Gen Z Thinks Paper Money Is for Boomers

If you’re still paying with cash, Gen Z has a message for you: you’re showing your age.

According to a new Cash App survey, 29% of Gen Z’ers think using paper money makes people look “cringe” or seriously out of touch.

Yep, it’s official. Cash is the new checkbook. You know, the thing we used to roll our eyes at when someone whipped one out in the grocery store line? Now it’s your turn to be silently judged—for peeling off a five.

The poll highlights just how far digital payments have come, especially among younger users who grew up in a mostly cashless world. Over half of Gen Z respondents said they only use physical money if they absolutely have to, like when they’ve overdrawn their account and discover a wrinkled $10 bill hiding in their jeans from two summers ago.

Apps like Cash App, Venmo, and Apple Pay have completely reshaped how Gen Z handles money. Splitting dinner? Tap. Paying rent? Tap. Buying that overpriced coffee with oat milk? Tap.

Even tipping has gone digital, with QR codes now replacing tip jars in many spots. If it doesn’t involve a smartphone, it’s starting to feel… ancient.

And while a lot of older Millennials and Gen X-ers still carry a few bills “just in case,” Gen Z views cash more as a last resort. Like the emergency charger you never use, but don’t want to leave home without—unless, of course, you’re Gen Z, and then it’s probably just taking up space in your bag.

This digital-first mindset doesn’t just affect how we pay, but how we think about money. Budgeting, investing, and even getting paid have shifted into apps.

It’s no surprise, then, that physical money feels outdated to a generation raised on screens.

So, what does this mean for the future of cold hard cash? It’s not dead just yet. But if the trend continues, you might want to stop calling it “cash” and start calling it “vintage currency.”

In the meantime, if you’re trying to impress your Gen Z friends, maybe don’t pull out exact change for your coffee. Just tap your phone, and save the coins for laundry day.