Zelle used by 150 million shuts down its app

Zelle, a popular payment service used by 150 million people in the US, is ending the use of its stand-alone app for sending money. On October 31, 2024, the app stopped working for payments, as only two percent of transactions were made through it. Most users prefer to access Zelle via their banks, which led to this decision.

Zelle started in 2017 with support from 30 major banks like Bank of America and JPMorgan Chase. Now, in 2025, over 2,200 banks and credit unions let customers use Zelle directly in their banking apps. This means that 98 percent of Zelle’s transactions occur through these banks.

If you were using Zelle directly, you are advised to switch to your bank’s online services, which still support Zelle. Zelle reassured users that this change will not affect most people, as many already enjoy the convenience of using Zelle through their bank apps.

When you log into your bank's app, you will see a Zelle logo that lets you send money easily. Just tap the logo, and your phone’s contact list will pop up, so you don’t need to remember long account numbers. If the person you want to send money to has their email or phone number linked to Zelle, everything is set. If they don't have Zelle yet, they’ll get a message telling them how to claim the money after signing up.

The app will still be available but will focus on educating users about scams and fraud, as well as providing information about the banks that offer Zelle.

Since it launched, Zelle has become a leading option for sending money, processing over $1 trillion in payments last year. This was a significant increase from the previous year’s $806 billion. In comparison, rivals Venmo and Cash App processed about $270 billion and $248 billion, respectively.

One reason Zelle stands out is that it allows you to send money directly from your bank without holding it in a separate account. Other apps, like Venmo, can delay transfers, but Zelle enables instant transfers without extra fees.