Ways to Transfer Money

Transferring money means moving funds from one bank account or person to another. You might send money to someone else or move it between your own accounts. There are plenty of reasons to transfer funds – from helping a family member to making sure you have enough money in an account to cover an upcoming payment or expense.

There are several ways to transfer money, including through a wire, ACH transfer, mobile app, personal check, cashier’s check or money order. Let’s learn more about some ways to transfer money.

ACH and wire transfers from a bank’s website

Wires can help you transfer money, though they may come with an associated fee. They require you to provide the recipient’s name and bank account number to complete the transfer. Wire transfers are direct, can be immediate and sent internationally.

An ACH transfer is an electronic transfer from one bank account to another. ACH transfers must pass through the Automated Clearing House network.

Most bank websites, like Citi.com, allow for ACH transfers. Common ACH transfers include direct deposits from an employer, bill payments, utility payments and person-to-person transfers. ACH transfers are typically free or low-cost but can take a couple of business days to complete.

Mobile app

Mobile apps can also be an accessible way to send and receive money.

While some mobile apps allow users to send and receive money for free, others charge a fee, especially for instant transfers. Please keep in mind that these apps can be targeted by scammers. Always make sure you’re aware of whom you’re sending money to or who is sending money to you.

Personal check

Personal checks are another way to send money.

If you’re sending funds via personal check internationally, be aware that the recipient may have to pay a check-cashing fee or cover any exchange rate costs. They may also have difficulty finding a bank that will cash a check written in USD. You must also have enough money in your bank account to cover the check amount. Otherwise, your check could bounce, which may incur fees.

Cashier’s checks

A cashier’s check is drawn from a bank’s funds and, therefore, guaranteed by the bank. They’re often a preferred form of payment for things like down payments or security deposits.

Cashier’s checks can often be used if personal checks are not accepted. You can obtain a cashier’s check from your bank for the amount of the check plus a fee.

Money orders

Money orders can be an option if you're sending money internationally, particularly to places where banking isn’t as accessible. When you send a money order, you must indicate the payee and amount and pay the value of the money order plus any associated service fees.

Money orders may take longer to clear than other ways of sending money, such as electronic transfers.

Disclosure: This article is for general educational purposes. It is not intended to provide financial advice. It also is not intended to completely describe any Citi product or service. You should refer to the terms and conditions financial institutions provide for various products.

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