Zelle discontinued its standalone mobile app on April 1, 2025. The decision was driven by the fact that only about 2% of Zelle transactions were made through the independent app, while the vast majority of users access Zelle via their banks' own mobile apps or websites. Over 2,200 banks and credit unions now offer Zelle integrated directly into their platforms, making the standalone app redundant
. Zelle itself has not shut down; the service remains fully operational through participating financial institutions. Users who previously relied on the Zelle app must now use their bank's app or website to send and receive money. Banks continue to support Zelle payments, and the transition is intended to streamline operations and enhance security measures
. The shutdown of the Zelle app also comes after scrutiny over fraud issues on the platform, including a lawsuit by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau against Zelle and major banks for failing to protect consumers from widespread fraud. This lawsuit was later dropped, but it highlighted the challenges of fraud prevention on peer-to-peer payment systems like Zelle
. In summary:
- The Zelle standalone app was discontinued on April 1, 2025.
- Zelle service continues through bank and credit union apps and websites.
- The move reflects low usage of the standalone app and a focus on integrated banking experiences.
- Fraud concerns have influenced the shift toward bank-controlled access to Zelle.
- Users should access Zelle via their financial institution's digital platforms going forward
