The fastest way to transfer money into Truist checking is through Truist's online banking portal or mobile app using the external account transfer feature, which typically takes one to three business days.

Truist offers several methods to move funds from a bank account at another institution into your Truist checking account. The method you choose depends on how quickly you need the money, whether you have your other bank's account details handy, and which tools you prefer to use. Most transfers complete within one to three business days, though some options are faster.

You will need your external account number and routing number before you start. You can find the routing number on your other bank's website, on a check, or by calling that bank directly. Having this information ready will speed up the process.

Key Takeaways

  • Truist's online banking and mobile app both allow you to add an external account and transfer money in one to three business days.
  • You need your external bank's routing number and your account number to set up the transfer.
  • Truist also accepts incoming wire transfers and ACH transfers initiated from your other bank, which may be faster for large amounts.
  • Transfers from external accounts are typically free, but wire transfer fees may explore depending on the amount and your account type.

Transferring through Truist online banking

Log into your Truist online banking account on a computer or open the Truist mobile app. Look for a menu option labeled "Transfer Money," "Move Money," or "Transfers" — the exact wording varies by app version. Select the option to transfer from an external account or add a new account.

Enter your external bank's routing number and your account number at that bank. Truist will ask you to confirm the account type (checking or savings) and may ask for the account holder's name. After you submit this information, Truist typically sends two small test deposits to that external account within one to two business days. You will need to log back into your Truist account and confirm the amounts of those deposits to verify you own the account.

Once the account is verified, you can transfer money from that external account into your Truist checking account. Enter the amount you want to transfer and select your Truist checking account as the destination. The transfer will process within one to three business days. You can set up recurring transfers if you move money regularly.

Using the Truist mobile app for faster setup

The Truist mobile app allows you to photograph your check or enter account details manually. Open the app, go to Transfers, and select "Add External Account." You can either take a photo of a check from your other bank (the app will read the routing and account numbers automatically) or type the numbers in by hand.

After you add the account, the verification process is the same as online banking — Truist sends two test deposits, and you confirm the amounts. Once verified, transfers take one to three business days. The mobile app is often faster for the initial setup because you do not have to type routing numbers manually if you use the check photo feature.

Incoming transfers from your other bank

You can also initiate the transfer from your other bank's account instead of from Truist. Log into your external bank's online banking or call that bank and request an ACH transfer or wire transfer to your Truist checking account. You will need to provide your Truist account number and Truist's routing number, which is 061000104 for most Truist accounts.

ACH transfers initiated from your external bank typically take two to three business days. Wire transfers are faster — usually same-day or next-day — but your external bank may charge a wire transfer fee, typically between $15 and $30. ACH transfers are usually free at both banks.

This method is useful if you want to avoid adding your account to Truist's system or if you prefer to manage the transfer from your existing bank's interface.

Wire transfers for large or urgent amounts

If you need money in your Truist account the same day or next business day, you can request a wire transfer from your external bank. Call your other bank's wire transfer department and provide them with your Truist account number and Truist's routing number (061000104). Your external bank will charge a wire transfer fee, which varies by bank but typically ranges from $15 to $30.

Wire transfers are generally irreversible once sent, so double-check your Truist account number before you confirm the transfer. Incoming wires to Truist usually arrive within hours during business days, though weekend or holiday transfers may take longer.

Timing and fees to expect

Transfers you initiate through Truist's online banking or app take one to three business days because they use the ACH system, which batches transfers and processes them on a schedule. Weekends and bank holidays extend this timeline.

Most ACH transfers between banks are free. Truist does not charge a fee for incoming transfers from external accounts. However, your external bank may charge a fee for sending an ACH transfer or wire transfer — contact that bank to ask. Wire transfers are faster but typically cost $15 to $30.

If you need money when ready, wire transfer is your only option, though it costs more. If you can wait one to three business days, ACH transfer through Truist's online banking or app is free and straightforward.

Common mistakes to avoid

The most common error is entering the wrong routing number. Routing numbers are nine digits and are specific to each bank and sometimes to each branch. If you enter an incorrect routing number, your transfer may go to the wrong bank or be rejected. Always verify the routing number on your external bank's website or a check before you submit it.

Another mistake is trying to transfer money before your external account is verified. Truist requires you to confirm the two test deposits before you can move money. This step cannot be skipped, so plan for one to two extra business days for verification the first time you add an account.

Do not assume a transfer has failed if it does not appear when ready. ACH transfers routinely take two to three business days. Check your Truist account after three business days have passed; if the money still has not arrived, contact Truist customer service.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to verify an external account?

Truist sends two small test deposits to your external account, which usually arrive within one to two business days. You then log back into Truist and confirm the deposit amounts. Once confirmed, your account is verified and you can transfer money when ready. The entire process typically takes two to three business days from start to finish.

Can I transfer money from a savings account at another bank?

Yes. When you add an external account to Truist, you specify whether it is a checking or savings account. The transfer process is the same regardless of the account type at your external bank. The money will still go into your Truist checking account.

What if my transfer does not arrive after three business days?

Contact Truist customer service through your online banking account, the mobile app, or by calling the number on the back of your Truist debit card. Have your transfer confirmation number ready. Truist can trace the transfer and determine whether it was delayed, rejected, or sent to the wrong account.

Is there a limit on how much I can transfer?

Truist sets transfer limits that vary by account type and how long you have been a customer. Check your online banking settings or contact Truist to learn your specific limit. Wire transfers may have different limits than ACH transfers.

Do I have to verify my external account every time I transfer money?

No. Once you verify an external account by confirming the test deposits, that account stays linked to your Truist checking account. You can transfer money from it as many times as you want without repeating the verification process.