NEW YORK >> Facebook users in the U.S. will soon be able to send their friends money using the social network’s Messenger app.

The new tool announced Tuesday joins a crowded field of services aimed at an increasingly wireless and cashless generation that let people beam money to their friends and family using smartphones linked to bank accounts or credit cards.

To send money, Messenger users can tap a new "$” icon that’s next to the buttons that let you send photos, stickers or a thumbs up sign. Then, enter the amount you want to send, tap "pay" on the top right corner and enter your debit card number. To receive money for the first time, enter the card number.

Sending or receiving money is free and only works with debit cards.