The fastest way depends on how quickly the other person needs the money

You have several ways to send money to someone else's bank account, and which one you choose depends on speed, cost, and how much information you have about the person receiving it. The most common methods are bank transfers (also called wire transfers or ACH transfers), mobile payment apps, and in-person transfers at a bank branch. Each one works differently and takes a different amount of time.

If you need the money to arrive within minutes, a mobile payment app or same-day wire transfer is fastest. If the person can wait a few business days, an ACH transfer (the standard bank-to-bank method) is usually free. If you do not have the person's bank details yet, you can start by asking them what information they need from you.

Key Takeaways

  • ACH transfers are free and take one to three business days, and are the most common way to send money between regular bank accounts.
  • Wire transfers arrive the same day or next business day but usually cost between $15 and $30, and cannot be reversed once sent.
  • Mobile payment apps like Venmo, PayPal, and Cash App move money in minutes to hours and are free if both people use the same app.
  • You will need the recipient's full name, bank account number, and routing number for a bank transfer, or their phone number or email for a mobile app.
  • If you are sending money internationally, wire transfers and specialized money transfer services are your main options, and costs and timing vary widely.

ACH transfers: the standard free method that takes a few days

An ACH transfer (Automated Clearing House) is the most common way to move money between two U.S. bank accounts. Your bank sends the money through a network that processes transfers in batches, usually overnight. The money typically arrives in one to three business days, depending on when you send it and your bank's processing schedule.

ACH transfers are free at most banks. To send one, you log into your bank's website or app, select "send money" or "transfer," and enter the recipient's name, account number, and routing number. Your bank will ask you to confirm the details before the transfer goes through. Once you confirm, you cannot stop it, so double-check the account number — a wrong number means the money goes to the wrong person.

If the recipient's bank is the same as yours, the transfer may arrive within hours instead of days. If you are sending to a smaller bank or credit union, it may take the full three days. Ask the person receiving the money what their bank's typical timeline is if you are not sure.

Wire transfers: faster but more expensive and permanent

A wire transfer moves money the same day or next business day and is faster than an ACH transfer because it does not go through the batch processing system. Your bank sends the money directly to the recipient's bank, which deposits it into their account. Wire transfers usually cost between $15 and $30, depending on your bank.

To send a wire transfer, you go to your bank in person, call them, or use their website or app (if they offer it). You will need the recipient's full name, account number, routing number, and the name of their bank. Some banks also ask for the recipient's address. Once the wire is sent, you cannot reverse it or get the money back, so make sure all the details are correct before you confirm.

Wire transfers are useful when someone needs money urgently — for example, to cover a medical bill or a time-sensitive expense. They are also the standard method for large transfers, down payments on a house, or sending money to someone at a different bank who cannot wait three days.

Mobile payment apps: when ready transfers between app users

Apps like Venmo, PayPal, Cash App, and Zelle let you send money to someone's phone number or email address in minutes. If both people use the same app, the money usually arrives when ready or within a few hours. These transfers are free when you send money from your bank account or debit card.

To use a mobile payment app, you read it, link your bank account or debit card, and search for the person by their phone number, email, or username. You enter the amount and hit send. The recipient gets a notification and can withdraw the money to their own bank account, usually within one to three business days, or keep it in the app to spend later.

Mobile payment apps are convenient for splitting rent, paying back a friend, or sending money to family, but they work best when both people already have the app. If the recipient does not use the app yet, they will have to read it and set up an account before they can receive the money. Some apps also have daily or monthly limits on how much you can send.

Information you need to send money by bank transfer

For an ACH or wire transfer, you need the recipient's routing number (a nine-digit code that identifies their bank) and account number (usually 10 to 12 digits that identify their specific account). You also need their full name as it appears on their account. If the name does not match exactly, the transfer may be rejected or delayed.

The easiest way to get this information is to ask the person directly. They can find their routing number and account number on a check, in their bank's app, or by calling their bank. If they give you a check, the routing number is the first set of numbers at the bottom left, and the account number is the second set.

For mobile payment apps, you only need their phone number or email address — the app handles the bank details behind the scenes. This is why mobile apps are simpler for casual transfers between people who know each other.

Sending money internationally

Sending money to a bank account outside the United States is more complicated and expensive than domestic transfers. Your options are wire transfers through your bank, international money transfer services like OFX or Wise, or mobile apps that support international transfers.

Wire transfers through your bank usually cost $25 to $50 and take one to five business days, depending on the destination country. You will need the recipient's full name, account number, bank name, and often their bank's SWIFT code (an international bank identifier). International money transfer services often have lower fees and better exchange rates than banks, but they vary widely in cost and speed depending on the country you are sending to.

Before you send money internationally, ask the recipient what method works best for them and what information their bank needs. Exchange rates and fees change frequently, so compare a few services to see which one gives the best rate for your situation.

What to do if a transfer goes wrong

If you sent money to the wrong account number, contact your bank when ready. For ACH transfers, your bank may be able to recall the transfer if it has not been processed yet — usually within one business day. For wire transfers, the money is gone, and you would have to contact the recipient's bank and ask them to return it, which they are not required to do.

If the transfer was sent to the right account but the recipient says they did not receive it, ask them to check their bank account — sometimes deposits take longer than expected. If several days have passed and the money is still missing, contact your bank with the transfer confirmation number and ask them to trace it.

Keep your transfer confirmation number and receipt for at least 30 days in case you need to prove the transfer was sent. Most banks let you read or print this from your account history.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for money to show up in someone else's account?

ACH transfers take one to three business days. Wire transfers take the same day or next business day. Mobile payment apps transfer money when ready or within a few hours if both people use the same app. The exact timing depends on when you send it, your bank's processing schedule, and the recipient's bank.

Can I send money to a savings account or does it have to be a checking account?

You can send money to either a savings account or a checking account. The process is the same — you just need the account number and routing number. Ask the person which account they want the money sent to, because some people prefer to keep transfers separate from their main checking account.

What happens if I send money to someone and they do not send it back?

Once money is transferred to someone else's account, it belongs to them and you have no legal way to reverse it. If someone owes you money and will not return it, that is a personal or legal matter between you and them, not something your bank can fix. This is why it is important to only send money to people you trust.

Is it safe to give someone my account number and routing number?

Yes, it is safe to share your account number and routing number so someone can send you money. These numbers are printed on your checks and are meant to be shared. However, do not share your PIN, password, or the full card number on your debit card, as those can be used to withdraw money without your permission.

Can I send money to someone at a different bank than mine?

Yes. ACH transfers, wire transfers, and mobile payment apps all work between different banks. The routing number tells your bank which bank to send the money to, so the recipient's bank does not have to be the same as yours.