What you need to start a Cash App account

You can create a Cash App account in about five minutes using your phone. You need a smartphone with iOS or Android, a valid email address or phone number, and a way to verify your identity. Cash App is free to download and free to use for basic peer-to-peer transfers — you only pay fees when you use certain features like instant transfers or cash advances.

Cash App is owned by Block (formerly Square) and works in all 50 US states. The app handles money transfers between people, bill payments, stock and Bitcoin purchases, and direct deposit. You do not need a bank account to create the account itself, though you will need one linked to move money in or out.

Key Takeaways

  • Download Cash App from the App Store or Google Play, then enter your email or phone number and create a password to set up your account.
  • You must add your full legal name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number before you can send or receive money.
  • Link a debit card or bank account to move money between Cash App and your bank; a debit card works immediately, while a bank account takes one to two business days.
  • Your first transfers are limited to $250 per transaction and $1,000 per week until Cash App verifies your full identity with your address and government ID.
  • You can receive money without linking a bank account, but you will need one to cash out to your actual bank.

Download the app and create your login

Go to the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play (Android) and search for "Cash App." Download the official app by Block, Inc. Open it and tap "Sign up." You will be asked to enter either your email address or phone number — use whichever you check regularly, because Cash App will send you security codes there.

Create a password at least eight characters long. Cash App will ask you to confirm your email or phone number by sending you a code. Check your email inbox or text messages, enter the code into the app, and your login is complete. At this point you have an account, but you cannot send or receive money yet.

Add your personal information

Cash App now asks for your full legal name (first and last), date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Enter these exactly as they appear on your government ID — mismatches will cause problems later when you try to verify your identity. Tap "Agree" to Cash App's terms of service.

Once you submit this information, Cash App performs a quick check against your Social Security number. This usually takes a few seconds. If it passes, you can now send and receive money up to $250 per transaction and $1,000 per week. If it fails, Cash App will tell you why — usually a mismatch between the name or date of birth you entered and what is on file with the Social Security Administration. Go back and correct it.

Link a bank account or debit card

To move money into or out of Cash App, you need to connect a funding source. Tap the banking icon (usually at the bottom of the screen), then "Add a Bank Account" or "Add a Card." You have two options: link a debit card directly, or link your bank account using your routing number and account number.

A debit card works immediately — you can send money as soon as you add it. A bank account takes one to two business days to verify. Cash App will make two small deposits (usually under $1 each) to your bank account, and you will need to enter those amounts back into the app to confirm you own the account. Once verified, you can transfer money between your bank and Cash App without fees.

Do not link a credit card — Cash App does not accept them. Debit cards and bank accounts only.

Increase your sending and receiving limits

Your first week, you are capped at $250 per transaction and $1,000 per week total. To raise these limits, you need to verify your full identity. Tap your profile icon, then "Personal," then "Verify Identity." Cash App will ask for your full address and a photo of your government ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID).

Take a clear photo of the front and back of your ID, enter your address, and submit. Verification usually takes 24 to 48 hours. Once approved, your limits jump to $20,000 per transaction and $20,000 per week. If Cash App rejects your ID photo, take a new one in good lighting with all four corners of the ID visible.

Set up a Cash Tag for receiving money

A Cash Tag is a unique username that makes it easier for people to send you money. Instead of sharing your full name and phone number, you can just give them your Cash Tag. Tap your profile icon, then "Cash Tag," and enter a username (letters, numbers, and underscores only). Cash Tags are first-come, first-served and cannot be changed once claimed, so choose one you will keep.

You do not need a Cash Tag to receive money — people can also send to your phone number or email address. But a Cash Tag is simpler and more private.

Protect your account with security settings

Once your account is set up, add a PIN or Face ID to lock it. Tap your profile icon, then "Security," then "PIN" or "Biometric." A PIN is a four-digit code you enter every time you open the app. Face ID or fingerprint is faster and just as secure. You can also turn on notifications for every transaction so you see immediately if someone uses your account without permission.

Never share your password, PIN, or Cash Tag with anyone. Cash App support will never ask for your password. If someone claims to be from Cash App and asks for personal information, it is a scam — hang up or delete the message.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a bank account to create a Cash App account?

No. You can create an account with just your phone number or email and your Social Security number. However, you will need a bank account or debit card linked to send money out or cash out your balance to your actual bank.

Can I use Cash App without verifying my identity?

Yes, but only up to $250 per transaction and $1,000 per week. Most people verify their identity within the first week to raise these limits to $20,000 per transaction and $20,000 per week.

What if Cash App rejects my Social Security number?

This usually means a mismatch between the name or date of birth you entered and what the Social Security Administration has on file. Double-check that you entered your legal name (as it appears on your ID) and your exact date of birth, then try again. If it still fails, contact Cash App support through the app.

How long does it take to verify my bank account?

One to two business days. Cash App deposits two small amounts (usually under $1 each) and asks you to enter those amounts to confirm you own the account. Once you do, the account is verified and you can transfer money without fees.

Can I have more than one Cash App account?

Cash App's terms of service say one account per person. Creating multiple accounts with the same Social Security number or phone number will likely result in both being closed. If you need a separate account for business, Cash App offers Cash App for Business, which is a different product.