Sending money online has become part of everyday life in the U.S. Whether you’re paying a friend back for dinner, helping family members, or sending money across the country (or the world), digital payments make the process quick and convenient.
Instead of dealing with cash, mailing checks, or meeting face-to-face, you can move money with just a phone or computer. In many cases, it’s free or costs very little and the recipient gets the funds almost instantly.
Below is a clear breakdown of the most common ways to send money online and how to choose the right option for your situation.
Popular Ways to Send Money to Other People
Person-to-Person Payment Apps
Peer-to-peer (P2P) payment apps are one of the easiest ways to send money online. These services let you transfer funds directly to another person, usually using their email address or phone number.
Most apps allow free transfers when you use:
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A linked bank account
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A debit card
Using a credit card is often allowed, but it usually comes with a small fee.
Here are some of the most widely used options in the U.S.:
PayPal
PayPal is well-known for online shopping, but it also works for personal payments. Many people already have accounts, which makes sending money simple. You can pay using your bank account, debit card, credit card, or PayPal balance.
Venmo
Venmo is owned by PayPal and is especially popular among younger users. It pulls money from your bank account or debit card and lets you add short messages or emojis to payments useful for things like rent, utilities, or shared meals.
Cash App
Cash App connects directly to your debit card or bank account. When you send money, it’s withdrawn from your checking account and delivered to the recipient’s Cash App balance or debit card.
Zelle
Zelle is built into many major U.S. bank apps, but it also has a standalone app. Transfers are usually free and very fast—often arriving within minutes. It’s best for sending money to people you know and trust.
Google Pay
Google Pay works as both a digital wallet and a P2P payment tool. You can send money to individuals or groups using your phone, as long as everyone has a Google account.
Facebook Messenger
If you’re already chatting with someone on Facebook, you can send them money directly through Messenger. Transfers are free when funded by a debit card or PayPal account.
Using Your Bank to Send Money
Bank Bill Pay
Some banks allow you to send money through their bill pay feature. If the recipient isn’t set up for electronic payments, your bank may mail a paper check instead. This option works, but it’s slower than app-based transfers.
Wire Transfers
Wire transfers move money directly from one bank account to another. They’re commonly used for large amounts or urgent payments. However, they can be expensive domestic wires often cost around $25–$30, and international wires can cost more.
Important: Only send wire transfers to people or businesses you fully trust. Scammers frequently request wire payments because they’re difficult to reverse.
Money Transfer Services
Companies like Western Union and MoneyGram have been around for decades and now offer online transfers through apps and websites.
These services are useful if:
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You need to send money internationally
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The recipient wants to pick up cash in person
You can fund transfers using a bank account, debit card, credit card, or cash at a physical location. Fees vary based on speed, destination, and payment method.
Walmart2Walmart Transfers
If both you and the recipient are in the U.S., Walmart offers a low-cost option to send money between Walmart locations. Transfers can be started online or in-store, with a maximum send limit of $2,500 and relatively affordable fees.
Sending Money Internationally
While many banks and payment apps support international transfers, services built specifically for global payments often offer better exchange rates and lower fees.
Well-known international money transfer providers include:
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Wise (formerly TransferWise)
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Payoneer
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Remitly
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OFX
When comparing international services, pay close attention to:
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The exchange rate you’re offered
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Total fees for both sender and recipient
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How long the transfer takes
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How the recipient can access the money
Always verify that the service is legitimate before sending funds overseas.
Final Takeaway
There’s no single “best” way to send money online it depends on how much you’re sending, where it’s going, and what tools the recipient already uses.
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Payment apps are great for everyday transfers between friends and family
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Wire transfers work best for large or urgent payments
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International services are ideal for sending money abroad at lower cost
Before choosing a method, consider fees, speed, and convenience for both you and the person receiving the money.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you send money online using a debit card?
Yes. Many services—including PayPal, Venmo, Cash App, Apple Pay, and Google Pay—allow you to send money using a debit card linked to your checking account.
Do you need a debit card to use Cash App?
Not necessarily. You can link a bank account instead. Credit cards and certain prepaid cards may also work, but business debit cards and PayPal cards are not supported.
How much money can you send on Venmo?
New users have low limits until identity verification is completed. Once verified, users can send several thousand dollars per week, with specific caps on person-to-person payments.
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