Yes, you can use Venmo without a card. You can use Venmo without a card by linking a bank account instead, or by using your Venmo balance, meaning a debit or credit card is never required to send, receive, or manage money on the platform.
Can you use Venmo without a card?
A card is never required to use Venmo. You can fund payments and manage your account using only a linked bank account or the money already in your Venmo balance. Sending money using your Venmo balance or a linked bank account is free, while payments funded by a linked credit card are subject to a 3% fee. By skipping the card entirely, you avoid that fee and keep your transactions simple, but you can still use Venmo virtual card for secure online purchases without a physical piece of plastic.
Setting up your Venmo account without a card
When you first set up Venmo, you can skip the step that asks for a debit or credit card. Here is how to do it:
- Download the Venmo app from your device's app store and open it.
- Tap "Sign up" and enter your email address, create a password, and provide your phone number.
- Enter the verification code Venmo sends to your phone.
- Fill in your first and last name, choose a username (this becomes your Venmo handle, which others use to find and pay you), and add a profile picture if you like.
- When prompted to add a debit or credit card, tap "Skip this step."
- Optionally connect your contacts or Facebook to find friends already on Venmo.
That is all it takes to set up Venmo without ever entering a card number. Your account is ready to receive money and link a bank account.
Linking a bank account to Venmo
To send money or withdraw funds, you need a bank account linked. You can add one through the Wallet or Payment Methods menu.
- Tap the "Me" tab (your picture or initials), then tap "Wallet" (or go to "Settings" then "Payment Methods").
- Tap "Add a bank or card" and select "Bank."
- Choose how to verify your bank account.
Instant verification through Plaid
Select your bank from the list and log in with your online banking credentials. Venmo uses Plaid to confirm the account instantly. This method is fast and requires no waiting.
Manual micro-transfer verification
If you prefer not to use Plaid, enter your routing number and account number manually. Venmo will send two small deposits (less than $1 each) to your bank account. Check your bank statement within 1-3 business days, then return to the Venmo app, go to the same menu, and enter the amounts you received. Ensure you have at least $2 in your bank account before starting to avoid overdraft fees during this process.
Verifying your identity to use your Venmo balance
To pay directly from your Venmo balance, you must first complete identity verification. This unlocks the ability to use the money people send you without needing a card or bank transfer for every purchase. Venmo requires your full legal name, residential address, date of birth, and Social Security Number. Verifying your identity also increases your sending and transfer limits and enables features like direct deposit and applying for the Venmo Debit Card.
Adding money to Venmo without a card
The primary way to fund your Venmo balance without a card is to receive payments from other Venmo users. When someone sends you money, it goes directly into your Venmo balance. You can also transfer money from your linked bank account into your Venmo balance. Note that you must be at least 18 years old and physically located in the United States to use Venmo, and your app must be updated to a supported version.
Sending and requesting money without a card
Once you have a linked bank account or a Venmo balance, sending money is straightforward.
- Tap the "Pay or Request" button at the top of the app.
- Enter the recipient's Venmo handle, email, or phone number.
- Type the amount and add a note if you want.
- Do not choose a card.
- Tap "Pay" to complete the transaction. Sending money this way is free.
To request money, switch to "Request" mode on the same screen, enter the amount and the person you are asking, then tap "Request." The other person can pay you using their balance or bank account, and the money arrives in your Venmo balance.
Withdrawing money from Venmo to your bank
When you want to move money out of Venmo, transfer your Venmo balance to your linked bank account.
- Tap "Transfer to Bank" and enter the amount you want to withdraw.
- Select the bank account you linked earlier.
- Confirm the transfer. The money typically arrives in your bank account within 1-3 business days.
This standard transfer is free and does not require a card at any step. You can also apply for a Venmo Debit Card, which lets you spend your Venmo balance directly at Mastercard-accepting retailers and withdraw cash from ATMs, but that is an optional upgrade, not a requirement for using Venmo without a card.
