The basic steps to link your bank account
Open the Venmo app and tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the bottom right corner. Select "Settings," then "Payment Methods." Tap "Add a Bank Account" and choose whether you want to link via your bank's website or by entering your account details manually. If you choose the bank website route, you'll be taken to your bank's login page; sign in and authorize Venmo to access your account. If you enter details manually, you'll need your routing number and account number, both found on a check or through your bank's website.
After you submit your information, Venmo will verify the account by depositing two small amounts (usually under $0.25 each) into your bank account within one to two business days. Once those deposits arrive, return to Venmo, go back to "Payment Methods," and select your bank account. Enter the exact amounts of the two deposits to confirm ownership. Your account is then linked and ready to use.
The entire process typically takes three to five business days from start to finish, though the verification step can sometimes take longer if your bank processes deposits slowly. Until verification is complete, you cannot transfer money to or from that bank account through Venmo.
Key Takeaways
- You need your routing number and account number to link a bank account, or you can authorize Venmo through your bank's website instead.
- Venmo verifies new bank accounts by depositing two small amounts and asking you to confirm the exact dollar figures.
- The verification process takes one to five business days depending on your bank's processing speed.
- Once linked, you can transfer money from Venmo to your bank account (usually within one to three business days) or add money to Venmo from your bank.
What information you need before you start
Gather your bank account details before opening Venmo. You'll need either your routing number and account number, or you'll need to be able to log into your bank's website or app. Your routing number is a nine-digit code specific to your bank's location; your account number is unique to your individual account. Both appear on the bottom left of any check you have, or you can find them by logging into your bank's website and looking at account details or statements.
If you don't have checks and can't find these numbers online, call your bank's customer service line. Have your account number and a form of ID ready. The bank will provide both numbers over the phone, though some banks require you to verify your identity before releasing this information.
Why Venmo might reject your bank account
Venmo will reject a bank account if the name on the account doesn't match the name on your Venmo profile exactly. If your bank account is under "Robert James Smith" but your Venmo account says "Rob Smith," the verification will fail. Log into Venmo and check that your first and last name match what your bank has on file, then try linking again.
A second common reason for rejection is entering the wrong routing number. This happens most often when you have accounts at multiple banks or when you use a credit union. Double-check that the routing number belongs to the specific branch where your account is held, not just the bank's main number. If you're unsure, call your bank or look up the routing number on your bank's website using your account number.
Venmo may also decline accounts at certain banks or credit unions, though this is rare. If you've entered everything correctly and Venmo still rejects the account, contact Venmo support through the app and ask whether your financial institution is supported. If it isn't, you can still use Venmo with a debit card instead, though you won't be able to transfer money directly to your bank account.
How to transfer money between Venmo and your bank
Once your bank account is verified, you can move money in two directions. To transfer money from Venmo to your bank account, tap the menu icon, select "Transfer Money," then "Transfer to Bank." Choose the amount and confirm. Standard transfers take one to three business days and are free. Instant transfers to your debit card are also available for a small fee (usually 1% of the amount, with a minimum of 25 cents).
To add money to Venmo from your bank account, tap the "+" icon at the bottom of the screen, select "Add Money," choose your linked bank account as the source, enter the amount, and confirm. This transfer also takes one to three business days. You can also use your linked bank account to pay someone directly through Venmo without adding money to your Venmo balance first—the money will be pulled from your bank account when the transaction completes.
Security and fraud protection when your bank is linked
Linking your bank account to Venmo means Venmo has access to initiate transfers from that account. Venmo uses encryption to protect this connection and requires you to verify your identity before making large transfers. If someone gains access to your Venmo account, they could potentially transfer money from your linked bank account.
To reduce this risk, use a strong, unique password for Venmo and enable two-factor authentication through the app settings. Two-factor authentication requires you to enter a code sent to your phone or email before you can log in or make transfers, which blocks most unauthorized access even if someone knows your password. Check your Venmo transaction history regularly for transfers you didn't make, and report any unauthorized activity to Venmo support immediately.
If your Venmo account is compromised and money is transferred without your permission, contact Venmo support and your bank. Venmo's fraud protection covers some unauthorized transfers, but your bank may also have protections under federal law. Report the fraud to both within 60 days to preserve your rights to a refund.
Unlinking or changing your bank account
To remove a bank account from Venmo, open Settings, select "Payment Methods," find the bank account you want to remove, and tap "Remove This Bank Account." Venmo will ask you to confirm. Once removed, you cannot use that account to transfer money, though Venmo may keep a record of the account for fraud prevention purposes.
To change which bank account Venmo uses by default, go to "Payment Methods" and tap the account you want to make primary. It will be marked with a checkmark. If you want to link a different bank account entirely, follow the same steps as the initial setup: go to "Add a Bank Account," enter the new details, and wait for the verification deposits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to verify a bank account?
Venmo deposits two small amounts within one to two business days. Once you see them in your bank account and enter the amounts into Venmo, verification is instant. The entire process usually takes three to five business days, but can stretch longer if your bank processes deposits slowly or if there's a weekend or holiday in between.
Can I link a savings account instead of a checking account?
Yes, Venmo accepts both checking and savings accounts. The process is identical—you'll need the routing number and account number for whichever account you choose. Keep in mind that frequent transfers from a savings account may trigger your bank's limits on monthly withdrawals, so a checking account is often more practical.
What happens if I enter the wrong routing number?
Venmo will send the verification deposits to the wrong bank or account. When you try to confirm the amounts, you won't find them, and the verification will fail. Remove the account and start over with the correct routing number. The deposits sent to the wrong account will typically be returned to Venmo within a few days.
Can I use Venmo without linking a bank account?
Yes. You can add money to Venmo using a debit or credit card instead, though most cards charge a 3% fee. You can also receive money from other Venmo users and keep it in your Venmo balance without ever linking a bank account. However, you won't be able to transfer money directly to your bank account without linking one.
Is it safe to give Venmo my bank account information?
Venmo is owned by PayPal and uses industry-standard encryption to protect your bank details. Your account information is not shared with other Venmo users or merchants. The main risk is if your Venmo account itself is compromised, so use a strong password and enable two-factor authentication to protect access to your linked accounts.