How to Set Up Apple Cash on iPhone

Apple Cash is a feature built into your iPhone that lets you send and receive money through the Messages app, almost like sending a text. It is a fast way to split a dinner bill, send a grandchild birthday money, or pay a neighbor for help with the yard. Apple Cash is free to use when you send money from a debit card or your Apple Cash balance, and the money goes into a digital card kept in your Apple Wallet. From there, you can spend it with Apple Pay or transfer it to your bank.

Before you start, make sure your iPhone is updated to the latest version of iOS. You will also need to be at least 18 years old (or have a family member set up Apple Cash Family for you), have a valid debit card, and have two-factor authentication turned on for your Apple ID. If you do not have two-factor authentication on yet, the setup process will guide you through turning it on. Apple may also ask you to verify your identity by taking a picture of your driver's license or state ID. This is a normal safety step required by US law.

Once Apple Cash is set up, you will see a green Apple Cash card in your Wallet app. To send money, open Messages, tap the conversation with the person you want to pay, then tap the Apple Pay button (it looks like a dollar sign or the Apple Pay logo). Type the amount and tap Send. To receive money, the other person sends it to you the same way. And it lands in your Apple Cash card automatically.

Apple Cash is safe because every payment is confirmed with Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode. Never send money to someone you do not know, and watch for scams asking you to "refund" a stranger. If you ever feel unsure, ask a trusted family member before you send.