You don't need a checking account to send money through Popmoney, but you do need a bank or credit union account of some kind
Popmoney is a money-sending service run by Early Warning Services, the same company behind Zelle. To use it, you need an account at a participating bank or credit union — but that account doesn't have to be a checking account. A savings account, money market account, or even a prepaid card account at a participating institution will work, as long as that institution has partnered with Popmoney.
The confusion usually comes from the fact that most people who use Popmoney do have checking accounts, straightforward because checking accounts are the most common type of account people use for everyday money movement. But the service itself doesn't require one.
Key Takeaways
- Popmoney works with savings accounts, money market accounts, and prepaid cards at participating banks and credit unions, not just checking accounts.
- Your bank or credit union must be a Popmoney partner for you to use the service — not all financial institutions offer it.
- You access Popmoney through your bank's website or mobile app, so you log in the same way you normally would to check your balance.
- If your bank doesn't offer Popmoney, you may be able to use Zelle or another money-sending service instead, depending on what your institution supports.
How to learn about your bank offers Popmoney
The fastest way is to log into your bank's website or mobile app and look for a "Send Money" or "Transfer Money" option. If Popmoney is available, it will usually be listed there alongside other services your bank offers. Some banks call it "Popmoney," while others brand it under their own name but run it through Popmoney's system behind the scenes.
You can also call your bank's customer service number — the one on the back of your card or on your statement — and ask whether they offer Popmoney. Have your account number ready, and they can tell you in a minute whether it's available and walk you through how to set it up if you want to use it.
What account types work with Popmoney
Popmoney pulls money from whatever account you link to it at your bank. That means if your bank offers Popmoney and you have a savings account there, you can send money from your savings account. The same goes for a money market account, a certificate of deposit (CD) account, or a prepaid card account — as long as your bank has connected that account type to Popmoney.
Some banks limit which account types you can use. For example, a bank might allow Popmoney transfers from checking and savings but not from a CD. When you set up Popmoney, your bank will show you which of your accounts are available to send from. You pick the one you want to use each time you send money, or you can set a default account.
The difference between Popmoney and Zelle
Both Popmoney and Zelle are money-sending services run by Early Warning Services, and both work through your bank's app or website. The main difference is which banks offer which service. Some banks offer Popmoney, some offer Zelle, and some offer both. A few banks offer neither and use their own in-house money-sending system instead.
If your bank doesn't offer Popmoney, ask whether they offer Zelle or another service. The process is similar — you log in, enter the recipient's information, and the money moves. The speed and fees (if any) vary by bank and service, so it's worth asking your bank what options they have.
What you need to send money through Popmoney
To send money, you'll need the recipient's email address or phone number. Popmoney sends them a notification that money is waiting, and they claim it by logging into their own bank's app or website. You don't need their account number or routing number — just their contact information.
The recipient also needs to have an account at a bank or credit union that works with Popmoney. If they don't, the money will be held and they'll be prompted to set up an account or claim it another way. Some banks allow recipients to claim Popmoney transfers without having an account, but this varies.
Fees and timing for Popmoney transfers
Most banks don't charge a fee to send money through Popmoney, but some do — usually a small amount like $1 to $3 per transfer. Check with your bank about their specific fees. The recipient's bank also doesn't typically charge a fee to receive money.
Transfers usually arrive within one business day, though some banks process them faster. Weekend and holiday transfers may take longer. When you initiate a transfer, your bank will show you an estimated delivery time before you confirm.
What to do if your bank doesn't offer Popmoney
If your bank doesn't have Popmoney, check what they do offer. Most banks offer at least one of these: Zelle, their own branded money-sending service, or ACH transfers (a slower but widely available option). Each works a bit differently, so ask your bank which one is fastest for sending money to people outside your bank.
If you need to send money and your bank's options don't work for your situation, you can also look into third-party services like PayPal, Venmo, or Square Cash. These work independently of your bank, though they usually still need to connect to your bank account to pull money from. Keep in mind that third-party services may have different fees, speed, and security practices than your bank's own service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Popmoney if I only have a savings account?
Yes, if your bank offers Popmoney and has connected your savings account to the service. When you set up Popmoney, your bank will show you which accounts are available. You can send from whichever one you choose.
Do I need to have money in my account before I send through Popmoney?
Yes. Popmoney pulls the money from your account when ready when you send it, so you need to have at least that amount available. If you don't have enough funds, the transfer will be declined.
What happens if the person I'm sending money to doesn't have a Popmoney-enabled bank?
The money will be held in a queue, and they'll receive a notification asking them to claim it. Depending on the bank, they may be able to set up an account to claim it, or the money may be returned to you after a set period (usually 7 to 14 days).
Is Popmoney safe to use?
Popmoney uses the same security as your bank's website and app, since you access it through your bank's login. The recipient's information is encrypted, and you're not sharing your account number or routing number with anyone.
Can I send money internationally through Popmoney?
No. Popmoney only works for sending money between accounts in the United States. If you need to send money internationally, you'll need to use a different service like a wire transfer or an international money transfer company.