Is NEFT or RTGS free?

Asked by: Zackary Connelly  |  Last update: June 14, 2026
Score: 4.4/5 (15 votes)

NEFT and RTGS transactions are generally free when initiated online via internet banking or mobile apps, as banks have eliminated charges for these digital methods. However, both methods often incur fees if the transactions are done offline at a bank branch, which can range from ₹2.50 to ₹50 + GST depending on the amount and bank.

Which is free, NEFT or RTGS?

If it is done online, both NEFT and RTGS are free. However, if the money is transferred offline by visiting the bank branch, NEFT is cheaper than RTGS. The charges for NEFT ranges from ₹2.5 to ₹25 per transaction, while the RTGS charges range from ₹2.5 to ₹50 per transaction.

Is it better to do RTGS or NEFT?

NEFT is best suited for low-value transactions and operates in batches while RTGS is used for high-value transactions and settles payments in real-time. The two systems differ in terms of fees, minimum transfer amounts, and settlement speed.

Does RTGS charge a fee?

That waiver was maintained between March 2020 to April 2022 to encourage the use of electronic payments. The BOJ reinstated the fee in May 2022 at $30 per transaction, the cost associated with maintaining the RTGS system. This fee was $100 prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Does RTGS have a fee?

The minimum amount for RTGS transfer is Rs. 2 Lakh. The RBI does not charge a processing fee for such transfers. It costs anywhere from INR 24.50 to 49.50 for RTGS transfers.

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32 related questions found

Can I transfer 20 lakhs through RTGS?

RTGS Limit in India: Minimum and Maximum Amount Explained. Overview: RTGS transfers require a minimum of ₹2 lakh with no RBI maximum cap. Banks set daily limits between ₹25-50 lakh for individuals.

Do banks charge for NEFT transfers?

The RBI does not impose charges for NEFT transactions, however, individual banks may set their own fees within limits established by the RBI. This service is available across India and can be used for various transactions like paying credit card bills or loan EMIs.

What is the charges for 1.5 lakhs in NEFT?

₹4 + GST for the NEFT transactions of above ₹10,000 to ₹1 lakh. ₹12 + GST for NEFT transactions above ₹1 lakh to ₹2 lakhs. ₹20 + GST for the NEFT transfers above ₹2 lakhs.

Is RTGS free to use?

RTGS transfers usually come free of cost whenever you opt for transactions through online mode. However, you must note that RTGS transfers made through offline modes come with certain charges based on the amount to be transferred and the bank from which you initiate the transaction process.

How to transfer 20 lakhs from SBI?

To remit funds to the Inter Bank Payee through RTGS/NEFT select the 'Inter Bank Transfer' link in the 'Payments/Transfers' tab. Select the Transaction Type-RTGS or NEFT. The list of beneficiary accounts added is displayed. Enter the Amount and select the beneficiary to be credited from the list.

Is NEFT free in HDFC?

NEFT transactions done online are free w.e.f 1st Nov 2017.

Why do people prefer NEFT?

Convenience: NEFT allows customers to transfer funds from the comfort of their own homes using internet banking. Speed: NEFT transactions are processed quickly, and the beneficiary can receive the funds within a few hours. Security: NEFT transactions are secure and reliable, reducing the risk of fraud and errors.

Can NEFT or RTGS be done online?

No. RTGS and NEFT services are enabled only in specific bank branches across the country. A list of such RTGS / NEFT enabled branches can be obtained from the RBI website, https://rbi.org.in/Scripts/RTGS.aspx for RTGS and https://www.rbi.org.in/scripts/neft.aspx for NEFT.

Can I transfer 30 lakhs through NEFT?

Transfers can be made in multiples of Rs 2 lakh, up to the chosen TPT limit, with a maximum of ₹50 lakh. Security Measures: For security reasons, transfers to newly added beneficiaries are restricted to ₹50,000 in total, whether in full or in parts, during the first 24 hours after the beneficiary is added.

How much do RTGS transactions cost?

Online NEFT and RTGS transfers are zero-cost transactions. IMPS charges depend on how much you send - ₹3.50 plus GST for amounts up to ₹1,000, ₹5 plus GST from ₹1,001 to ₹1,00,000, and ₹15 plus GST when you transfer more than ₹1,00,000.

What are the disadvantages of RTGS?

Disadvantages of RTGS

RTGS transactions are comparatively costlier than any other mode of electronic payment, with banks often found to be charging more fees for the service. RTGS can only facilitate transfers to bank accounts in India.

How to avoid bank transfer fees?

How to Avoid Wire Transfer Fees

  1. Select a bank or other financial institution that may reduce or waive wire transfer fees or offer lower costs than competitors. ...
  2. Contractually transfer the cost of wire transfer fees to the payee. ...
  3. Factor bank wire transfer costs into pricing.

How to transfer 2.5 lakhs in one day?

2) Own account fund transfer — No limit (up to the available balance in debit account). 3) IMPS to registered beneficiary - up to Rs 5 Lakh per day/per transaction. 4) NEFT to registered beneficiary per day - up to Rs. 10 lakh./per transaction - up to Rs 5 lakh.

Is RTGS transfer safer than NEFT?

The charges for IMPS transactions may vary among different banks. NEFT is considered reliable and secure for fund transfers. RTGS is considered reliable and secure for fund transfers.

Which is cheaper, NEFT or RTGS?

NEFT transactions are generally low-cost or free for online transfers, while RTGS transactions can incur higher fees, especially for high-value transfers. Lightspark aims to reduce costs further by offering low-cost, real-time payments without hidden fees.

Does SBI charge for neft transfer?

Yes, NEFT transfer is free in SBI when it is done through online channels, such as SBI Netbanking and mobile banking app. You can transfer Rs. 10 lakh in one day in SBI through NEFT or RTGS as there is no maximum limit for NEFT or RTGS transactions. There is no maximum limit for NEFT and RTGS transfers in SBI.

Does HDFC charge for NEFT?

Third Party Funds Transfer - NEFT. Transaction done through HDFC Bank Branches: Amounts Upto Rs 1,00,000 – Rs 2 + applicable GST. Amounts above Rs 1,00,000 - Rs 10 + Applicable GST.

Which is faster NEFT or RTGS?

RTGS processes transactions instantly. This makes it the faster option for high-value, time-sensitive transfers. On the other hand, NEFT operates in batches, with transactions processed in half-hourly intervals.

What is the charge of SBI RTGS and NEFT charges 2025?

SBI does not charge any fees for RTGS transactions made online through Internet banking or the YONO app. However, for branch transactions, charges are ₹20 + GST for amounts between ₹2 lakh and ₹5 lakh, and ₹40 + GST for amounts above ₹5 lakh.