How To Send Money to Someone Without a Bank Account in 2025

Newsflash – A large number of people are still living unbanked, which means they do not have commercial bank accounts. If you happen to have a loved one among these people, I have come to tell you that it is very possible to send money to anyone without a bank account.

However, we owe a hearty “thank you” to digital advancement for bringing about the innovation of Fintech services, online shopping, and investment platforms. Financial transactions such as sending and receiving money can now be done just with a smartphone. This equally means that more people can now manage their finances without a traditional bank. 

In this article, I will be discussing 6 ways to send money to someone without a bank account. I will then share the tips to apply when trying any of the methods, and address some common questions around sending money to the unbanked.

6 Ways To Send Money To Someone Without a Bank Account

Below are 6 ways through which you can send money to someone without a bank account:

1. Gift cards
2. Money order
3. Online payment services
4. Cryptocurrency 
5. eWallets
6. Prepaid debit cards

Note that, all of the ways listed above have different processes. You will have to pick the option that best suits both you and the recipient. 

Let’s take a look at what each process entails.

1. Gift Cards

Gift cards are prepaid cards that are issued by stores and financial institutions, and they offer a unique way to send money. With a gift card, you can pay for goods or services at the store that issued the gift card. For instance, a JCPenney Gift Card can be used to shop in any JCPenney store. Gift cards to send money to an unbanked person works in the following ways:

• Buy gift cards on Nosh – a gift card trading platform that offers a variety of gift cards in various denominations. You will then forward the gift card code to the recipient.

OR

• Buy Nosh gift codes and send them instead of gift cards. All the recipient has to do is open an account on Nosh and redeem the gift code to start paying for services. 

2. Money Order

Money orders are similar to cheques except that you don’t need a bank. The steps below show how money orders work:

• Visit Walmart, CVS, a post office, or any authorized money order issuer
• Fill in the recipient’s information in the “pay to” section
• Fill in the amount of money order you want to buy (It will be equivalent to the amount of cash you want the person to receive)
• Sign your name as the purchaser 
• Make payment and keep the receipt in case you decide to cancel the other later
• Mail it to the recipient who will exchange it for cash

This method is cost-effective, secure, and provides a clear paper trail. Additionally, you have the flexibility to cancel a money order if needed as long as the recipient hasn’t cashed it yet.

3. Online Payment Services

So far, online payment services are one the most common ways to send money to the unbanked. The fintech industry has brought about various online payment services like PayPal, Cash App, and Venmo. All that is needed is to download one of the applications and sign up to start enjoying their services. Some of them have features that enable you to add someone or link a prepaid debit card for seamless transactions

4. Cryptocurrency

Cryptocurrency is another way you can send money to someone without a bank account. Popular examples of cryptocurrency include Bitcoin, Ethereum, USD Tether, etc. Due to the popularity of cryptocurrency, some coins are now accepted as forms of payment. 

You can send money through cryptocurrency in just two steps:

• Get the public address of their crypto wallet
• Send crypto equal to the amount you want to send to the recipient’s address.

This method is secure as the transaction is only and directly between you and the recipient. No middleman or third party.

5. eWallets

eWallets also called digital wallets are another way you can send money online to someone who doesn’t have a bank account. They function similarly to payment apps where you can just link your credit or debit card. Examples of eWallets are Apple Pay and Google Pay. 

Additionally, eWallets keep your payment info extra safe through something called tokenization. But remember, some digital wallets only work with certain devices. For example, you need an Apple device to use Apple Pay.

6. Prepaid Debit Cards

Prepaid debit cards serve as another tool for sending money to someone without a bank account. They are like regular debit cards except that they are not linked to any bank account. All you have to do is load money onto the card and send it to the recipient.

Prepaid debit cards are easy to activate and are readily available at financial institutions and grocery stores. However, you should note that prepaid cards come with potential fees like sign-up fees, monthly fees, and reload fees.

Tips for Sending Money to Someone Without a Bank Account

Here are tips for sending money to someone without a bank account:

1. Compare options

Before sending money, compare different methods to find the best fit for your needs. Consider factors like speed, cost, and security to make an informed decision.

2. Prioritize security 

Always prioritize security when sending money, especially if it involves transactions abroad. Ensure that there are safety measures in place, allowing the money to be returned to you in case the recipient faces issues accessing it.

3. Verify recipient information

Confirm that the recipient’s details are accurate to avoid complications. Ensure that the person picking up the payment matches the information provided, as using another person’s name or a nickname might prevent them from receiving the funds.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sending Money to the Unbanked

1. Who is typically unbanked?

The unbanked are people who don’t use commercial banking services like ATM cards and savings accounts. They usually don’t have access to financial benefits such as access to loans, insurance, and mortgages. 

2. Why are people unbanked?

People become unbanked because of low income rates, privacy issues, and lack of trust. In some places, people can be unbanked as a result of not having high school degrees.

3. Can money be sent without a bank account number?

Yes, you can send money without a bank account number using various methods like prepaid cards, gift cards, or certain mobile payment apps.

4. What app can I use to send money instantly?

Apps like Cash App, Venmo, or PayPal allow you to send money instantly to others using just your smartphone. Most of these apps enable you to send money with no charges.

5. Can you use Cash App without a bank account?

Yes, you can use Cash App without a bank account. You can link a prepaid debit card or a credit card to it. Also, the Cash App provides the Cash Card, a complimentary prepaid debit card that you can request directly from within the app.

Conclusion

There are alternative ways to send money to someone without a bank account. From gift cards to online payment services, each method has its own advantages. By comparing options and considering factors like speed, cost, and security, you can choose the approach that works best for you and the recipient.