The basic steps to transfer money to another person's bank account
To send money to someone else's bank account, you need three things: their account number, their routing number (a nine-digit code that identifies their bank), and their full name as it appears on the account. Once you have those details, you can transfer money through your own bank using online banking, a mobile app, a phone call, or by visiting a branch in person. The money usually arrives within one to three business days, though some banks offer faster options for an extra fee.
The most common method is ACH transfer (Automated Clearing House), which is the standard way banks move money between accounts. It is free or very cheap, but takes a few days. If you need the money to arrive the same day or next day, your bank may offer wire transfer or real-time payments, which cost more but are faster.
Key Takeaways
- You need the recipient's account number, routing number, and full name to send money to their bank account.
- ACH transfers are the cheapest option and take one to three business days; wire transfers and real-time payments are faster but cost more.
- You can send money through your bank's website, mobile app, phone line, or by visiting a branch.
- Double-check the account number and routing number before confirming the transfer, because mistakes can send money to the wrong account.
Where to find the account and routing numbers you need
The recipient should give you their account number and routing number. The easiest way to get both is to ask them directly — most people can find these numbers in seconds. If they have their checkbook, the routing number is printed at the bottom left of any check, and the account number is at the bottom center.
If they do not have a checkbook, they can log into their online banking or mobile app and find both numbers in the account details section. Many banks also print these numbers on bank statements. If the person is unsure where to find them, they can call their bank's customer service line and ask — the bank will not give the numbers to you directly, but the account holder can get them and pass them along.
Sending money through your bank's website or app
Most banks let you send money online without leaving home. Log into your bank's website or open the mobile app, then look for a button or menu item that says "Send Money," "Transfer," "Pay," or "Move Money." The exact wording varies by bank.
Click that button and you will usually see a form asking for the recipient's name, account number, routing number, and the amount you want to send. Some banks will ask whether the account is at the same bank or a different bank — choose "different bank" if you are unsure. Enter the information carefully, review it before you submit, and then confirm the transfer. You should see a confirmation number on the screen; write it down or take a screenshot in case you need to reference the transfer later.
Sending money by phone or in person
If you do not use online banking or prefer to speak with someone, you can call your bank's customer service number (usually on the back of your debit card) and ask to send money to another account. Have the recipient's account number, routing number, and the amount ready before you call. The representative will walk you through the process and confirm the details with you before the transfer goes through.
You can also visit a branch in person and ask a teller to send the money for you. Bring your ID and the recipient's information. This method takes longer than online transfer, but some people prefer it because they can ask questions face-to-face.
Understanding ACH transfers, wire transfers, and real-time payments
ACH transfers are the standard. They are free or cost just a dollar or two, but take one to three business days because the money moves through a clearing system. Most everyday transfers use ACH. Weekends and bank holidays do not count as business days, so a transfer sent on Friday might not arrive until Tuesday.
Wire transfers move money the same day or next business day, but cost between $15 and $50 depending on your bank. They are useful when you need money to arrive quickly — for example, to pay a deposit on an apartment. Once a wire transfer is sent, it usually cannot be reversed, so make sure the account number is correct.
Real-time payments are a newer option that some banks now offer. They move money in seconds or minutes and usually cost $0 to $3. Not all banks support them yet, so ask your bank whether this option is available. If both your bank and the recipient's bank support real-time payments, you can choose this method when you set up the transfer.
What to do if you made a mistake
If you sent money to the wrong account number, contact your bank when ready — the sooner you report it, the better your chances of stopping the transfer or recovering the money. For ACH transfers, you have a few days before the money clears, so there is still time. For wire transfers, call right away, though recovery is harder because wire transfers are designed to be final.
Your bank can file a claim to try to recover the money, but there is no may provide. The receiving bank may be able to reverse the transfer if the recipient has not withdrawn the money yet. This is why checking the account number twice before you hit send is so important — it is much easier to prevent a mistake than to fix one after the fact.
Setting up recurring transfers if you send money regularly
If you send money to the same person every month — for example, to help a family member with bills — most banks let you set up an automatic recurring transfer. Log into your online banking, find the option to schedule or automate a transfer, and enter the recipient's information and the amount. You can usually choose whether the transfer happens weekly, twice a month, monthly, or on a custom schedule.
Once you set up a recurring transfer, the money goes out automatically on the date you choose. You can change or cancel it anytime through your online banking. This saves you from having to remember to send the money each time, and it makes sure the payment arrives on schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for money to arrive?
ACH transfers usually take one to three business days. Wire transfers and real-time payments arrive the same day or next business day. The exact timing depends on your bank and the recipient's bank, and whether the transfer is sent on a business day or weekend.
What happens if I send money to the wrong account number?
Contact your bank right away. For ACH transfers, you may be able to stop the transfer before it clears. For wire transfers, call when ready, though recovery is harder. Your bank can file a claim, but there is no may provide the money will be returned.
Do I need to know the recipient's name exactly as it appears on their account?
Yes. The name should match the account holder's name. If the names do not match exactly, the transfer may be rejected or delayed. Ask the account holder how their name appears on the account if you are unsure.
Can I send money to an account at a different bank?
Yes. You can send money to any bank account in the United States as long as you have the correct account number and routing number. The routing number tells your bank which bank to send the money to.
Is there a limit to how much money I can send?
Most banks set daily or monthly limits on transfers, which vary by bank and account type. Check with your bank about your specific limits. If you need to send more than your limit allows, you can contact your bank to request a higher limit or make multiple transfers over time.