PayPal today launched a new service called Money Pools that allows users to set a group fundraising goal, then share that goal with a group. Money Pools could be used for a surprise party or vacation with family and friends, but it can also be used for dinner last week when I picked up the bill and everyone said they would Venmo me money for their meal but never did (I’m looking at you, Rick).
As the site promoting the new service exclaims, it’s safe and secure, but it can also be used to put your friends on blast if or when they should fail to pay. Pools can be shared in public Facebook or Twitter posts, via text or email, or through chat apps like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger. The video demo shows the creator of a pool can choose to display the names and contribution amounts of each member, although contributors can hide their name or contribution from appearing in a common feed.
This new service seems in line with the spirit that brought about the creation of Pay Your Friend Back Day. Never heard of it? That’s because it didn’t exist until someone at Bank of America decided to put a date on everyone’s calendar to hit up that buddy or family member who still owes you for that time you picked up the tab.
Each participant in Money Pools must have a PayPal account. The creator of a pool can set exact or minimum contribution amounts. Members of Money Pools can see if others have contributed — and how much — inside the Pool’s feed.
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According to PayPal, one-third of American shoppers plan to pool funds to purchase holiday gifts this year, but half say they don’t pool funds because it’s too complicated.
Money Pools will be available in 16 countries, including the United States, Australia, and U.K.
In other P2P payments news this week, the beta for Apple Pay Cash for sending money in iMessage became available for iOS users, and Facebook Messenger can now send money in France and the United Kingdom.
