I think you’ll agree with me when I say; it’s REALLY challenging to find the best FinTech apps in the USA right now.

With so many aggressively marketed apps craving your attention, it can be overwhelming to sieve through the countless apps and determine which ones are worth your time and money.

That should be a problem of the past now that you’ve landed on this page. We did all the hard work for you to compile this definitive list of the best FinTech apps in the USA right now. Keep reading to see which apps best suit your unique needs.

But first;

What is a FinTech App?

FinTech, though rooted in tech innovations over a century, really took off in the 1990s when the term ‘FinTech‘ itself started gaining traction. So, it is just natural that so many people frequently ask; what is a FinTech App?

Now, FinTech is short for Financial Technology. So, a FinTech app is essentially a mobile application that uses technology to provide financial services to individuals and businesses. You can use a FinTech app on a smartphone, a tablet or desktop.

And, they’re often available for download both on iOS and Android devices. The best FinTech apps offer a raft of features including;

• Budgeting Tools: The best FinTech apps for budgeting can help you track income and expenses, set spending limits, and monitor progress. They can be particularly beneficial if you’re trying to budget on a low income. Whether you’re planning for a vacation or just trying to stick to a monthly budget, these tools are essential. They often come with intuitive dashboards that let you see where your money’s going at a glance.
• Savings Accounts: Many FinTech apps come with high-yield savings accounts. These aren’t your average savings accounts—they offer better interest rates, so your money grows faster. You can set up automatic transfers to your savings and watch your balance increase without lifting a finger.

Also Read: Which is the Best App for Saving Money in 2024

• Investment Accounts: Ready to dip your toes into investing? FinTech apps offer easy access to investment accounts where you can buy stocks, ETFs, and other securities. They often come with educational resources to help you make informed decisions and sometimes even offer robo-advisors that manage your investments for you.

Also read: How to Use AI to help with Retirement Investing

• Payment Options: Gone are the days of fumbling with cash. Thanks to the best FinTech apps in the USA, now you can make payments directly from your phone. You can pay bills, split expenses with friends, and even make contactless payments at your favorite stores.
• Borrowing Options: Need a quick loan? Some FinTech apps provide borrowing options, including personal loans and credit lines. They streamline the application process, to make it faster and easier to get the funds you need without the traditional bank hassle.
• Online Banking: With online banking features, you can manage your entire financial life from just one FinTech app. Check your balances, initiate fund transfers, and even deposit checks with the help of just your phone’s camera.
• Stock Purchasing: For those interested in stock trading, the best FinTech apps in the USA for investing offer easy stock purchasing. Buy and sell shares right from your device, and stay updated on market trends with real-time data.
• Investing in Insurance: Some FinTech apps go beyond traditional finance and let you invest in insurance. Whether it’s health, life, or property insurance, these apps help you find and manage policies that fit your needs.

How to Choose the Best FinTech Apps

Our selection process for the best FinTech apps in the USA right now was thorough and focused on criteria that truly impact your investment decision. Real quick, here is how to choose the best FinTech app according to our methodology;

• Check Security and Regulatory Compliance

First and foremost, security and regulatory compliance were paramount. To remain with only the best FinTech apps in the USA right now, we examined each app’s security features to ensure they use military-grade encryption and comply with relevant financial regulations.

After all, you need to trust that your investments are safe and sound. Apps like PayPal and Coinbase, known for their robust security measures, set the standard here.

• Evaluate User Interface and Experience

Next, we looked at the user interface and experience. For us, the best FinTech apps had to have intuitive, user-friendly interfaces. This feature makes a significant difference in how you interact with the app.

We prioritized apps with clean designs and easy navigation to allow you to manage your investments seamlessly. Apps like Robinhood and Acorns stood out for their simplicity and ease of use, making investing accessible to everyone.

Also Read: How to Save $6,000 in 3 Months

• Compare the Variety of Investment Options

The variety of investment options was another crucial factor. We sought apps that offer a diverse range of investment choices, from stocks and ETFs to cryptocurrencies.

This variety allows you to build a well-rounded portfolio and explore different investment strategies. Apps like Robinhood and Wealthfront excelled by providing a broad spectrum of investment opportunities.

• Compare Fees and Cost Structures

We also compared fees and cost structures. Hidden fees can eat into your returns.

So, the apps that made the cut as the best FinTech apps in the USA right now had to have transparent and competitive pricing. Apps like Robinhood, which offers commission-free trading, and Wealthfront, known for its low fees, were clear winners in this category.

• Evaluate Customer Support and Educational Resources

Lastly, we evaluated customer support and educational resources. Quality customer support and educational content can significantly enhance your investing experience.

We favored apps that offer robust support and a wealth of educational materials to help you make informed decisions. SoFi and Mint, for example, provide excellent resources and customer service, ensuring you have all the support you need.

Also Read: How to Make Profit on eBay

With that out of the way, here are the 15 best FinTech apps in the USA right now;

Top 15 Best Fintech Apps in the USA Right Now

Best FinTech Apps in the USA for Investing

• Robinhood

Overview: Robinhood is a discount brokerage known for its commission-free trading of stocks, options, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies. It’s ideal for cost-conscious investors but has limitations in customer support and regulatory issues.

Features

• Commission-free stock, options, and ETF trades
• Free cryptocurrency trading
• IRAs with a 1% match
• 24/5 stock trading
• IPO access

Pros

• No trading commissions
• Simple, user-friendly interface
• Cryptocurrency trading available
• High interest rates on uninvested cash
• 1% match on IRA contributions

Cons

• No mutual funds or bonds
• Limited customer support
• Previous regulatory fines and service outages

Our Take: Robinhood is great for beginners and those looking to minimize trading costs. However, it lacks the comprehensive support and diverse investment options that more established brokers offer.

Rating: 4.3/5

• Wealthfront

Overview: Wealthfront is a leading robo-advisor that offers automated investment services tailored to your financial goals. It offers a range of investment options, including IRAs, 529 plans, and crypto trusts.

Key Features:

• Tax-loss harvesting which helps minimize tax liabilities
• US Direct Indexing which allows for personalized tax-loss harvesting within individual stocks, enhancing potential returns.
• Offers exposure to Bitcoin and Ether, though limited to trusts only.
• Advanced strategies for those with higher account minimums ($500,000 and $100,000, respectively).

Pros:

• Diverse investment options including ETFs, index funds, bond ETFs, and crypto trusts.
• Automated features like auto-rebalancing and tax-loss harvesting streamline investing.
• Uses Blackrock funds to create ESG-focused portfolios.

Cons:

• Requires a $500 minimum, higher than competitors like SoFi Invest®.
• Lacks access to financial advisors, which may deter those needing personalized advice.
• Currently holds an F rating from the Better Business Bureau due to customer complaints.

Our take: Wealthfront is one of the best FinTech apps in the USA right now for hands-off investors and those focused on retirement or ESG investing. However, active traders and those seeking human financial advice might want to explore other options.

Rating: 4.34/5.

• Betterment

Overview: Betterment, a pioneer in the robo-advisory space, shines with its low-cost investing and extensive range of features, including cryptocurrency options. It’s recognized by Forbes Advisor as a top choice for robo-advisors, thanks to its effective investment strategies and tax management tools.

Features

• Diverse portfolio options
• Tax management tools
• Access to certified financial planners, with unlimited consultations available for Premium members.
• No minimum deposit
• Guided crypto investing
• Cash management accounts

Pros

• Tailored portfolios help users achieve specific financial goals, such as retirement or buying a home.
• Straightforward process to open an account and select investment portfolios.
• Free tax-loss harvesting and coordinated portfolio management to optimize tax efficiency.
• Includes traditional ETFs, SRI, and cryptocurrency portfolios.

Cons

• Professional financial advice can be expensive for non-Premium users.
• The default portfolio for emergency funds may be too aggressive for some investors.
• The variety of portfolio options may be confusing for new investors.

Our take: Betterment is one of the best FinTech apps in the USA right now for those aiming for serious, long-term goals. It’s excellent for socially responsible investing and provides helpful tools like tax-loss harvesting. However, if you prefer more hands-on guidance or a more conservative emergency fund, Betterment may not fully meet your needs.

Rating: 4.5/5

• M1 Finance

Overview: M1 Finance offers a unique hybrid platform that combines robo-advisor automation with the customization of an online broker. It caters to both hands-off and hands-on investors with its broad array of features.

Key Features:

• Tailored portfolios with over 80 pre-made portfolios, referred to as “pies.”
• Users can choose from 6,000+ stocks and ETFs to create personalized portfolios.
• M1 automatically manages and rebalances portfolios.
• Competitive rates on margin loans and a high-yield cash management account.

Pros:

• Extensive investment options allow access to a wide range of stocks and ETFs.
• Flexibility to build or select portfolios that match your risk tolerance.
• Zero trading commissions and a competitive margin loan rate of 7.25%.

Cons:

• Only email support; lacks phone customer service.
• Cannot actively trade assets and lacks some full-service robo-advisor features.
• Suitable for more independent investors.

Our take: M1 Finance is best for intermediate investors seeking a blend of automated and customized portfolio management. While it offers extensive investment options and competitive rates, it may not meet the needs of active traders or those requiring hands-on financial advice.

Rating: 4.3/5.

• Public.com

Overview: Public.com offers a unique blend of investment options which caters to those seeking fractional shares, alternative assets, and more. With free stock and ETF trades, along with paid options trading, it provides diverse opportunities for investors. However, it falls short in customer support and charges fees for certain trades.

Features

• Social investing which allow you to follow other investors, share insights, and learn from the community.
• Zero commission trades
• Access a variety of cryptocurrencies directly from the app.
• Access to a wide range of educational content and market insights to help you make informed investment decisions.
• Invest in any stock or ETF with as little as $1.
• No Payment for Order Flow (PFOF).

Pros

• The social aspect of Public.com allows for a collaborative investment experience where users can share ideas and strategies.
• With fractional shares and no minimum investment requirements, Public.com makes it easy for beginners to start investing.
• Users can trade stocks and ETFs without incurring commission fees, which can save money over time.
• The platform’s inclusion of cryptocurrency trading provides a comprehensive investment solution in one place.
• The app is designed to be intuitive and easy to use, making it suitable for investors of all experience levels.

Cons

• While Public.com offers a broad range of stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies, it lacks access to mutual funds and other investment vehicles.
• More experienced investors might find the platform’s tools and features less robust compared to other investment platforms.
• Some users have reported that customer support can be slow to respond, which could be a drawback for those needing immediate assistance.

Our take: Public.com excels for those seeking diverse, low-cost investment options, but may not satisfy those needing extensive support and account variety.

Our Rating: 4.5/5

Best FinTech Apps in the USA Right now for Payments, Saving and Budgeting

• Acorns

Overview: Acorns is one of the best FinTech apps in the USA right now for saving and budgeting because it provides a straightforward, automated investing solution which makes it ideal for beginners who need a little push to save more. The app rounds up purchases to the nearest dollar and invests the spare change.

Also Read: How to Save Money at Whole Foods

Key Features:

• Automatically invests spare change from everyday purchases.
• Includes Acorns Invest (taxable account), Acorns Later (IRA), Acorns Debit Card, Acorns Earn (cash-back rewards), and Acorns Early (investment accounts for kids).
• Simplifies investing for beginners with easy navigation and educational content.

Pros:

• Encourages regular saving through round-ups and recurring deposits.
• Offers diversified portfolios tailored to your risk tolerance.
• Easy entry for new investors.

Cons:

• Flat fees can be costly compared to percentage-based fees, especially for small accounts.
• Lacks some advanced features available on other platforms like tax-loss harvesting or human advisors.
• Unlike some competitors, you must pay to access the checking account.

Our take: Acorns suits hands-off investors attracted by its round-up feature and easy savings methods. However, active investors or those seeking lower fees might prefer other robo-advisors.

Rating: 4.1/5.

• Stash

Overview: Stash combines investing with financial education, making it easy for beginners looking to learn about saving and investing. Its user-friendly platform integrates a brokerage account, robo-advisor functionality, and online banking.

Key Features:

• Offers robo-advisor portfolios tailored to your risk tolerance and goals.
•  Includes an online banking account with a debit card, budgeting tools, and rewards in fractional shares of stock.
• Access to thousands of stocks and ETFs, plus retirement and custodial accounts.

Pros:

• Wide range of investment options
• Managed portfolios with robo-advisor features
• Online banking with budgeting tools
• Debit card rewards in fractional shares

Cons:

• No interest on banking accounts
• High subscription fees ($3 or $9) can be costly for smaller portfolios.
• Robo-advisor limited to taxable accounts
• No access to human financial advisors
• Lacks automatic tax-loss harvesting

Our take: Stash is a solid option for beginners seeking an all-in-one financial app. However, the high fees may deter those with smaller portfolios. Also, the lack of advanced tax strategies and human advisors could be limiting for more experienced investors.

Rating: 4.0/5.

• PayPal

Overview: PayPal is considered one of the best FinTech apps in the USA right now, thanks to its secure online payment services. With over 400 million users globally, it offers a convenient and reliable platform for personal and business transactions.

Features:

• Industry-leading security measures, including encryption and fraud detection.
• Easy transfers to friends, family, and businesses.
• Seamless in-app purchases and QR code payments.
• Flexible financing options for eligible users.
• Integration with E-commerce

Pros:

• Simple, intuitive design for easy navigation and use.
• Accepted in over 200 countries and supports multiple currencies.
• Buyer protection to ensure refunds for eligible transactions in case of issues.
• Quick money transfers to bank accounts or other PayPal users.
• Advanced encryption and fraud detection for secure transactions.

Cons:

• Risk of account holds and freezes for suspicious activities.

• Mixed reviews on the responsiveness and effectiveness of customer service.

• available in certain regions and limited functionality.

Our Take: PayPal stands out as one of the best FinTech apps for secure and convenient online payments. Its global reach, user-friendly interface, and robust security features make it a top choice for both individuals and businesses. However, transaction fees and occasional account freezes are potential drawbacks to consider.

Rating: 4.5/5

• Chime

Overview: Chime offers a straightforward checking account with no fees or minimum balance requirements. The savings account provides a competitive 2.00% APY.

Chime also features automated savings options like Round Ups and “Save When I Get Paid.” The Secured Chime Credit Builder Visa® Credit Card helps build credit without interest or annual fees.

Features:

• Fee-free banking.
• Automatic savings
• Access paychecks up to two days early.

Pros:

• Automated savings tools
• Early direct deposit (up to 2 days early)
• Fee-free overdraft up to $200 with SpotMe®
• Access to over 60,000 fee-free ATMs
• Build credit with no credit check

Cons:

• No physical branches
• Mobile check deposit requires direct deposits

Our take: Chime is ideal for those comfortable with fully online banking, seeking to build credit, avoid fees, and automate savings. However, it may not suit individuals looking to maximize interest earnings or require in-person banking services.

Rating: 4.3/5

Best FinTech Apps in the USA Right now for Cryptocurrency

• Coinbase

Overview: Coinbase is a leading cryptocurrency exchange, widely used in over 200 countries, and is particularly popular in Canada. It’s considered one of the best FinTech apps in the USA for cryptocurrency, thanks to its extensive selection of cryptocurrencies which makes it a top choice for both beginners and advanced traders.

Key Features:

• Offers a wide selection of cryptocurrencies with over 200 cryptocurrencies available for trading.
• Helpful education resources.
• Allows users to stake cryptocurrencies and earn yields.
• Offers live phone support, online help center, and chat system.

Pros:

• Large variety of cryptocurrencies
• Intuitive platform
• Multiple wallet options
• Fund accounts via Interac e-Transfer
• Supports Canadian dollar deposits

Cons:

• Complex and pricey fee structure for newcomers
• High staking fees
• 3.99% fee for debit card crypto purchases
• No credit card purchases allowed

Our take: Coinbase is excellent for users who want a straightforward entry into cryptocurrency trading, supported by robust educational resources and strong customer support. However, its complex fee structure and high fees for certain transactions might be a drawback for some users.

Rating: 4.0/5.

Best FinTech Apps in the USA for Comprehensive Financial Services

• SoFi Invest

Overview: SoFi Invest made this list as one of the best FinTech apps in the USA right now thanks to the comprehensive suite of financial services it offers. This FinTech app is essentially a one-stop shop for all your investing needs.

Key Features:

• A wide range of investment options.
• Opt for hands-off robo-advisor management or actively manage your portfolio with zero commission fees on stocks and ETFs.
• Offers Traditional, Roth, SEP, and Rollover IRAs for retirement planning.
• Allows investing in pricey stocks without needing to buy a whole share.
• Create a personal watchlist and receive the latest investing news.

Pros:

• No minimum deposit
• Zero commission fees
• New users can earn up to $1,000 for opening an account, and SoFi covers up to $75 of any transfer fees.
• SoFi members get access to special events, career services, and financial advisors.
• SoFi members receive a 0.125% interest rate discount on other SoFi lending products.

Cons:

• Does not offer mutual funds, options, futures, or forex trading.
• Requires a $5 minimum for fractional shares.
• While trading stocks and ETFs is commission-free, exchange and fund management fees may apply.

Our take: SoFi Invest is ideal for both novice and experienced investors, offering a wide range of investment tools and exceptional customer perks. However, those seeking advanced trading options might need to look elsewhere.

Rating: 4.8/5.

• Ally Invest

Overview: Ally Invest seamlessly integrates online banking and investing, offering a robust platform that caters to investors of all levels. With options for self-directed and managed accounts, it appeals particularly to millennials and women.

Features

1. Commission-free trades on U.S. listed stocks, ETFs, and options.
2. Extensive research tools including real-time data, customizable charts, and third-party analysis.
3. Automated portfolio management with Robo portfolios that provide automated investment management based on your financial goals and risk tolerance.
4. No minimum balance.
5. Integration with Ally Bank for easy transfer of funds and consolidated financial management.

Pros

• Commission-free trading on stocks, ETFs, and options which makes it an affordable choice for investors.

• Enjoy extensive research tools and resources, including data from third-party providers like Morningstar and CFRA.

• User-Friendly interface.

• The automated portfolio management service offers a hands-off investment approach with low advisory fees.

• No Minimum Account Balance

Cons

• Ally Invest operates online, which might not appeal to investors who prefer in-person assistance.

• No direct cryptocurrency trading.

• Higher fees for broker-assisted trades.

• Complex options pricing.

Our Take: Ally Invest is an excellent choice for cost-conscious investors seeking a comprehensive and user-friendly trading platform. However, those needing in-person assistance or direct cryptocurrency trading may find it lacking.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

• E*TRADE

Overview: E*TRADE from Morgan Stanley is one of the best FinTech apps in the USA right now for both new and seasoned investors. Its user-friendly platform, coupled with extensive tools and resources, provides a versatile trading experience.

Features:

• Advanced charting, technical analysis, and live-streaming Bloomberg TV.
• Webinars, courses, articles, and paper trading for strategy testing.
• Wide range of account types including taxable brokerage accounts, IRAs, and custodial accounts.
• Managed portfolios

Pros:

• Intuitive platform ideal for both beginners and advanced traders.
• Comprehensive educational materials including articles, videos, and webinars.
• In-depth analysis and technical tools on the Power E*TRADE platform.
• Allows users to practice strategies without financial risk.
• Access to over 7,000 no-load, no-transaction fee funds.

Cons:

• Subpar phone support with long wait times.
• Investors cannot buy partial shares.
• No access to cryptocurrency or forex trading.
• E*TRADE may receive compensation for order flow, potentially affecting trade execution.

Our Take: E*TRADE’s intuitive platform and robust educational resources make it a top choice for those seeking in-depth trading tools and financial guidance. However, the lackluster customer service and absence of certain asset types may be drawbacks for some users.

Rating: 4.5/5

• Charles Schwab

Overview: Charles Schwab offers a wide range of investment services, including commission-free trading, robo-advisor options, and comprehensive financial planning tools.

Features:

• Commission-free trading.
• Schwab intelligent portfolios
• Financial planning tools

Pros:

• Strong reputation and reliability.
• Extensive investment options and tools.
• No account minimums for brokerage accounts.

Cons:

• Customer service wait times can be long.
• Some fees for certain types of accounts and services.

Our take: Charles Schwab is a top choice for investors seeking a full-service brokerage with extensive investment options and advanced tools. While the platform can be overwhelming for newcomers and some mutual funds carry high fees, Schwab’s overall offerings, including zero-commission trades and robust banking services, make it a standout in the industry.

Rating: 4.6/5

• Fidelity

Overview: Fidelity is a top-rated investment platform offering a wide range of financial services, including zero-fee index funds, robust trading tools, and comprehensive research resources.

Features:

• No expense ratio on certain funds.
• Advanced trading platform.
• Extensive research tools.

Pros:

• Low costs and competitive fees.
• Broad range of investment options.
• Excellent customer service and support.

Cons:

• Learning curve for advanced trading tools.
• No fractional shares for all stocks.

Our take: Fidelity excels in offering a broad spectrum of investment products and top-tier research tools, making it ideal for both novice and seasoned investors. Despite higher fees for managed accounts, the platform’s overall value and features make it a formidable player in the investment industry.

Our Rating: 4.7/5

What Benefits Do the Best FinTech Apps in the USA Provide?

The best FinTech apps have opened the door for individuals who previously had limited options. Since they offer user-friendly platforms and minimal entry barriers, these apps democratize investing, empower underserved communities, and promote broader financial inclusion. Here are four more benefits that the best FinTech apps provide;

• Improved Financial Management

One of the standout benefits of the best FinTech apps is their ability to enhance financial management. With features like budgeting tools, real-time analytics, and personalized insights, users can make more informed financial decisions.

This does not only help in avoiding debt. It can also help you save more efficiently, and ultimately improve your overall financial health.

Also Read: How to Teach Toddlers about Money the Right Way

• Greater Convenience

The convenience offered by the best FinTech apps is unparalleled. With 24/7 access, users can manage their investments anytime, anywhere.

This is especially beneficial for those with busy schedules or living in remote areas. This convenience ensures that financial management is always within reach.

• Enhanced Security

Security is a top priority for fintech investment apps. Using military grade encryption and robust security protocols, these platforms ensure that users’ data and transactions are protected. This commitment to security provides peace of mind, allowing users to invest confidently.

• Lower Costs

Traditional financial institutions often come with high fees and costs. In contrast, fintech investment apps operate with lower overhead.

This translates to reduced fees for users. Thanks to this cost-efficiency, these apps remain an attractive option for savvy investors looking to maximize their returns while minimizing expenses.

Best FinTech Apps Frequently Asked Questions

• What are FinTech apps, and how do they work?

FinTech apps are mobile apps that provide users with tools and services for managing and investing their money. They use technology to offer features like stock trading, automated investment portfolios, and real-time market data. Users can link their bank accounts, make investments, and monitor their financial progress directly from their smartphones or computers.

• Are FinTech apps safe to use?

Yes, FinTech apps are generally safe to use, provided they use robust security measures. The best FinTech apps in the USA use encryption, two-factor authentication, and other security protocols to protect user data and transactions. However, it’s crucial to choose apps that are regulated by financial authorities and have a strong track record of safeguarding user information.

• How do FinTech investment apps differ from traditional investment methods?

FinTech investment apps differ from traditional investment methods by offering greater convenience, lower costs, and more accessible financial tools. Unlike traditional methods, which may require face-to-face interactions with financial advisors and involve higher fees, fintech apps provide a user-friendly platform for managing investments with minimal fees.

• What fees should I be aware of when using FinTech apps?

When using FinTech apps, you should be aware of various fees, including trading commissions, management fees, and account maintenance fees. While the best FinTech apps offer commission-free trading, they might still charge fees for premium features or advanced services. Some apps have management fees for automated portfolio services, while others may charge for transactions or currency conversions.

• Can I use FinTech investment apps for retirement planning?

Yes, many of the best FinTech apps are designed to assist with retirement planning. They offer features like automated retirement accounts, tax-advantaged investment options, and personalized portfolio recommendations based on your retirement goals. Some apps provide retirement calculators and planning tools to help you set and track your retirement savings goals.