Here, we explain how to use Circle to send and receive money around the world. If you’re more interested in using PayPal, we can show you how to use PayPal too. 

What is Circle?

Before we delve into how to use the app, we’d better explain exactly what Circle is, and what it offers. Circle was founded back in 2013, and is essentially an app available for both iOS and Android that allows you to store and transfer money. Granted, there are many apps that can do that, so what makes Circle different? First up, all transfers to- and from Circle are completely free with no hidden charges, meaning you can request and transfer money to friends and family around the world with no worry of being caught out by transfer or conversion fees. The conversion rate (if required) is also extremely competitive, and often beat rates you’d find at the Post Office. It also tries to make sending and receiving money from friends and family a little less awkward by allowing users to add a message, picture or even a funny GIF to transfers. It’s much easier to ask for that £15 from drinks last week if accompanied by a funny GIF, after all. Circle can also work as a savings app, as it’s easy enough to withdraw money from your linked bank account and leave it in Circle until it’s needed. Oh, and don’t worry about security either, as Circle is protected not only by PIN but Touch ID (for iPhone users) and two-factor authentication that requires you to know your email and password, as well as provide a verification code from a second device.

How to use Circle to send and receive money

It’s incredibly easy to use the Circle app due to its simplistic design, but it can still be a little confusing for new users. Here’s how to perform various tasks using the Circle app for iOS and Android.

While you’ll be prompted to add bank account details when you initially set up your account, it isn’t mandatory. But once you want to start sending and receiving money, it’ll require a linked bank account – so how do you link a bank account or card to Circle? Well… Your card/account will then be verified and added to your account.  

Transfer money to a friend

Once your account has been verified, you’ll be free to transfer money to friends and family. You don’t have to wait for them to request it though, you can send it whenever you’re ready: The recipient will then have a few days to accept the money. From the chat menu (opened by selecting the transaction on the main menu), you can remind the recipient, or send follow up messages.

Request funds

What if you don’t want to wait for your friends to send you the money? You can also actively request money that’s owed to you.

Send and withdraw money from your bank account

What happens once you’ve received the money? You can keep it in Circle, or transfer it to your bank account. To withdraw your money: You can also use Circle as a savings app, as you can easily add funds via your bank account:

Send money via iMessage

Apple is introducing the ability to send and receive money via Apple Pay using the Messages app in iOS 11. The issue is that the functionality won’t be available to those of us in the UK – not initially, at least. But while Apple is being cautious and testing it in the US only, UK users can send money via the Messages app using the Circle app extension.

Add extra security

We mentioned extra security features at the beginning of the article, but these aren’t enabled by default. Don’t worry – it’s simple to set up. Circle isn’t the only company to offer this functionality – popular bank Monzo also offers a similar system. Lewis Painter is a Senior Staff Writer at Tech Advisor. Our resident Apple expert, Lewis covers everything from iPhone to AirPods, plus a range of smartphones, tablets, laptops and gaming hardware. You’ll also find him on the Tech Advisor YouTube channel.