The basic steps to send money from one bank to another

To wire money from one bank to another, you need the receiving bank's routing number, the recipient's account number, and their full name. You then contact your sending bank — by phone, online, or in person — give them this information, specify the amount, and authorize the transfer. Most banks process domestic wires the same business day if you submit before their cutoff time, usually 2 p.m. or 3 p.m. Eastern time. International wires take longer and require additional information like the recipient's SWIFT code or IBAN.

The cost varies by bank. Some banks charge $15 to $30 per outgoing domestic wire; others charge nothing if you maintain a certain balance or account type. Incoming wires are usually free. Before you start, check your bank's wire transfer fee and cutoff time, because these change between institutions and can affect whether your money arrives today or tomorrow.

Key Takeaways

  • You need the receiving bank's routing number, the recipient's account number, and their full name before you initiate any wire transfer.
  • Domestic wires typically arrive the same business day if submitted before your bank's cutoff time, which is usually mid-afternoon.
  • Wire transfer fees range from $0 to $30 per outgoing transfer depending on your bank and account type.
  • International wires require a SWIFT code or IBAN and take three to five business days, with higher fees than domestic transfers.

How to gather the information you need before you wire

The receiving bank's routing number is a nine-digit code that identifies that specific bank branch. You can find it on the recipient's checks, on their bank's website, or by calling their bank directly. Do not guess or use a number from the internet without confirming it with the recipient or their bank — a wrong routing number sends your money to the wrong institution, and recovery can take weeks.

The account number is usually 10 to 12 digits and identifies the specific account within that bank. Ask the recipient for both their account number and routing number in writing, or have them provide a voided check, which shows both numbers clearly. Confirm the recipient's full legal name as it appears on their account — if the name does not match exactly, the receiving bank may reject or delay the transfer.

For international wires, you will also need the recipient's SWIFT code (an eight or eleven-character code that identifies their bank worldwide) or their IBAN (International Bank Account Number, which varies in length by country). Ask the recipient which one their bank uses, or ask their bank directly.

Sending a wire through your bank's online platform

Most banks offer wire transfers through their website or mobile app. Log in, look for "Send Money," "Wire Transfer," or "Payments," and select the option to send a wire. You will enter the recipient's name, routing number, and account number into a form. The system usually shows you the fee and asks you to confirm the amount and recipient details before you submit.

After you submit, your bank generates a confirmation number. Write this down or take a screenshot — you will need it if you have questions later or if something goes wrong. The money leaves your account when ready, even though it may not arrive at the receiving bank until the next business day. If you change your mind within minutes of submitting, call your bank right away; once a wire is processed, it cannot be stopped.

Sending a wire by phone or in person

If you prefer not to use online banking, call your bank's wire transfer department or visit a branch in person. Have the recipient's routing number, account number, and full name ready. The bank representative will ask you to verify your identity, confirm the amount, and authorize the transfer. They will give you a confirmation number when the wire is complete.

In-person wires at a branch can sometimes be processed faster than online wires, and a representative can answer questions about international wires or unusual situations. However, branch hours are limited, and you may wait in line. Phone wires are available during business hours and sometimes 24/7 depending on your bank, but you cannot see the form being filled out, so confirm all details before you hang up.

Understanding wire transfer timing and cutoff times

Domestic wires sent before your bank's cutoff time arrive the same business day. Cutoff times vary — most banks process wires until 2 p.m. or 3 p.m. Eastern time, but some cut off earlier or later. If you miss the cutoff, your wire goes out the next business day. Weekends and federal holidays do not have wire processing, so a wire sent on Friday afternoon may not arrive until Monday or Tuesday.

International wires take three to five business days because they move through multiple banks and currency exchanges. The receiving bank's location and time zone also matter — a wire to Europe sent on Friday may not start processing until Monday European time. If you need money to arrive by a specific date, send it at least one business day earlier than you think you need to, and account for weekends and holidays in both countries.

What to do if a wire transfer goes wrong

If money does not arrive within the expected timeframe, contact your bank when ready with your confirmation number. The bank can trace the wire and tell you whether it was sent, whether it arrived at the receiving bank, or whether it was rejected. If the receiving bank rejected it because of a name mismatch or wrong account number, your bank will return the money to your account within a few business days.

If the money was sent to the wrong bank because of an incorrect routing number, recovery is much harder. The receiving bank may not return it automatically, and you may have to file a claim with your bank and wait for an investigation. This is why confirming the routing number with the recipient or their bank before you send is critical. If you realize you made an error when ready after sending, call your bank right away — some banks can stop a wire within minutes, but once it is processed, it cannot be recalled.

Wire transfer fees and when you might pay nothing

Outgoing domestic wire fees typically range from $0 to $30 per transfer. Some banks charge a flat fee; others charge more for international wires. Incoming wires are almost always free. A few banks waive outgoing wire fees if you maintain a minimum balance, have a premium account type, or send wires regularly.

Before you wire, log into your account or call your bank to confirm the exact fee. Some banks show the fee on the confirmation screen before you submit; others deduct it from your account after the transfer completes. If you are sending a specific amount to someone, remember that the fee comes out of your account, not the recipient's — so if you want them to receive $1,000, you may need to send $1,015 to cover a $15 fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cancel a wire transfer after I send it?

If you call your bank within minutes of sending, before the wire is processed, they may be able to stop it. Once the wire leaves your bank's system, it cannot be recalled. If it has already arrived at the receiving bank, only that bank can return it, and they are not required to do so without the recipient's consent.

What happens if I give the wrong account number?

If the routing number is correct but the account number is wrong, the receiving bank will reject the wire and return it to your account within a few business days. If both the routing number and account number are wrong, the money may go to a different person's account, and recovery requires the receiving bank's cooperation and a formal claim.

How long does an international wire take?

International wires typically take three to five business days. The exact time depends on the receiving country, the banks involved, and whether currency conversion is needed. Some banks offer expedited international wires for a higher fee, which may arrive in one to two business days.

Do I need to tell the receiving bank that a wire is coming?

You do not have to, but it can help. If you notify the recipient in advance, they can watch for the deposit and confirm it arrived. For large wires or wires from unfamiliar senders, some banks may hold the money temporarily pending verification, so a heads-up can speed up the process.

Is a wire transfer safer than other ways to send money?

Wires are fast and direct, but they are not reversible once sent. Unlike credit card chargebacks or ACH disputes, you cannot dispute a wire if you change your mind or if the recipient does not deliver what they promised. Only wire money to people and businesses you trust, and verify all details before you send.