9 Apps Like Cash App in 2024 (Best Alternatives)

Last Updated on December, 2024

“Cash App needs other choices. I’m not Satisfied with my Cash App account.”

Is this your mind’s voice? I understand.

Because when there are different apps to compete with, money transfer apps try to be better, giving customers improved services. If you have more than one app, it could cause problems if something goes wrong.

Having choices is like different flavors of ice cream – you can pick the one you like the best. I mean, it’s safer and more flexible. 

So, like you have options for other things, having different money apps like Cash App suits everyone. Right?

That’s why I’ve covered the top Cash App alternatives.

9 Best Cash App Alternatives

Cash App allows users to send and receive payments quickly, make online purchases with a linked card, access direct debits early, and invest.

You can send money using just the recipient’s basic contact details or their $cashtag username, and the payment will arrive instantly. So, there is no need for bank accounts and routing information. However, remember that Cash App has some limitations.

It’s great for financial transactions within the US or even sending money to someone in the UK, but international OPTIONS are limited. Plus, you’ll have to pay ATM fees for quick cash-outs if you’re in a hurry to access your funds.

In that case, you need some alternatives to be in the safe zone. Isn’t it? I understand. Please keep reading to know the BEST alternatives I’ve researched for you.

1. Airwallex

logo of Airwallex

Airwallex is an excellent choice for those looking for a versatile Cash App alternative, particularly for businesses and freelancers. This platform is designed to facilitate international transactions seamlessly, providing a strong solution for handling multiple currencies. 

Airwallex STANDS OUT for its powerful global solutions, allowing users to hold, pay, and receive funds in over 64+ currencies across 180+ countries. The platform offers interbank exchange rates, which are typically lower than those provided by traditional banks, and there are no hidden fees, making it a cost-effective choice for international business transactions. 

One of the key benefits of Airwallex is its ability to issue virtual and physical multi-currency cards, making it easy for businesses to manage expenses across different teams and regions. 

These cards can be used globally and are integrated with a suite of powerful tools for managing finances, such as expense tracking and detailed analytics. 

For businesses dealing in USD, EUR, GBP, or AUD, Airwallex provides local bank account details, which simplifies receiving payments in these currencies without incurring high international transfer fees. 

This feature is particularly beneficial for companies with customers or suppliers in multiple countries, as it allows them to operate as if they had a local bank account in those regions. 

However, it’s important to note that Airwallex is primarily aimed at business users, so individual users looking for personal finance management may find some limitations. Plus, while the platform offers competitive rates, there are still some fees associated with certain styles of transactions, especially when dealing with less common currencies or cash withdrawals. 

GUESS WHAT? Airwallex does not currently offer some of the consumer-oriented features that are available with other platforms, such as investment options, cryptocurrency services, or joint accounts for families. 

Moreover, its customer support is mostly conducted online, which may not suit those who prefer phone-based support. 

We have a standalone review for Airwallex if you wan to learn more about it.

Pros

Comprehensive exchange rates and low transaction fees
Supports multiple currencies and countries, ideal for global business operations
Offers virtual and physical multi-currency cards for expense management
Integrated tools for financial analytics and expense tracking
Fast and reliable international money transfers

Cons

Primarily designed for business use; less suited for individual users
Limited customer support options, mostly online
Lack of consumer-focused features like investment or crypto options

2. Wise

wise online money transfer

This is my first and the best choice as one of the Cash App alternatives. 

Wise STANDS OUT for its excellent multi-currency accounts. Users can access over 50 currencies, allowing them to make instant and free transfers to other Wise account holders. This app prioritizes transparency by using the actual mid-market exchange rate without hidden fees, even to your linked bank account.

It’s particularly beneficial for those dealing with USD, UK Pounds, or Canadian dollars, as Wise offers competitive fixed-fee currencies. Moreover, the app provides bank account number(s) for 13 different countries, making it highly flexible for global use.

However, you should know that bank transfers from your Wise account to your primary bank account charge a fee. Especially when transferring USD.

Although Wise Payments has a travel debit card, it only allows you to withdraw up to $200 for free each month. It doesn’t offer features like investment options, bitcoin services, many ATMs, joint accounts for kids, or a rewards program.

We have a standalone review for Wise if you wan to learn more about it.

Pros

Low transaction fees.
Many ways to transfer money.
User-friendly online platform and mobile app for easy transactions.
There are no extra charges on exchange rates.
Quick money transfers for certain transactions.

Cons

There are no choices for delivering cash to your home or business.
Customer support options are limited.

3. Revolut

revolut logo

The Next Cash App alternative is Revolut. It is known for its extensive multi-currency account(s). Revolut allows free instant transfers to other account holders and supports money transfers in over 30 currencies worldwide.

This payment app is similar to Cash App due to its many available features. It permits direct deposits and has a built-in savings feature.

Users enjoy joint accounts, stock trading, travel insurance, excellent currency exchange services, and an international travel debit card. Plus, membership access to airport lounges enhances the travel experience with Revolut. 

Also, Revolut offers free money withdrawals. That said, it’s not without its fair share of limitations. One thing to keep in mind is that the ATM network is not as widespread as some competitors.

We have a standalone review for Revolut if you wan to learn more about it.

Pros

There are no fees for having an account.
Free money transfers from Monday to Friday (within certain limits).
Earn interest on your savings.
Helpful tools for budgeting.

Cons

Exchange rates may not be as reasonable as other options.
Higher fees on more significant transactions.
Doesn’t provide all banking services, like overdrafts.

4. PayPal

paypal logo

PayPal is another excellent alternative preferred by many users. It’s recognized for its effective fraud detection technology. It has the most extensive user base globally, making it easy to send instant payments from your PayPal balance, request money, and make purchases in the US.

In addition to its primary features, PayPal offers a credit card, pay-later OPTIONS, rewards, cash back, and the ability to buy Bitcoin, similar to Cash App. However, it doesn’t have a stock investing feature.

It’s important to note that PayPal charges a high hidden exchange rate margin fee for international money transfers, making transactions more expensive.

Pros

Accounts are easy to use and have lots of features.
Many places accept it.
It’s a safe way to pay friends money.
You can get deals and cash back.

Cons

The fees can be confusing.
It can be expensive for international transactions.
You have to have a PayPal account to get money.
Some people will try to trick you on PayPal.

5. Google Pay

GOOGLE PAY LOGO

Google Pay is a convenient and accessible way to send money abroad using a mobile wallet. It works on iOS and Android devices and is widely used in the US. You can link a card to make contactless payments, but it doesn’t provide a debit card or a US checking account. 

Understood?

Unlike Cash App, Google Pay doesn’t charge fees when sending or depositing money to your main bank account. However, there’s an interest 2.9% processing fee if you use a linked credit card to send money to friends.

And debit cards don’t have this fee.

Note: Link Google Pay to a third-party provider’s app – like Wise, to get more international services. 

Pros

Offers a quick and easy way to process payments using your mobile device.
Seamlessly integrates with various Google services and Android devices.
Using multiple layers of security, including encryption and biometric authentication.
Some versions of Google Pay offer rewards and cashback for transactions.

Cons

Requires a compatible Android device, limiting accessibility for some users.
Some features are limited in iOS compared to Android devices.
While generally free, some financial institutions may charge fees for certain transactions.

6. Venmo

venmo money transfer logo

GUESS WHAT? Venmo and Cash App are two big players in the peer-to-peer payment game in the US. (You can see which is best for your needs in this comparison guide.)

Venmo’s strength lies in its extensive network for online payments and purchases, plus it has security features for items and services you buy (with terms and conditions).

Venmo doesn’t cover money transfers in its purchase protection, unlike Cash App. It offers various features like splitting payments, sending gifts, buying Bitcoins, and earning cash back with their credit card.

Do you know? Like Cash App, Venmo has rewards programs and allows joint accounts for teens supervised by parents.

However, Venmo needs Cash App’s features, such as stock investing, a savings account, and a free ATM network. While Venmo uses PayPal for its services, the money in your Venmo account isn’t FDIC-insured.

On the other hand, Cash App partners with banks like Sutton Bank to ensure your account balances are FDIC-insured. Also, note that you can find MoneyPass ATMs for free withdrawals with Venmo.

Pros

Easy and fast money transfers between people.
Sending money from one bank account or a debit card is free.
There is a small fee for using a credit card.
There are options to make payments with certain business accounts with Venmo.

Cons

Payments are visible to others by default. 
Unable to cancel payments once sent.
Doesn’t support international transactions.

7. Zelle

zelle money transfer logo

Zelle is another alternative money transfer app to Cash App. This is an excellent OPTION for quick and secure bank transfers in the USA. It works with most major American banks, letting you send money instantly using the recipient’s phone number or email.

You can use Zelle through its mobile app or find it integrated into some bank apps. Remember that Zelle doesn’t provide a US checking account, debit card, or additional services like rewards, stock trading, or Bitcoin.

Do you know? If your bank or credit union doesn’t use Zelle, the maximum amount you can send or receive is $500.

It’s best suited for direct bank-to-bank transfers. However, remember to ONLY SEND money to people you know and double-check all details before confirming the transaction.

We have a standalone review for Zelle platform if you wan to learn more about it.

Pros

It doesn’t cost money, and it’s quick.
Keep your transactions safe.
You don’t need the other person’s bank details.
Works with lots of bank apps.

Cons

There is no protection against fraud.
You can’t send money from a credit card.
It only works with US bank accounts.

8. Xoom

xoom money transfer logo

Xoom, a company under PayPal, serves as an alternative to Cash App, focusing on international Payments. It offers various ways for users to send and receive money globally.

The services you can use depend on the country you’re sending money to. In some cases, you might have the choice to send money from your Xoom account so the person you’re sending it to can pick up cash from a nearby agent.

GUESS WHAT? You can get paid into local receiving accounts, cover business taxes, and access working capital through Xoom.

While this can be a quick way for someone without an account to receive money, it’s important to note that the overall fees, including exchange rate markups, can be relatively high.

We have a standalone review for Xoom if you wan to learn more about it.

Pros

Quick and secure money transfers.
Works for sending money to over 160 countries.
Low minimum amounts for transfers.
There are various ways to send money and receive it.

Cons

There are limits on how much you can transfer.
The fees can increase.
It might take longer for the money to reach certain places.

9. Payoneer

payoneer logo

Payoneer is excellent if you have business accounts to do business transactions, mainly involved in international transactions. It allows payments in eight different currencies: USD, GBP, and HKD. 

You can quickly try fund transfers between Payoneer accounts, but remember, fees may apply in some regions. For global businesses and e-commerce, Payoneer stands out with its integrations with major platforms like Amazon and Airbnb.

The platform charges a modest 0.5% when converting currencies, making it a cost-effective choice for converting foreign earnings into USD.

Similar to competitors like Stripe, Square, and Cash App, Payoneer has processed payments. Credit card transactions charge a 3% fee in all currencies, and ACH bank debit transactions have a 1% fee. While slightly higher than Cash App’s 2.75%, Poyaneer’s global reach may justify the difference. 

You can learn more about Payoneer if you want to. Check out the review here.

Pros

Payoneer works in about 200 countries and accepts 150 different local currencies.
You can send money for free between Poyaneer accounts.
It lets you create custom invoices and request payments from individual clients.
Payoneer has strong customer support through email, live chat, and phone.

Cons

The fees for using the Payoneer card in transactions are high.
It is not suitable for e-commerce operations as it’s not widely accepted.
There’s a 2% charge for converting currencies in international transactions.

How Do Peer-to-Peer Payment Apps Function?

Peer-to-peer (P2P) payment apps have changed how we handle money by allowing easy and instant transfers. To use these apps, you must download one, create an account, and link your bank account or card.

Once set up, you can instantly send, receive, or request mobile payments. These apps work by managing a shared network. When you initiate a transaction, the app adjusts the amounts within its network rather than transferring funds between banks.

The internal adjustment process is nearly instantaneous, allowing users to send and receive verified funds in real time to each other’s mobile wallet(s) through peer-to-peer payments.

To make a transaction, provide your recipient’s contact details (like an email or phone number,) choose the amount, and with a tap of a button, move peer-to-peer payments directly from your account to theirs through mobile apps.

TRUST ME. The process is quick and convenient, making P2P apps an easy way to manage money.

Critical Criteria for Optimal Mobile Money Apps

Listen, you should know the following critical criteria when considering the BEST mobile money apps so that you can benefit a lot.

Have you got it?

  • Customer Support: Ensure the app provides responsive and helpful customer service to address any issues quickly.
  • Travel Debit Cards: Apps offering cards with no foreign transaction fees can simplify global spending.
  • Budgeting and Savings Tools: Look for features that help you monitor spending, create budgets, or automate savings, as they can be valuable for managing personal finances.
  • Widespread Adoption: Look for an app many people use to send and receive payments easier when more contacts are on the same network.
  • Rewards: Consider apps with spending rewards, like cashback or redeemable points, to provide extra incentives for using their services.
  • Free Structure: Choose an app with low or no transaction fees to make regular use more affordable. Some apps charge fees, especially when using a linked credit card.
  • Currency Flexibility: Choose an app that supports multiple currencies and allows international transfers, mainly if you deal with overseas transactions regularly.

Best Cash App Alternative: Conclusion

Which one is the BEST Cash App alternative for you?

It depends on your payment method(s) and needs, such as to pay bills and to send and receive money. However, all the alternative competitors to Cash App, including Wise which I’ve discussed in detail, have their pros and cons.

So, you should analyze which app would best suit your needs with more benefits.

Think and make an intelligent decision. This will save you a little money every time you use your card. 

FAQs

Yes, you can have two Cash App accounts. Just make sure to use different phone numbers and email addresses for each account.

The most similar app to Cash App varies based on usage and payment preferences. If you prefer social features and are in the US, try Venmo. For direct bank transfers, particularly domestic payments, Zelle may be a good option.

Both Cash App and Venmo prioritize the security of your information, however, Venmo has experienced challenges with their customer service. It is important to note that no payment app can guarantee complete security, therefore it is advisable to exercise caution when managing your accounts and transactions.

No, you cannot use Zelle with Cash App for direct money transfers. However, you can link both services to a bank account in order to make transfers between them.

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Author
Allen Morning
I'm Allen Morning, with a background spanning over 15 years in international finance and education from Harvard and Stanford. I founded Currenciap with a vision to demystify and streamline global financial transactions. My journey in finance has fueled my commitment to creating a platform that is both user-friendly and efficient, making international finance accessible to everyone. You can find more about me here.

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