TikTok explores feature for users to send money via DM

TikTok is reportedly developing a feature that would allow users on the platform to send money to one another through Direct Message (DM). The news was first reported by Bloomberg, which also revealed that if the feature is successfully developed, TikTok would facilitate the transaction process using TikTok Pay, its own digital wallet.

Citing TechCrunch on Tuesday (18/8) local time, development of the feature was discovered in hidden code within the TikTok app for iPhone in the US. The code indicates that recipients can “tap to accept” a payment, and those sending money can also include a message along with their payment.

As the feature is still under development, it is not yet known when or whether TikTok plans to release it to the public more widely. This is not the first time TikTok has attempted to branch into financial services. In early 2026, TikTok applied to Brazil’s central bank for approval to operate as a technology company offering lending and payment services.

Although the platform’s image is that of a social network, TikTok has in fact evolved beyond that image. It has added more advanced search features, the TikTok Shop shopping service, games, hotel booking, and much more. By attempting to offer a service that allows users to transact within TikTok for the US market, TikTok would eventually compete with Venmo and Zelle.

Even so, TikTok is not the only social network branching into financial services, as X previously launched a similar service called X Money to allow users to send money to one another.