The most common ways to deposit money for someone else
You can deposit money into someone else's bank account in four main ways: transfer it directly from your own bank account, use a money transfer service, deposit cash at their bank if you have their permission, or give them cash to deposit themselves. The method you choose depends on whether you're sending money across town or across the country, how quickly it needs to arrive, and whether you have access to their account details.
The fastest and cheapest option is usually a bank-to-bank transfer if you both have accounts at banks that offer this service. The next most common option is a money transfer service like Western Union or MoneyGram, which works even if you don't have a bank account. Cash deposits at a physical branch work if you're nearby and the account holder has given you written permission. Handing them cash to deposit themselves is the simplest if you're in the same place.
Key Takeaways
- Bank-to-bank transfers are usually free and take one to three business days, but require you to know the account holder's routing number and account number.
- Money transfer services like Western Union and MoneyGram let you send money without a bank account, but charge a fee that varies by amount and location.
- You can deposit cash at a physical bank branch if the account holder gives you written permission and you bring their ID or account information.
- The account holder must authorize any deposit you make on their behalf, and some banks require them to be present or to have signed a power of attorney.
Bank-to-bank transfers: the free option
If both you and the account holder have bank accounts, a transfer between banks is usually free and takes one to three business days. You will need the account holder's routing number (a nine-digit code that identifies their bank) and their account number. You can find both on a check, or you can ask them directly.
Log into your own bank's website or app, look for "Send Money" or "Transfer Funds," and select the option to send to another bank. Enter the account holder's routing number and account number, the amount, and a description of what the money is for. The money will move from your account to theirs automatically. Some banks also let you set up recurring transfers if you send money to the same person regularly.
If you need the money to arrive faster, some banks offer expedited transfers that arrive the same day or next business day, but these usually cost between $10 and $25. Ask your bank whether this option is available before you transfer.
Money transfer services: when you don't have a bank account
Services like Western Union, MoneyGram, and Wise let you send money even if you don't have a bank account. You can pay with cash, a debit card, or a credit card. The account holder can pick up the money at a physical location (for Western Union and MoneyGram) or have it deposited directly into their bank account (for Wise and some Western Union transfers).
These services charge a fee that depends on how much you're sending and where it's going. A $100 transfer across the country might cost $5 to $15, while a larger amount or an international transfer will cost more. You can see the exact fee before you complete the transfer, so there are no surprises.
To send money this way, you go to a Western Union or MoneyGram location (often a grocery store, pharmacy, or check-cashing store), tell the clerk how much you want to send and where, and pay the amount plus the fee. The clerk gives you a reference number. The account holder then either picks up the cash at another location or provides their bank details so the money can be deposited directly into their account.
Cash deposits at a bank branch
If you're near the account holder's bank and they have given you permission, you can walk into a branch and deposit cash directly into their account. You will need to bring either their debit card or a deposit slip with their account number on it. Some banks also accept a government ID if you can show you have permission from the account holder.
Tell the teller you want to deposit cash into someone else's account and provide the account information. The teller will count the cash, record it, and deposit it into the account. The money is usually available in the account when ready or within one business day.
Not all banks allow this, and some require the account holder to be present or to have signed a power of attorney document giving you permission. Call the bank ahead of time to ask what they require, because policies vary by bank and by branch.
When the account holder deposits the money themselves
The simplest option is often to give the account holder the cash and let them deposit it themselves at an ATM or a bank branch. This requires no paperwork, no fees, and no account numbers. You hand them the money, they put it in their account, and it's done.
This works best if you're in the same place and the account holder has time to get to their bank or ATM. If you're sending money from a distance, this option isn't practical.
What you need to know about authorization and liability
The account holder must authorize any deposit you make into their account. This means they have to give you permission, either in writing or verbally. If you deposit money into someone's account without their knowledge or consent, you could face legal consequences, and the bank may reverse the transaction.
If the account holder is a minor or is not able to manage their own finances, you may need a power of attorney or guardianship document to deposit money on their behalf. A power of attorney is a legal document that gives you the authority to act on someone's behalf. If you're unsure whether you have the right to deposit money for someone, ask the bank or consult a lawyer.
Once the money is in the account, you have no further claim to it. The account holder owns the money and can spend it however they want. If you're sending money as a loan, consider getting a written agreement about repayment terms so there's no confusion later.
Comparing the methods side by side
| Method | Cost | Speed | What you need |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bank-to-bank transfer | Free (or $10–$25 for expedited) | 1–3 business days (same-day available) | Routing number and account number |
| Money transfer service | $5–$50+ depending on amount | Minutes to 1 business day | Cash or card; no bank account needed |
| Cash deposit at branch | Free | when ready to 1 business day | Debit card or account number; permission from account holder |
| Account holder deposits themselves | Free | when ready to 1 business day | Just the cash |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I deposit money into someone's account without telling them?
No. The account holder must authorize the deposit. Depositing money without permission could be considered fraud or theft, and the bank may reverse the transaction. Always get permission first, preferably in writing if it's a large amount or a one-time transfer.
What if I don't know the account holder's routing number?
Ask them directly, or look at one of their checks — the routing number is printed on the bottom left. You can also call their bank and ask for the routing number if you have their account number. Alternatively, use a money transfer service instead, which doesn't require routing numbers.
How long does a bank transfer take?
Standard transfers take one to three business days. Weekends and bank holidays don't count as business days. Some banks offer same-day or next-day transfers for an extra fee. Money transfer services like Western Union can be faster, sometimes completing within minutes or hours.
Is it safe to give someone my account number?
Your account number alone is not enough for someone to withdraw money from your account — they would also need your routing number and your signature or authorization. However, it's still good practice to only share your account number with people you trust. Never share your PIN or online banking password.
What if the money goes to the wrong account?
Contact your bank when ready and explain the error. If the money was sent to the wrong account at the same bank, the bank can usually reverse it or redirect it. If it went to a different bank, the process is slower and depends on whether the other bank cooperates. The sooner you report it, the better your chances of recovery.