If you’re new to the United States or just getting started with Zelle, figuring out how much money you can send might feel a little confusing—and you’re not alone. Understanding your sending limits is essential, especially when you need to send larger amounts. In this Remitly guide, we’ll walk you through how Zelle’s transfer limits work and what might affect your sending thresholds, and share practical tips to help you get the most out of this convenient service.
Understanding how Zelle works
Zelle is a US-based digital payment network that helps you send and receive money quickly and securely—often within minutes. It works by transferring funds directly between bank accounts, so you don’t need to deal with cash, checks, or third-party payment apps.
One reason Zelle is so popular is that it’s integrated with over 1,000 banks and credit unions nationwide. If your bank supports Zelle, you can access it through your existing mobile banking app or website without needing to download anything extra. If your bank doesn’t offer Zelle, there’s a separate Zelle app you can download—but you’ll need to link an eligible Visa or Mastercard debit card to send or receive funds.
Whether you’re paying back a friend, splitting rent with roommates, or sending money to a trusted small business, Zelle can be a fast and fee-free way to move money.
Common uses of Zelle
Zelle is mainly designed for everyday personal transactions, such as splitting bills with roommates, paying friends back quickly, or making small business payments—just make sure you only ever send money to people you know and trust.Zelle only works with US bank accounts and doesn’t support international transfers, so it’s best suited for domestic, person-to-person payments. If you need to send money internationally, other services may be a better fit.
Zelle transfer limits explained
Instead of a universal sending limit, your Zelle transfer limits depend on your bank or credit union’s policies. These rules vary by institution and risk factors, so your limits may differ from others’. Check with your bank to find out your exact limits.
Standard Zelle sending limits
Since Zelle is integrated with many banks, each one sets its own sending limits based on their policies. Some banks may limit you to $500 USD per day, while others allow as much as $3,500 USD daily, with higher monthly caps. These limits usually apply only when you send money.
In most cases, there’s no limit on how much money you can receive through Zelle. Because limits vary, it’s helpful to check with your bank to understand the exact amounts you can send.
Zelle transfer limits per bank
Here are some examples of how US banks set their Zelle limits (current as of August 2025):
- Chase: Varies by account type, but could be up to $15,000 per day.
- Bank of America: Personal users can send up to $3,500 per day and $20,000 per month. Small business accounts have higher limits: up to $15,000 per day and $60,000 per month. The amount is limited to $500 per day for personal accounts and $2,000 per day for business accounts during the first 60 days of opening the account
- Wells Fargo: Personal accounts allow up to $3,500 per day and $20,000 per month. Small businesses may send up to $15,000 per day and $60,000 per month.
- Capital One: Many accounts have a limit of $3,000 per day, but some have limits of up to $10,000.
- Smaller banks or credit unions: Limits are often lower, typically around $500 per day.
Because limits differ by bank and account type, it’s a good idea to contact your bank directly for the details that apply to you.
Limits for non-bank Zelle users
If you use the standalone Zelle app instead of accessing Zelle through your bank, your sending limits are usually lower, often around $500 per week. You’ll need to link an accepted Visa or Mastercard debit card, and because this method isn’t linked directly to a bank account, limits are tighter to reduce risk.
If you find these limits too low for your needs, you might want to explore other options or check if your bank offers Zelle through its app with higher limits.
Can you increase your limits?
If your current Zelle sending limit feels too low, you may be able to increase it. Many banks consider your account history and how long you’ve been a customer when deciding whether to increase your limits, so it may take some time.
You can reach out to your bank to ask if increasing your daily or monthly sending cap is possible. They may review your account history or ask for additional verification before making a change.
Factors that influence Zelle sending limits
Several things can affect how much money you’re allowed to send with Zelle:
- Account type: Business accounts often have higher limits than personal ones.
- Account age: Newer accounts might start with lower limits until you build trust with your bank.
- Bank policies: Each bank or credit union sets its own rules based on risk and customer history.
- How you access Zelle: Limits are usually higher if you use Zelle through your bank’s app vs. the standalone app.
- Payment destination: Zelle works only for transfers between US bank accounts; international transfers aren’t supported.
Knowing these factors can help you understand why your limits might be different from others.
Making the most of Zelle’s sending limits
Knowing how much money you can send with Zelle can help you plan your transfers wisely. Since limits vary by bank, many people find Zelle a convenient, fee-free option for everyday payments.
If you need to send larger amounts, consider breaking up your payments into smaller parts over several days. You might also explore alternatives like wire or ACH transfer for bigger sums. If you’re ever unsure about your limits or how to use Zelle effectively, your bank is a helpful resource.
FAQs
How much money can you send through Zelle in one day?
It depends on your bank, but limits usually range between $500 and $2,500 per day. It’s best to check directly with your bank to confirm your limit.
Can I increase my Zelle sending limit?
In some cases. Your bank may review your account history and request additional verification before deciding if you’re eligible for an increase.
Does Zelle charge fees for sending larger sums?
No, Zelle does not charge any fees for personal transfers, regardless of the transfer amount, as long as it’s within your limit. Business accounts may be subject to different terms depending on your bank.
What happens if I exceed my Zelle limit?
Your transaction will likely be declined. You can wait until the next eligible day or split your payment into smaller amounts.
Can Zelle be used for business transactions?
Yes, some banks offer Zelle for business accounts, and these may come with higher limits. Keep in mind that fees may apply for business transfers.