ABN AMRO enables payments via WhatsApp in the Netherlands

ABN Amro is using popular messaging service WhatsApp as a payments request channel, providing a direct link between customer mobile payment apps and WhatsApp contact lists.

Tikkie is the first payment app allowing consumers to send payment requests via WhatsApp. The app processes requests through the familiar payment platform iDEAL. Tikkie is an initiative of ABN AMRO, but can be used by clients with a current account at any Dutch bank.

Frank Verkerk, Chief Digital Officer at ABN AMRO: ‘How often do you lend somebody money, but have a hard time – for whatever reason – asking to be repaid? We believe Tikkie solves this problem. Nothing could be easier than sending a WhatsApp message with an iDEAL payment request.’

Tikkie works very simply. The requester enters the amount in Tikkie and then selects a person from their WhatsApp contacts from whom they wish to receive payment. Tikkie creates a link that can be sent with a WhatsApp message. With just one click on the link, the person who receives the message is directed to the iDEAL payment environment.

„A unique feature of Tikkie is that the user does not need to create a new online bank account or separate e-wallet in order to receive payments. The money is automatically credited to their existing current account.”, according to the press release.

„With Tikkie pay your friends you easily back via WhatsApp. Totally free. It does not matter which bank you are.  IBAN’s exchange is no longer necessary! And your friends do not need to have Tikkie. Everyone must have a Dutch bank account and are 18 years or older.”, according to the Tikkie App description.

The Tikkie app can be downloaded for free. The recipient of the message does not need to install the app first in order to respond to payment requests.