Zelle Is Gone, But These Banks Still Let You Send Money

Zelle Shuts Down Its Standalone App: What You Need to Know

If Zelle was your go-to app for sending money, it’s time to adapt: the standalone app officially ceased operations on April 1. But don’t panic just yet! While the app itself may be gone, many banks still integrate Zelle into their own platforms, and a plethora of other digital payment services are at your fingertips. Let’s dive into the details and explore your options for sending money digitally.

Why Did Zelle Discontinue Its Standalone App?

Zelle’s remarkable journey began in 2017, starting with a modest offering from just 60 U.S. financial institutions. Fast forward to today, and over 2,200 banks now support this swift payment solution. In fact, less than 2% of Zelle’s transactions now take place through its standalone app, prompting a strategic shift towards leveraging bank platforms instead.

As Zelle stated in a press release, “Today, the vast majority of people using Zelle to send money use it through their financial institution’s mobile app or online banking experience, and we believe this is the best place for Zelle transactions to occur.”

In late 2022, Zelle faced scrutiny when the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) filed a lawsuit against the service and several major U.S. banks, alleging that they failed to protect users against fraud. Fortunately, the lawsuit has since been dropped, allowing users to focus on their digital transactions without added concern.

Accessing Zelle Through Your Bank

Fear not, Zelle aficionados! You can continue to use Zelle seamlessly through many participating bank apps. With more than 2,000 banks in the network, there’s a strong chance your bank is one of them. Major banks offering Zelle include:

• Bank of America
• Capital One
• Chase Bank
• Citizens Bank
• Discover Bank
• Morgan Stanley
• PNC Bank
• U.S. Bank
• Wells Fargo Bank

To check if your bank is part of the Zelle network, search here.

Exploring Alternative Digital Payment Platforms

In addition to Zelle, plenty of other digital payment apps can make sending money a breeze. Consider transitioning to one of these options:

• Apple Wallet
• Cash App
• PayPal
• Venmo

Each of these platforms offers unique features and user experiences, ensuring you can find one that meets your needs.

Practicing Safety with Digital Payments

While digital payments offer convenience, they also come with risks. Scammers frequently target these platforms, so exercise caution when using Zelle or any other digital payment service. Here are a few key tips for keeping your transactions safe:

• Only send money to people you know and trust.
• Be on the lookout for red flags, such as urgent messages that appear to be from your bank or deals that seem too good to be true. For example, an online ad promoting concert tickets at unbelievable discounts could be a scam.
• Stay informed: Some banks, such as Chase, have begun blocking suspected fraudulent Zelle payments, adding an additional layer of protection.

In conclusion, while the Zelle standalone app may have come to an end, you still have plenty of options to send money digitally. Whether you choose to continue using Zelle through your bank or explore other robust digital payment apps, remember to prioritize your security. Adaptation is the key to effortlessly managing your finances in this ever-evolving digital landscape!