How to Transfer Money Between Your Bank Accounts

The most common ways to move money between banks

You can transfer money to a different bank account in three main ways: through an ACH transfer (which takes one to three business days), a wire transfer (which usually arrives the same day or next business day), or by visiting a branch in person. ACH is free or very cheap and works for most everyday transfers. Wire transfers cost money—usually $15 to $30—but move faster and work for larger amounts. The method you choose depends on how quickly you need the money there and how much you're sending.

All three methods require the same basic information about the receiving account: the bank name, account number, and routing number. You'll start the transfer from your current bank's website, mobile app, or by calling customer service. The receiving bank doesn't need to do anything—the money arrives automatically once the transfer clears.

Key Takeaways

• ACH transfers are free or low-cost and take one to three business days; wire transfers cost $15 to $30 but arrive same-day or next-day.
• You need the receiving account's routing number, account number, and bank name to start any transfer.
• ACH transfers work best for routine money movement; wire transfers are better for urgent or large transfers.
• Most banks let you set up transfers through their website or app without calling, though some still require a phone call.
• The receiving bank plays no active role—money arrives automatically once your bank sends it.

ACH transfers: the standard option for most people

An ACH transfer (Automated Clearing House) is the most common way to move money between banks. Your bank sends an electronic instruction to the receiving bank, which processes it through a central clearing system. The whole process takes one to three business days. Most banks charge nothing for ACH transfers, though some charge a small fee—usually $1 to $3—if you're sending money out.

To start an ACH transfer, log into your bank's website or app and look for "Transfer Money," "Send Money," or "Pay to Another Account." You'll enter the receiving account's routing number, account number, and the account holder's name. Then you'll choose the amount and the date you want it sent. The money won't leave your account when ready—it sits there until the transfer processes, which gives you a window to cancel if you made a mistake.

ACH transfers work well for moving money between your own accounts, paying a friend or family member, or sending money to a business that accepts them. They're not ideal if you need the money the same day, since the clearing process takes time. Some banks offer "next-day ACH," which moves the money faster, but this is not standard everywhere.

Wire transfers: when you need money to arrive quickly

A wire transfer sends money directly from your bank to another bank's system, bypassing the ACH clearing house. The money usually arrives the same business day or the next morning, depending on what time you send it and whether both banks process wires around the clock. Wire transfers cost money—typically $15 to $30 per transfer—but they're the fastest option for moving larger amounts or when timing matters.

To send a wire, call your bank's wire transfer department or use their website if they offer it online. You'll need the receiving bank's name, the receiving account number, the receiving account holder's name, and the bank's routing number. Some banks also ask for a SWIFT code if the money is going to an international account. Have all this information ready before you call, because the process moves quickly and mistakes are hard to undo once the wire leaves your bank.

Wire transfers are permanent once sent. If you give the wrong account number or routing number, the money may go to the wrong person, and your bank usually cannot recover it. Double-check every number before you confirm the transfer. Wire transfers are best for large sums, urgent situations, or when you're sending money to someone you don't know well and want proof of delivery.

In-person transfers at a bank branch

If you prefer to handle the transfer face-to-face, you can visit a branch of your bank and ask a teller to transfer money to another bank. Bring your ID and the receiving account information. The teller will process it the same way as an online transfer—usually as an ACH—but you'll have a receipt and can ask questions in real time.

This method is slower than using your phone or computer, and it only works during branch hours. It's useful if you're uncomfortable with online banking, if you need to transfer a very large amount and want to speak with someone, or if your bank's website is down. Most branches can also process wire transfers if you need that speed, though they'll charge the same fee as an online wire.

What information you need before you start

Before you begin any transfer, gather the receiving account's details. You'll need the routing number (a nine-digit code that identifies the receiving bank), the account number (usually 10 to 12 digits), and the name on the account exactly as it appears at that bank. If you're not sure of the routing number, you can find it on the receiving bank's website, by calling them, or by looking at a check from that account—the routing number is the first set of numbers at the bottom left.

The account holder's name must match the bank's records. If the name is slightly different—a middle initial missing, a nickname instead of a legal name—the transfer may be rejected or delayed. When in doubt, ask the person whose account you're sending to what name is registered with their bank.

For international transfers, you'll also need the receiving bank's SWIFT code (an eight or eleven-character code) instead of a routing number. International transfers take longer and cost more, and some U.S. banks don't offer them at all. Check with your bank first before attempting an international wire.

How long transfers actually take

ACH transfers typically take one to three business days. The exact timing depends on when you send it and how your bank and the receiving bank process ACH batches. If you send a transfer on a Friday afternoon, it may not start processing until Monday, which means it won't arrive until Wednesday or Thursday. Weekends and bank holidays don't count as business days.

Wire transfers usually arrive the same business day if you send them before your bank's cutoff time—often 2 p.m. or 3 p.m. Eastern time. Wires sent after the cutoff may not process until the next business day. International wires take longer, often two to five business days, because they pass through multiple banks and clearing systems.

Some banks advertise "same-day ACH" or "next-day ACH," which moves money faster than standard ACH. Not all banks offer this, and not all receiving banks participate in the system. Ask your bank whether they support faster ACH if speed matters to you.

Fees and what to watch for

Most banks charge nothing for ACH transfers, though some charge $1 to $3 per outgoing transfer. A few banks charge for incoming transfers too, though this is less common. Check your bank's fee schedule or ask a representative whether you'll be charged.

Wire transfers almost always cost money. Domestic wires typically cost $15 to $30. International wires cost more—often $35 to $50—because they involve multiple banks and currency conversion. Some banks waive wire fees if you maintain a high balance or have a premium account, so ask if you may have access to.

Watch out for transfer limits. Many banks cap how much you can transfer in a single day or per month, especially for ACH transfers. If you're moving a large sum, check your limit first or call your bank to request a temporary increase. Wire transfers often have higher limits than ACH, but they still may be capped.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cancel a transfer after I've sent it?

With ACH transfers, you usually have a few hours to cancel before the money leaves your account. Log into your bank's app or website and look for the transfer in your pending transactions. Wire transfers are much harder to cancel once sent—call your bank when ready if you need to stop one, but they may not be able to retrieve it. This is why double-checking the account number is so important with wires.

What if I send money to the wrong account number?

With ACH transfers, contact your bank right away. They can sometimes recall the transfer if it hasn't cleared yet. With wire transfers, the money is usually gone for good—your bank may be able to contact the receiving bank and ask them to return it, but there's no may provide. This is why wire transfers are riskier if you're not 100% certain of the account details.

Do I need to tell the other bank I'm sending them money?

No. The receiving bank processes transfers automatically without any action from the account holder. However, if you're sending money to someone else's account, it's a good idea to let them know so they're not surprised when it arrives and so they can confirm the amount is correct.

Can I transfer money between accounts at the same bank?

Yes, and it's usually when ready or takes just a few hours. Log into your bank's app or website and look for "Transfer Between My Accounts." You won't need routing numbers or account numbers—just select the accounts you want to move money between. Most banks charge nothing for this.

What's the difference between a routing number and an account number?

The routing number identifies the bank itself—it's the same for everyone with an account at that bank. The account number identifies your specific account within that bank. You need both to transfer money. The routing number is nine digits; the account number is usually 10 to 12 digits.