How to Get Started With the BorrowBuddy App: Download, Sign Up and Set Up

BorrowBuddy is a borrow and lend app for community circles: borrow items from people nearby, lend or rent out what you own, swap, find trusted local services and organize events — all with verified members. The Android app is now available on Google Play.

This guide takes you from download to your first exchange in a few minutes.

Step 1: Download the app

On an Android phone, get BorrowBuddy on Google Play and tap Install. BorrowBuddy is free to download and free to join.

Using an iPhone? The iOS app is coming soon. Join the waitlist and we'll let you know when it's ready — you'll also get a personal referral link to share with friends.

Step 2: Create your account

Open the app and you'll see the welcome screen: "Borrow. Lend. Connect. Build a stronger community together."

• Tap Get Started to create a new account.
• Already signed up? Tap Sign In.

Use an email address and phone number you check regularly, because that's how members and BorrowBuddy will reach you about requests and bookings.

Step 3: Verify and complete your profile

Trust is at the heart of BorrowBuddy. A complete, verified profile makes people far more comfortable lending to you, swapping with you or booking your services.

• Verify your identity when prompted.
• Add a clear profile photo and a short introduction.
• Join your circles — your neighborhood, church or mosque, family or hometown association.

Eligible confirmed activity may then inform your CTC Trust Score™ under the published methodology.

Step 4: Explore the main features

Once you're in, here's what you can do:

1. Borrow — search for items near you and send a request. See our guide on how to borrow items on BorrowBuddy.
2. Lend and earn — list something you own with a daily price and optional deposit. See how to list and rent out items.
3. Swap — offer an item and propose a trade. See how to propose a swap.
4. Services — find verified local providers. See how to find trusted local services.
5. Events — RSVP to community events or host your own with QR check-in. See how to host a community event.
6. AMARIS AI — ask in plain English, like "I need a plumber today," and get matches. Learn more about AMARIS AI.

Step 5: Make your first exchange

The easiest first step is often borrowing something small — a drill, a folding table, a camping chair — or listing an item you rarely use. Small, successful exchanges build your trust score quickly.

Tips for a great start

• Fill in every profile field. Complete profiles get more responses.
• Respond quickly to requests and messages.
• Take clear photos when you list items, and at every handover.
• Rate honestly after each exchange — it helps the whole community.
• Invite friends. BorrowBuddy works best when your circle is on it too.

The bottom line

Getting started takes only a few minutes: download from Google Play, create your account, verify your profile, join your circles and make your first exchange. Download BorrowBuddy on Google Play — or, on iPhone, join the waitlist.