Just to close out this enquiry. 2024 research shows a clarified definition of third party payment apps like Venmo, PayPal, etc.
Zelle is NOT a third party payment app rather it is a service that performs direct bank transfers; therefore, Zelle is exempt from the new 1099-K reporting.
This of course does not exempt reporting one's income; however in this case, it resolves this initial enquiry as the performance of reporting/paying income tax is via QB and transferring (net) income from employer (bank) to employee (bank) is via Zelle.
