Banking and Finance

Tips on How to Use Cash App without an SSN

Elizabeth
July 27, 2021

The "cash" in Cash App might suggest that it is only for people with cash, but this couldn't be further from the truth. It's actually an easy way to make payments online or just about anywhere without having to worry about carrying around cash all day long. 


All you need is a smartphone and internet connection (which most of us already have). With Cash App, users get access to a digital wallet which they can load up with their preferred currency like dollars or euros, then spend it. However, there is one more thing you’ll need to send or receive money via Cash App: a SSN.


Let us clarify, though, that in order to send and receive without limits you need a SSN. You’re still able to use the app even if you don’t have a SSN or choose not to provide it when signing up. Here’s what to know about social security numbers when it comes to financial apps and how to use Cash App without a SSN.

What’s a SSN?

SSN stands for social security number. It’s a nine-digit number that all American citizens are given (usually shortly after birth if they’re born in the US) and that immigrant residents are eligible to receive under certain circumstances. 


What’s the point of a SSN? The government uses it to track your lifelong earnings and to establish your benefits for social security. It’s also a way to identify yourself when filling out official documents or when applying for certain products such as a credit card or opening a bank account.


Basically, it’s perhaps the most important identification number in the US aside from your passport number. If you don’t have a SSN, you’ll need to apply for one. This requires that you prove evidence of US citizenship or immigration status. 


The government notes, regarding these types of proof, that “if you are not a US citizen, we must see your current US immigration document(s) and foreign passport with biographical information or photograph.” Read more about how to apply for a SSN here.


Does Cash App Ask for a SSN?

Unfortunately, yes. But, they do so with good intentions. In order to keep the app safe and free from fraud and scams, they verify every user’s identity. Like most financial institutions, they do this by requesting your SSN.


Now, it’s important to clarify that you’re able to download Cash App and create an account without a SSN. However, you’ll be classified as an unverified user. To become a verified user, you’ll need to provide a SSN.


As an unverified user, you’re still able to send and receive cash via the app. However, there is a limit to how much you’re able to send, so do keep that in mind. The limit for sending is up to $250 in a seven-day period and the limit for receiving is $1,000 in that same time period.

How Can I Use a Cash App without SSN?

Cash App is a great way to pay your friends (and get paid in return, too!), but for those of you without a SSN, it can be frustrating. Not to worry! Here are some tips on how to use Cash App without a SSN.


Follow these steps when creating your Cash App account:


  • Download the app and create an account with your email address.
  • Connect your debit card information (*more on that below for those who aren’t able to open a bank account with a SSN)
  • Head over to the Send Money tab and select "I don't have a SSN."
  • Enter the phone number of the person receiving the money.
  • Select “Pay” or “Request.”
  • Wait for the verification code to get sent to the receiver.
  • Tell the receiver to enter this code into the verification box.
  • Once they do, the transaction is complete!




If you’re unable to complete the transaction, check to make sure that you haven’t met the sending or receiving limit for the seven-day period. This is what seems to be the reason in most cases for those with unverified accounts.

Advanced tip: How can you get more cash?

After you know how to use cash app without an SSN, there's one suggestion we want to make here, which can earn you a lot more cash: building your credit! A good credit can bring you tons of benefits and make your life easier! For example, take a look at how much cash you can get from car insurance if you have a great credit score:

Image source

Yes. More than $1500 is saved by an excellent credit score! Ok I got it. So where should I start?

If you are thinking of start setting up your credit now or you want your credit score boosted in shortly, definitely try rent reporting. Since you can't report your rent by yourself, choose rent reporting services wisely. Here at Cheese, our rent reporting service can report both your up to 2 years of rental history and your future ongoing rent, with very affordable price!

More exciting news? Cheese Credit Builder Loan is also coming soon! With Cheese, money-saving and credit-building can be attained at the same time. Sounds good?

We'll be with you soon!