How to send a wire transfer

To send a wire transfer, you need your bank's routing number, the recipient's full name and account number, their bank's routing number, and the amount you want to send. You contact your bank in person, by phone, or through online banking, provide this information, and pay a fee (usually $15 to $50). The money typically reaches the recipient's bank within one business day, though some transfers arrive the same day if sent early enough.

The exact steps depend on whether you use your bank's website, mobile app, phone line, or walk into a branch. Each method requires the same core information but presents it differently. Some banks let you save recipient details for repeat transfers; others require you to enter them each time.

Key Takeaways

  • You need the recipient's full name, account number, and their bank's routing number before you start the wire transfer process.
  • Wire transfers cost money — typically $15 to $50 per transfer — and the fee is charged by your bank when you send.
  • Most wire transfers reach the recipient's bank within one business day, but timing depends on what time you send and your bank's cut-off hours.
  • Once a wire transfer leaves your bank, you cannot cancel it, so double-check the recipient's account number and bank routing number before confirming.

Information you need before you start

Gather these details before you contact your bank. If any piece is wrong, the transfer may go to the wrong account or be rejected, and your money could be delayed or lost.

For the recipient: their full legal name (first and last, spelled exactly as it appears on their account), their account number, and their bank's routing number. The routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies their bank. You can find it on a check, on their bank's website, or by calling their bank directly.

For yourself: your account number and the amount you want to send. Your bank already has your routing number on file. Have your account number ready — it appears on your checks or in your online banking portal.

Optional but helpful: a reference number or memo line (a few words describing why you are sending the money). This helps the recipient know what the transfer is for, but it is not required.

Sending a wire transfer through your bank's website or app

Log into your bank's online banking portal or mobile app and look for a link labeled "Send Money," "Wire Transfer," "Payments," or "Transfers." The exact name varies by bank. Click it and select "Wire Transfer" if other transfer types are listed.

Enter the recipient's information in the fields provided: full name, account number, routing number, and the amount. Review what you typed — especially the account number and routing number — because these cannot be changed once the transfer is sent. Some banks show you a confirmation screen; read it carefully before you click "Confirm" or "Send."

Your bank will deduct the wire transfer fee from your account at the time you send. The money leaves your account when ready, though it may take one business day to arrive at the recipient's bank. You will receive a confirmation number; save it in case you need to track the transfer later.

Sending a wire transfer by phone

Call your bank's customer service number (on the back of your debit card or on their website) and tell them you want to send a wire transfer. They will ask for the same information: recipient's name, account number, routing number, and amount. Spell out the recipient's name letter by letter to avoid mistakes.

The representative will read back the information to you before processing the transfer. Listen carefully and correct any errors before they confirm. Ask for a confirmation number and write it down. The fee will be charged to your account, and the transfer will be sent the same day if you call before your bank's cut-off time (usually 2 p.m. or 3 p.m. on business days).

Sending a wire transfer in person at a branch

Walk into your bank with your ID and the recipient's information. Tell a teller you want to send a wire transfer. They will give you a form to fill out or will enter the information into their system while you watch.

The form asks for the recipient's name, account number, routing number, and the amount. You will also provide your account number or ID. The teller will show you what they entered and ask you to confirm it is correct before they process the transfer. Pay the wire transfer fee at this time (in cash or from your account). You will receive a receipt with a confirmation number.

How long a wire transfer takes

Most domestic wire transfers (money sent within the United States) arrive at the recipient's bank within one business day. If you send the transfer early in the morning on a business day, it may arrive the same day. If you send it after your bank's cut-off time (usually 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.) or on a weekend or holiday, it will not be processed until the next business day.

The recipient's bank may take an additional day to deposit the money into the recipient's account, depending on their processing schedule. International wire transfers take longer — usually three to five business days — because the money must pass through multiple banks in different countries.

Once the transfer leaves your bank, you cannot stop it. If you realize you made a mistake, contact your bank when ready, but they may not be able to recall the money. This is why checking the account number and routing number twice is critical.

Wire transfer fees and what they cover

Your bank charges a fee to send a wire transfer. The fee is usually between $15 and $50 for a domestic transfer, depending on your bank and account type. Some banks charge less if you use online banking instead of calling or visiting a branch. International wire transfers typically cost more — $25 to $75 or higher.

The fee covers your bank's processing of the transfer and the use of the wire network. It does not cover any fees the recipient's bank may charge to receive the money. Some banks charge the recipient a small fee (usually $5 to $15) to receive a wire transfer; this is deducted from the amount they receive. Ask the recipient's bank in advance if they charge a receiving fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I send money to the wrong account number?

Contact your bank when ready. Once a wire transfer is sent, it cannot be recalled, but your bank may be able to contact the receiving bank and ask them to return the money. This process can take weeks or may not work at all. The receiving bank is not required to return funds sent to the wrong account. This is why verifying the account number before you send is essential.

Can I cancel a wire transfer after I send it?

Not reliably. If you catch the mistake within minutes of sending, call your bank and ask them to stop it before it leaves their system. Once it has been sent to the receiving bank, cancellation is unlikely. Your bank may charge a fee to attempt a recall. The safest approach is to verify all information before you confirm the transfer.

Do I need to tell the recipient I am sending a wire transfer?

It is a good idea to contact them beforehand so they know to expect the money and can watch for it. Give them the confirmation number from your bank so they can track it if needed. If they do not receive it within the expected timeframe, they can contact their bank with the confirmation number to locate it.

What is the difference between a wire transfer and an ACH transfer?

A wire transfer moves money through a separate network and usually arrives within one business day, but costs $15 to $50. An ACH transfer uses the automated clearing house network, takes three to five business days, and is often free or costs $1 to $3. Use a wire transfer when speed matters; use ACH when cost matters more than speed.

Can I send a wire transfer from a savings account?

Yes, most banks allow wire transfers from either checking or savings accounts. The process is the same. The fee and timing are also the same. Confirm with your bank that your account type allows outgoing wire transfers, as some savings accounts have restrictions.