In this blog post, I'll share how the MiniPay app has become so useful to me over the past few months and how you can also make the most of it.
What Is MiniPay and Why Is It Growing So Fast?
Minipay Interface
Minipay Interface
MiniPay is a self-custodial app that allows the seamless sending of money from one country to another simply by using a phone number, a link, or by scanning a QR code. The app is lightweight (about 86 MB) and runs smoothly without any glitches. MiniPay’s growth was significantly accelerated by its transition from an in-built feature to a standalone app. It now boasts over 10 million wallets across 60 countries, with more than 270 million transactions completed on the platform.
MiniPay supports three dollar-based currencies at the moment: USDC, USDT, and cUSD. These are all stablecoins, which help avoid volatility during transactions or when simply saving your money in the app. MiniPay’s stablecoins are built on the Celo network, which is designed to allow users to make transactions with ease. I’d describe MiniPay as an app that bridges the gap between cryptocurrency and traditional currency.
How to Download and Set Up MiniPay
Getting started is simple and straightforward. Just go to your device's app store and search for "MiniPay." Once downloaded, the setup takes just a few minutes.
On Android
Log in using your Google account.
Add your phone number and make sure it’s registered on WhatsApp.
You’ll receive a verification code via WhatsApp.
Once verified, your number becomes your MiniPay ID for receiving money.
On iOS
Log in using your Apple ID.
Your wallet is backed up to iCloud automatically.
Add your phone number just like on Android.
Note: If you encounter an error while logging in on your iOS device, a quick fix is to go into your settings and turn on iCloud backup.
Your MiniPay wallet is tied to your Apple ID or Google account, so logging out won’t erase your balance, but make sure you don't forget your login details.
Depositing and Withdrawing from MiniPay
Deposit options
Deposit options
MiniPay offers multiple ways to add or withdraw cash from your account. You can withdraw or deposit USDT, USDC, and cUSD via the Celo network or use local methods like Telecel Cash, MTN Momo, and AirtelTigo Cash. The app has partnered with third-party providers like Fonbank and others to facilitate cash deposits and withdrawals in cedis. Compare their rates and choose the one that works best for you.
What Is the Fee Structure Like?
The fees associated with MiniPay are very low. There are no fees for sending and receiving money between users, and deposits are also free. Withdrawals, however, incur a tiny fee. This is usually around $0.01—often less than a cent—but may vary depending on the amount.
Key Features That Make MiniPay Stand Out
Image code
Minipay features
Minipay features
MiniPay isn’t just a wallet; it’s a full financial toolkit. Here are the features that make it shine:
Fast, Low-Fee Transactions Built on the fast and low-fee Celo blockchain, the app allows for seamless deposits and withdrawals. Transactions involving mobile money are also very fast, and you don't need to go through the stress of searching for a buyer or seller, unlike on P2P platforms. The app automatically searches for the best offers and presents them to you.
Airtime Cashback Every time you buy airtime through MiniPay, you get 10% cashback. I use this feature instead of buying directly from my mobile money account, and it helps me accrue enough cash to buy free airtime after several purchases.
Referral Program The referral program is another way to benefit from the app. When someone you refer successfully signs up, you both earn $0.10. When they deposit $2 or more, you both earn an additional $0.25. I've tried this on iOS, but it seems the referral links aren't fully functional yet, as the referral wasn't recognized. I suggest using an Android device to test this feature for now.
They also occasionally run programs to reward top earners. You can check their X (formerly Twitter) page for all updates.
Passive Income from Savings MiniPay also offers 2% interest on any amount you save on it. If you have some cash that you won’t be using at the moment, you can keep it in the app to earn some interest on it while it sits there. On special occasions, the percentage sometimes increases to 4%, which is another great opportunity to take advantage of. Most of these updates are announced on X (formerly Twitter), so turn on notifications to never miss them. When you do the math, you'll notice this passive interest can cover some of your small bills.
Bonus Features Worth Exploring
MiniPay also includes smaller but useful features that add up over time:
Learn & Earn modules
Daily check-in rewards
Simple task bonuses
All of these are accessible through the More tab in the app. These extras make MiniPay feel more like a gamified finance app than a boring wallet.
My Final Thoughts
MiniPay is one of the most beginner-friendly money apps I’ve used. It’s fast, secure, and packed with features that help you save, earn, and manage your money with ease. Whether you’re sending cash across borders, topping up airtime, or withdrawing cash, it provides you with all the tools you need for managing your money digitally.
So go on and download it, set it up, and start exploring. Please note that this is my personal experience with the app, so you should do your own research before using it. You can their FAQ page here for more info.