What you need to do a wire transfer

To send a wire transfer, you need the recipient's full name, their bank account number, and their bank's routing number. If the recipient banks outside the United States, you will also need their bank's SWIFT code or IBAN (International Bank Account Number). You can get this information by asking the recipient directly or by calling their bank.

You will also need access to your own bank account — either through online banking, a mobile app, or by visiting a branch in person. Most banks allow wire transfers through any of these channels, though some smaller banks may require you to come in or call. Have your account login information or your account number ready.

Wire transfers cost money. Most banks charge between $15 and $50 to send a domestic wire transfer (within the United States), and $25 to $75 or more for an international wire transfer. Some banks waive the fee if you maintain a certain balance or have a premium account, so check with your bank about what you pay.

Key Takeaways

  • You need the recipient's full name, account number, and their bank's routing number (or SWIFT code for international transfers).
  • Domestic wire transfers typically cost $15 to $50, and international transfers cost $25 to $75 or more.
  • Wire transfers are usually processed the same business day if sent before your bank's cutoff time, which is often 2 p.m. or 3 p.m.
  • Once a wire transfer leaves your bank, you cannot cancel it, so double-check all recipient details before you confirm.

How to send a wire transfer online or through your bank's app

Log into your bank's website or mobile app and look for a link labeled "Wire Transfer," "Send Money," or "Payments." Click it and select "Domestic Wire" for transfers within the United States or "International Wire" for transfers to another country.

Enter the recipient's information exactly as it appears on their account. This means their full legal name — not a nickname or shortened version. Enter their account number and their bank's routing number. If you are sending internationally, enter their SWIFT code or IBAN instead of a routing number. Many banks will let you save this information for future transfers, which speeds up the process the next time.

Enter the amount you want to send. Review all the details on the confirmation screen — recipient name, account number, amount, and any fees. If anything looks wrong, go back and correct it. Once you click "Confirm" or "Send," the transfer is submitted and cannot be undone.

How to send a wire transfer at a bank branch

Visit your bank during business hours with your account number or debit card. Tell the teller you want to send a wire transfer and provide the recipient's information: their full name, account number, and their bank's routing number (or SWIFT code for international transfers).

The teller will enter this information into the system and show you a confirmation screen or printout. Read it carefully to make sure the recipient's name and account number are correct. Ask the teller to explain any fees before you authorize the transfer. Once you sign the wire transfer form, the transaction is final.

How long a wire transfer takes

Domestic wire transfers sent before your bank's cutoff time — usually 2 p.m. or 3 p.m. on a business day — are typically delivered the same day. If you send a wire transfer after the cutoff or on a weekend or holiday, it will be processed the next business day.

International wire transfers take longer because they move through multiple banks and currency exchanges. Most arrive within one to three business days, though some may take up to a week depending on the destination country and the banks involved. The recipient's bank may also hold the funds for a day or two while they verify the transfer.

Once the money leaves your bank, you cannot stop it or get it back. If you need to cancel a wire transfer, contact your bank when ready — they may be able to recall it if it has not yet been delivered, but this is not may provide. The sooner you call, the better your chances.

Wire transfer vs. other ways to send money

Wire transfers are fast and reliable, but they are not the only option. ACH transfers (Automated Clearing House) are slower but cheaper — they usually cost nothing or a small fee, and take one to three business days. Use ACH when you are not in a hurry and want to save money.

Money transfer services like Western Union or MoneyGram let you send cash that the recipient picks up in person, which is useful if they do not have a bank account. These services charge higher fees than wire transfers and are meant for smaller amounts.

Peer-to-peer payment apps like Venmo, PayPal, or Square Cash are free or low-cost for small transfers between individuals, but they have daily limits and are not designed for large amounts or business payments. Wire transfers are the standard for large sums, time-sensitive payments, and business transactions.

Common mistakes to avoid

The most common mistake is entering the recipient's account number or routing number incorrectly. Even one wrong digit sends the money to the wrong account, and you may not be able to recover it. Always ask the recipient to confirm their account number and routing number before you enter them, and read the confirmation screen carefully before you submit.

Another mistake is sending a wire transfer after your bank's cutoff time and expecting same-day delivery. If you need the money to arrive today, send it before 2 p.m. or 3 p.m. — check your bank's specific cutoff time on their website or by calling.

Do not assume a wire transfer is free. Many banks charge $15 to $50 or more, and some charge different amounts depending on whether the transfer is domestic or international. Ask about the fee before you send, so there are no surprises.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cancel a wire transfer after I send it?

Once a wire transfer is sent, it cannot be canceled in most cases. If you realize you made a mistake, call your bank when ready — they may be able to recall the transfer if it has not been delivered yet, but this is not may provide. The sooner you contact them, the better your chances.

What if I enter the wrong account number?

If the account number does not exist or belongs to someone else, the receiving bank may reject the transfer and send the money back to you within a few business days. If the account number is valid but belongs to the wrong person, recovering the money is much harder and may require legal action. Always confirm the account number with the recipient before you send.

Do I need a special account to send a wire transfer?

No. Any checking or savings account can send a wire transfer. Some banks may require a minimum balance or a certain account type, so check with your bank about their rules. You do not need a special account or permission — just the funds and the recipient's information.

How much money can I send in a wire transfer?

Most banks allow wire transfers of any amount, but some set daily or monthly limits on how much you can send. Check with your bank about their limits. Very large transfers may trigger fraud checks or require additional verification, which can delay the transfer by a day or two.

What is the difference between a domestic and international wire transfer?

A domestic wire transfer stays within the United States and uses the recipient's routing number. An international wire transfer goes to another country and uses the recipient's SWIFT code or IBAN instead. International transfers cost more, take longer (usually one to three business days), and may involve currency conversion fees.