The basic steps to wire money from your bank account

To wire money, you log into your bank's website or app, enter the recipient's name and bank details, specify the amount, and confirm the transfer. Your bank then sends the funds electronically to the other bank, which deposits them into the recipient's account. The whole process usually takes one to two business days, though some banks offer same-day wiring for a higher fee.

You can also walk into a branch and ask a teller to send a wire, or call your bank's wire department if you prefer not to use online banking. Either way, you'll need the same information: the recipient's full name, their bank account number, their bank's routing number, and the amount you want to send.

Key Takeaways

  • Wire transfers move money between bank accounts electronically and typically arrive within one to two business days.
  • You need the recipient's full name, account number, routing number, and the amount — any error in these details can delay or misdirect the transfer.
  • Most banks charge a fee to send a wire, usually between $15 and $30, though some waive the fee for certain account types.
  • Once you confirm a wire transfer, you cannot cancel it, so double-check all details before you submit.
  • International wire transfers take longer and cost more than domestic ones, and the recipient's bank may charge an additional fee.

What information you need before you start

Gather these details before you log in or visit your bank. You'll need the recipient's full legal name exactly as it appears on their bank account — if you use a nickname or middle initial they don't use, the transfer may be rejected or delayed. You also need their account number and their bank's routing number, which is a nine-digit code that identifies their bank.

If you're sending money to someone at a different bank, ask them for their routing number or look it up on their bank's website. If you're sending money internationally, you'll also need the recipient's SWIFT code (a code that identifies their bank worldwide) or IBAN (International Bank Account Number), depending on the country. Ask the recipient or their bank which one you need.

Write down the amount you want to send and confirm it with the recipient before you start the transfer. Wire fees are non-refundable, so if you send the wrong amount, you'll have to send another wire to correct it.

Sending a wire through online banking

Log into your bank's website or mobile app and look for a link labeled "Send Money," "Wire Transfer," "Pay Someone," or "Transfers." The exact wording varies by bank. Click that link and select "Wire Transfer" or "Send to Another Bank" if you see multiple options.

Enter the recipient's information in the fields provided: full name, account number, routing number, and the amount. Most banks will ask you to name this recipient (for example, "Mom" or "Landlord") so you can find them faster next time. Review every detail on the confirmation screen before you submit — misspelled names, wrong account numbers, or incorrect amounts cannot be undone once the transfer goes through.

After you confirm, your bank will show you a confirmation number. Write it down or take a screenshot. The transfer will process during your bank's next business day, and you can use the confirmation number to track it or contact your bank if something goes wrong.

Sending a wire at a bank branch or by phone

If you prefer to wire money in person, visit your bank branch during business hours and tell a teller you want to send a wire transfer. Bring a photo ID and have the recipient's information ready. The teller will fill out a wire form with you, show you the details, and process the transfer. You'll receive a receipt with a confirmation number.

To wire money by phone, call the number on the back of your debit card or on your bank's website and ask to speak with someone in the wire department. Have all the recipient's information ready before you call. The representative will ask you to verify your identity, confirm the details, and authorize the transfer. You'll receive a confirmation number by phone and usually by email as well.

Wire transfer fees and timing

Most banks charge between $15 and $30 to send a domestic wire transfer. Some banks waive the fee if you maintain a high balance, have a premium account type, or send wires regularly. International wire transfers usually cost $35 to $50 or more, depending on the destination country and whether you're paying the recipient's bank fees as well.

Domestic wire transfers typically arrive the next business day, though some banks offer same-day wiring if you send the transfer before a certain time (often 2 p.m. or 3 p.m.). Same-day wires usually cost extra. International wires take three to five business days and may take longer if the recipient's bank is in a country with limited banking infrastructure.

Weekends and bank holidays can delay processing. If you send a wire on Friday evening, it may not process until Monday. If Monday is a holiday, it may not process until Tuesday.

What happens if something goes wrong

If you realize you made a mistake after you've confirmed the transfer, contact your bank when ready. If the transfer hasn't processed yet, your bank may be able to cancel it or correct the details. Once the money reaches the recipient's bank, you cannot reverse the transfer — you would have to ask the recipient to send the money back.

If the recipient's account number was wrong, the transfer may be rejected and returned to your account within a few business days. If the routing number was wrong but the account number was correct, the transfer might still go through to the correct bank. If the recipient's name doesn't match their account number, some banks will reject the transfer, while others will process it anyway.

If a wire doesn't arrive when you expect it, contact your bank with your confirmation number. They can trace the transfer and tell you where it is. If it was sent to the wrong bank, your bank may be able to recover it, though this can take weeks.

Domestic versus international wire transfers

A domestic wire transfer moves money between two U.S. banks and uses routing numbers to identify the recipient's bank. These transfers are faster and cheaper than international wires and usually arrive within one business day.

An international wire transfer moves money to a bank outside the United States and uses SWIFT codes or IBANs instead of routing numbers. These transfers take longer because they often pass through one or more intermediary banks, each of which may charge a fee. The recipient's bank may also charge a fee to receive the wire, which is deducted from the amount that arrives. Ask the recipient whether they want you to pay all fees or split them.

Some countries have restrictions on wire transfers or require additional documentation. If you're sending money to a country you're unfamiliar with, ask your bank whether there are any special requirements or delays you should expect.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cancel a wire transfer after I send it?

If you contact your bank when ready after sending the wire and before it processes, your bank may be able to cancel it. Once the money reaches the recipient's bank, the transfer cannot be reversed. You would have to ask the recipient to send the money back voluntarily.

What if I send money to the wrong account number?

If the account number is wrong but the routing number is correct, the transfer may still go through to the correct bank, and the recipient's bank may reject it or hold it for investigation. Contact your bank with your confirmation number so they can trace the transfer and attempt recovery. This process can take several weeks.

Do I need to tell the recipient I'm sending a wire?

It's a good idea to let them know the amount and the approximate date so they can watch for the deposit. If they're expecting the money on a specific date, remind them that wires can take one to two business days and that weekends and holidays may cause delays.

Can I wire money from a savings account?

Yes, most banks allow you to send wire transfers from either a checking or savings account. The process is the same. Some banks may limit how many wires you can send from a savings account per month, so check your account terms or ask your bank.

What's the difference between a wire transfer and an ACH transfer?

A wire transfer moves money electronically and usually arrives within one to two business days, but costs a fee. An ACH transfer is slower (three to five business days) but is usually free. Wire transfers are better for urgent or large transfers; ACH transfers are better for routine payments like bills.