TikTok is developing a feature that could let users send money to each other through direct messages, according to Bloomberg. The system would reportedly use TikTok Pay, the company’s existing payments service that is already used for TikTok Shop purchases in parts of Southeast Asia.
References to the feature were found in code inside the current version of TikTok’s U.S. iPhone app. The code suggests recipients would be able to tap to accept a payment, while senders could attach a message to the transaction in a format similar to Venmo.
TikTok told Bloomberg that the feature is not currently being tested. That indicates it remains in an early stage of development, and the company has not said when or whether peer-to-peer payments will be released more widely.
TikTok Has Been Expanding Into Financial Services
The potential payment feature would build on TikTok Pay, which already supports transactions tied to TikTok Shop in Southeast Asia. TikTok has not yet published an official announcement for peer-to-peer payments.
The company has also pursued financial services in other markets. Earlier in 2026, TikTok applied to Brazil’s central bank for approval to operate as a financial technology company offering lending and payment services.
A peer-to-peer payment system would place TikTok in competition with established services such as Venmo and Zelle. It would also give users another reason to remain inside TikTok for activities beyond watching and sharing videos.
TikTok Continues Adding Services Beyond Social Media
TikTok has gradually added features including shopping, search, local discovery, games, and hotel bookings. The company has increasingly combined social content with commerce and other services inside the same app.
TikTok is not the only social platform adding payment tools. X, formerly Twitter, recently launched X Money in the U.S., allowing users to send money to each other through its platform.
For TikTok, the code found in its U.S. app provides the clearest indication so far that direct-message payments are being considered. However, the company’s statement that the feature is not in testing means its final design and release plans remain uncertain.
Featured image credits: Wikimedia Commons
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