How to Use Zelle to Send Money Through Your Bank

Zelle is a money transfer service that moves funds directly between bank accounts. Unlike Venmo, there's no Zelle balance — when someone sends you money, it goes straight into your checking account, usually within minutes. And when you send, the money leaves your account right away.

The most convenient thing about Zelle is that it's already built into the mobile banking apps of hundreds of US banks and credit unions, including Bank of America, Chase, Wells Fargo, US Bank, and many others. You may not need to download a separate app at all. Open your bank's app and look for a "Send Money" or "Zelle" option in the menu.

If your bank doesn't offer Zelle, you can download the standalone Zelle app. You'll enroll with your US phone number or email address and link a Visa or Mastercard debit card.

To send money, open Zelle in your bank app, tap Send, and enter the recipient's phone number or email address. The recipient also needs to have Zelle — either through their bank app or the standalone app. If they haven't enrolled yet, they'll receive a text or email with instructions to claim the money within 14 days.

Transfer limits vary by bank. Most banks allow several hundred to a few thousand dollars per day, and a higher weekly limit. Check your bank's website or call customer service to find your exact limits.

Here's an important warning: payments made through Zelle are almost impossible to reverse. Once you confirm a transfer, that money moves immediately. This makes Zelle very convenient — but also very attractive to scammers. Never use Zelle to pay someone you don't know personally. Never pay "customer support" callers who ask for Zelle payment. Legitimate businesses and government agencies will never ask for Zelle payments. If someone pressures you to pay quickly via Zelle, that's a scam.