Is your Interac e-Transfer not working? It is stressful whether you are trying to send or receive money and having it stuck or encountering errors. Luckily, this troubleshooting manual runs through all e-Transfer problems and offers methods to restore proper functionality.
Why Is My e-Transfer Not Working?
Sometimes things do go wrong. However, one can always count on services such as the Interac e-Transfer as it is one of the fastest and most comfortable ways to send money in Canada. Here are some common reasons mistakes may arise during the process which may affect the functionality of e-Transfer.
✅ Bank Account Not Eligible – Some accounts (e.g., savings, business) may not support e-Transfers.
✅ Recipient Not Registered – The receiver must have auto-deposit set up or manually accept the transfer.
✅ Daily or Weekly Limits Reached – Banks impose sending/receiving limits.
✅ Incorrect Email or Phone Number – A typo can prevent delivery.
✅ Security or Fraud Holds – Banks may flag suspicious transactions.
✅ App or Browser Issues – Glitches in online banking can cause failures.
✅ Bank Processing Delays – Sometimes, transfers take longer than usual.
Let’s explore the best fixes for each issue.
How to Fix e-Transfer Not Working (2025 Solutions)
1. Verify Your Bank Supports e-Transfer
Not all bank accounts allow e-Transfers.
Fix:
- Log in to your online banking and check if Interac e-Transfer is available.
- Contact your bank if you don’t see the option.
2. Ensure the Recipient Is Eligible
The recipient must:
- Have a Canadian bank account.
- Be registered for Interac e-Transfer (auto-deposit or manual acceptance).
Fix:
- Ask the recipient to check their email or SMS for the transfer link.
- If they haven’t received it, resend the e-Transfer from your bank.
3. Check Your e-Transfer Limits
Most banks have daily, weekly, or monthly limits (e.g., $3,000/day at many institutions).
Fix:
- Log in to your bank and check “e-Transfer limits” under transfers.
- If you’ve hit the limit, wait until the next day or split the payment.
4. Verify the Recipient’s Email or Phone Number
A typo in the contact info can prevent delivery.
Fix:
- Double-check the email or phone number entered.
- If wrong, cancel the transfer and resend it correctly.
5. Check for Security Holds or Fraud Alerts
Banks may block suspicious transactions for security.
Fix:
- Call your bank’s customer service to confirm if the transfer was flagged.
- Verify your identity if required.
6. Update Your Banking App or Clear Cache
An outdated app or cached data can cause errors.
Fix:
- Update your banking app (App Store/Google Play).
- Clear browser cache if using online banking:
- Chrome:
Ctrl + Shift + Del> Clear cached files. - Safari:
Preferences > Privacy > Manage Website Data > Remove All.
- Chrome:
7. Check for Bank or Interac Outages
Sometimes, technical issues disrupt e-Transfers.
Fix:
- Visit Downdetector (downdetector.com) and search for your bank or Interac.
- Check your bank’s service status page or social media for updates.
8. Contact Your Bank’s Support
If nothing works, reach out to your bank’s customer service:
- RBC: 1-800-769-2511
- TD: 1-866-222-3456
- Scotiabank: 1-800-472-6842
- BMO: 1-877-225-5266
- CIBC: 1-800-465-2422
How Long Does an e-Transfer Take?
- Auto-deposit: Instantly (if recipient is enrolled).
- Manual deposit: 30 mins to 24 hours (depends on bank).
- First-time transfers: May take longer due to security checks.
If it’s stuck for more than 24 hours, contact your bank.
Preventing Future e-Transfer Issues
✔ Always double-check recipient details.
✔ Stay within transaction limits.
✔ Enable auto-deposit for faster transfers.
✔ Keep your banking app updated.
✔ Use a secure internet connection.
Final Thoughts
In the event that your e-Transfer is failing, the problem can often be remedied by checking limits, confirming recipient details, or changing your banking application. If issues continue, reach out to your bank for help.
Did this guide help you? Share your experience in the comments!
FAQ: e-Transfer Not Working
Q1: Why is my e-Transfer pending for so long?
A: It may be due to the bank failing to process transactions in a timely manner, undergoing security checks, or incorrectly entered details for the intended recipient.
Q2: Can I cancel an e-Transfer?
A: Yes, if the recipient hasn’t deposited it. Log in to your bank and cancel it.
Q3: Why didn’t my recipient get the e-Transfer?
A: Check if the email/phone number was correct and if they’re registered with Interac.
Q4: What’s the maximum e-Transfer limit?
A: It varies by bank—common limits are $3,000/day, but check with your financial institution.