Notice about Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Payments (Venmo, Zelle, Cash App, Apple Cash)

Student groups SHOULD NOT use peer-to-peer (P2P) apps such as Venmo, Zelle, Cash App, or Apple Cash to make payments on behalf of the group, except under specific circumstances.

ALLOWED: P2P apps may only be used for payments related to physical goods/items or tickets/admission to events.

NOT ALLOWED: P2P apps may not be used for payments to individuals for services or work due to tax and reporting issues.
Exception: Venmo payments may be used only if processed as a business transaction, not as a “friends and family” payment.

For payments to individuals or contractors providing services, submit a Service Payment Request through GrantEd. Once approved, a check will be issued to the vendor (by mail or pickup).

To use Venmo, Zelle, or Cash App for VSO payments, one of the following documentation options must be satisfied:

All of the following pieces are required:

1. Official Documentation:
   A screenshot of an official email or website with the organization’s letterhead, which outlines:

   • What the payment is for (e.g., “Registration fee for competition ABC”).

   • Available payment methods and payee instructions (e.g., “Venmo the registration fee to @XYZ”).

2. Transaction Screenshot:
   A screenshot of the Venmo/Zelle/Cash App transaction that shows:

   • The recipient’s name.

   • An accurate description of what the payment is for.

   • Status as sent/complete (not pending or scheduled).

   • The date of the transaction.

   • It was processed as a business transaction, not from friends to friends.

All of the following pieces are required:

1. Invoice:
   An invoice with proper itemization of the goods or services provided.

2. Proof of Payment:
   The same invoice showing full payment has been made, and a bank or credit card charge.

• Payments made without the required documentation will not be reimbursed.

• Always ensure the transaction is for approved purposes (physical goods or event admission) to avoid rejection.

• For services or individual payments, use a service payment on GrantEd to ensure compliance with tax requirements.