What an ATM can and cannot do with transfers
Most ATMs cannot transfer money directly to another bank account. An ATM is built to let you withdraw cash from your own account or deposit cash into your own account at that bank. It does not have the ability to send funds to a different bank or to someone else's account.
If you need to move money to another bank, you have several real options—but none of them happen at the ATM itself. The method you choose depends on whether you know the receiving account number, how quickly you need the money to arrive, and whether you want to move the full balance or just part of it.
The confusion often comes from the fact that ATMs look like they should do everything with money. They do not. Think of an ATM as a cash machine for your own account, not a money transfer tool.
Key Takeaways
- ATMs cannot transfer money to other banks or other people's accounts—they only work with your own account at that bank.
- Wire transfers, ACH transfers, and mobile banking apps are the actual tools for moving money between banks, and each has different speed and cost.
- Wire transfers arrive the same day or next business day but usually cost $15 to $30 per transfer.
- ACH transfers are free or low-cost but take three to five business days to clear.
- Mobile banking apps and online banking let you set up transfers without visiting a branch or ATM.
Wire transfers: fastest but most expensive
A wire transfer moves money from your bank to another bank on the same day or the next business day. You initiate it through your bank's website, mobile app, or by calling the bank directly. You will need the receiving bank's routing number, the account number, and the account holder's name.
Wire transfers cost money—usually $15 to $30 per outgoing transfer, depending on your bank. Some banks charge less for transfers within the same bank network. The receiving bank may also charge a small fee to accept the wire, though this is less common.
Wire transfers are final once sent. If you send money to the wrong account, the receiving bank is not required to reverse it. For this reason, double-check the account number and routing number before you confirm the transfer.
ACH transfers: free or low-cost and slower
An ACH transfer (Automated Clearing House) is the most common way to move money between banks. You set it up through your bank's website or app, and the money arrives in three to five business days. Most banks offer ACH transfers for free or charge a small fee of $1 to $3.
ACH transfers work well when you are not in a hurry. They are safer than wire transfers because they can sometimes be reversed if you make a mistake, though this depends on your bank's policy and how quickly you catch the error.
You will need the same information as a wire transfer: the receiving bank's routing number, the account number, and the account holder's name. You can set up recurring ACH transfers if you move money to the same account regularly.
Mobile apps and online banking: the easiest route
Most banks now let you transfer money between your own accounts or to other people's accounts directly through their mobile app or website. You do not need to visit a branch or ATM. Log in, select the account you want to transfer from, enter the receiving account details, and confirm.
These transfers usually run through the ACH system behind the scenes, so they take three to five business days and are free. Some banks offer faster options—called "same-day ACH" or "real-time payments"—but these are not yet universal and may have daily limits.
The advantage of using your bank's app or website is that you can do it anytime, from anywhere, and you have a record of every transfer. You also avoid the step of visiting a physical location.
Transferring money between your own accounts
If both accounts are in your name but at different banks, the process is the same as transferring to someone else—you need the routing number and account number of the receiving bank. However, if both accounts are at the same bank, many banks let you transfer when ready between your own accounts through their app or website.
Some banks also let you link accounts at other banks to your primary account, which makes transfers faster and easier. This is called "external account linking." Once linked, you can usually transfer money the same day or next business day.
If you are moving money because you are closing one account and opening another, ask your new bank whether they can help you transfer the balance directly. Many banks offer this service as part of the account opening process.
What to do if you only have access to an ATM
If you are at an ATM and need to move money to another bank, your only option is to withdraw cash and then deposit it at the other bank. This works if you are moving a small amount and both banks have physical locations near you. For larger amounts or if the other bank is far away, this is not practical.
If you do not have online or mobile banking access, call your bank's customer service line and ask about wire transfers or ACH transfers. You can set up a transfer over the phone, though some banks charge extra for phone-initiated transfers.
If you are unable to access online banking or call your bank, visit a branch in person. A teller can help you set up a transfer and answer questions about fees and timing.
Fees, limits, and timing at a glance
| Transfer Type | Cost | Speed | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wire Transfer | $15–$30 | Same day or next business day | Large amounts, urgent transfers |
| ACH Transfer | Free or $1–$3 | 3–5 business days | Regular transfers, no rush |
| Mobile App/Online | Free (usually) | 3–5 business days (or same-day with some banks) | Convenience, frequent transfers |
| Cash Withdrawal + Deposit | None | when ready (at ATM), when ready (at teller) | Small amounts, both banks nearby |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I transfer money from one bank's ATM to another bank's account?
No. ATMs only work with your own account at that bank. To move money to another bank, use your bank's website, mobile app, or call customer service to set up a wire transfer or ACH transfer.
How long does it take to transfer money between banks?
ACH transfers take three to five business days. Wire transfers take the same day or next business day but cost $15 to $30. Some banks now offer same-day ACH, but this is not yet standard everywhere.
What information do I need to transfer money to another bank?
You need the receiving bank's routing number, the account number, and the account holder's name. You can find the routing number on your checks, on the bank's website, or by calling the bank directly.
Is it safe to transfer money between banks online?
Yes. Banks use encryption and security protocols to protect transfers. However, wire transfers cannot be reversed once sent, so verify the account number before you confirm. ACH transfers can sometimes be disputed if you catch an error quickly.
Can I set up automatic transfers between banks?
Yes. Most banks let you set up recurring ACH transfers through their website or app. You choose the amount, frequency, and receiving account, and the transfer happens automatically on the schedule you set.