When it comes to transferring money, we all try to be careful. We often check and double-check every detail before hitting the ‘send’ button. But we’re human, right? Mistakes do happen. A simple miscalculation or an unintended keystroke can result in your hard-earned funds being transferred to an incorrect bank account.

So, what do you do if you find yourself in this sticky situation? Don’t panic! We’ve got all the essential info you need to address the issue effectively.

Why Do Wrong Transactions Happen?

Typing Errors

Money transfers often require you to enter the recipient’s account number and the IFSC code by hand. One tiny typo, and boom! Your money is off to someone else’s account. A single mistake can lead to significant difficulties.

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Rush in Making Payments

It is important to avoid rushing through things especially when making payments.

Adhil Shetty, CEO of Bankbazaar.com, says, “A small mistake in typing buttons on our smartphones can cost you a big amount of money. Slow down and double-check payment details. A little patience can save you a lot of money.”

What Happens If You Made A Mistake?

Transaction Failure: If the details are invalid, your transfer will simply fail, and no money will go from account. Lucky you—no harm done!

Money Goes to the Wrong Recipient: If your details are incorrect but valid for someone else, your funds are off to the wrong party. This can lead to some serious financial headaches, especially if it’s a large amount.

How to Get Your Money Back?

Contact Your Bank Quickly

Don’t waste a moment! Call your bank’s customer care line and share all the juicy details of your transaction. They’ll give you a request or complaint number—think of it as your ticket to recovery.

Follow Up in Writing

After the call, write an email to customer care with all the details of the mix-up. This way, you have a record of your communication. If you’re feeling brave, swing by your local branch, chat with the manager, and submit a formal request. In-person interactions can often yield remarkable results.

Can You Reverse a Bank Transfer?

  • If the account number doesn’t exist or is invalid, your bank should automatically credit the funds back to you.
  • If the account is valid but belongs to someone else, you’ll need that other person’s cooperation to get your funds back.

Filing a Complaint?

If it’s an intra-bank transaction, your bank will reach out to the wrong recipient to request a reversal. For transfers to different banks, your bank will act as a middleman, providing you with the details of the wrong recipient’s bank so you can follow up personally. Just remember to bring all your documentation to back up your case.

Avoid Wrong Transfers

Double-Check Details: Before you hit the ‘send’ button, verify the recipient’s account number and the IFSC code. Many banking apps prompt you to confirm these details.

Send A Test Amount: Transfer a small test amount first. This way, you can check if your recipient receives it. If they do, you can confidently send the rest. For example, if you need to send Rs 10,000, start with Rs 10. Upon receiving confirmation of the initial amount, proceed to send the complete sum.

In the end, it’s your responsibility to provide correct payment details. So, take a few extra minutes to verify payment details before making a transfer. This is very important when you are transferring a big amount and the risk of losing out money is much higher.