Facebook Inc. introduced person-to-person payments in its Messenger app two years ago, and now the company is extending the feature to allow for Group Payments on desktop and in the Android app.

With the introduction of Group Payments, Facebook Messenger users in the U.S. will be able to request or pay multiple people in a group conversation, at no additional fee.

The new feature comes at the same time as rumors suggest that Facebook-owned WhatsApp is exploring adding payment functionality into its messaging app in India. WhatsApp is currently looking to hire a “digital transactions lead, India.” The person would be based in California, but would assist “with inquiries related to digital transactions” from Indian customers, WhatsApp’s biggest market.

Here’s a look at how to use Group Payments in Facebook Messenger:

Group Payments in Facebook Messenger

To use Group Payment in Facebook Messenger you will need to have the latest version of Facebook Messenger installed on your device. You can download the latest Android version from the App Store.

To send, request or receive payments in Messenger, you need to have a debit card issued by a U.S. bank linked to your account.

Note: At this stage, Facebook Messenger does not support credit cards, prepaid debit cards or PayPal.

To link a debit card, open the Messenger app > tap the profile icon in the top right > tap Payments > below “Payment Methods,” tap “Add new debit card” > enter the requested details.

For additional security when sending money you can also add a pin to protect your account. Tap the profile icon in the top right > tap Payments > below “Security,” tap “Pin” > add a pin.

Request group payments in Messenger

Either create a group in Facebook Messenger or open an existing group. Tap the “+” icon in the bottom left corner > tap the $ icon for payments > tap the tick box next to each person who owes you money > tap Continue.

Enter the total amount of money owed (Messenger will automatically divide the total by the number of people) or the specific amount per person > enter a reason describing what the payment is for > tap Request > confirm the request for payment and it will be sent to the relevant people.

As each person pays you will see a notification in the group conversation. You can see additional details in full screen by tapping “See Details” next to the relevant person’s payment.

Send money in Messenger

If you receive a request for money from your friend, simply open the relevant chat > tap the $ icon for payments > select the relevant people > enter the amount > tap “Pay.”

Note: Your bank may take up to three business days to reflect money sent and received through Facebook Messenger.

Source: Facebook Help Center

Image: Facebook