Zelle®, a widely used person-to-person payment platform, recently announced significant changes to its stand-alone app. Beginning January 8, 2025, new user enrollments for the stand-alone Zelle app will no longer be accepted and as of March 31, 2025, the app will cease to support any transactions. After these dates, Zelle will only be accessible through participating financial institutions.
At First Pacific Bank, we understand the importance of providing convenient payment solutions for personal and business needs. That’s why we’re excited to bring Zelle to our digital banking platform as part of our new online and mobile banking platform launching later this year.
There will be a three–to four-month gap between the discontinuation of the Zelle stand-alone app and our Zelle integration. During this time, we encourage customers to explore alternative payment methods to ensure seamless transactions.
Here’s a closer look at some of the best options:
Alternative Payment Solutions
1. Venmo
Venmo is a popular alternative to Zelle. It acts as a digital wallet, allowing you to send money, store funds, and pay some small businesses.
- How It Works: Link your bank account, debit card, or credit card to set up your Venmo account. You’ll also need a valid phone number for registration.
- Fees: Standard transfers to your bank account are free and can take one business day. For immediate access to funds, you can opt for an instant transfer for a 1% fee.
- Extras: Venmo integrates with apps and websites for online checkout. Some small businesses also accept Venmo as a form of payment.
2. PayPal
PayPal offers domestic and international money transfer services and is available in over 200 countries and territories, making it ideal for global transactions.
- How It Works: Create an account using an email address and connect it to your bank account, debit card, or credit card. Funds can also be stored directly within PayPal.
- Fees: Standard transfers to your bank account are free. Instant transfers are available for a 1% fee.
- Extras: PayPal is widely accepted for online shopping and e-commerce transactions, providing a secure option for buying goods and services.
3. Apple Pay
Apple Pay offers a seamless payment experience for iPhone users. It’s a digital wallet that connects to your debit or credit card for quick and easy payments.
- How It Works: Link your debit or credit card to Apple Pay, then use your iPhone or Apple Watch to pay at participating stores or online.
- Security: Apple Pay doesn’t store your card details on your device, reducing the risk of fraud if your phone is lost or stolen.
Extras: Many apps and websites also support Apple Pay for faster checkout, making it a convenient solution.
Additional Options Available from First Pacific Bank
As you explore these alternatives, remember the reliable payment tools already available to you through First Pacific Bank:
- Bill Pay Services: Use our online or mobile banking platform to send secure payments to businesses or individuals.
- Wire Transfers: For larger or time-sensitive payments, wire transfers offer a fast and secure solution.
- Checks and Cashier’s Checks: These traditional payment methods remain dependable options for formal or large transactions.
We’re Here to Help
We understand that these changes may cause some inconvenience, and we’re here to help. For more details about the Zelle stand-alone app changes, visit the Zelle FAQ page.
If you have any questions or need assistance with exploring alternative payment solutions, please contact your Relationship Manager, stop by your local branch, or call 888.BNK.AT.FPB.
