How to Receive Money From Zelle

This article details how to accept money that someone has sent you through Zelle, including how to link your debit card to the app and request money from another user. The Zelle app works on Android and iPhone.

How to Accept Money From Zelle

If you already have an account, you receive the money sent to you instantly; you'll get a text or email notification when it happens. Learn how Zelle works for more information.

You'll need an account to accept money in your bank. Your bank might provide built-in support for Zelle. To find out, or to sign up if it doesn't, start with the official app:

1. Install Zelle.

   Android
   iOS

2. Tap Get Started on the first screen and read and accept any requests for permissions.

   You must accept access to your phone so that the app can detect unusual login activity, but you can deny the prompt for your location details if you want.

3. Enter your phone number and then select Continue.

4. Read the privacy and security page, check the box at the bottom to confirm that you agree to those terms, and then tap Continue.

   

5. Search for the bank that issued your preferred debit card. If you find it, select it, choose Go To Your Banking App on the following screen, and complete the process there. Every bank works a little differently; some general directions are further down this page if you need help.

   If your bank isn’t listed, choose Don’t See Your Bank? Then continue with these steps.

   

6. The next screen is called "Add Debit Card." Enter the card’s details (number, expiration date, etc.) and then tap Continue.

7. Enter your billing address on the following page and then select Continue. Your account is now set up, and you can accept money and view money already sent to you.

How to Request Money With Zelle

You can also receive money through Zelle by requesting it from one of your contacts.

1. After logging in, choose Request on the main screen.

2. Pick a contact who uses Zelle. If they don't, you'll have to invite them first.

   You might need first to tap Access Contacts if you see that button and then follow the prompt to let the app search through your contacts.

3. Enter an amount and then select Review.

   

4. Optionally include a memo, and then tap Request. When the recipient accepts it, you'll receive the money shortly after.

Using Zelle With Your Bank

You can check to see if your bank has built-in support for Zelle. That’s another way you can receive money, but the process is different for every bank.

Here’s a look at how it usually works, with Bank of America as our example:

1. Find a section of the bank app called something like Transfer or Zelle.

2. Tap Request.

3. Choose a contact or enter their phone number or email address.

4. Pick how much money to request.

   

5. Choose where you want the money deposited.

6. Confirm by selecting Send or Request.

Important Facts About Zelle

• Some cards aren't eligible, so if you're getting an error during setup, make sure it's not a business debit card, credit card, gift card, or prepaid card. You can't use an international account or an account in a US territory like Guam or Puerto Rico.
• Similarly, you'll receive an error if the other details you enter, like the ZIP code and address, don't match your bank or credit union's information on file for that card.
• There aren't fees associated with Zelle itself, so you don't have to worry about paying anything to receive money.
• If you don't complete your Zelle profile (sign up and add your debit card) within 14 days, the money sent to you will expire, and the sender will be refunded.
• You can't request more than the recipient is allowed to send. The person's bank could impose the limit, but if they're not using Zelle with their debit card and not through their bank, the weekly spend limit (and therefore, request limit) is $500.