GoFundMe transfers money through a third-party processor, not directly to your bank
When you withdraw from GoFundMe, the money goes to Stripe (their payment processor) first, then to your bank account. The transfer takes 2 to 5 business days once Stripe releases the funds. You cannot transfer to a different person's bank account — only the account holder who created the campaign can withdraw, and only to a bank account in their own name.
GoFundMe holds newly raised funds for 7 to 10 days before you can withdraw them. This is a fraud prevention hold, not a choice by GoFundMe. After that hold lifts, you can request a withdrawal at any time. There is no fee to transfer to your bank account, but your bank may charge you a deposit fee (most do not).
Key Takeaways
- Money sits in GoFundMe's system for 7 to 10 days after it arrives, then you can withdraw it to your own bank account through Stripe.
- The transfer from Stripe to your bank takes 2 to 5 business days; weekends and holidays add time.
- Only the person who created the campaign can withdraw funds, and only to a bank account registered in their name.
- You need your bank's routing number and your account number to set up the withdrawal, which you provide once in the GoFundMe settings.
Where to find the withdrawal option in GoFundMe
Log into your GoFundMe account and go to the campaign page. Click the three-dot menu (or "More") in the top right corner and select "Withdraw funds." If you do not see this option, the 7 to 10 day hold is still active — check back after that period passes.
On the withdrawal page, you will see how much is available to withdraw and how much is still on hold. GoFundMe shows you the exact date the hold lifts. You can withdraw part of the money and leave the rest, or wait until all funds are available and withdraw everything at once.
How to add your bank account information
The first time you withdraw, GoFundMe asks for your bank's routing number and your account number. You can find both on a check, or call your bank's customer service line and ask for them. Do not use your debit card number — GoFundMe needs the actual bank account number.
Enter your name exactly as it appears on your bank account. If your bank account is under "Sarah M. Johnson" and you enter "Sarah Johnson," the transfer may fail or be delayed. After you enter this information, GoFundMe stores it for future withdrawals, so you only have to do this once.
What happens after you request a withdrawal
GoFundMe sends your withdrawal request to Stripe, which processes it within 1 business day. Stripe then sends the money to your bank, which takes another 1 to 4 business days to post to your account. The total is usually 2 to 5 business days, but can stretch to 7 if your bank is slow or if the request lands on a Friday.
You will receive an email confirmation from GoFundMe when you request the withdrawal, and another email when Stripe releases the money. Your bank will send you a deposit notification (usually by email or text) when the money arrives. If you do not see the deposit after 5 business days, contact your bank first — they can tell you if Stripe sent it.
Why your withdrawal might fail or be delayed
The most common reason is a mismatch between the name on your bank account and the name on your GoFundMe account. If you created the campaign under "Sarah Johnson" but your bank account is under "Sarah M. Johnson," Stripe will reject it. Update your GoFundMe name to match your bank account exactly, then try again.
A second reason is an incorrect routing or account number. If you typed it wrong, Stripe will not be able to send the money. GoFundMe does not catch typos — your bank does. If your bank rejects the transfer, GoFundMe will email you and hold the money for you to try again with corrected information.
International bank accounts sometimes fail because Stripe does not support all countries or all account types. If you are outside the United States, check GoFundMe's help center for your country, or contact GoFundMe support to ask if your bank is supported.
What to do if money is rejected or stuck
If your bank rejects the transfer, GoFundMe returns the money to your campaign balance within 5 to 10 business days. You will see it listed as "available to withdraw" again. Correct your bank account information and request a new withdrawal.
If you requested a withdrawal more than 7 business days ago and the money has not arrived, contact your bank first and give them the exact date you requested it. They can search their records for an incoming transfer from Stripe. If your bank has no record of it, contact GoFundMe support with the date and amount, and they can check whether Stripe sent it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I withdraw money before the 7 to 10 day hold is up?
No. GoFundMe holds all newly raised funds for 7 to 10 days as a fraud prevention measure. You cannot withdraw or transfer the money during this time. After the hold lifts, you can withdraw immediately.
Can I send the money to someone else's bank account?
No. GoFundMe only allows the campaign creator to withdraw, and only to a bank account in their own name. If you need to give the money to someone else, withdraw it to your account first, then transfer it to them yourself through your bank.
What if I entered the wrong bank account number?
Your bank will reject the transfer, and GoFundMe will return the money to your campaign balance within 5 to 10 business days. Correct the account number in your GoFundMe settings and request a new withdrawal.
How long does it really take to see the money in my bank?
Usually 2 to 5 business days from the time you request the withdrawal. Weekends and holidays do not count as business days. If your bank is slow or the request lands on a Friday, it can take up to 7 business days.
Is there a fee to withdraw from GoFundMe?
GoFundMe does not charge a withdrawal fee. Your bank may charge a deposit fee, but most banks do not. Stripe (the processor) does not charge you either — the fee comes out of donations before they reach your account.