Varo - Mobile Banking

from United States of America (the) 

Neobank

App store Ranking : 4.9

Founded in 2013

Private |

Varo app screenshoot 2
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Varo app screenshoot 1
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Note: This review below has been generated using AI (12/04/2025 12:37:44), based on the analysis of App Store reviews from the last 90 days. The insights provided are derived from aggregated user feedback and aim to give you an overview of the app's current performance and user sentiment. More info here 

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Summary

Recent reviews from the last 90 days: Negative sentiment dominates recent reviews, with users reporting persistent login issues, difficulty accessing funds, unhelpful customer service, and questionable account closures. Many express frustration with missing features like Zelle and difficulty getting cash advances or resolving disputes. Several users recommend switching to other online banking platforms.

Pros:

  • - Some long-term users still find the app convenient and easy to use (though these reviews are older and less frequent in recent feedback).
  • - Occasional positive feedback on customer service representatives, though this is overshadowed by negative experiences.
  • - Some users have had success with credit building and advances (again, older reviews).

Cons:

  • - Login Issues: Persistent and widespread problems with logging into the app, particularly on iPhones and after updates. Issues with Face ID, SMS verification, and error messages like "Whoops! Our wires got crossed" prevent access to funds.
  • - Poor Customer Service: Lack of live phone support and unhelpful, unresponsive chatbot and email support. Difficulty reaching a real person to resolve issues, leading to frustration and unresolved problems.
  • - Account Closures: Sudden account closures with little to no explanation, leaving users without access to their funds. This causes significant distress and distrust.
  • - Missing Features/Reduced Functionality: Removal of Zelle is a major complaint. Difficulty or inability to access Varo Advance and Varo Believe features, even for long-term users with good standing. Problems with check deposits and external bank linking.
  • - Security Concerns: Reports of unauthorized transactions and difficulty resolving disputes. Concerns about a potential security vulnerability with Face ID login.
  • - Paycheck Delays: Inconsistent early direct deposit delivery, causing financial uncertainty.
  • - Misleading Advertising: Users feel misled about advertised features like credit lines and advance amounts, which they find difficult to qualify for.
  • - Technical Issues: Glitches in the app, including display problems with card details and blank app icons. Problems with the "Money in" tab not reflecting available funds. Lack of dark mode.

Varo - Mobile Banking

Join 3+ million people getting ahead with their money at Varo!


Varo Bank Account: 4.5/5 stars on Nerdwallet

• No monthly bank account fees or min balance

• Get paid up to 2 days early³

• Instantly send/receive money fast & free with Zelle®⁶ & Varo to Anyone

• Get a contactless Varo Bank Debit Card you can instantly lock

• 40,000+ U.S. fee-free Allpoint® ATMs¹⁰

• Get account activity alerts

• Link external accounts to transfer money & view your finances in one app


Varo Believe: Credit builder²

• Get a credit-building card with no security deposit once you qualify

• Build credit on purchases

• No APR or annual fee


Varo Advance: Cash advance

• Borrow up to $500 over time

• One of the highest advance limits around⁸

• Cover rent, bills, and more


Varo Savings Account:⁴

• Grow your money with a high-yield savings account

• Easy auto-savings tools

• No min balance required to open, min balances to earn interest apply


Security

• FDIC-insured up to $250,000

• Get reimbursed for unauthorized transactions with Visa Zero Liability¹¹

• Encryption & access controls protect your data


Apply today! It won’t impact your credit score.


¹We don’t hide our fees: www.varomoney.com/no-hidden-fee-bank-account


²Believe is a secured credit card to help you build credit; a variety of factors impact your credit & not all are equally weighted. Building credit takes time & Believe can help when you consistently make on-time payments. Customers who had an existing VantageScore® 3.0 credit score showed an average increase of approx 40 points after 3 months of having Believe & no late payments on credit. Results vary & some customers may not see an increase


³We give access to direct deposits from employer & government payers on the day we receive them, typically up to 2 days earlier than your scheduled pay date


⁴Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is accurate as of 12/01/22. Rates may change at any time without notice, before or after account opening. Start earning 3.00% APY on savings. To qualify for 5.00% APY (on up to $5,000) the following month, there are 2 requirements: 1. Receive qualifying direct deposit(s) of at least $1,000; & 2. End the current month with a positive balance in your Bank & Savings Accounts. Once you qualify, all balances over $5,000 will earn 3.00% APY


⁵Based on The Ascent’s review: www.fool.com/the-ascent/banks/savings-accounts/varo-savings-account-review


⁶Transactions between enrolled consumers typically occur in minutes & generally do not incur transaction fees. No fees to send/receive money with Zelle® at Varo. Message/data rates from your mobile service provider may apply: www.varomoney.com/transfer-money


⁸Advance is a small dollar line of credit. Qualifications apply, including direct deposits to your Varo Bank Account: www.varomoney.com/cash-advance. Information about advance amounts is based on November 2023 internal Varo research among single standalone loans with repayments of 30 days or less, no subscription fees or early wage payment requirements.


⁹Testimonials reflect real experiences of Varo customers. Results & experiences vary


¹⁰No fee to use U.S. Allpoint® ATMs. We charge $3.50 for cash withdrawals at all out of network & international ATMs. Additional 3rd-party fees may be assessed by ATM owner. All ATM fees will be charged to the Varo account used for each transaction


¹¹You must notify Varo immediately of any unauthorized use. See terms for restrictions, limitations & details


Zelle® & the Zelle® related marks are wholly owned by Early Warning Services, LLC & are used herein under license


©2024 Varo Bank, N.A. All Rights Reserved. Member FDIC


The Varo Visa® Debit & Believe Cards are issued by Varo Bank, N.A. pursuant to license from Visa U.S.A. Inc.

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