Imagine this. You owe a friend money, and they’re standing right in front of you. You open your phone and start scrolling through old WhatsApp chats, trying to find the account number they sent weeks ago. You really don’t want to ask again. It’s already a bit embarrassing.

Such an incident happens more often than you think. Between long account numbers, different banks, and simple typos, sending money can feel more stressful than it should be.

But things have changed. In Nigeria today, you can send money using just a phone number. That’s right, you don’t need the account number. With platforms like Squareme, you can pay friends or family instantly, safely, and without the awkward back-and-forth.

Best Apps To Use To Transfer Money With Just Phone Numbers

Here are some of the best apps in Nigeria that let you transfer money using just a phone number.

1. Squareme

Squareme is a social payment platform built to make managing money effortless. It’s the best app to send money in Nigeria. You can send money instantly using just a phone number or request money from friends and family when it’s their turn to pay you back. Squareme also offers a virtual dollar card that can be used to shop online or manage subscriptions.

But that’s just the start. Squareme puts convenience at your fingertips. From funding your betting wallet to recharging your meter, buying airtime and data, and paying for cable subscriptions, everything you need is in one place.

It’s as easy as sending a chat message – at the snap of your fingers, you’re done. You can also track your transactions and ask for a comprehensive statement of all transactions. With Squareme, managing your finances is quick and stress-free, giving you more freedom to focus on what matters.

2. OPay

OPay is another solid option trusted by many users. It allows phone number transfers between users on the platform, so if the person you’re paying uses OPay, it’s quick and straightforward. Account creation can be done in a few minutes, and you are set. You also get three free transfers daily when sending money to other banks, after which standard charges may apply.

3. PalmPay

PalmPay is a digital payment platform that supports sending money using phone numbers and is widely known for its cashback offers and rewards. Whether you’re sending money to another PalmPay user or to a different bank, the process is simple and often free. PalmPay also offers a loan feature that allows users to access funds and repay over a set period.

4. Moniepoint

Moniepoint is a digital bank that offers a clean and simple way to manage your money, including sending transfers to contacts linked to phone numbers. With its straightforward interface and reliable transfers, it’s a convenient option for handling everyday payments.

5. VALE

Vale is a fintech platform focused on making saving and managing money simpler and more accessible for everyday Nigerians. Instead of charging multiple fees, Vale is built to offer low-cost, user-friendly financial services that actually work for you. By partnering with traditional banks, Vale offers better options for people who want a more flexible, straightforward way to manage their money.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Send Money Using Squareme

Squareme money transfers take less than a minute, and you can send money to someone in Nigeria regardless of whether they already have the app or not. Here’s exactly how it works:

• Open the Squareme app: Log in to your account. If you’re new, you can sign up in just a few steps.
• Tap “Send Money": From your dashboard, select the option to send money.
• Choose how you want to send. : Select the option to send via beneficiary or contact list.
• Enter the amount. : Input how much you want to send and add a note.
• Enter or select the phone number: Type in the recipient’s phone number or pick it directly from your contacts.
• Confirm the recipient’s name: Squareme will show the name linked to that number, so you can be sure you’re sending it to the right person.
• Review and confirm: Double-check the details, then complete the transaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q1: Can I send money to any phone number in Nigeria?

Ans: Yes, you can send money to someone in Nigeria with a valid phone number in Nigeria. You don’t need to know their bank account details, just their registered phone number. This makes it fast and convenient to pay friends, family, or anyone you owe money to without the usual back-and-forth of asking for account numbers.

• Q2: What happens if the number isn't registered on Squareme?

Ans: If the recipient isn’t registered on Squareme, they’ll receive an SMS notification almost instantly informing them that money has been sent. The message includes instructions to sign up and claim the funds, ensuring your payment reaches the right person.

• Q3: Is sending by phone number safe?

Ans: Yes. Sending money via phone number on SquareMe is secure. Even if someone gets access to your phone, multiple verification steps, like PINs and OTPs, protect your account. The app also displays the recipient’s name before sending, which reduces mistakes. Squareme also encrypts all transactions and personal data, ensuring the protection of your money and information at every step.

• Q4: Are there fees for phone number transfers?

Ans: No. Sending money to someone using their phone number on Squareme is completely free. There are no hidden charges or extra costs, making it easy to pay friends, family, or service providers. This keeps everyday transfers simple and convenient, letting you focus on moving money quickly without worrying about unnecessary fees.

• Q5: How long does it take?

Ans: Transfers using phone numbers on Squareme are instant. Once you confirm the payment, the recipient receives the money immediately with a notification. There’s no waiting for bank processing, making it perfect for urgent payments, splitting bills, or quickly sending money to friends and family.

Looking to try this new transfer method? Download the Squareme app today and send money instantly to family and friends.