Zelle is a peer-to-peer (P2P) payment service that allows users to send money directly between almost any U.S. bank accounts typically within minutes. It is similar to other P2P payment apps like Venmo and Cash App, but unlike many of these other apps, Zelle is often included with your bank account, rather than requiring a third-party app download.

To use Zelle, you need to enroll through the Zelle app or through your banking app if it offers Zelles service. Once enrolled, you can find a person whom you want to pay by entering their email address or phone number. You can send money to almost anyone you know and trust with a bank account in the U.S. The recipient will get instructions on how to receive the payment quickly.

Zelle is available in the mobile banking apps of more than 2,100 financial institutions. If your bank or credit union doesnt offer Zelle yet, you can download and use the Zelle app until they do. Zelle transfers are generally secure, but the app does carry risks, including the risk of glitches at banks that can affect money transfers.

Zelle is a fast, safe, and easy way to send money to friends and family, even if they bank somewhere different than you do. It is a great option for sending money for all sorts of things like coffee for your coworkers or dinner with friends.