The rise of digital personal finance applications is growing every day among users in the United States. According to recent data, 8 out of 10 Americans have embraced the digital economy, using financial apps for shopping, digital payments, online banking and more.
Cash App is an effective alternative to facilitate the control of personal finances. In 2024, it recorded 57 million monthly active users and $16.2 billion in revenue.
If you are curious to know what Cash App is, how it works, all its benefits and also its commissions, here are all the details so you can decide if it is the best option to meet your needs.
What is Cash App and what is it for?
Cash App is an alternative to traditional banking that works through a mobile financial services application. Its operation is very versatile, since it not only allows sending and receiving money, but also making purchases and receiving payroll deposits.
The application was developed by Block Inc. (formerly Square Inc.) and seeks to offer a comprehensive and more accessible service through digital solutions.
To open a Cash App account you must meet certain requirements, such as having a SSN (Social Security Number) and a U.S. bank account.
Cash App: how it works, what features it offers and how much it charges
Cash App is available through its official mobile application, in which you will have to register and verify to access all the available functionalities. Once you have done so, you will be able to link a bank account, if needed.
You will also have a Cash Tag: a unique user name that will allow you to send and receive money easily.
These are the main functionalities offered by the Cash App application:
Sending and receiving money
Cash App allows instant transfers between app users free of charge (Free Instant Transfers; standard network fees may still apply).
Cash Card
It is a free debit card linked to your balance. It allows you to shop online, in physical establishments, and also make cash withdrawals at ATMs.
QR Code
Pay directly in physical stores through a QR code.
Cash App Pay
It is a payment method that allows users to make transactions in online stores and directly in the application.
Cash Boosts
You will be able to get discounts in selected physical and online stores.
Costs for using Cash App
Although many of the Cash App features are free of charge, such as account pasturing, use of Cash Cards and transfers between Cash App accounts, below is a table with some of the costs and fees associated with the aforementioned features:
Cash App registration requirements
If you want to use Cash App to control your finances, make sure you meet the following requirements:
Have a telephone number in the United States
You can also use an email to verify your identity.
Residence in the United States or England
Cash App is only available in the United States and the United Kingdom. The application and information are available in English only.
Have a bank account
It is recommended if you want to have access to all the functions of the application.
Identity verification
This will give you access to features such as sending or receiving more than 1,000 USD over a 30-day period and applying for the Cash Card.
But remember that in order to perform the identity verification you need to:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Social Security Number (SSN)
How secure is Cash App: 9 important considerations
The issue of security is one of the most relevant in relation to financial services applications. You should always verify that your provider has the necessary measures in place to keep your assets and personal data safe.
Cash App has the following security measures, among others:
Multifactor authentication
Cash App requests identity authentication via email or SMS. In addition, it allows you to activate a PIN or biometrics to log in.
End-to-end encryption
Your personal data stored in Cash App is secured through TLS/E2E.
System for detection and prevention of illicit activities
Cash App has implemented technologies trained to detect unusual behavior and prevent fraud, such as machine learning and algorithms.
Subsequent monitoring of payments
The application has an additional monitoring system to double check and detect unusual activity.
Although the above features provide some certainty as to the security measures of the application, it is always important to take some considerations into account:
Disables automatic login
To prevent an outsider from accessing your account without your authorization, avoid using automatic login. Instead, use strong, unique passwords and enable 2-step authentication.
Beware of frauds
Be alert to scams, whether by phone or e-mail. Never give out personal information or passwords by these means. If you need to contact application support, do so through official means.
Keep active alerts
Cash App allows you to receive transaction alerts directly on your cell phone. Be sure to keep them active.
Verify the data before making transfers
Send money only to people you know and verify their information before confirming the operation, since once the money is sent, it is not possible to recover it.
Activate the PIN for transactions
You have the option to activate the PIN or biometric data to confirm your transfers before making them, and prevent the use of your application by third parties in case of theft or loss.
Looking for more than a payment app? Comun is your financial ally in the U.S.
There is no doubt that Cash App is a popular alternative for those looking for a fairly comprehensive and easy-to-use financial solution.
But if you are looking for a financial ally that offers a simple and secure experience, with customer service and a platform also available in Spanish, we introduce you to Comun.
Comun goes beyond traditional limitations, so that immigrant communities in the United States have access to quality financial services, hassle-free. With Comun you can:
- Receive and send money conveniently, hassle-free and without the need for a traditional bank account.
- Open your account in Comun with a qualified official ID from your country of origin.
- Get a simple mobile application for hassle-free, everyday international money transfers.
Open your Comun account today and break down traditional financial services, language and cultural barriers.
Frequently asked questions
If you still have doubts about what Cash App is for and its features, please check our frequently asked questions.
What are Cash Boosts in Cash App?
These are instant discounts available on the Cash Card. To activate them, log in to the mobile app and select "Cash Card", followed by "Add Boost" and "Save Boost". Select the discount of your interest and it will be applied when you pay with your debit card.
What happens if I receive a lot of money through Cash App?
Some required checks may be triggered above $1,000 USD.
What is the maximum amount that can be sent by Cash App?
1000 USD over 30 days for non-verified users; if you verify your user, you can increase this limit up to 20,000 USD.
What is Cashtag in Cash App?
It is a unique username that is used so that other users of the application can send you money. It starts with the $ symbol followed by an identifier.