How to Send a Wire Transfer at Wells Fargo

Wire transfers at Wells Fargo work through their online banking platform, phone line, or in person at a branch

Wells Fargo lets you send domestic wire transfers (within the United States) and international wire transfers through multiple channels. The fastest route is usually online through Wells Fargo's website or mobile app if you're already set up. You can also call their wire transfer line at 1-800-869-3557 or walk into a branch with the recipient's information. The bank charges a fee for each wire — domestic wires typically cost around $15, and international wires run higher, though exact amounts vary by account type and whether you're sending or receiving.

Before you start, you'll need the recipient's full name, account number, and routing number (for domestic transfers) or SWIFT code and IBAN (for international transfers). If you're sending to another country, you may also need the recipient's bank name and address. Wells Fargo will ask you to confirm all details before processing, since wire transfers cannot be reversed once sent.

Key Takeaways

Wells Fargo processes domestic wire transfers online, by phone, or in branch, with domestic transfers typically costing around $15 per transaction.
You need the recipient's routing number and account number for domestic transfers, or their SWIFT code and IBAN for international transfers.
Online wire transfers through Wells Fargo's website or app are usually the fastest option if you already have login access.
Wire transfers cannot be canceled or reversed after Wells Fargo sends them, so verify all recipient information before confirming.
International wire transfers take longer and cost more than domestic ones, and the recipient's bank may charge an additional fee on their end.

Sending a domestic wire transfer online

Log into your Wells Fargo online banking account or open the mobile app. Look for "Transfer Money" or "Wire Transfer" in the menu — the exact label depends on which version you're using. Select "Send Money" and then choose "Domestic Wire Transfer" from the options.

Enter the recipient's full name, routing number, and account number. Wells Fargo will show you a preview of where the money is going. Double-check every digit of the account and routing numbers, since errors can send your money to the wrong account. Enter the amount you want to send and add any reference information (like an invoice number or your name) that will help the recipient identify the payment. Review the fee — Wells Fargo will show you this before you confirm. Then authorize the transfer using whatever security method your account requires (usually a code sent to your phone or a security question).

Once you hit confirm, the transfer is sent. Wells Fargo will give you a confirmation number. Most domestic wire transfers arrive the same business day if you send them before the bank's cutoff time, which is usually 2 p.m. Eastern time on weekdays.

Sending an international wire transfer

International wire transfers follow the same basic steps as domestic ones, but you'll need different information about the recipient's bank. Log into your Wells Fargo account and select "International Wire Transfer" instead of the domestic option.

You'll need the recipient's SWIFT code (an eight or eleven-character code that identifies their bank worldwide) and their IBAN (International Bank Account Number, which replaces the routing and account number combination). You may also need to provide the recipient's bank name, branch address, and country. Wells Fargo will ask you to specify whether you want the recipient to pay any fees or whether you're covering all costs. This matters because some banks deduct their own fees from the amount received, so the recipient may get less than you send.

International wires typically take three to five business days to arrive, though this varies by the recipient's country and bank. Wells Fargo charges a higher fee for international transfers than domestic ones — the exact amount depends on your account type. The recipient's bank may also charge them a fee to receive the money.

Sending a wire transfer by phone

Call Wells Fargo's wire transfer line at 1-800-869-3557. You'll need to verify your identity with your account number, Social Security number, or other information the bank requests. Have the recipient's information ready: their full name, account number, and routing number (or SWIFT code and IBAN for international transfers).

The representative will confirm the amount, the recipient's details, and the fee. They'll walk you through authorization, which usually means answering a security question or confirming a code sent to your phone. Once you authorize, the wire is sent and you'll receive a confirmation number. Keep this number for your records.

Phone wire transfers take the same amount of time as online transfers — usually the same business day for domestic wires if you call before the cutoff time. This method is useful if you don't have online access or prefer to speak with someone, but it may take longer to complete the call than to send a wire online.

Sending a wire transfer in person at a Wells Fargo branch

Walk into any Wells Fargo branch with a valid ID and the recipient's information. Tell the teller you want to send a wire transfer. Bring the recipient's full name, account number, and routing number (or SWIFT code and IBAN for international transfers). You'll also need to know how much you want to send.

The teller will fill out a wire transfer form with you and confirm all the details. They'll show you the fee and ask how you want to pay — usually from your Wells Fargo account. You'll sign the form and provide ID. The teller will give you a confirmation number and a receipt.

In-person wire transfers process the same way as online or phone transfers, so domestic wires typically arrive the same business day. This method works well if you're uncomfortable with online banking or if you need to send a large amount and want to speak with someone in person.

What happens if you make a mistake

Wire transfers cannot be reversed or canceled once Wells Fargo sends them. If you realize you made an error — wrong account number, wrong amount, or wrong recipient — contact Wells Fargo when ready. Call 1-800-869-3557 or go to a branch right away. The bank can try to recall the transfer if it hasn't been received yet, but this doesn't always work, especially if the receiving bank has already processed it.

If the money goes to the wrong account, you'll need to contact that account holder and ask them to return it. If they refuse, you may need to file a dispute or pursue legal action. This is why verifying every detail before you confirm is so important — it's much easier to catch a mistake before sending than to fix it after.

Wire transfer fees and timing

Wells Fargo charges a fee for sending wire transfers. Domestic wire transfers typically cost around $15, though some account types may have different rates. International wire transfers cost more — the exact fee depends on the country and your account type. Wells Fargo will show you the fee before you confirm the transfer, so you'll know the total cost.

Domestic wire transfers usually arrive the same business day if you send them before 2 p.m. Eastern time on a weekday. Transfers sent after that time or on weekends may process the next business day. International wire transfers take longer — typically three to five business days — because they move through multiple banks in different countries.

The recipient's bank may also charge them a fee to receive the money, especially for international transfers. Some banks deduct their fee from the amount received, so the recipient gets less than you sent. If this matters for your transfer, ask Wells Fargo whether you can cover the recipient's fees or whether the recipient will pay them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cancel a wire transfer after I send it?

No, wire transfers cannot be canceled once Wells Fargo sends them. If you realize you made a mistake when ready after sending, call Wells Fargo right away at 1-800-869-3557 and ask them to attempt a recall. This only works if the receiving bank hasn't processed the transfer yet, which is not may provide. This is why verifying all details before confirming is critical.

How long does a domestic wire transfer take?

Domestic wire transfers typically arrive the same business day if you send them before 2 p.m. Eastern time on a weekday. Transfers sent after that time or on weekends process the next business day. The receiving bank may take an additional day to make the funds available to the recipient.

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

Wire transfers move money directly between banks and arrive the same day or next business day, but they cost more (around $15 for domestic transfers at Wells Fargo) and cannot be reversed. ACH transfers are slower (typically three to five business days) but cheaper or free. Wells Fargo offers both options depending on how quickly you need the money to arrive.

Do I need the recipient's bank name to send a domestic wire transfer?

No, for domestic wire transfers you only need the recipient's routing number and account number. Wells Fargo's system will identify the bank from the routing number. For international transfers, you'll need the recipient's bank name, SWIFT code, and IBAN.

What information do I need to send an international wire transfer?

You'll need the recipient's full name, SWIFT code (which identifies their bank), IBAN (their international account number), and their bank's name and address. Some countries require additional information. Wells Fargo will tell you what's needed when you start the transfer.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.