What you need before you start a wire transfer

To send a wire transfer, you need the recipient's bank account number, routing number (a nine-digit code that identifies their bank), and their full name exactly as it appears on their account. For transfers outside the United States, you'll also need the SWIFT code or IBAN (International Bank Account Number), depending on the country. Ask the person receiving the money for these details in writing — even a small typo in an account number can send your money to the wrong place, and wire transfers are difficult to reverse once sent.

You'll also need to know how much money you're sending and have that amount available in your account. Most banks charge a wire transfer fee, typically between $15 and $50 for domestic transfers and more for international ones. Check with your bank about their specific fee before you initiate the transfer, since the amount you send won't include the fee — your bank deducts it separately.

Key Takeaways

  • You need the recipient's account number, routing number, and full name; for international transfers, you also need their SWIFT code or IBAN.
  • Wire transfers can be sent through your bank's website, mobile app, phone, or in person at a branch, depending on what your bank offers.
  • Domestic wire transfers typically arrive within one business day; international transfers take three to five business days.
  • Once a wire transfer is sent, it cannot be reversed, so verify all recipient information before confirming the transfer.
  • Banks charge fees for wire transfers, usually $15 to $50 for domestic transfers, so confirm the fee before you send.

Sending a wire transfer through your bank's website or app

Most banks let you initiate a wire transfer online. Log into your bank's website or mobile app and look for a link labeled "Wire Transfer," "Send Money," or "Payments." You'll be asked to enter the recipient's information: their full name, account number, routing number, and the amount you want to send. Some banks also ask for a reason for the transfer (like "rent" or "loan payment"), though this is optional at most institutions.

Before you hit "confirm" or "send," review every detail on the screen. Check that the account number, routing number, and recipient name are exactly right. Many banks show you a summary page where you can catch mistakes before the transfer actually goes through. Once you confirm, the transfer is submitted and cannot be stopped or reversed, so take your time at this step.

Sending a wire transfer by phone or in person

If you prefer not to use online banking, you can call your bank's wire transfer department or visit a branch in person. When you call, a representative will ask for the same information: recipient name, account number, routing number, and transfer amount. They may also verify your identity by asking security questions or requesting information from your account.

Visiting a branch in person works the same way. Bring a photo ID and be ready to provide the recipient's banking details. Some banks require you to fill out a wire transfer form in person, while others will process it over the phone while you're at the desk. Ask whether your bank charges the same fee for in-person or phone transfers as it does for online transfers — some institutions charge more for assisted transfers.

How long a wire transfer takes

Domestic wire transfers (money sent to another account within the United States) usually arrive within one business day. Many arrive the same day if you send them before your bank's cutoff time, which is often 2 p.m. or 3 p.m. on weekdays. Transfers sent after the cutoff or on weekends are processed the next business day.

International wire transfers take longer because they move through multiple banks and currency exchanges. Most arrive within three to five business days, though some take up to a week depending on the destination country and the banks involved. If you need money to arrive by a specific date, send it several days early to account for delays.

What happens if you send money to the wrong account

Wire transfers are nearly impossible to reverse once they're sent. Unlike credit card charges or ACH transfers (which can sometimes be disputed), a wire transfer goes directly from your bank to another bank, and the receiving bank has no obligation to return it. If you realize you've made a mistake, contact your bank immediately — the sooner you act, the better your chances, though success is not may provide.

Your bank can try to contact the receiving bank and ask them to return the funds, but the receiving bank may refuse if the money has already been withdrawn or if the account holder claims they have a right to it. To avoid this situation entirely, always double-check the account number and routing number before you confirm the transfer. If you're unsure about the recipient's details, call them and have them read the information back to you.

Domestic versus international wire transfers

Domestic wire transfers use routing numbers to identify the receiving bank. International transfers use SWIFT codes (an eight or eleven-character code that identifies banks worldwide) or IBANs (a longer code used mainly in Europe and some other regions). Ask the recipient which one their bank uses — they should be able to find it on their bank statement or by calling their bank.

International transfers also involve currency conversion if you're sending money to a country that doesn't use U.S. dollars. Your bank will convert the dollars at their exchange rate and deduct a conversion fee, so the amount the recipient receives will be less than the dollar amount you sent. Some banks let you lock in an exchange rate before you send, which protects you if the rate moves against you while the transfer is in progress.

Wire transfer limits and holds

Most banks set daily or monthly limits on how much you can wire transfer, especially if you're using online banking. These limits vary by bank and by account type. If you need to send more than your limit, contact your bank to ask whether they can raise it temporarily or whether you need to send the money in multiple transfers.

Some banks also place a hold on your account when you initiate a wire transfer, meaning the money is reserved and unavailable for other transactions until the transfer completes. This is normal and doesn't delay the transfer itself — it just prevents you from spending the same money twice. The hold is released once the transfer goes through, usually within one business day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cancel a wire transfer after I send it?

Once a wire transfer is sent and confirmed by your bank, it cannot be canceled. If you realize you made a mistake immediately after sending it, contact your bank right away — they may be able to stop it if it hasn't been processed yet, but this is rare. The best protection is to verify all details before you confirm the transfer.

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

Wire transfers move money directly from bank to bank and arrive within one business day (or same-day for domestic transfers). ACH transfers move through a clearing house and take three to five business days but cost less or nothing. Wire transfers cannot be reversed; ACH transfers can sometimes be disputed. Use wire transfers when speed matters or when you need to send a large amount; use ACH for routine payments like bills.

Do I need to tell my bank I'm sending a wire transfer?

No, you don't need to notify your bank in advance. However, if you rarely send wire transfers or if you're sending an unusually large amount, your bank may flag it as suspicious activity and contact you to confirm it's legitimate. This is a security measure to prevent fraud. If your bank calls, verify their identity before giving them any information.

What if the recipient's bank rejects the wire transfer?

If the receiving bank rejects the transfer (usually because the account number or routing number is wrong), the money is returned to your account, typically within five to ten business days. Your bank will notify you of the rejection. You can then correct the recipient's information and send the transfer again, though you'll be charged another fee.

Can I send a wire transfer to a savings account?

Yes, wire transfers can go to either checking or savings accounts. You need the correct account number for whichever account the recipient wants the money in. If you use the wrong account number, the money goes to that account instead, so confirm with the recipient which account they want you to use.