Tech Reference

How to receive money on Zelle, the digital payment app, whether you already have an account or not

Written by Emma Witman
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Zelle is a service that offers a free, easy, and secure way to send and receive money with others.

Although the service is seamlessly integrated as a money transfer service provider into many big-name financial institutions, if you use a more obscure bank or credit union, fret not — all you need is an email address or mobile phone number to take advantage of Zelle, regardless of who you bank with.

Here's how you can get started receiving money through Zelle in a few simple steps.

How to receive money on Zelle

1. If someone sent you money through Zelle, you'll receive an email or text notification about the payment. 

2. Click on the link in the email or text.

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You'll receive an email notification from Zelle with information and further instructions about the money transfer.  Emma Witman/Business Insider

3. Download and the Zelle app in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store (if you haven't already), and click "Get started."

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Download the Zelle app, as seen in the Apple App Store.  Emma Witman/Business Insider

4. Enter your mobile number or email, depending on how the transfer was sent, and select "Continue."

5. Check the box regarding your data and privacy, then tap "Continue."

6. On the "Find Your Bank" screen, search for your bank. If the institution that you bank with is listed, you'll be redirected to complete the transfer on your bank's website.

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If a provider you bank with, like Wells Fargo, is already a partner with Zelle, you'll be redirected to their website to complete your retrieval of the transfer.  Emma Witman/Business Insider

7. If you don't see your bank listed, tap "Don't see your bank?"

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Smaller banks, like the online-based Simple, aren't already integrated with Zelle.  Emma Witman/Business Insider

8. Enter a Visa or Mastercard debit card on the "Add Debit Card" screen and tap "Continue."

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Make sure you have a debit card on hand if your bank isn't listed in the Zelle app.  Emma Witman/Business Insider

9. Add your billing address on the next screen and click "Continue."

You're all set to receive the Zelle transfer, and any future transfers via Zelle, from here on out.

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Emma Witman
Emma Witman is an Asheville, NC-based freelance journalist with a keen interest in writing about hardware, PC gaming, politics, and personal finance. She is a former crime reporter for a daily newspaper, and has also written extensively about bartending for Insider. She may or may not judge your drink order when behind the bar. Follow her on Twitter at @emwity.