The simplest way to transfer money between banks
The fastest way to move money between two banks you own is to use online transfer through your bank's website or app. You log in, select the account you're sending from, enter the receiving bank's routing number and your account number there, and authorize the transfer. Most banks move the money within one to two business days at no cost.
If you don't want to use online transfer, you can also ask your bank to do it for you in person or by phone. Walk into a branch with your ID and the account details of where you want the money to go, or call the customer service number on the back of your card. A staff member will process the transfer the same way the online system would, and it costs nothing.
The reason this works is that all U.S. banks are connected through a system called the ACH network (Automated Clearing House). When you give your bank the other bank's routing number — a nine-digit code that identifies that bank — the ACH system routes your money to the right place automatically.
Key Takeaways
- Online transfer through your bank's website or app is free and usually takes one to two business days.
- You need the receiving bank's routing number (a nine-digit code) and your account number at that bank to set up a transfer.
- If you don't have online access or prefer not to use it, you can call your bank or visit a branch and ask a staff member to process the transfer.
- Wire transfers are faster but cost money (usually $15 to $30) and are meant for urgent or large transfers, not routine moves between your own accounts.
What information you need before you start
Before you transfer money, gather the details of the account you're sending it to. You need the routing number of the receiving bank and your account number at that bank. The routing number is a nine-digit code specific to each bank; you can find it on a check from that account, on the bank's website, or by calling the bank's customer service line.
Your account number is the number of the specific account at that bank — the one you want the money to land in. This is also on your checks or statements, or you can log into that bank's website and find it in your account details.
Make sure you have the correct routing number for the right bank location. Some large banks have different routing numbers for different regions, so double-check before you send the transfer. If you enter the wrong routing number, the money may go to the wrong bank or be rejected, and it can take several days to sort out.
How to set up a transfer online
Log into your bank's website or open the mobile app on your phone. Look for a button or menu option that says "Transfer," "Send Money," "Move Money," or "Pay." The exact wording varies by bank, but it will be in the main menu or under an account settings area.
Click that option and select the account you want to send money from. Then choose "transfer to another bank" or "external transfer" — this tells the system you're sending to a different bank, not another account at the same bank. Enter the receiving bank's routing number and your account number at that bank. Type in the amount you want to transfer and review the details to make sure everything is correct.
Click "confirm" or "submit." Your bank will show you a confirmation number. Write this down or take a screenshot — you'll need it if something goes wrong and you have to contact the bank. The money will leave your account within one business day and arrive at the other bank within one to two business days after that.
What happens if you need the money faster
A wire transfer moves money the same day or the next business day, which is much faster than an ACH transfer. However, wire transfers cost money — usually between $15 and $30 depending on your bank — and they cannot be reversed once sent. Use a wire transfer only if you need the money urgently or if the receiving bank is outside the U.S.
To send a wire transfer, call your bank's customer service number or visit a branch in person. You'll need the same routing number and account number as you would for an online transfer, plus the name of the person or business that owns the receiving account. The bank will verify all the details with you before processing the wire.
Because wire transfers cannot be undone, scammers sometimes trick people into sending wire transfers to the wrong place. If someone is pressuring you to wire money quickly — especially if they say it's for a prize, a job, or to fix a problem with your account — stop and call your bank directly before you do anything. Legitimate businesses and government agencies do not ask for wire transfers from strangers.
Transfers between accounts at the same bank
If both accounts are at the same bank, the transfer is even simpler and faster. Log into your online banking, select "transfer between my accounts" or similar language, choose which account to send from and which to receive, enter the amount, and confirm. The money usually moves when ready or within a few hours, and there is no cost.
You can also do this at a branch or by phone. Tell a staff member which of your accounts you want to move money between and how much. They will process it right away, and you can see the money in both accounts within minutes.
What to do if a transfer goes wrong
If money doesn't arrive after three business days, contact the bank that sent the money first. They can look up the transfer using your confirmation number and tell you whether it was processed. If it was sent, they can contact the receiving bank to find out where it is.
If you entered the wrong routing number or account number, the receiving bank may reject the transfer and send it back. This can take five to ten business days. Your bank will credit the money back to your account once they receive it from the other bank.
If the money went to the wrong account because you gave the wrong number, recovery is harder. Contact your bank when ready and ask them to reach out to the other bank to request the money back. The other bank is not required to return it, but many will if you explain the mistake. Do not wait — the sooner you report it, the better your chances.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a transfer between banks take?
Most ACH transfers take one to two business days. Weekends and bank holidays don't count as business days, so a transfer sent on Friday may not arrive until Tuesday. Wire transfers are faster — usually the same day or next business day — but they cost money.
Can I transfer money to someone else's bank account?
Yes, but you need their routing number and account number, and you should confirm with them first that you have the correct information. The money will go into their account, and they will own it. Make sure you trust the person before you send money.
Is there a limit to how much I can transfer?
Most banks allow transfers up to a certain amount per day or per month. This limit varies by bank and by account type. Log into your online banking or call your bank to find out what your limit is. You can usually request a higher limit if you need one.
Do I need to tell my bank before I transfer money?
No, you don't need permission. However, if you're transferring a large amount or to a new bank for the first time, your bank may flag it as unusual activity and contact you to confirm it's really you. This is a security measure to prevent fraud. Just tell them yes, and the transfer will go through.
What if I accidentally send money to the wrong account?
Contact your bank right away with your confirmation number. They can reach out to the other bank and ask them to return the money, but the other bank is not required to do so. The sooner you report it, the better. Never wait more than a few days.