How to do a bank transfer: a step-by-step guide

A bank transfer is the most direct way to move money between accounts. While the process is simple, the method you choose — whether that's online banking or visiting your local branch — affects the cost and speed. In this guide, we break down how to make a bank transfer and the best methods to send money fast.

Whether you need to pay a friend back for dinner or send a larger sum for a property deposit, understanding how to do a bank transfer in the UK is an important tool for managing your finances. Read on to learn all about how it works. And, if you still want to know more, check out our guide to sending money to a bank account.

What is a bank transfer?

A bank transfer is a way to send money from one account to another electronically. It removes the need for physical cash or cheques, making it a safer and more efficient option for most transactions. In the UK, most transfers are done digitally, meaning you can manage everything from your phone or computer.

There are several reasons why you might need to know how to do a bank transfer. You might be moving money between your own accounts, paying a business for a service, or sending a gift to a family member. Depending on where the recipient is located and how quickly you need the money to arrive, there are various systems the payment might travel through.

Curious how international payments work? Explore our guide to sending money abroad.

Bank transfer details you need to get started

Before you can initiate a payment, you'll need to get some specific details from the person or business you're paying. If you get any of these details wrong, the payment could be delayed or sent to the wrong person.

For a standard UK transfer, you'll need:

• the recipient's full name: this should be the name as it appears on their account
• the 6-digit sort code: this identifies the specific institution and branch
• the 8-digit account number: this identifies their account
• a payment reference: this is a short note (often an invoice number or your name) to help the recipient identify the payment

If you're wondering how to do a bank transfer from the UK to an international account, you'll need different details. These include an International Bank Account Number (IBAN) and a Business Identifier Code (BIC), often referred to as a SWIFT code.

Learn more about international money transfers.

How to do a bank transfer online and in-app

Most customers prefer the convenience of digital banking when it comes to transfers. It's generally the fastest way to manage your money without visiting a physical branch. Here's how it works:

1. Log in to your provider's app or website

Open your banking or finance app and navigate to the payments or transfers section. You'll usually need to pass a security check, like a biometric scan or putting in your passcode.

2. Enter the recipient’s bank transfer details

If you're paying someone you haven't paid before, select the option to add a new payee. Enter their name, sort code, and account number. Most modern banks use a system called Confirmation of Payee to check that the name matches the account details.

3. Specify the amount and reference

Enter the exact amount of money you want to send. Make sure you include a clear reference so the recipient knows what the payment is for.

4. Review and confirm

Double-check all the information you've filled in. Once you confirm your transfer, the process begins. Most UK transfers are processed via the Faster Payments Service, so the money often arrives within seconds.

Different ways to send money in the UK

Not all bank transfers are the same. The right method often depends on how much you're sending and how quickly you need it to arrive.

Faster Payments Service

This is a UK banking initiative that's designed to be near-instant, 24 hours a day. It's the standard for most UK transfers. Most banks allow you to send up to £250,000 per transaction with Faster Payments, though individual providers' limits may be lower.

Clearing House Automated Payment System (CHAPS)

CHAPS is generally used for very large or time-sensitive payments, like property deposits. There's no limit on the amount you can send, but banks often charge a fee for this service. CHAPS payments must be made before a specific cut-off time in order to arrive on the same day.

Need to move large amounts? Read our simple guide to sending large sums with Revolut.

Bacs (Bankers' Automated Clearing System)

Bacs is most commonly used for payrolls and Direct Debits. It's not an instant method. It takes 3 business days for a payment to clear. Despite being slower than other methods, it's a very reliable way for businesses to process bulk payments.

How long do bank transfers take?

A common question for anyone learning how to do a bank transfer online is 'how long will I have to wait for the recipient to get the money?' Let's break it down:

• Within the UK: if your transfer's sent via Faster Payments, the money is usually available immediately or within 2 hours. These transfers typically don't incur fees.
• International transfers: these generally take 3–5 business days depending on the destination and the currencies involved. Note that international transfers usually involve transfer fees and exchange rate mark-ups.
• Transfers between Revolut customers: If you're sending money to another customer on Revolut, the transfer is instant with no transfer fees, regardless of where either of you are in the world.

Exchange fees, weekend fees and fair usage limits apply.

How to send money safely

You should always prioritise security when it comes to moving your money. Because digital transfers are often irreversible, you need to know exactly who you're paying and be certain of their details. Here's what you need to keep in mind:

• Beware of scams: be wary of anyone who pressures you to move money quickly, especially if they claim to be from a government agency or 'the bank's security team'. Remember: we'll never ask you to move your money to a 'safe account'.
• Verify the details: always use the Confirmation of Payee feature if your provider offers it. If the name doesn't match, stop and double-check with the person you're paying.
• Start with a small test: if you need to send someone new a large amount of money, consider sending them £1 first. Once the recipient confirms they have it, you'll know you've got their details right and you can send them the rest with peace of mind.

Want to learn how to manage your payments better? Explore our money transfer options.

How to sign up for Revolut and start sending money

Here's how you can get started in minutes:

1. Download the Revolut app: find us on the App Store or Google Play.
2. Verify your identity: follow the prompts to take a photo of your ID and a quick selfie. This helps us keep your account safe.
3. Add money to your account: use a debit card or link another account to add your first balance.
4. Send your first transfer: head to the Payments tab, select a friend or add a bank recipient, and enter the amount you want to send them.