Send money with credit card: all you need to know

Wondering how to transfer money from credit card to a bank? Or maybe you want to know how to send money with a credit card to a friend or family member?

This guide covers everything about how to send money with a credit card, including apps to send money with a credit card and more. 

And if the payment you need to make is heading overseas, we’ll also introduce Wise as a good way to save on fees when you need to transfer money from a credit card to a bank account abroad.

📑 Table of Contents
Can you send money with a credit card? How to transfer money from a credit card to a bank account? Apps to send money with credit card Wise Venmo PayPal Zelle Western Union Cash App Things to consider when sending money with a credit card Try Wise, an easy way to send money abroad with credit card

Can you send money with a credit card?

First, the obvious question: can you send money with a credit card?

The good news is that there are a few different ways you’ll be able to pay using your credit card when you send money to a friend, business or to pay a bill. This guide runs through the key options looking at cost, convenience and speed.

How to transfer money from a credit card to a bank account?

Depending on exactly what you need to do, you may find you have a few different ways to send money with your credit card. Features and fees do vary based on the method you choose, though, so it’s worth shopping around before you decide.

Through cash advance

Most credit cards allow cash advances, which may incur an extra percentage fee and immediate interest charges. This can be a costly but often convenient option. 

Depending on the card provider you’re with you’ll usually be able to use your credit card to make a withdrawal from an ATM, or you could be able to get a check issued, or have your card provider deposit an agreed amount right into your bank account.

Using a P2P payment 

If you’re looking to send money to a friend you might be interested in P2P (person to person, or peer to peer) payment providers. Popular names include Western Union or MoneyGram for example, but there are quite a few providers depending on where you want to send money to. 

You’ll need to create an online account with the provider you pick, and pay for your transfer using your card. Fees will apply from the provider, and your card may also still charge a cash advance fee.

With a money transfer provider

Money transfer providers, which include online and mobile specialist services, can be a good option to send money to a bank account directly within the US or internationally. 

Different providers have different target markets, which means their services, features and fees vary widely. Check out the apps highlighted below as great options to explore as you find your perfect match.  

Apps to send money with credit card

If you need to send money from a credit card, or want to transfer money from credit card to a bank, using a mobile app is often the easiest, fastest option. Here are a few providers to consider.

Wise

Many money apps to send money with credit cards don’t allow international services — or impose high fees where they do. Wise is different. 

Send money overseas with the mid-market exchange rate, using just your recipient’s email address. Fees are low and transparent, and payments are often instant.

Send money with Wise 🚀

Please see Terms of Use for your region or visit Wise Fees & Pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information

Venmo¹

Venmo is a super convenient way to send money fast, to family and friends. It’s popular for mobile payments with a social element, as you can add emojis and notes to money as you transfer it. 

Using Venmo you can send money by credit or debit card, as well as by linking your bank account. You can only use this service in the US.

PayPal²

You’re likely already familiar with PayPal. PayPal payments can be sent with a credit card, and are likely to be deposited into your recipient’s PayPal account almost instantly. 

However, it’ll probably take a day or two for your recipient to withdraw the money to their bank account, and if you’re paying by credit card you’ll pay 2.9% + fixed fee for most domestic payments, and a 5% fee for international transfers. 

Zelle³

Zelle is a convenient option for sending money from one bank account to another. However, if you’re thinking along the lines of “can you send money through Zelle with a credit card?” The answer is, unfortunately, no. You can’t link your credit card to Zelle, so it’s no use if you want to send money to a bank account from a credit card.

Western Union⁴

Western Union is one of the most recognizable money transfer services around — and you can usually make your transfer online with a credit card if you’d like to. 

Simply set up a WU account, and select the option to pay with your chosen credit card. It’s worth knowing that the fees for sending with your credit card are usually higher compared to other methods, and an exchange rate markup applies if you’re sending across currencies.

Cash App⁵

If you already have a Cash App account you’ll be pleased to hear that you can usually link your credit card to your Cash App to make payments that way. All you then need is your recipient’s personal details or $cashtag to make your transfer. Cash App payments are only available in the US and UK, so not suited to most international transfers.

Things to consider when sending money with a credit card

Sending money using your credit card may not be the cheapest option — and there are a few other things to consider too. Here are some pointers to get your thinking.

How it’ll impact your credit

Using a credit card wisely, and repaying your bill every period can help you build a good credit score. However, if you overextend yourself or end up missing repayments, you could accidentally damage your credit — not good news for any of us.

The fees you’re paying

Make sure you’re crystal clear on all the fees that may come up when sending money from your credit card. Your own card provider might charge a cash advance fee if you withdraw cash or send money with a third party provider. And a money transfer service will also have their own fees, which can include an exchange rate markup if the person you’re sending to is overseas.

How much interest your bank will charge you

If your credit card payment is treated as a cash advance it’ll likely incur instant interest from your card network. Make sure you’re clear on your own card’s policy to avoid any surprises.

Try Wise, an easy way to send money abroad with credit card

If you’re sending money overseas with your credit card don’t pay more than you need to. Get Wise for low cost international transfers which use the mid-market exchange rate with no hidden fees.

Just set up your payment in the Wise app or desktop site to see instantly the exchange rate and fee options available, pay with your credit card, and the money will be moved right away to your recipient’s bank account. No hidden costs, no sneaky exchange rate markups and no hassle.

Get a Wise account
in minutes 💰

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Sending money from a credit card can be a convenient option — but it’s not always the cheapest. That’s why it’s important you look out for all the possible fees involved in your payment to get the best deal. 

And if you’re sending money from your credit card to someone overseas, check out Wise to get a better exchange rate and pay less overall. 

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Sources: 

1. Venmo
2. PayPal
3. PayPal fees
4. Zelle
5. Western Union
6. Cash App

Sources checked on 04.21.2022