments — like splitting bills or covering monthly expenses such as your phone plan.
Pro Tip: Paying more than $15 a month for your cell service? Stop that. Click here to save a bundle.
4. Cash App for straightforward money moves
For those who prefer simplicity, Cash App delivers a streamlined experience focused on making peer-to-peer money transfers as painless as possible. The clean interface eliminates clutter, allowing users to send and request money with minimal friction.
Beyond basic transfers, Cash App offers a free debit card (the Cash Card) that works anywhere Visa is accepted.
The platform also provides options for purchasing stocks and Bitcoin directly in the app — features that go beyond simple money transfers and potentially offer more financial flexibility for those interested in investment opportunities.
Pro Tip: Invest with zero commissions beyond Cash App! Start small with just $1 and diversify across stocks, bonds, ETFs, crypto, and art using this popular app - sign up today.
5. Apple Cash for iPhone ecosystem users
For those in the Apple ecosystem, Apple Cash offers seamless integration with your devices. You can send money via iMessage or Siri, making it intuitive for iPhone users.
Transfers are free with a linked debit card, though credit cards incur a 1.5% fee.
The main drawback is that both parties must use Apple devices — so if you often send money to Android users, you’ll need another option. As you juggle digital tools, consider diversifying your investments too.
Pro Tip: One modern way to diversify beyond digital payment apps is with real estate and venture capital. Companies like Fundrise offer investments as small as $10. Note: This is a testimonial in partnership with Fundrise. We earn a commission from partner links on moneytalksnews.com. All opinions are our own.
6. Understanding fee structures across platforms
Each platform has fees that may influence your choice. Standard bank transfers are usually free but take 1–3 business days. Instant transfers often carry fees — 1.5% with Cash App, and up to 1.75% with Venmo or PayPal.
Some charge extra for funding via credit cards instead of debit or bank accounts. International transfers, like those on PayPal, include currency conversion fees not found in domestic transactions.
In today’s uncertain economy, even small fees can add up — making it crucial to safeguard your overall financial health.
Pro Tip: Gold can offer a strong defense against economic uncertainties that might affect digital payment systems. If you’re concerned about inflation or market shocks, consider safeguarding part of your savings by opening a gold IRA.
Essential security practices for all payment apps
Enable all available security features, including two-factor authentication, PIN protection, and biometric verification where offered. Being proactive about security is similar to being proactive about your overall health — prevention is always better than dealing with problems after they occur.
Be extremely cautious about who you send money to — most digital payment services offer limited recourse for recovering funds sent to scammers. Only send payments to people you know and trust personally.
When fraud or surprise expenses hit, having safeguards in place — both digital and financial — can save you thousands.
Pro Tip: Car repair bills aren’t what they used to be. One auto shop told Consumer Reports their average job rose from $1,600 a decade ago to $4,000 today. Endurance gives you access to thousands of ASE-certified repair shops and pays the bill upfront, so you’re only responsible for the deductible. Get a free quote today!
