Does anyone use a phone app to pay their aides? I am looking for something that would eliminate leaving checks in the house. Any suggestions?

Hi
you can try Venmo. However the caregiver needs to have it as well. It’s easy and works great.

I'm not sure what type of phone app you are talking about that has been recommended to only use with someone you know. Most of the apps that I deal with are for making money transfers without either side seeing the other person's banking info. My two favorites are Amex Serve (backed by Amex) and Chime Visa which is backed by BanCorp banking and FDIC insured. Both allow you to send money to anyone based on a smart phone number or email address. The person receiving the money must open or already have an account with the service. If the person receiving money already has an account they immediately have access to the funds or they can transfer it to their own bank to access in 2-4 days, depending on how quickly their bank processes electronic transactions. Neither app requires linking a bank account, you can "load" your debit card account at a variety of merchants including Walmart, CVS, and Walgreens. Amex has a $4.95 monthly service fee unless the account receives an electronic deposit, then it's free. Chime has no monthly service fee. You can also send checks for payment from either app, much like online banking. Personally I have a portion of my check deposited into Amex Serve (meeting the deposit requirement for no service fee) and use this card with no links to my actual bank accounts for internet and gas station purchases. Occasionally when I need more funds between deposits, I withdraw money from my bank ATM and then load the card at a CVS or Walmart I pass on the way home. If I need to use a Visa because some business doesn't accept Amex, then I "transfer" money from Amex Serve to Chime. Unless you just like the Amex brand or need it's "sub-account" features, I would recommend using Chime primarily because of the no fee structure. Your Chime account must have been opened for 30 days before you can make electronic transfers.