Cash App is a super popular app that allows you to send and receive money, make payments with a linked card, get direct deposits early, and even invest in stocks or bitcoin.
Millions of people use it every day to pay friends, family, or shop online. If you’re not on Cash App yet, you can get a $5 bonus just for signing up with this referral code: DQDVLXG.
Why You Might Look for Cash App Alternatives
While Cash App is convenient and works well for most people, it has its limitations. For example, it’s not the best choice for international payments, as it only supports a few countries. Plus, Cash App charges fees for some transactions, like when you cash out instantly or transfer funds using a credit card. There have also been reports of fraud and scams involving Cash App, so it’s not the most secure option out there.
If you’re looking for other apps that offer better international support, lower fees, or just different features, you’re in luck. There are plenty of alternatives that can meet your needs. Whether you want to send money internationally, save on everyday purchases, bank with more flexibility, or invest in stocks or crypto, there’s an app for that.
Here are 12 great alternatives to Cash App that you can try, each with its own set of features. By the end of this list, you’ll have a clearer idea of which one might be the best fit for you.
Best Apps Like Cash App
Each of these apps has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s up to you to decide which one works best for your needs. Let’s take a look at some of the best alternatives:
1. Wise (formerly TransferWise)
If you’re looking for a fast, low-cost way to send and receive international payments, Wise is a great choice. It lets you hold 50+ currencies, send money to over 80 countries using the real exchange rate, and get paid like a local from 30 different countries.
Wise is up to 6x cheaper than traditional banks for international transfers, and it uses the mid-market exchange rate, which is the fairest rate available. Wise also has a debit card, so you can spend your balance anywhere Visa is accepted with no foreign transaction fees. Plus, you get instant notifications, spending analytics, and security controls.
Perfect for freelancers, travelers, expats, and online shoppers who need to send or receive money internationally!
2. PayPal
PayPal is one of the most popular and widely used payment apps worldwide. You can use PayPal to send and receive money for personal and business purposes, pay for goods and services, and more—just like Cash App. It’s easy to set up and only requires an email or phone number. You can link your bank account, debit/credit card, or PayPal balance.
PayPal also offers security features that protect your account from fraud. You’ll have encryption for your personal and financial info, plus 24/7 activity monitoring. PayPal also offers buyer and seller protection programs for eligible transactions.
If you shop online often or need a reliable payment method for various purposes, PayPal is an excellent option.
3. Google Pay
Google Pay is another great alternative that lets you make payments online, in stores, or send money to other people. You can link your bank accounts, cards, or PayPal accounts, and use your phone to pay at any contactless terminal. Google Pay also works at thousands of online stores.
You can send and receive money with anyone who has an email address or phone number. Google Pay allows you to split bills with friends, request money, or even pay someone back instantly. Plus, there’s a cash back feature where you can earn up to 5% on purchases with participating merchants.
For anyone who wants a simple, secure way to pay with their phone, Google Pay is a great choice.
4. Venmo
Venmo, owned by PayPal, is another popular app for sending and receiving money with friends. You can add fun emojis, comments, and likes to your transactions, making it a more social experience compared to Cash App.
Venmo is free for transactions made using your Venmo balance, debit card, or bank account. However, there is a 3% fee if you send money via a credit card. If you cash out instantly, there’s a 1% fee.
Venmo also lets you buy and sell cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, with as little as $1. If you want to earn cash back, you can apply for the Venmo credit card and earn up to 3% cash back in select categories.
5. Zelle
If you’re looking for a fast and easy way to send money directly between US bank accounts, Zelle is a great option. It’s quick, free, and works with most major banks in the US. You can send money using just an email or phone number, with no additional app required.
Zelle also offers security features like encryption and fraud prevention. You can track your transactions in real-time, and it’s a great option if you need to send money to friends or family in the US quickly and without any fees.
6. Revolut
Revolut is a digital banking app that allows you to manage your money in multiple currencies. It’s a great Cash App alternative if you need global money management services. With Revolut, you can hold and exchange 28 currencies at the interbank rate, send money internationally with low fees, and access budgeting tools and analytics.
Revolut offers various plans, with perks like cashback, travel insurance, and even airport lounge access for premium and metal plan users. It also has a debit card with no foreign transaction fees.
Revolut is perfect for anyone who wants to handle multiple currencies, invest in stocks, crypto, or commodities, and track their spending.
7. Payoneer
For freelancers, businesses, or online sellers who need to send or receive money internationally, Payoneer is an excellent choice. It allows you to receive payments in multiple currencies and offers low fees for transfers. Payoneer also gives you access to a Mastercard for worldwide purchases, and it provides services like professional invoicing, e-commerce solutions, and working capital loans.
Payoneer is perfect for international payments and e-commerce sellers who need to manage money across borders.
8. Xoom
Xoom, owned by PayPal, is great for sending money abroad. It allows fast and secure transfers to over 160 countries. You can fund your transfers with a bank account, debit card, or credit card, and choose from different delivery options like cash pickup, home delivery, or bank deposit.
Xoom offers fast delivery, with cash pickup available in minutes at thousands of locations worldwide. It also provides security features like encryption and identity verification.
Xoom is ideal for anyone who needs to send money to loved ones or pay bills abroad quickly.
9. Remitly
Remitly is another international money transfer service that lets you send money to over 100 countries. You can choose between express (instant) or economy (3-5 business days) delivery options, depending on your speed and cost preferences.
Remitly offers transparent fees and exchange rates, and it uses encryption to protect your transactions.
If you need to send money internationally for various reasons (family support, education, healthcare), Remitly is a good option with reliable delivery and security features.
10. Tangerine
For Canadians, Tangerine is a great alternative to Cash App. It’s a simple, no-fee online bank that lets you do everything from paying bills and transferring money to depositing cheques. You can also earn interest on your chequing and savings accounts.
Tangerine’s Interac e-Transfer service allows you to send and receive money with no fees, and you can access over 3,500 ATMs across Canada for free. It also offers credit cards, mortgages, and insurance.
Tangerine is perfect if you want a hassle-free online banking experience with a solid customer service team.
Each of these apps offers different features, so the right one for you depends on what you need. Whether it’s sending money internationally, getting rewards, or using a debit card, there’s an alternative to Cash App that can meet your needs. Take your pick and start managing your money in the best way for you!
FAQs for Cash App Alternatives
1. What are the best Cash App alternatives for sending money internationally?
Some of the best alternatives for sending money internationally include:
- PayPal: Allows easy international transfers with minimal fees.
- Wise (formerly TransferWise): Known for low-cost, fast international transfers at real exchange rates.
- Revolut: Offers competitive exchange rates and international transfers with no hidden fees.
2. Which app offers the best rewards for everyday purchases?
If you’re looking for rewards, some popular alternatives to Cash App include:
- Venmo: Offers cashback on purchases made with its debit card.
- Chime: Known for no fees and offers automatic savings features.
- PayPal: Through their “PayPal Credit” program, you can earn rewards and access special offers.
3. What apps allow me to use a debit card for purchases?
Several Cash App alternatives offer debit cards for purchases, such as:
- Chime: Offers a no-fee checking account with a debit card.
- Revolut: Offers both physical and virtual cards for online and in-person purchases.
- PayPal: You can get a PayPal Cash Card for seamless spending using your PayPal balance.
4. Are there alternatives to Cash App that allow investing or buying cryptocurrency?
Yes, some alternatives offer investment and cryptocurrency services:
- Robinhood: Provides easy access to stock trading and cryptocurrencies.
- Revolut: Offers cryptocurrency trading alongside other financial services.
- PayPal: Recently launched a feature to buy, hold, and sell cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin.
5. Which app is the most user-friendly?
User-friendliness varies from person to person, but apps like:
- Venmo and Chime are often praised for their simple, easy-to-navigate interfaces.
- Cash App itself is known for its straightforward, clean design, and many of its alternatives, like Zelle, also offer seamless, easy-to-use experiences.
6. Can I use Cash App alternatives for bill payments or managing subscriptions?
Yes! Apps like PayPal and Venmo allow you to link bills and make payments directly from your account. Additionally, Chime and Revolut both offer tools to manage subscriptions and set up automatic payments.
7. Which app has the lowest fees?
If you’re looking for low fees, options like Chime and Wise are well-known for their no-fee structures for many services. On the other hand, PayPal and Venmo may charge fees for specific transactions, like instant transfers or currency conversions.
8. Can I receive direct deposits through Cash App alternatives?
Yes, most of the alternatives allow direct deposit:
- Chime: Offers free direct deposit for paychecks.
- Revolut: Allows direct deposit of your salary into your account.
- PayPal: Supports direct deposit for government benefits or paychecks with their PayPal Cash Plus account.
9. Are these alternatives secure?
Yes, most Cash App alternatives, such as Venmo, PayPal, and Revolut, provide high security with features like two-factor authentication (2FA), encryption, and fraud protection. Always ensure your app has the latest security updates and use strong passwords.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for international transfers, rewards, a debit card, or investment opportunities, there’s a Cash App alternative out there for you. Take the time to explore the features of each option to find the one that best meets your financial needs. Once you’ve chosen the right app, you’ll be able to manage your money with ease, security, and flexibility!
