What is Wire Transfer?

Understand what is wire transfer and how does it work.
Wire Transfer
3 min
26-April-2024

In today’s fast-moving world, sending money across cities or even countries has become seamless with wire transfers. Often called money transfers or telegraphic transfers, this method allows funds to be transferred electronically without the hassle of handling cash or cheques. While wire transfers are known for their speed and security, it’s equally important to weigh their costs, risks, and alternatives for smarter financial planning.

What is a wire transfer

A wire transfer is an electronic transfer of funds from one bank account to another. Unlike standard electronic transfers that occur within the same financial institution, wire transfers often move money across banks and even borders. They are considered fast, secure, and reliable—commonly used for large transactions such as paying big bills or sending funds abroad.

Just like a wire transfer ensures security and reliability, a Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposit provides safe, assured growth on your savings with returns up to 7.30% p.a. Open FD.

Understanding wire transfers

Wire transfers can usually be set up online, though some banks may require you to visit a branch. Once initiated, the sender’s bank transmits payment instructions to the recipient’s bank through secure systems like SWIFT. The receiving bank then verifies and deposits the funds, while both banks settle the transfer behind the scenes.

Types of wire transfers

Domestic wire transfers

These occur within the same country. Transactions are usually processed on the same day and completed within hours. Often, you’ll only need basic recipient details and bank codes.

International wire transfers

These involve moving money across borders, even if both accounts are in the same bank. International transfers typically take 2–5 business days due to verifications and compliance with global regulations.

For long-term financial needs, instead of paying high transfer fees abroad, consider growing your funds with a Bajaj Finance FD—a trusted, high-return option that keeps your money safe. Check latest rates.

Fixed Deposit

  1. Trusted by over 5 lakh customers
  2. Fixed Deposits worth more than Rs. 50,000 crore booked
  3. Rated CRISIL AAA/STABLE and [ICRA]AAA(STABLE)
  4. Up to 0.35% p.a. extra interest offered for senior citizens
  5. Flexible interest payout options available - Monthly, Quarterly, Half-yearly, Annually or at Maturity

By proceeding, you agree to our Terms and Conditions

Risks associated with wire transfers

  • Always transfer money only to trusted recipients to avoid scams.
  • Use reputed banks or agencies that verify both sender and receiver identities.
  • International transfers are closely monitored to prevent illegal activities like money laundering or terror funding.
  • Pros and cons of wire transfers

Pros

  • Fast and reliable, even for international payments
  • Funds cannot bounce due to insufficient balance

Cons

  • High fees may make them unsuitable for smaller transfers
  • Some banks limit the number of transactions
  • Alternative methods may be faster or cheaper

While wire transfers cost more, investing in a Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposit has no hidden charges—only assured returns and flexible tenures ranging from 12 to 60 months. Book FD.

Other options for wire transfers

  • Cheques and money orders: Affordable but slower, with risks of loss in transit.
  • Automated Clearing House (ACH): Useful for recurring transactions through NPCI’s NACH system in India.
  • UPI Mobile apps: Platforms like Bajaj Finserv, Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm, etc, offer instant peer-to-peer transfers at minimal cost.

How is a wire transfer done

1. The sender provides recipient’s details—name, bank account, address, and amount.

2. The sender’s bank sends secure payment instructions to the recipient’s bank.

3. The recipient’s bank verifies and credits the funds.

4. Banks settle the transaction in the background.

If you want your money to work harder instead of just moving around, open a Bajaj Finance FD and watch your savings grow steadily over time. Open an FD account with as little as Rs. 15,000!

How safe are wire transfers

Wire transfers are generally safe if you know the recipient. Banks verify customer identities at account opening, and secure networks are used to transmit payment instructions. However, as with all financial transactions, the responsibility lies in ensuring the recipient is genuine.

How long does a wire transfer take?

Domestic transfers in India can take up to three business days, but often happen within hours if done through the same bank. International transfers usually take 2–5 business days, depending on the banking network and compliance checks.

Conclusion

Wire transfers remain one of the most reliable ways to send money quickly and securely across locations. They are particularly helpful for large, time-sensitive transactions. However, the fees and processing time—especially for international transfers—make it important to evaluate alternatives.

If your goal is not just to transfer money but to grow it safely, a Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposit is a smarter choice. With flexible tenures, high interest rates, and top-tier safety ratings from CRISIL and ICRA, it ensures your money is both secure and rewarding. Check eligibility to open FD.

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Frequently asked questions

Why should I invest in Bajaj Finance FD instead of keeping money idle in my savings account?

Savings accounts offer convenience but lower interest rates. Bajaj Finance FDs provide higher fixed returns of up to 7.30% p.a., helping you grow your money steadily with zero market risks. Book FD.

Disclaimer

As regards deposit taking activity of Bajaj Finance Ltd (BFL), the viewers may refer to the advertisement in the Indian Express (Mumbai Edition) and Loksatta (Pune Edition) furnished in the application form for soliciting public deposits or refer https://www.bajajfinserv.in/fixed-deposit-archives
The company is having a valid Certificate of Registration dated March 5, 1998 issued by the Reserve Bank of India under section 45 IA of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934. However, the RBI does not accept any responsibility or guarantee about the present position as to the financial soundness of the company or for the correctness of any of the statements or representations made or opinions expressed by the company and for repayment of deposits/discharge of the liabilities by the company.

For the FD calculator the actual returns may vary slightly if the Fixed Deposit tenure includes a leap year.