Simply put Zelle is the traditional banking institution’s response to the growing footprint of fintech apps. Notably in the space of peer-to-peer mobile payment software applications that facilitate money transfer such as Cash app and Venmo. Indeed, Zelle is owned by Early Warning Services, LLC, a private financial services company owned by Bank of America, BB&T, Capital One, JPMorgan Chase, PNC Bank, U.S. Bank, and Wells Fargo.
Let find out more about the service by answering some essential questions.

How does Zelle work?
Zelle helps U.S bank account holders send and receive money from each other through a network of connected bank accounts. Once enrolled all you need is to add your email or your U.S active mobile number to start sending and receiving money.
How do I enroll in Zelle?
You can’t use Zelle if you don’t have an active U.S bank account and a smartphone. They are typically two ways to get enrolled. You can either do it through your bank account or download Zelle Apps.
- Through your bank account
Simply log in to your bank and verify if your bank or credit union is part of the Zelle network of banks and Credit Unions. Then follow these steps.
- Look for Zelle service
- Go to setting and input the following basic information: Your active U.S phone number and or email.
- Your bank account will be automatically linked. You can update your account to link a specific account if you have multiple account.
- Add recipient if you want or you can import your contact information.
2. Get the service without a bank account
- Find the app in the app store
- Download the app in your phone
- Fill in your information including your bank account information
- Link your debit card
- Add recipient if you want or you can import your contact information.
Do you need a bank account for Zelle?
Without a bank account, you can’t use Zelle. That is because the essence of the application is to make it easier for bank customers to transfer money between accounts in the USA through their smartphones. Hence, you must have a bank account with a bank or a Credit Union in the U.S that is part of the Zelle network.
What is the maximum amount to send through Zelle?
The limit varies depending on your bank just make sure to check with your bank or your credit union. Indeed, some banks or credit unions might restrict the amount that bank users can send to a lower amount. Generally, for first-time users and recipients. However, the maximum amount of money you can send via Zelle is limit is approximately $1000 per week in average.
Nevertheless, when it comes to receiving funds via Zelle, there are simply no limitations to how much you can receive.
Can I use the app to send money to my other bank account?
Indeed, you can send it to your other bank account by just using your email or U.S mobile number.
How much does Zelle charge per transaction?
The utilization of the app is completely free of charge. In addition, it is very unlikely that your bank or your credit union will charge you for using the service. That is a major difference with other similar apps such as cash app and Venmo. Specially, when you want to send money using a credit card or do an immediate fund deposit in your bank account. Still, double-check with your financial institution before activating and using the service.
What banks use Zelle app?
Currently, according to the Zelle application, they are more than 30 banks and credit unions participating in the Zelle network.
The list keeps growing. Nonetheless, for now, the list of connected partners in the network include Ally Bank, Bank of America, Bank of Hawaii, Bank of the West, BB&T, BECU, Capital One, Citi, Citizens Bank, Comerica Bank, ConnectOne Bank, Dollar Bank, Fifth Third Bank, FirstBank, First Tech Federal Credit Union, First Tennessee Bank, First National Bank, Frederick County Bank, Frost Bank, HomeStreet Bank, JP Morgan Chase, KeyBank, M&T Bank, MB Financial Bank, Morgan Stanley, PNC Bank, SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union, Star One Credit Union, SunTrust Bank, TD Bank, USAA, U.S. Bank, and Wells Fargo.
What’s bad about the app?
Perhaps, one of the most significant drawbacks of the app is the lack of fraud protection by banks and credit unions. Once, the money is sent to a recipient there is practically no way of getting a refund from your bank or credit union in the case of rip-offs or scams. Only, unauthorized transactions are subject to a refund. That is why the software application’s users are generally target of scammers.
Does Zelle show your name?
The peer-to-peer money transfer application doesn’t display your name. That is because the information is already displayed on your bank account.