Wells Fargo's routing number for domestic wires is 121000248

If you are sending a domestic wire transfer from a Wells Fargo account, use routing number 121000248. This is the standard routing number Wells Fargo publishes for all wire transfers within the United States. You will also need the recipient's account number, the recipient's bank name and address, and the recipient's full name exactly as it appears on their account.

International wire transfers use a different identifier. Wells Fargo's SWIFT code is WFBIUS6S, and you may also need an IBAN (International Bank Account Number) if the recipient's country uses one. The specific information required depends on which country you are sending money to, so confirm with the recipient's bank before you initiate the transfer.

You can find these numbers on your Wells Fargo statements, through online banking, by calling Wells Fargo at 1-800-869-3557, or by visiting a branch. Wells Fargo does not charge a fee for outgoing domestic wires, though the receiving bank may charge a fee on their end.

Key Takeaways

  • Wells Fargo's routing number for domestic wires is 121000248, and you will also need the recipient's account number and bank details.
  • International wires require Wells Fargo's SWIFT code (WFBIUS6S) and may require an IBAN depending on the destination country.
  • You can confirm these numbers through your online account, a statement, a phone call to Wells Fargo, or a visit to a branch.
  • Wells Fargo does not charge for outgoing wires, but the receiving bank may charge a fee to accept the transfer.

Where to find your routing number online

Log into your Wells Fargo online account and go to the Account Summary page. The routing number appears under your account details, usually labeled as "Routing Number" or "ABA Number." If you cannot locate it there, select the account you are sending from and look for a "Wire Instructions" or "Account Information" link.

You can also check a recent check from your Wells Fargo account. The routing number is the first nine digits printed at the bottom left of the check, before your account number. This method works even if you do not have online banking set up.

Information you need to provide for a wire transfer

Before you initiate a wire, gather the following details about the recipient and their bank:

  • Recipient's full name (exactly as it appears on their account)
  • Recipient's account number
  • Recipient's bank name and address
  • Recipient's bank routing number (if sending to another U.S. bank)
  • The amount you are sending
  • The date you want the wire to be sent

For international wires, you will also need the recipient's SWIFT code and possibly their IBAN. Ask the recipient to provide these details directly from their bank rather than guessing, because an incorrect number can delay the transfer or send money to the wrong account.

How to send a wire through Wells Fargo

You can send a wire through Wells Fargo online, by phone, or in person at a branch. Online is usually the fastest option if you have already set up the recipient as a payee in your account.

To send a wire online, log into Wells Fargo's website, select "Transfers," then "Wire Money." Choose the account you are sending from, enter the recipient's information, and review the details before confirming. The wire is typically sent the same business day if you submit it before the cutoff time, which is usually 2 p.m. Pacific time on weekdays.

To send a wire by phone, call Wells Fargo at 1-800-869-3557 and speak with a representative. They will ask for the same information and may charge a small fee for phone-initiated wires, though this varies by account type. To send a wire in person, visit a Wells Fargo branch with your ID and the recipient's information.

Domestic versus international wire transfers

A domestic wire stays within the U.S. banking system and uses the nine-digit routing number. These transfers usually arrive within one business day and are straightforward if you have the correct routing number and account number.

An international wire leaves the U.S. and enters a different country's banking system. These require the SWIFT code (WFBIUS6S for Wells Fargo) and often an IBAN, which is a longer account identifier used in many countries outside the U.S. International wires typically take three to five business days and may pass through one or more intermediary banks, each of which may charge a fee. The total cost can be higher than a domestic wire, and the final amount the recipient receives may be less than what you sent if fees are deducted along the way.

What happens after you send a wire

Once you send a wire, it cannot be stopped or reversed unless the receiving bank has not yet processed it. This is why it is critical to verify the recipient's information before you confirm the transfer. If you send money to the wrong account, you will need to contact that bank and ask them to return the funds, which they are not required to do.

Wells Fargo will provide you with a confirmation number and a reference number for the wire. Keep these for your records. You can track the status of your wire through online banking or by calling Wells Fargo, though they can only tell you whether it has been sent — they cannot control how long it takes the receiving bank to process it.

If the wire does not arrive within the expected timeframe, contact Wells Fargo with your confirmation number. They can investigate whether the wire was sent correctly and may be able to contact the receiving bank on your behalf.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a routing number and an account number?

A routing number identifies the bank itself — in this case, Wells Fargo. An account number identifies your specific account within that bank. You need both for a wire transfer: the routing number tells the sending bank where to send the money, and the account number tells that bank which account to deposit it into.

Can I use the same routing number for all types of Wells Fargo transfers?

The routing number 121000248 works for domestic wires, ACH transfers, and checks. However, international wires require the SWIFT code (WFBIUS6S) instead. If you are unsure which method to use, ask the recipient's bank what information they need.

How long does a Wells Fargo wire transfer take?

Domestic wires typically arrive within one business day if sent before the cutoff time. International wires usually take three to five business days. Delays can occur if the receiving bank is closed, if there is a holiday, or if the information provided is incomplete or incorrect.

What if I send a wire to the wrong account?

Contact Wells Fargo immediately with your confirmation number. They can attempt to recall the wire if it has not been processed yet. If it has been processed, you will need to contact the receiving bank and ask them to return the funds, though they are not required to do so. This is why verifying the recipient's information before sending is essential.

Does Wells Fargo charge a fee for wire transfers?

Wells Fargo does not charge a fee for outgoing domestic wires on most account types, though some premium accounts may have different terms. The receiving bank may charge a fee to accept the wire. International wires typically have a fee of around $15 to $25, though this varies by account type and destination country.