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KOHO Review

Comprehensive review and analysis of KOHO's digital banking services

Quick Facts

Founded
2014
Head Office
Canada
Active Customers
500,000+
Total Funding
CAD 265 million
Employees
250+
App Store Rating
4.6/5

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Instant cashback rewards
  • No monthly fees
  • Early payroll access
  • Automated savings features
  • Credit building option
  • Joint accounts available

Cons

  • Limited to Canada
  • Some features require premium
  • No international transfers
  • Cash deposits through third parties

Supported Countries

  • Canada

Fees

  • Basic Account Free
  • KOHO Premium $9/month or $84/year
  • Credit Building $7/month
  • Foreign Transactions Free with Premium, 1.5% otherwise
  • ATM Withdrawals Free at participating ATMs

Overview

KOHO has revolutionized personal finance in Canada since 2014 by combining spending, saving, and rewards in one seamless platform. With its prepaid Visa card and comprehensive app features, it offers a modern alternative to traditional banking.

Key Features

Banking Services

  • Prepaid Visa card
  • Joint accounts
  • Direct deposit
  • Early payroll
  • Bill payments
  • e-Transfers

Savings Features

  • RoundUp automation
  • Savings goals
  • PowerUp rewards
  • High-interest savings
  • Savings buckets
  • Automated savings rules

Credit Building

  • Credit score monitoring
  • Credit building program
  • Payment reporting
  • Credit coaching
  • Score tracking
  • Educational resources

Premium Benefits

  • Higher cashback
  • No FX fees
  • Price matching
  • Financial coaching
  • Extended warranties
  • Premium support

Security Features

  • Biometric authentication
  • Instant card lock
  • Transaction alerts
  • Fraud protection
  • PIN management
  • 256-bit encryption

Customer Support

  • In-app chat
  • Email support
  • Phone support
  • Help center
  • Video tutorials
  • Social media support

Verdict

KOHO excels in providing a user-friendly financial platform that combines spending, saving, and rewards. Its cashback program and automated savings features make it particularly attractive for Canadians looking to better manage their money and earn rewards on everyday purchases.

While some advanced features require a premium subscription, the free tier offers comprehensive functionality for most users. The addition of credit building and joint accounts shows KOHO’s commitment to providing a full-featured banking alternative.

The main limitations are its availability only in Canada and the reliance on third parties for cash deposits. However, for Canadians seeking a modern financial tool with strong savings features and rewards, KOHO offers an excellent combination of functionality and value.