Apple is raising the fee for its Instant Transfer feature in Apple Cash. Starting February 18, 2026, the cost will be 1.7% of the transaction, up from the current 1.5%. The minimum fee remains $0.25, but the maximum increases from $15 to $25.

This change impacts users who prioritize speed over cost. For a $1,000 transfer, the fee rises from $15 to $17. Apple Cash itself remains free to use for sending and receiving money via Messages, but this fee adjustment affects its direct bank deposit service, which competes with services like Venmo and Zelle.

The move reflects a broader trend of fintech services monetizing convenience. While Apple continues to offer a free, slower ACH transfer option, the fee hike may push cost-conscious users toward traditional banking delays. It’s a calculated shift as Apple balances service costs with its ecosystem's convenience.