Switching Payment Apps? What To Consider Before Making The Move – Forbes Advisor

Payment apps have become essential for millions of people. Whether you’re splitting a bill or making a quick purchase, these apps have made managing money faster and easier.

But not all payment apps are the same, and some platforms are changing how they operate. For instance, Zelle is shutting down its standalone app in 2025, while others, like Cash App, have expanded their capabilities with features like direct deposit, advanced budgeting tools and bitcoin investing.

If your current payment app no longer meets your needs—or if upcoming changes will affect you—here’s what to consider before switching to a new platform that fits both your short- and long-term financial goals.

What’s Changing with Zelle’s Standalone App

Zelle is scheduled to phase out the ability to make payments through its standalone app on March 31, 2025, meaning users will only be able to access Zelle through participating banks. If your bank doesn’t support Zelle, you may need to switch banks or find an alternative payment solution.

Pro tip: If you need access to past Zelle transactions, consider saving a record of your payment history by taking a screenshot before the standalone app becomes fully inactive on August 11, 2025.

Key Features to Consider When Switching Payment Apps

There are plenty of payment apps available—each offering a unique set of features and benefits. While their main purpose is to send and receive money or split bills, some now offer extra tools that can help improve the way you interact with your money.

Here are three key features to consider when choosing a new payment app.

1. Seamless Money Transfers Without Disruptions

At its core, a payment app should make sending and receiving money effortless. But not all platforms handle peer-to-peer (P2P) transfers the same way. For example, long processing times, limited bank compatibility and clunky interfaces can turn a simple transaction into a hassle.

For the smoothest experience, consider an app that:

• Supports instant transfers so you’re not stuck waiting for funds to clear.
• Works with multiple banks without requiring both users to be part of the same financial institution.
• Has an intuitive interface that makes it easy to link your bank account, debit card or credit card.

Cash App, for example, allows you to send money in seconds using just a $Cashtag, phone number or email—without needing to share sensitive banking details. You can choose between free standard transfers or opt for instant withdrawals for a fee when you need immediate access to your money. And if you regularly split costs for shared expenses like rent or subscriptions, automated recurring payments can help simplify the process.

Pro tip: Test out a new payment app by sending a small transaction to a trusted friend or family member before making a full switch.

2. Flexible Ways to Access and Invest Your Money

Some payment apps go the extra mile by also offering tools to help you manage, spend and grow your funds.

When switching to a new payment app, consider whether it offers:

• A linked debit card for instant spending without waiting for bank transfers.
• Direct deposit options for paychecks or tax refunds, allowing you to get paid faster.
• Built-in savings and investing tools to help invest your funds over time.
• Cashback perks or discounts for everyday purchases.

For instance, Cash App lets you spend, save and invest—all in one place. You can spend directly from your balance using a Visa debit card, access exclusive discounts at select stores and invest in stocks or Bitcoin with as little as $1. The platform also offers Round Ups, a feature that rounds purchases to the nearest dollar and invests the spare change. Plus, its optional savings account earns up to 4% interest when you meet certain direct deposit requirements.

No matter which benefits you prioritize most, carefully assessing each app’s terms and conditions will help you make the most of your money. Be sure to read the fine print, compare fees and transaction limits and check user reviews before making a final decision.

Pro tip: Some payment apps offer referral bonuses when you invite friends. Cash App provides a bonus to both you and a friend when they sign up using your referral code and send at least $5 to someone else within 14 days.

3. Convenient Tools for Account Oversight and Control

Keeping tabs on your financial accounts can become easier with the right tools. A payment app with real-time transaction alerts and advanced management features can give you the ability to conveniently make changes on the go.

Some features to consider include:

• Custom login settings, such as PIN (personal identification number) codes and Face ID, for fast and reliable access.
• Instant notifications that alert you when money is sent, received or withdrawn.
• On-demand card management which allows you to disable or enable a linked debit card. Apps like Cash App allow you to lock and unlock your Cash App Card with a single tap, aiming to add an extra layer of security against unauthorized transactions.

Having real-time visibility into your financial transactions can help you respond more quickly to any suspicious activity and use your account the way you want to. For example, Cash App may help reduce the risk of fraud by sending alerts for suspicious activity and asking you to confirm certain transactions.

Pro tip: Check if your payment app allows for customizable notifications so you only receive alerts that matter to you—keeping you informed without unnecessary updates.

How to Transition Smoothly

Before switching payment apps, consider these four steps for a seamless transition:

1. Set up your new account. Complete any identity verification needed and test out the app with a small transaction to ensure everything works as expected.
2. Share with your friends and family. Let them know you’re switching, so they know which app to use when sending you money.
3. Update subscriptions or recurring payments linked to your old app.
4. Keep your old app accessible. Don’t immediately delete your old account or app—consider waiting until all pending transactions have cleared.

Pro tip: Before deactivating your old payment app, review past transactions to catch any overlooked subscriptions, automatic payments or pending refunds.

Choosing a Payment App That Fits Your Financial Needs

For some, a basic payment app limited to everyday transactions may be enough. But if you’re considering a more comprehensive financial tool, you may want to consider an app that evolves with your needs.

If you’re unsure about which features to prioritize, think about your current lifestyle and future goals. Do you want an easier way to invest? Are you focused on building a budget and saving for specific goals? Or are you simply looking for an easy way to split bills with friends?

By assessing your needs and comparing the features on the market, you’ll be equipped to find a payment app that can help you spend smarter, save easier and get more out of every dollar you move.

Disclosures

Cash App is a financial services platform, not a bank. Banking services provided by Cash App’s bank partner(s). See cash.app for more details. Prepaid debit cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC. See Terms and Conditions. Cash App waives ATM fees for all in-network withdrawals every month you have at least $300 direct deposited into your Cash balance. Direct deposit, instant discounts, Round Ups, and Offers provided by Cash App, a Block, Inc. brand. Tax Filing Preparation services are provided by Cash App Taxes, Inc. All Rights Reserved

Cash App will pass through a portion of the interest paid on your savings balance held in an account for the benefit of Cash App customers at Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Member FDIC. To earn the highest interest rate on your Cash App savings balance, you need to be 18 or older, have a Cash App Card, and direct deposit at least $300 monthly into Cash App. Sponsored Accounts are not eligible to earn interest. Other exceptions may also apply. Savings yield rate is subject to change.

Brokerage services provided by Cash App Investing LLC, member FINRA / SIPC,, subsidiary of Block, Inc., formerly known as Square, Inc. See our BrokerCheck. Bitcoin services provided by Block, Inc. Investing and bitcoin are non-deposit, non-bank products that are not FDIC insured and involve risk, including monetary loss. Cash App Investing does not trade¹ bitcoin and Block, Inc. is not a member of FINRA or SIPC. For additional information, see the Bitcoin and Cash App Investing disclosures. Fractional shares may involve additional risks. Fractional shares are not transferable. For a complete explanation of conditions, restrictions and limitations associated with fractional shares see our Cash App Investing Customer Account Agreement. Additional fees for securities may apply such as regulatory fees and fees to transfer securities externally. Please see our House Rules for more information.