How to Transfer Funds from One Bank to Another Using NEFT

In today's digital age, secure transactions, accompanied by convenience, has become the most sought after. In fact, one of the very popular method is the NEFT (National Electronic Funds Transfer) – a specialised electronic fund transfer system facilitating bank-to-bank fund transfer. In this article, we will guide you through the process of undertaking a smooth NEFT bank-to-bank transfer and tell you its benefits. 

How to Initiate NEFT Bank-to-Bank Transfer

NEFT is an electronic funds transfer system widely used in India that allows individuals and businesses to undertake account transfer of funds from one bank to another. It operates on a deferred net settlement basis, which means that transactions are processed in batches throughout the day at specific time intervals. This makes NEFT an ideal option for non-time-sensitive transfers.

To initiate a NEFT bank-to-bank transfer, you need the following information:

• Beneficiary's name
• Beneficiary's bank account number
• Beneficiary's bank branch IFSC code

Once you have these details, you can proceed with the NEFT transfer using either internet banking or visiting your bank branch.

Step-by-Step Process for NEFT Transfer Through the Online Mode 

1. Gather Required Information

Before initiating the transfer, ensure you have the following details about the beneficiary:

• Beneficiary’s Name
• Beneficiary’s Account Number
• Beneficiary’s Bank Name
• IFSC Code of the beneficiary's bank branch
• Amount to be transferred

2. Log In to Your Account via Net Banking

Access your bank's internet banking portal or mobile banking app using your credentials.

3. Navigate to Fund Transfer Section

• Look for the 'Fund Transfer' option on the main dashboard.
• Select 'NEFT' from the available options.

4. Add Beneficiary (If Not Already Added)

If the recipient is not listed as a beneficiary:

• Click on 'Add Beneficiary'.
• Enter the required details: name, account number, and IFSC code.
• Confirm the addition. You may need to enter a One-Time Password (OTP) sent to your registered mobile number for authentication. It takes around 30 minutes to 1 hour to activate a new beneficiary.

5. Initiate the Transfer

Once the beneficiary is added:

• Select the beneficiary from your list.
• Enter the amount you wish to transfer.
• Review all details for accuracy.

6. Confirm the Transaction

Click on 'Confirm' to finalise the transaction. The amount will be debited from your account and processed through the NEFT system.

7. Processing of Transaction

The NEFT process involves several steps:

• Your bank sends a message to the NEFT service center (pooling center).
• The service center forwards this message to the NEFT Clearing Centre operated by the RBI.
• The clearing center processes transactions in batches, typically every 30 minutes.
• After processing, messages are sent to destination banks, which credit the funds to the beneficiary's account.

8. Confirmation of Transfer

Once completed, both you and the beneficiary will receive confirmation notifications from your respective banks regarding the successful transfer.

How to Facilitate an NEFT Bank-to-Bank Transfer Through a Branch

To undertake a NEFT (National Electronic Funds Transfer) bank-to-bank transfer through a branch, follow these detailed steps:

1. Visit Your Bank Branch

Go to the branch of your bank where you hold an account.

2. Obtain the NEFT Application Form

Request an application form to facilitate NEFT transfer. 

3. Fill Out the Application Form

Fill the following details in the NEFT application form:

• Beneficiary’s Name: The name of the person or organisation receiving the funds.
• Beneficiary’s Account Number: The account number into which the funds will be transferred.
• Beneficiary’s Bank Name: The name of the bank where the person holds their account.
• IFSC Code: The IFSC code the beneficiary's bank branch.
• Account Type: Specify whether it’s a savings, current, or other type of account.
• Amount to be Transferred: The total amount you wish to send.

4. Submit the Application Form

Once you have filled out the form:

• Hand it over to the bank officer at the counter.

• Ensure that all details are correct to avoid any processing errors.

5. Authorise the Transaction

The bank staff will verify your details and may ask for identification. You can permit them to debit your account for the specified amount, including the NEFT charges and NEFT amount.

6. Processing of Transaction

The originating bank branch prepares a message with your transaction details and sends it to its NEFT service center (pooling center).

7. Batch Processing

NEFT transactions are processed in batches, typically every 30 minutes. The RBI sorts and processes these transactions based on destination banks.

8. Credit to Beneficiary's Account

Once processed, the destination bank receives the remittance message from the clearing center and credits the funds to the beneficiary's account.

9. Confirmation

Both you and the beneficiary will receive notifications from your respective banks confirming that the transaction has been completed successfully.