I found 10 alternatives for the Zelle app - now that you can't use it to send money

Today, over two thousand financial institutions use Zelle. Although it's a standalone app, most banks offer Zelle within their own applications. I've used Zelle on occasion, and my wife uses it every day for her business.

But starting yesterday, the Zelle app -- not the service -- is no longer being used to send money.

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Why is that? According to this official Zelle post from October 31, 2024, "When Zelle first launched, we also created a standalone Zelle-branded app for consumers whose banks or credit unions had not yet joined the network. With the strong growth of adoption by banks and credit unions, we now see just ~2% of transactions on the standalone app."

It makes sense. Since most banks offer the Zelle service within their own apps, and approximately two percent of transactions are handled within the Zelle app, the company can save money by phasing out the ability to transact within its standalone app. 

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If you want to check if your bank offers Zelle, take a look at this Zelle search tool. If your bank is listed, it offers Zelle. If your bank (or credit union) isn't listed, what can you do? Fortunately, there are options. 

For domestic money transfers, try one of these apps.

For international money transfers, consider one of these:

As a word of advice, when using a mobile app to send money, consider these important factors: Major platforms like Venmo and PayPal have robust security features, including encryption, secure authentication methods, and fraud protection systems, ensuring safe transactions.

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To avoid errors or scams, only send or receive money from trusted contacts. If you're dealing with an unfamiliar profile, always look up the sender's information before proceeding. Most payment apps support various transaction methods, such as bank transfers, credit or debit card payments, and peer-to-peer transfers. However, the specific forms of payment accepted will depend on the platform you use.

Some apps charge transaction fees, while others have varying fee structures. Before sending money, understand the costs associated with your chosen app to avoid unexpected charges. By taking these steps, you can improve your online security and reduce the risk of fraudulent activity.

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