Venmo QR Codes: Create, Scan, Print & Troubleshoot for Free

The Venmo QR code is a unique, scannable code that links directly to your Venmo profile and allows you to make easy and quick payments.

How does Venmo work? Apart from making connections and adding people, your Venmo code is a great tool for making payments during shopping or even dining just by scanning!

The scanning process eliminates the need to manually enter usernames when making digital payments or fumbling in your bag to gather cash.

Businesses can use free QR code maker to create custom codes for in-store displays or invoices, streamlining customers' checkout processes—just like Venmo.

Ready to unlock the potential of Venmo QR? 

Continue reading to delve into their diverse applications and discover how to create your own free code in a matter of minutes.

What you can do with a Venmo QR code

A Venmo code is a branded contactless payment QR code that offers a professional and efficient solution for both personal and business transactions. It is a built-in code from the Venmo app itself.

Here's how they can simplify your financial interactions:

Sending and receiving money 

With Venmo QR, sending and receiving money becomes a seamless process. 

First things first, you need to have your own Venmo app so you can generate a free QR code. You can simply share your Venmo account’s code, and recipients can instantly send money with Venmo by scanning it.

Since this method of payment does not necessarily require printing, you can save it digitally or as an image on your phone—this contactless payment method fosters efficiency and prioritizes hygiene in today's environment.

Splitting bills 

Restaurant bill splitting can be a logistical nightmare, especially with large groups. Pulling coins out of each purse to contribute is not something you would want to do every single time.

But did you know that one person can pay the entire bill and then have everyone scan their QR code to effortlessly send their share? Thanks to your Venmo code.  

The "Scan & Pay" feature within the Venmo app even allows you to scan multiple QR codes at once, making the process even faster.

Pay businesses with a scan

A growing number of stores and restaurants are embracing the convenience of dynamic QR code payments, including Venmo.  

According to Grand View Research, the global QR code statistics for payment market size was worth $9.98 billion in the US and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.9% until 2030.

These statistics make total sense, seeing that payment apps like Venmo are integrating QR codes into their systems.

And the major cause? It eliminates the need to wait for change or swipe multiple cards, making the checkout process smoother for both you and the cashier.

How to create a Venmo QR code for free 

Getting your Venmo code is a quick and easy process! Here's how to do it:

1. Open the Venmo app
2. Access your profile:  There are two ways to find your profile section:

You Icon: Look for the "you" icon (it usually resembles a person silhouette) located at the bottom right corner of your screen. Tap on this icon.

Profile Picture: Alternatively, you can tap on your profile picture displayed in the top left corner of the screen. This will also take you to your profile section.

3.   Find your QR code: Once on your profile screen, you'll see a black and white box with a unique pattern.

How to scan and use a Venmo QR code

There are several ways to scan a QR code for Venmo payment, and none of these methods are hard to follow. Check out how:

Via the Venmo app

Your Venmo app comes with a built-in QR code scanner, so there’s nothing for you to worry about not being able to scan your code. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Open your Venmo app, then go to the Me tab

2. Click the QR code button beside your profile picture

3. Hit the Scan code button

Via your smartphone’s camera

Venmo scanner is not working? No worries!  Grab your phone and follow these simple steps to scan a code.

1. Make sure your smartphone is at least Android 8 or iOS 11 or later to ensure that it has a built-in QR code scanner through its camera.

2. Open your phone’s camera and hover to the QR code.

3. Click on the preview and check the decode information before proceeding.

Tip: In case the camera won’t work as a scanner, try checking the general panel and check for a QR scanner option.

Via a third-party scanner

If your phone has no camera scanner access, you can go to your app store and download any QR code scanner. Just make sure to choose a reputable one with good reviews and won’t compromise your data’s privacy.

1. Launch the camera scanner.

2. Position the scanner over the QR code

3. Wait for your personalized QR code to be detected

How to print a Venmo QR code 

In order to print your QR code, you must first save it on your device. Once saved, there are different ways to print your QR code:

• Open your Bluetooth and connect to your printer, then use the “Print” function right away.
• If the Bluetooth is not working, you may use a chord and manually do the printing process.

Make sure to print your QR code in clear quality. Don’t print on glossy materials, as they will reflect light when scanning—which is a bad practice in scanning.

You can print a Venmo QR code sticker and paste it in your building premises or in the check out counter for easy scanning. Note that downloading in SVG format is best for printing.

Benefits of using Venmo QR 

Quick payments

Dating back to the history of Venmo statistics by the founders themselves, it eliminates the risk of erroneous transactions caused by mistyped usernames. Venmo codes facilitate instant and error-free payments by directing funds directly to the designated recipient's account. 

This streamlines the process and provides peace of mind, knowing your money reaches the intended party.

Convenience and ease

Sharing your Venmo QR is a seamless process, eliminating the need to exchange phone numbers or search for usernames. 

Here's how to use Venmo QR  as a retail QR code: simply display your code, and others can scan and pay with a few taps — ideal for busy individuals on the go. 

It fosters a more streamlined transaction flow, minimizing disruptions in your day.

Security

Venmo codes provide an additional layer of security compared to manual account number entry. 

By scanning the code, you have the assurance that the payment is directed to the correct recipient's account.  

For heightened security, consider using a QR code with password protection feature, adding an extra layer of verification before funds can be transferred.

User-friendly

The ease of using QR codes makes them a universally accessible tool. All that's required is a smartphone camera or a readily available third-party QR reader app.  

The scan-and-confirm process eliminates the need for complex instructions, making it suitable for users of all technical backgrounds.

No hidden fees

Unlike some payment platforms that levy hidden fees, Venmo QRs are completely free to use. 

There are no additional charges associated with generating or using the codes, whether you're sending or receiving funds. 

As long as both parties maintain active Venmo accounts, the transaction occurs seamlessly without any surprise costs.

Accessibility

With your smartphone and a funded account, you're empowered to make Venmo mobile payments or receive funds 24/7, regardless of location. 

This flexibility caters to individuals with on-the-go lifestyles or those operating in remote environments.

Integration

For businesses, QR codes for Venmo present a versatile solution for accepting payments. 

These codes can be seamlessly integrated with existing peer-to-peer payment systems, allowing for the acceptance of funds from a wider range of sources. 

It streamlines the checkout process for customers while offering businesses a more robust payment ecosystem.  

However, it's crucial to verify any potential service charges associated with integrating Venmo with other platforms.

Best practices for using Venmo QR codes safely and effectively

Verify the recipient before making a payment

Before hitting "Send," double-check you're paying the right person. 

Briefly review the recipient's Venmo profile picture and username to ensure it matches the intended recipient.

Avoid scanning random codes you find in unfamiliar places. This might lead to fake QR code related fraud and risk your privacy and data to malware. 

Only scan QR codes displayed by trusted sources, like to pay friends with Venmo or a verified business.

Be cautious when making payments

Be wary of a QR code scam when scanning codes from unfamiliar sources. 

Exercise caution, and if unsure, consider making a quick call to confirm their identity before initiating a payment. 

Businesses should have staff readily available to verify their QR code's legitimacy.

Avoid oversharing

While sharing your Venmo QR can expedite transactions, remember that Venmo transactions and comments are visible to your network. 

Don't include any sensitive information on your code itself, like full names or financial details.

Use Venmo for payments only

Venmo is best suited for personal transactions between friends and family. It might not be the most secure option for business transactions or online purchases. 

Consider alternative payment methods for those scenarios to avoid potential complications.

How to create a custom QR code using a free QR code generator

While Venmo offers its own QR code for your account, you might want a more personalized QR code for other purposes. 

Here's a breakdown on how to create a custom QR code using a free QR code software:

1. Go to Free QR code Generator website: No sign-ups needed, it allows extensive customization while providing static QR codes. For free dynamic QR code solutions, click the More button and proceed to create an account.

Don’t worry; the account is free and safe. It will help you monitor your QR codes as well.

2. Pick a solution and add the details: Choose a solution that matches your purpos then provide the corresponding details. It can be a website address, a phone number, or even a short text message.

3. Generate your QR code: You’ll see a generate a free QR code button on the lower part of your screen. Click it to initiate generation; this should take only seconds.

4. Customize your QR code: Proceed to customize your QR code using the available features. You can modify the colors, frame and eye shape, code patterns, and add a logo. You can also add a call to action tag to help your code attract more scans.

5. Test your QR code: After customizing, test the code using a your smartphone or a third party QR code scanning app to ensure it functions properly.

6. Download and share: Finally, download your QR code in a format like SVG or PNG, allowing for high-quality printing.  Share it online or print it for physical distribution.

Troubleshooting Venmo QR Code Issues: Common Problems and Fixes

Wondering why you can't scan a QR code? Don’t worry! It’s pretty normal at times. You just have to check out a few steps to ensure proper scanning.

QR code not scanning

If you can’t scan the QR code for Venmo, make sure that scanning permission is enabled:

• iPhone: Settings > Privacy > Camera and enabling camera for Venmo
• Android: Settings > Applications > Venmo > Permissions and enabling camera for Venmo

Check also that your internet connection is stable, as this can make a difference, too. Also, if you block someone, especially the supposed receiver, naturally, he/she will not be able to receive it.

Blurry or unreadable QR codes

If the free QR codes are blurry, scanning your code will only add to the struggle. But the truth is, you can actually avoid this kind of problem by merely considering the printing process. 

One factor that contributes to blurriness is stretching the QR code too much, making it very pixelated—resulting in scannability issues.

Make sure to download your QR code in SVG format if you want to print it. This format guarantees great quality when printing, no matter how much stretching you do, it will not result in pixelation, hence avoiding blurriness.

QR code not working on certain services

If you still can’t scan a paid or free QR code, even after using various scanners, then the problem might be with the QR code itself. You should contact the QR code provider, as the embedded data might be out of date.

Frequently asked questions

What stores accept Venmo scan-to-pay?

The most popular stores that accept direct payment via Venmo QR code, include Abercrombie & Fitch, Boxed, CVS, Forever 21, Foot Locker, Grubhub, Hollister, Hulu, Jane.com, J. Crew, Lululemon, Poshmark, Seamless, Uber Eats and Urban Outfitters.

How to share Venmo link?

Launch your Venmo app then go to the "Me" tab in the Venmo app and find your username.

You can see your username with the "@" symbol. This also serves as your link, so you can directly copy and paste it into your preferred communication method. 

How to pay with Venmo balance?

If you’re running out of balance in your Venmo account, you will need to fund it for continuous use. You can use your linked bank accounts to fund it.