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When you pay with a debit card, you typically need to punch in your PIN. But if it’s been a while since you’ve used your card — maybe because you’ve been paying with a rewards credit card or a mobile wallet — you might find that you’ve forgotten the PIN entirely.

In this situation and others in which you want to use a debit card without a PIN, you fortunately have options. Here’s how to use a debit card without a PIN, and how to go through the steps for recovering your PIN from your bank.

Understanding Debit Card Technology

First, a little intel on how debit cards operate. EMV chips are now the standard in the United States for credit and debit cards. These chips are embedded in cards and add a heightened layer of security to these payment methods. (EMV stands for Europay, Mastercard, and Visa, the card issuers that pioneered this technology.)

However, there are two different types of chip cards: chip-and-PIN and chip-and-signature. The former, as you might guess, requires that you enter a PIN as added security. The latter requires only a signature.

Here in the U.S., credit cards are commonly chip-and-signature, and debit cards, connected to a bank account, are chip-and-PIN.

Recommended: Credit Card vs. Debit Card

What Happens When You Forget Your PIN?

When you forget the PIN for your debit card, it’s important to contact your bank as soon as possible to recover it and/or reset it.

But if you’re about to make a purchase when you’ve suddenly realized you can’t remember the number, your more immediate need is figuring out just how you’re going to pay what you owe. That’s where the following workarounds will come in handy.

7 Ways to Use a Debit Card Without a PIN

Forgot your debit card PIN? Don’t panic: Here’s info on how to use a debit card without a PIN.

1. Running Your Debit Card as a Credit Card

The easiest way to use your debit card when you’ve forgotten your PIN is to run the transaction as credit. You may have to sign for the purchase when you use this option.

Worth noting: The money will still come out of your checking account, though it may take longer to do so, and you won’t be charged interest. However, keep in mind that transactions processed this way typically won’t help you build credit with a debit card because it’s unlikely that they will be reported to the credit bureaus.

2. Using a P2P App or Mobile Wallet

If your debit card is already tied to a peer-to-peer payment app, you should be able to send friends and family money without your PIN.

Similarly, if your debit card information is already stored in a mobile wallet, you can pay with your phone at places where digital wallets are accepted.

3. Shopping Online Instead

When shopping online, you may not need to enter your debit card’s PIN. Instead, the online retailer might only require the card number and expiration date.

Sometimes, the site may also prompt you to enter your billing address and the three-digit security code on the back of the card.

4. Making Your Purchase Over the Phone

Similarly, you may not have to share your PIN over the phone when making purchases.

5. Making Smaller Purchases

In some cases, you might be able to use your debit card without punching in the PIN if the purchase is under $25. This can be quite convenient if you just need to top off the gas tank or pick up some milk and cereal on the way home.

Recommended: How to Combat Impulse Spending

6. Making a Cardless Withdrawal From an ATM

Not every financial institution offers cardless withdrawal at an ATM, but if yours does, you should be able to take out cash without using your PIN — or even your debit card.

Instead, you’ll set up the withdrawal in your mobile banking app, head to the ATM, and use your phone to complete the transaction. This would give you the cash you need to complete purchases.

7. Visiting Your Local Bank Branch and Withdrawing Cash

With or without your debit card, you should be able to withdraw cash from your checking account in person if your bank has physical branches.

You can fill out a withdrawal slip (you’ll need your bank account information) or just work with a teller, who will walk you through the process. You’ll probably need your photo ID.

Checking Your Account Balance Without a PIN

Many consumers rely on ATMs to check their account balance. The only problem? You need your PIN to get started.

Never fear: There are other ways to check your account balance without a PIN.

1. Asking a Teller at Your Bank

If you know your account number and have a photo ID, you can visit your bank in person. Once a teller has confirmed your identity, they should be able to help you access your account balance.

2. Accessing Your Mobile Banking App

If you don’t want to leave the couch to find out your balance, you can just log in to your mobile app on your phone or the online account on a computer. Rather than a PIN, most mobile apps require a username (or email) and password to log in.

Some accounts may have multi-factor authentication (MFA) or biometric screening to log in. That means you may have a code sent to your phone or email or you might use your thumbprint or face ID to log in. These features help make mobile banking safe.

Recommended: How to Keep Your Bank Account Safe Online

3. Setting Up Mobile Balance Alerts

Some banks will allow you to set up mobile balance alerts. You can receive updates via text, email, or in-app push notifications, including low-balance alerts that let you know when your checking account is running low.

Tips for Remembering Your PIN

Your PIN should be unique and random so that it’s hard for criminals to guess. PINs like 1234, 1111, and 0000 may be easy for you to remember, but they’re also easy targets for fraud.

But if you make your PIN more challenging to guess, it may be more challenging to remember. Here are two ways to help you remember your PIN:

1. Checking Your Banking App for a PIN

Some banks’ mobile apps may allow you to see your PIN. Doing so might require some type of identification confirmation, like two-step authentication or answering a security question.

Recommended: How to Manage a Checking Account

2. Contacting Your Bank

You can also try contacting your bank if you forgot your PIN, either over the phone or in person. In this event, the bank may require that you reset the PIN for your security.

The process to reset your PIN will vary depending on your financial institution. You can typically reset your PIN over the phone, online, or in person. Some banks let you reset your PIN at an ATM, but you may need to know your current PIN to do so.

The Takeaway

Using your debit card without a PIN is possible. You could complete a cardless withdrawal at an ATM, use your mobile wallet, or otherwise access funds without your PIN. However, if you’ve forgotten your PIN, it’s a good idea to contact your bank to retrieve or reset it.

Looking for a new bank account with a hard-working debit card and other perks? See what SoFi can offer you.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with eligible direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.

FAQ

Can a debit card be swiped without a PIN?

You can swipe a debit card without a PIN in certain circumstances. For example, some merchants let you run your debit card as credit, in which case you may just have to sign for the purchase. Sometimes, smaller purchases (under $25) don’t require a PIN either.

How much can you spend on a debit card without a PIN?

How much you can spend on a debit card without a PIN will vary with the way you access funds. For instance, you may be able to use a debit card without a PIN for smaller purchases (say, $25 and under). You could also use your debit card without a PIN by running it as credit, if the merchant permits this. The limit on this would probably follow your bank’s policies. (You might have a daily spending limit, or you might be able to spend up to the amount of funds in your account.)

You may also be able to use your debit card without a PIN when shopping online or over the phone, paying someone via a P2P money transfer app, or making a cardless withdrawal at an ATM. Again, limits may apply depending on the specific process and your bank’s or money transfer app’s policies.

Can I use my debit card in a store without a PIN?

Some stores allow shoppers to run their debit cards as credit at the point of sale. In this case, you don’t need your PIN to use your debit card when shopping. Also, if a purchase is fairly small (perhaps $25 or less), you may be allowed to use your debit card without a PIN.

Photo credit: iStock/miniseries

SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. The SoFi® Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

Annual percentage yield (APY) is variable and subject to change at any time. Rates are current as of 12/23/25. There is no minimum balance requirement. Fees may reduce earnings. Additional rates and information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet

Eligible Direct Deposit means a recurring deposit of regular income to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government benefit payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Eligible Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network every 31 calendar days.

Although we do our best to recognize all Eligible Direct Deposits, a small number of employers, payroll providers, benefits providers, or government agencies do not designate payments as direct deposit. To ensure you're earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, we encourage you to check your APY Details page the day after your Eligible Direct Deposit posts to your SoFi account. If your APY is not showing as the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, contact us at 855-456-7634 with the details of your Eligible Direct Deposit. As long as SoFi Bank can validate those details, you will start earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit from the date you contact SoFi for the next 31 calendar days. You will also be eligible for the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit on future Eligible Direct Deposits, as long as SoFi Bank can validate them.

Deposits that are not from an employer, payroll, or benefits provider or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, Wise, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Eligible Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder's Eligible Direct Deposit activity to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility.

See additional details at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.
*Awards or rankings from NerdWallet are not indicative of future success or results. This award and its ratings are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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A money order is a secure form of paper payment that’s paid for upfront; when one gets lost, you may be able to get a refund if it hasn’t been cashed yet. In this situation, it’s important to act quickly and keep your paperwork organized. You may also need to pay a fee to get your money back. If the money order has been cashed, however, you may be out of luck.

Below, you’ll learn what steps to take if a money order is lost so you can manage your finances as effectively as possible.

Tracking Money Orders

Knowing how to track a money order is crucial, especially if you suspect that your money order is lost or stolen — or if you suspect you’re a victim of a money order scam.

When you purchase a money order, you typically use cash, a debit card connected to your checking account, or a traveler’s check (you usually cannot use a credit card). You’ll receive a receipt with a serial number or money order number. The issuer of the money order usually has a website where you can enter in this number to determine if the money order has been cashed.

If the money order hasn’t been cashed and you think it’s been lost or possibly stolen en route to its recipient, you’ll need this tracking number to replace or cancel the money order.

Recommended: Can You Buy a Money Order With a Credit Card?

What Happens If You Lose a Money Order?

If you lose a money order, you may be able to work with the issuer to replace it or cancel it (for a fee). Each issuer has its own process, detailed on its website.

However, if the money order has already been cashed, you typically won’t be able to recover the funds (more on that below).

Worth noting: Because money orders have the payee’s name and address on them, it’s difficult for the wrong person to cash a money order if they find one that doesn’t belong to them. This makes money orders significantly safer than sending cash.

Here’s what happens if you lose a money order from each of the major issuers:

USPS

The United States Postal Service has affordable money orders (as low as $2.35), but if yours is lost or stolen, you can’t cancel it. Instead, the USPS only lets you replace it.

You’ll need the serial number, post office number of the branch where you purchased it, and the dollar amount in order to track the money order on the U.S. Postal Service website. This process can take up to 30 days.

If you learn that the money order hasn’t been deposited, you can start a Money Order Inquiry. The U.S. Postal Service website advises customers to start the inquiry at a post office branch and then check up on the process online. It usually costs $20.15 in processing fees to replace the money order, and the process can take up to 60 days. The same process can yield results even if you don’t have your original receipt.

Recommended: How to Transfer Money Between Banks

Western Union

Before attempting to cancel a money order with Western Union, customers are instructed to call 1-800-999-9660 to check the payment’s status.

Western Union allows you to cancel money orders that have not been deposited. You’ll be issued a refund in roughly 30 days. (Additional time may be needed for it to arrive by mail.)

To start the process, fill out the Money Order Customer Request form on the Western Union website using the details on your receipt. There’s currently no fee for this request if a money order has a face value under $5, a $5 fee for money orders that are for more than $5 but less than $100, and a fee of $15 for those with a face value of more than $100.

If you don’t have the receipt, you may still be able to request a refund. The process is a little more complicated, and there may be an additional research fee of $15 charged.

MoneyGram

When you purchase a money order at a retail location, the issuer might be MoneyGram. Like the USPS, MoneyGram does not offer refunds on money orders; instead, you can only replace them.

You can track the status of a money order on the MoneyGram website if you have the serial number and dollar amount. If the money order hasn’t been cashed yet, MoneyGram allows you to fill out a replacement request.

The replacement money order takes between seven and 10 business days to process (and you can track that status online as well). The fee for this service costs $25 for money orders of $50 or more; 50% of the face value for those under $50.

If you are trying to track a MoneyGram money order and don’t have your receipt with the necessary information, you may be able to retrieve that information for an additional fee of $18 and then proceed with the replacement process. This can take up to eight weeks in total to complete.

Recommended: How to Transfer Money From One Bank Account to Another

Bank or Credit Union

If you purchased a money order at a specific bank or credit union, you can contact that financial institution — over the phone or in person — to ask how to track your money order. There is a good deal of variation among financial institutions, so you can also ask them to advise you on the process, timeline, and fees for replacing or canceling a lost money order.

Recommended: 50/30/20 Budget Calculator

Replacing or Canceling a Lost Money Order

As you’ve learned, each issuer has its own guidelines for replacing or canceling a lost money order. However, there’s a common set of actions to take in each instance.

Here’s what to do if you lose a money order:

1. Tracking the Money Order

First and foremost, issuers want you to track the money order before anything else. If you discover it has been cashed, you can’t move forward with the rest of these steps.

2. Getting in Touch With the Issuer

Getting in touch with the issuer to understand your options is a good next step. Some issuers may let you take action over the phone or in person, and others may direct you to a replacement or cancellation form online.

3. Filling Out a Request Form

To cancel or replace the money order, you’ll often have to fill out a form online. Depending on the issuer, you’ll need information like:

•  The serial or money order number

•  The dollar amount

•  Where you purchased it

Issuers may have options for canceling a money order even if you don’t have all this information. The fees and processing times for doing so may increase due to the additional work required to trace the money order.

4. Paying a Replacement or Cancellation Fee

No matter where you purchased the money order, you’ll likely have to pay a fee to replace or cancel it. The fee is usually around $15, and, as noted, can be higher if you don’t have your receipt.

Recommended: Where Can You Cash a Check With No Fees?

What Happens If Your Money Order Was Cashed?

If your money order was already cashed, there’s usually no way of getting your money back. However, you may still want the issuer to provide a copy of the money order so that you can use it to file a bank fraud claim or talk to law enforcement.

Depositing Money Orders

If you received a money order as payment and are not sure what to do, you have multiple options for depositing or cashing the money order.

•  Banks and credit unions are a smart option; if you take it to your personal bank, you may be able to deposit the money straight into your bank account.

•  You may also be able to cash your money order at a check-cashing location, Western Union, or the post office.

•  You might be able to cash a money order at a grocery store. Walmart will cash Western Union and MoneyGram money orders

Depending on where you cash the money order, you might have to pay a fee. For example, at Walmart, you may pay $4 to cash up to $1,000, which is the usual face value limit for individual money orders.

Recommended: How to Write a Check

The Takeaway

Money orders are typically a safe way to send money to friends, family, and businesses. However, money orders can get lost or stolen. What happens next will depend on whether the money order has been cashed yet. If your money order is missing and hasn’t been cashed yet, you may be able to recover the money — for a fee. If it’s been cashed, you are typically out of luck and cannot cancel it and/or get a refund.

FAQ

Can a lost money order be traced?

A money order cannot be traced. Like a personal check, a money order is a piece of paper without any embedded tracking technology or digital trail. The only way you can track a money order is if it’s deposited — at which point it’s too late to try to cancel or replace it.

Can you get a money order reprinted?

If you have lost a money order and it has not yet been deposited, it may be possible to have it reprinted. Fees may be involved. You’ll need to contact the issuer and follow their steps for replacing or canceling the money order.

How do you claim a lost money order?

If you believe your money order is lost or stolen, contact the issuer to check on the status. You’ll need information from the receipt. (If you don’t have these details, the issuer may be able to retrieve it, often for a fee.)

Each issuer has its own process. For instance, the USPS requires that you visit a post office in person and start a Money Order Inquiry. Western Union allows you to fill out a form online. Expect to pay a fee — and if the money order has already been deposited, you can’t cancel or replace the order.

How can you see who cashed a money order?

While you can’t see who cashed a money order, you can determine if it’s been cashed. Each money order issuer has its own process for tracking, but they will usually need information from the receipt, like the money order number and dollar amount. Contact the issuer (check their website or app, or call customer service) if you’re not sure where to start. Also, if you have lost or misplaced the receipt, you may be able to track that information down with the issuer’s help and for a fee.

Photo credit: iStock/MichaelPenhallow

SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. The SoFi® Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

Annual percentage yield (APY) is variable and subject to change at any time. Rates are current as of 12/23/25. There is no minimum balance requirement. Fees may reduce earnings. Additional rates and information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet

Eligible Direct Deposit means a recurring deposit of regular income to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government benefit payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Eligible Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network every 31 calendar days.

Although we do our best to recognize all Eligible Direct Deposits, a small number of employers, payroll providers, benefits providers, or government agencies do not designate payments as direct deposit. To ensure you're earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, we encourage you to check your APY Details page the day after your Eligible Direct Deposit posts to your SoFi account. If your APY is not showing as the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, contact us at 855-456-7634 with the details of your Eligible Direct Deposit. As long as SoFi Bank can validate those details, you will start earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit from the date you contact SoFi for the next 31 calendar days. You will also be eligible for the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit on future Eligible Direct Deposits, as long as SoFi Bank can validate them.

Deposits that are not from an employer, payroll, or benefits provider or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, Wise, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Eligible Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder's Eligible Direct Deposit activity to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility.

See additional details at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.
*Awards or rankings from NerdWallet are not indicative of future success or results. This award and its ratings are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

SOBK0223007

Typically, domestic wire transfers are available within a business day, while international wire transfers can take up to five days. In other words, whether sending money to relatives or completing a business transaction, wire transfers can quickly move money from one bank account to another, but they usually don’t go through instantly.

Below, you’ll learn the steps for making a wire transfer, how timing can vary, and alternative methods for sending money.

Factors That Affect How Long a Wire Transfer Takes

How long it takes to wire money depends on a few factors. Wire transfers exchange funds between two parties, and the timing, where the sender and recipient are located, and how funds are transferred can all influence its duration.

•  Timing: While bank holders may have 24/7 access to ATM withdrawals, the same isn’t true for wire transfers. Banks and financial institutions may set cutoff times in the day for processing wire transfers. If a wire transfer is initiated after the cutoff time of the sender’s or recipient’s bank, it will be processed the following day. For this reason, it won’t be available in the recipient’s bank account the same day.

  Also, wire transfers may be completed in batches rather than in real time. So even if you submit a wire transfer at 11am, the next batch might not be processed until, say, 3pm. This could delay the arrival of funds to the recipient’s bank.

•  Geographic location: Whether you’re sending the money within the U.S. or abroad matters. The Expedited Funds Availability Act requires that wire transfers made within the U.S. are available to recipients within one business day. But in terms of how long it takes for a wire transfer to go through internationally, that usually takes between one and five business days. Such factors as the number of intermediaries, time zone differences, and regulations in the recipient’s country can impact timing.

•  Transfer method: There are several ways to wire funds. You can wire money for immediate transfer domestically with the Federal Reserve Wire Network (Fedwire). Another option is the Clearing House Interbank Payments System (CHIPS), which processes transactions in batches, making it cheaper but slower than Fedwire. Though CHIPS can process international transfers, the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (SWIFT) is often used for making electronic payments abroad. SWIFT transfers undergo anti-fraud and anti-money laundering review processes, adding time to when the funds are available to the recipient.

Recommended: How to Transfer Money From One Bank to Another

What Do You Need to Complete a Wire Transfer?

To send funds with a wire transfer, you’ll typically need to provide personal and banking information for yourself and the recipient. These requirements can vary depending on whether you’re transferring funds with a bank or non-bank provider, but may include:

•  Your driver’s license, or another valid government-issued photo ID

•  Your bank account and routing number, if using a provider other than your bank

•  The amount of money being transferred

•  Possibly the purpose of the transfer, especially for international wire transfers

•  Recipient’s personal information, including their full name, address, and contact information

•  Their banking information, including the recipient’s bank account and ABA or routing number, and their bank address and phone number, especially when transferring abroad

•  If transferring money outside the U.S., the SWIFT Code or Business Identifier Codes (BIC) and the National ID or IBAN number

Keep in mind that wire transfers are usually irreversible once they’ve cleared, unless a mistake is made by the sending or receiving bank. Double-checking to confirm the details before sending can avoid delays and help ensure the funds are received.

Steps to Making a Wire Transfer

Once you have the required personal and banking information, follow these steps to make a wire transfer.

1.   Verify funding availability: Check your bank account to make sure you have enough money for the wire transfer. Funds must be available at the time of authorization to complete the wire transfer.

2.   Choose a provider: Senders can opt to wire money with a bank or non-bank transfer service (such as Western Union). The cost of a wire transfer varies by provider, so be sure to compare fees before making a decision.

3.   Fill out the forms carefully: To send a wire transfer, you’ll need to provide certain personal and banking information to the provider. Forms may be available online or completed in person. Be sure to double-check the account numbers, spelling of names, and other details before submitting.

4.   Factor in fees: Providers can set their own rates for wiring money, with international transfers typically costing more than domestic transfers. Confirm these bank fees upfront and verify your account has sufficient funds to cover them. For outgoing domestic wire transfers, fees are often between $0 and $40, while international wire transfers can be between $0 and $50, depending on your account and other factors.

  Keep in mind that the recipient’s bank may charge fees on top of what was paid to wire the money. Depending on the nature of your transaction, the recipient could ask you to cover those fees.

5.   Get a receipt: It’s a good idea to keep a record of the transaction. Since wire transfers aren’t always immediate, having the confirmation or tracking number handy is useful for monitoring the payment.

Can You Speed Up a Wire Transfer?

Wire transfers are often used when money needs to be moved quickly. When time is of the essence, it may be possible to expedite the wire transfer. This option depends on the financial institution or provider used. It may be easier to speed up a wire transfer if the transaction is between two accounts held at the same bank. In some cases, a fee may be charged to move the money more quickly.

Being mindful of a provider’s cutoff time for sending and receiving wire transfers can help expedite a wire transfer. The cutoff time may occur before closing hours, and any request received after this time won’t occur until the following business day.

Can You Slow Down a Wire Transfer?

If you’ve made an error and want to pause or recall a wire transfer, it’s important to contact your provider immediately. You could have a window of opportunity to recall or pause the transfer for corrections if a cancellation notice is received before it’s credited to the recipient’s account. Typically, it’s a very small window of time, so act as soon as possible.

Do Wire Transfers Go Through on Holidays?

Wire transfers are typically only processed on business days and prior to a bank’s cutoff hours. If you wire money on a bank holiday or weekend, it likely will be delayed until the next business day.

When sending funds internationally, factoring in holidays and weekends merits additional consideration. For instance, a number of countries in the Middle East observe the weekend on Friday and Saturday, not Sunday.

Alternatives to Wire Transfers

Wire transfers aren’t the only option available for moving money between bank accounts.

Here are a couple alternative ways to send money to someone.

•  Automated Clearing House (ACH) transfer: ACH payments allow businesses and individuals to transfer funds between financial institutions, such as banks, through an electronic network. This type of bank-to-bank payment requires an initial setup and takes more time to send funds than wire transfers. Usually, transfers take one to three days, but expedited service may be available. However, ACH fees are typically lower than wire transfer fees, and some banks don’t charge customers for them at all, factoring such costs into their overall fee structure. Check with your financial institution about whether you’ll be assessed a fee.

•  Peer-to-peer (P2P) payment: A growing number of apps, such as Apple Pay and PayPal, can facilitate electronic payments between two users. P2P apps can link to a bank account, debit card, or credit card to transfer money quickly. However, transferring the funds from the app to a bank account can take several days or incur a fee for immediate transfer. Also, P2P apps may set limits on transfer amounts and whether you can send money abroad.

Recommended: ACH vs EFT: What Is the Difference?

The Takeaway

Wire transfers do not typically go through immediately. The speed will depend on several factors, including when you initiate the transfer, where it’s being sent, and the transfer method. Domestic transfers are usually completed within one day, while international ones can take between one and five days. In some cases, it may be possible to expedite a wire transfer.

There are multiple ways to transfer and receive money. SoFi currently offers incoming and limited outgoing domestic wire transfers, and our bank accounts have plenty of other features that make managing and sending money easy.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with eligible direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.

FAQ

Are wire transfers immediate?

Wire transfers are typically completed within a day for domestic transactions and within one to five days for international ones, though there may be options available to expedite the transfer. Factors that can impact timing include the cutoff hours of financial institutions and whether it’s a business day or a weekend or holiday. In addition, transferring funds between two accounts at the same bank can often move more quickly than transactions between two different banks.

What happens if a wire transfer gets delayed beyond your control?

If a wire transfer is delayed, it can be wise to notify your bank or provider immediately to investigate the claim. They should be able to advise you on what the issue is and what (if anything) can be done to move the payment ahead quickly. You will likely want to let the intended recipient know as well. Keeping the receipt and having the reference number on hand can help you track the transfer.

Do international wire transfers take longer than domestic?

International wire transfers typically take longer than domestic wire transfers. Plan for up to five business days before the funds are available to the recipient. Domestic wire transfers are usually completed within one business day.

Photo credit: iStock/mladenbalinovac

SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. The SoFi® Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

Annual percentage yield (APY) is variable and subject to change at any time. Rates are current as of 12/23/25. There is no minimum balance requirement. Fees may reduce earnings. Additional rates and information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet

Eligible Direct Deposit means a recurring deposit of regular income to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government benefit payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Eligible Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network every 31 calendar days.

Although we do our best to recognize all Eligible Direct Deposits, a small number of employers, payroll providers, benefits providers, or government agencies do not designate payments as direct deposit. To ensure you're earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, we encourage you to check your APY Details page the day after your Eligible Direct Deposit posts to your SoFi account. If your APY is not showing as the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, contact us at 855-456-7634 with the details of your Eligible Direct Deposit. As long as SoFi Bank can validate those details, you will start earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit from the date you contact SoFi for the next 31 calendar days. You will also be eligible for the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit on future Eligible Direct Deposits, as long as SoFi Bank can validate them.

Deposits that are not from an employer, payroll, or benefits provider or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, Wise, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Eligible Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder's Eligible Direct Deposit activity to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility.

See additional details at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.
*Awards or rankings from NerdWallet are not indicative of future success or results. This award and its ratings are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

SOBK1222012

Wire transfers can be a convenient and secure method for sending money to family members and businesses you know and trust. However, it’s important to be aware that wire transfer scams can be a more common type of bank fraud.

According to the FTC (Federal Trade Commission), losses from wire transfer fraud rose 22% from 2022 to 2023, and they rang up to a whopping $12.5 billion. To avoid being part of that grim statistic, learn about common types of wire transfer scams to watch out for, plus what to do if you’re the victim of such a scam.

Common Types of Wire Transfer Scams

Fraudsters are always seeking new money transfer scams for their playbook, which is something important to be aware of whether you’re opening a checking account for the first time or are a long-time banking customer. These are some of the most common types of wire transfer scams to keep an eye out for:

Application Fee and Security Deposit Scams

If you see an ad advertising an apartment or vacation rental with surprisingly low rent, be cautious — especially if you can’t tour the unit beforehand. If these listings require a wire transfer for an application fee or security deposit before you ever see the property, they are likely scams. Once you wire the money, you may never hear from the supposed landlord or rental agent again.

Fake Check Scams: Prizes, Jobs, and Sales

A common type of wire transfer fraud comes in the form of a fake check. A scammer will send you a fake check for more money than they were supposed to, then ask you to wire them back the difference. After you send the money, you’ll find out the check was fake so it wound up bouncing, and you’ll be out whatever money you wired.

These scams can happen in several formats:

•   Buying and selling goods online: Be careful when selling something online. The buyer may send you more money than they were supposed to and ask for you to wire back the rest.

•   Getting a job: You might get a job via an online application and interview process, and the new employer will send you a fake check, asking you to purchase equipment and supplies and send a portion of the money back. The job doesn’t actually exist, however, and you’ll be out the cash. Similarly, some online “secret shopper” ads also involve fake check scams.

•   Winning a prize: If you receive a check for some kind of prize but are asked to wire money back to pay taxes or fees, that’s like a scam.

Recommended: ACH vs. Wire Transfers

Family and Romance Scams

Scammers often prey on your good nature. Some may pretend to be a friend or family member in an emergency and email or text you asking for you to wire them money; the email address or phone number will look similar to that of your actual loved one. They may even call and disguise their voice by saying they’re sick or injured. Always contact your relative separately, using the contact info you have, to verify the emergency before sending money.

Some people may also fall victim to online romance scams, a form of catfishing. Scammers will form an online relationship, sometimes putting weeks or months into the “relationship.” Eventually, they’ll ask their new romantic partner to wire them some money (say, for a plane ticket so they can visit). After they receive the money, they disappear.

Government and Utility Scams

Scammers may call or message you pretending to be a government agency, such as the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or a utility company, saying you owe money — and if you don’t wire money immediately, you’ll be fined or imprisoned or your utilities will be shut off.

Government agencies and utility companies will never ask you to wire money. This is a scam.

Fake Sales

Be cautious when shopping online for cars, electronics, or other goods. If the seller requests that you wire money before you receive the product, it’s very likely a scam.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Once you know how wire transfer scammers operate, it’s easier to spot them before you fall prey to their tactics. Here are some wire fraud red flags to watch out for:

•   Unexpected requests for money: If a government agency, family member, or anyone else contacts you out of the blue and insists that you wire money, this is typical of how scammers operate and is likely a ploy.

•   Return payment requests: If you receive a check and are asked to return some of the money via wire, that scenario usually has scam written all over it.

•   Overseas requests: Scams involving international wire transfers can be more common. Be cautious if you’re asked to wire money overseas.

•   Only payment option: If someone says a wire transfer is the only payment option, avoid the transaction. That kind of restrictiveness can indicate that someone is attempting to commit bank fraud.

•   Urgency: Scammers typically pressure you to pay immediately — before you have the chance to question the transaction, investigate anything that feels off, or check in with trusted advisors.

•   Grammar errors and typos: Messages from scammers often have misspellings and grammar errors. However, many scam outreaches have become increasingly sophisticated, so these issues are not always present.

Recommended: Wire Transfer Fees

Protecting Yourself Against Wire Transfer Fraud

The best way to protect yourself against wire transfer fraud can be quite simple: Never wire money to someone you don’t know personally.

Some other tips to protect yourself against wire transfers:

•   Contact the person on your own: If someone reaches out pretending to be a loved one, a company, or agency that requests a wire transfer from you, find their legitimate business number or contact info and contact them separately to confirm the communication.

•   Shop locally: Buying and selling online can open you up to all kinds of scams. When participating in person-to-person sales, meet up in person (in a public location) and don’t go alone.

•   Watch out for things that feel off: Be vigilant for email addresses that don’t look familiar, misspellings in text messages, and promises that seem too good to be true.

Recommended: How to Avoid Wire Transfer Fees

What to Do If You’re a Victim

If you believe you’re the victim of a wire transfer scam, you need to act fast. Unfortunately, in most cases, it’s impossible to reverse a wire transfer, but in select scenarios, you may be able to stop it. Here’s what to do if you get scammed with a wire transfer.

If you used a wire transfer company, call them immediately to see what can be done:

•   MoneyGram: 1-800-926-9400

•   Western Union: 1-800-448-1492

•   Ria (Walmart transfers): 1-855-355-2145

•   Ria (non-Walmart transfers): 1-877-443-1399, extension 1615

If you use your bank for the wire transfer, contact the financial institution — whether it’s an online bank, traditional bank, or credit union — as soon as possible.

Even if you can’t stop the transaction, there are steps you should take to safeguard your finances if you get scammed by a wire transfer:

1.    Contact your bank or credit union: It’s a good idea to freeze your bank accounts for the time being to halt any other potential fraud.

2.    File a report with the police: Contact your local police report and ask them to launch a fraud investigation.

3.    Report the scam to the FTC: The Federal Trade Commission requests that you report all types of bank fraud, including wire transfer scams, at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

You can also follow helpful tips to recover after being scammed.

Legal and Banking Protections

Unfortunately, when you willingly transfer money via wire to a scammer, it may not be possible to remedy the situation, as noted above. While wire transfer scams are illegal, scammers may sometimes be able to pick up the money without being identified or tracked down when wire-transfer companies are used and possibly for bank transfers as well.

Banks and wire transfer companies may be able to help you stop your wire transfer if the recipient hasn’t yet claimed it, but more often than not, there isn’t a way to interrupt the process once you’ve sent the money.

That said, if the bank makes a mistake with the wire transfer when transferring money from one bank to another, say, the recipient receives more than you meant to send, or the wire transfer was duplicated (i.e., sent twice), you have some protections.

The Takeaway

Unfortunately, wire transfer scams are not uncommon and challenging to reverse. Only wire someone money if you know them personally, and make sure you’re familiar with common tactics to trick you out of your money. If something ever seems off, it probably is.

There are multiple ways to transfer and receive money. SoFi currently offers incoming and limited outgoing domestic wire transfers, and our bank accounts have plenty of other features that make managing and sending money easy.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with eligible direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.

FAQ

How do wire transfer scams typically work?

Wire transfer scams can work in a number of ways. Scammers often send you a fake check (say, for more money than they are paying you for goods or services) and then ask you to wire them some money back. Other times, they’ll pose as a government agency or a loved one and make you feel like you need to wire them money urgently.

What are the warning signs of a wire transfer scam?

Warning signs of a wire transfer scam may include urgent requests, promises that are too good to be true, misspellings and typos in messaging, and an inflexibility on the other person’s part to consider another form of payment.

How can I protect myself from wire transfer fraud?

The best way to protect yourself from wire transfer fraud is simply to never wire someone money if you don’t know them personally and to take the time you need to verify the legitimacy of the recipient.

What should I do if I suspect I’m the victim of a wire transfer scam?

If you believe you’re the victim of a wire transfer scam, contact the wire transfer company or bank immediately. While they likely can’t reverse the transfer, there’s a small chance they can help, but you have to act fast. Beyond that, file a police report and a report with the FTC, and consider freezing your bank account temporarily to avoid further fraud.

Photo credit: iStock/Lordn

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

SOBNK-Q424-044

A check hold is the period of time that your bank or credit union hangs on to your check before the funds are released and available in your account. Check holds allow both the sending and receiving financial institutions time to validate a check.

It might seem annoying to have to wait for your money, but the process can help avoid check fraud and bounced checks, which can sometimes result in fees to the account holder. Fortunately, check holds are governed by laws that limit most such holds to two business days (though there are some exceptions, explained below).

Here’s what you need to know.

How Does a Check Hold Work?

When your bank receives a check — be it through the mobile deposit feature on its app or at the physical bank branch — it doesn’t necessarily receive the full credit for the dollar amount on the check. Instead, many checks must first go through the Federal Reserve’s central clearinghouse. This can contribute to a situation in which a check is on hold.

Only after this process is complete does the recipient bank have full access to the funds.

Although some checks may clear immediately, others may not, which means the account holder cannot yet dip into those funds. In some cases, you may have access to a portion of the money you deposited to your checking account, but not the entire check amount, until the hold ends.

In terms of timing, most “local” checks (i.e., those deposited into a United States financial institution, from a United States financial institution) must clear within two business days. There are, however, some exceptions.

Reasons for Check Holds

Banking processes may require holding a check for a variety of reasons, including mitigating the risk of check fraud. Here’s the scoop.

Risk Mitigation

While check fraud is no longer as common as credit card fraud (likely because checks themselves are used less often), it can happen. Forged signatures, “paper hanging” or “kiting a check” (purposefully writing a check without sufficient funds), and plain old counterfeiting are all ways checks can be risky for both banks and their customers. Having a check on hold means there’s more time to review and verify it. This, in turn, mitigates the risk of attempts at bank fraud.

Regulatory Compliance

As mentioned above, some check holds are actually related to the Federal Reserve’s clearing process, as opposed to a policy written by the bank itself. In those cases, the check clearing process may be, quite literally, out of the bank’s hands.

Bank Policies

Individual banks may have their own policies on the books as far as how long to hold different types of checks internally. Of course, such policies are subject to the laws that limit check holds, described below.

Check Hold Time Frames

Thanks to the Expedited Funds Availability Act of 1987 (also known as the EFAA), most checks written in the United States must be cleared within two business days. However, in some cases, the time frame may be extended to six business days, including instances where the check is “non-local” (i.e. is being deposited from a foreign financial institution).

The same law requires banks to disclose their funds availability policies to account holders, so if you ever have a question about when your check should clear, you should be able to contact your bank and get an answer. This can help you understand why a bank might hold checks for a few days.

Recommended: What Is a High-Yield Checking Account?

Typical Hold Periods

The longest you should have to wait for a check hold to clear is about a week.

As mentioned, most “local” checks must clear within two business days, and some may clear more quickly than that. For instance, direct deposit checks often clear by the next business day, as do cashier’s checks and checks that were written from a different account at the same financial institution.

On the other end of the spectrum, if your account is newer, the check is in a large amount, or is being issued from a non-local bank, the hold may extend up to six business days.

Recommended: 50/30/20 Budget Calculator

Factors Affecting Check Hold Duration

While most check holds clear within a business day or two, there are certain factors that may extend the time it takes for your funds to hit your account. These include:

•  Account history. Those with newer accounts may be subject to longer hold times during the first 30 days of account ownership as the bank works to verify both your identity and the validity and availability of incoming funds.

•  The check amount. Larger checks (defined as totaling more than $5,525 in a day) may be subject to longer holds on the amount over the $5,525 mark, though federal regulations require banks to make at least part of the funds available to you within the normal hold time.

  Generally speaking, the first $225 of most checks must be available the next business day, even if the remainder is still subject to a hold.

•  The source of the check. Checks from foreign banks may be subject to holds of up to six business days.

•  Your bank’s policies. As noted, your financial institution — whether a traditional vs. an online bank — is typically required by federal law to list their funds availability protocols in a prominent place — and a bank representative should be able to answer any questions you have about when a check might clear.

These factors can play a key role in how long a check is on hold for.

The Takeaway

While check holds may feel like an inconvenience, they’re a safety measure that can benefit both you and your bank. They allow banks to verify deposits. In most cases, the funds will be available in just one or two business days. In some cases, a hold of up to six business days is possible.

Looking for a bank account that makes managing your money easy? See what SoFi offers.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with eligible direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.

FAQ

What is the maximum hold period for a check?

In compliance with federal regulations, holding a check usually cannot last longer than six business days. However, if the bank has reason to suspect fraud or your checking account is brand new, longer check hold times may be deemed “reasonable.”

Can a bank hold a check indefinitely?

No. Banks are subject to federal regulations that limit most check holds to two business days, though in some cases the hold period may extend to six business days. While longer holds are possible under certain circumstances (such as a new account or suspected fraud), the bank still must clear your funds once verification is complete.

How can I avoid check holds?

Directly deposited funds generally clear on the next business day, so signing up for direct deposit with your employer is a good way to avoid check holds on your regular paycheck. For other checks, if the amount is larger, you might ask for a certified or cashier’s check, each of which tends to clear more quickly.

Photo credit: iStock/FG Trade

SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. The SoFi® Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

Annual percentage yield (APY) is variable and subject to change at any time. Rates are current as of 12/23/25. There is no minimum balance requirement. Fees may reduce earnings. Additional rates and information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet

Eligible Direct Deposit means a recurring deposit of regular income to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government benefit payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Eligible Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network every 31 calendar days.

Although we do our best to recognize all Eligible Direct Deposits, a small number of employers, payroll providers, benefits providers, or government agencies do not designate payments as direct deposit. To ensure you're earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, we encourage you to check your APY Details page the day after your Eligible Direct Deposit posts to your SoFi account. If your APY is not showing as the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit, contact us at 855-456-7634 with the details of your Eligible Direct Deposit. As long as SoFi Bank can validate those details, you will start earning the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit from the date you contact SoFi for the next 31 calendar days. You will also be eligible for the APY for account holders with Eligible Direct Deposit on future Eligible Direct Deposits, as long as SoFi Bank can validate them.

Deposits that are not from an employer, payroll, or benefits provider or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, Wise, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, or are non-recurring in nature (e.g., IRS tax refunds), do not constitute Eligible Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate. SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder's Eligible Direct Deposit activity to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility.

See additional details at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.
*Awards or rankings from NerdWallet are not indicative of future success or results. This award and its ratings are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

SOBNK-Q324-116