The most direct way is to transfer money online using their account and routing number
If you know the recipient's account number and routing number, you can send money directly from your bank to theirs using an ACH transfer (Automated Clearing House). This is free at most banks, takes one to three business days, and works whether you're sending to someone at your bank or a different one. You initiate the transfer through your bank's website or app, enter their details, and the money moves automatically.
The recipient does not need to do anything on their end—the money arrives in their account without their action. This method works for any amount and any relationship: family, friends, employees, vendors, or anyone else with a bank account.
If you don't have their account and routing number, you'll need to ask them for it. The routing number is a nine-digit code specific to their bank; the account number is unique to their account. Both appear on a check, or they can log into their bank and find it in their account settings.
Key Takeaways
- An ACH transfer using account and routing number is free, takes one to three business days, and requires no action from the recipient.
- Wire transfers are faster (same day or next day) but cost $15 to $50 and are harder to reverse if you make a mistake.
- Third-party payment apps like Venmo, PayPal, and Cash App work for smaller amounts but may charge fees and require both people to have the app.
- Depositing cash or a check directly requires you to have access to their bank branch or to mail a check, which takes longer.
- Always confirm the account number and routing number before sending money—sending to the wrong account is difficult to recover from.
When to use a wire transfer instead of ACH
A wire transfer moves money the same day or next business day, making it faster than ACH. Banks charge $15 to $50 per wire, depending on whether it's domestic (within the US) or international. Wire transfers are useful when the recipient needs the money urgently or when you're sending a large amount and speed matters more than cost.
The downside: wire transfers are nearly impossible to reverse. If you send money to the wrong account, you have almost no recourse. ACH transfers can sometimes be recalled within a day or two, but wires cannot. For this reason, confirm the recipient's details carefully before initiating a wire, and consider calling their bank to verify the account number if you're uncertain.
To send a wire, contact your bank by phone or visit a branch. You'll need the recipient's name, account number, routing number, and bank name. Some banks allow wire transfers through their app or website, but many still require a phone call or in-person visit.
Using payment apps for smaller transfers
Apps like Venmo, PayPal, Cash App, and Zelle let you send money if both you and the recipient have the app installed. These services are fast (often instant or within minutes), and many charge no fee for standard transfers between individuals. The catch: they work best for smaller amounts, typically under $1,000 per transaction, and both people must have the app and be willing to use it.
Some payment apps link to a bank account behind the scenes, while others hold money in a digital wallet. Confirm with the recipient which app they use and that they have an active account before you send. If they don't have the app, they'll need to download it and set it up, which takes a few minutes.
Payment apps are convenient for splitting rent, paying back a friend, or sending money to family, but they're less formal than bank transfers and offer less protection if a dispute arises. For business payments or large amounts, a bank transfer is more secure.
Depositing cash or a check directly at their bank
If you have cash or a check, you can deposit it directly into someone else's account at their bank branch. You'll need to know which bank they use and have a valid ID. Walk into the branch, tell the teller you want to deposit cash or a check into another person's account, and provide the account number. The teller will process the deposit, and the money appears in their account that day or the next business day.
This method works if you're in the same city as their bank or if you're willing to travel to a branch. It's also useful if you have a physical check made out to them and want to deposit it on their behalf. Some banks allow you to deposit at an ATM using a mobile app, but this varies by bank and is not universal.
The downside is that it requires you to be present at their bank or to mail the check, which adds time. Mailing a check typically takes five to seven business days, depending on postal service speed.
What information you need before sending money
Before you initiate any transfer, gather the correct details. For a bank transfer, you need the recipient's full name (exactly as it appears on their account), account number, and routing number. For a wire transfer, you also need the bank's name and address. For a payment app, you need their username or phone number associated with the app.
Ask the recipient to confirm their details in writing—a text, email, or screenshot of their bank app showing their account number and routing number. This prevents mistakes. If the name on the account doesn't match the name you have for them (for example, a legal name versus a nickname), use the legal name that appears on the account.
Double-check the account number digit by digit before you send. A single wrong digit sends the money to the wrong account, and recovering it is slow or impossible.
What happens if you send money to the wrong account
If you send an ACH transfer to the wrong account, contact your bank immediately. Some banks can recall the transfer within 24 hours if the receiving bank hasn't released the funds yet. The process is not may provide, and it can take days or weeks to resolve. The receiving bank is not required to return the money, though many do if they can identify that it was sent in error.
If you send a wire transfer to the wrong account, your options are very limited. Wire transfers are designed to be final and irreversible. You can contact your bank and ask them to reach out to the receiving bank to request a return, but there is no may provide the money will come back. In some cases, you may need to pursue legal action or file a police report if you believe the money was stolen.
For this reason, verify the account number and routing number before you send anything. If you're uncertain, call the recipient's bank directly and ask them to confirm the account number matches the name you have.
Fees and timing for different methods
| Method | Cost | Speed | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACH transfer | Free (usually) | 1–3 business days | Any amount, no rush |
| Wire transfer | $15–$50 | Same day or next day | Large amounts, urgent need |
| Payment app (Venmo, Cash App, etc.) | Free or $0.50–$2 (varies) | Instant to minutes | Small amounts, informal transfers |
| Check by mail | Postage only | 5–7 business days | Formal payments, no rush |
| Cash deposit at branch | Free | Same day or next day | Cash on hand, nearby branch |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I deposit money into someone's account if I'm not on the account?
Yes. You don't need to be on the account to send money to it. You only need the account number, routing number, and the account holder's name. The bank doesn't require you to have any relationship to the account or to be authorized on it.
Do I need the recipient's permission to send them money?
Legally, no—you can send money to anyone's account if you have their account details. However, it's courteous to tell them you're sending money so they're not surprised. If you're sending a large amount, a heads-up also prevents them from thinking it's a mistake or fraud.
What if the recipient's name on their account is different from what I know them by?
Use the legal name that appears on their account. If their account is under "Robert Smith" but everyone calls them "Bob," use "Robert Smith" for the transfer. Mismatched names can cause the transfer to be delayed or rejected.
Is it safe to share my account number and routing number?
Your account number and routing number are safe to share for receiving deposits. These numbers are printed on every check you write, so they're not secret. However, don't share your full account details with someone you don't trust, and never share your PIN or online banking password.
How long does an ACH transfer actually take?
ACH transfers take one to three business days. The exact timing depends on when you initiate the transfer and your bank's processing schedule. Transfers initiated on a Friday may not arrive until Tuesday. Weekends and bank holidays add extra days.