Sent Money to a Wrong IFSC Code? What to Do

Last updated: 25 September 2026

Typing the wrong IFSC code, or the wrong account number, is a common mistake and it can be stressful. What happens next depends on which detail was wrong. This guide explains the possible outcomes, what to do straight away, and how to avoid it in future.

What happens if the IFSC code is wrong?

The code does not exist. Your bank or banking app will usually reject the payment before it is sent. If it is sent, it fails and the money is returned to your account.
The code belongs to another branch of the right bank. Electronic transfers are normally credited using the account number at the receiving bank, so the payment often still reaches the right person. It is not guaranteed, so confirm with the recipient.
The code belongs to a different bank. The receiving bank looks for your account number, usually cannot find it, and returns the money. Occasionally an account with the same number exists at that bank, and the money is credited to a stranger. This is the risky case.

The account number matters even more than the IFSC code. A wrong account number can send the money to someone else's account, so treat any mismatch seriously.

What to do straight away

Check the transaction status. Look at your bank statement or app. Note whether the payment shows as failed, pending or successful.
Wait briefly if it failed. Failed transfers are normally returned to your account automatically, often within hours and usually within a few working days.
Contact your bank immediately if it succeeded. Call the customer care number, use the app's help option or visit your branch. Speed helps.
Give the full details. Provide the date and time, the amount, the transaction reference (UTR) number, the account number and IFSC code you entered, and what the correct details should have been.
Ask for a written complaint number and note the name of the person you spoke to.
Ask the bank to request the return. Your bank can contact the receiving bank. The receiving bank cannot take money from the other account holder without their consent, so recovery can depend on that person's agreement.

If the bank does not resolve it

Write to the bank's grievance redressal officer, then its nodal officer, quoting your complaint number.
If you have had no reply within 30 days, or you are unhappy with the reply, you can complain to the Reserve Bank of India through its Integrated Ombudsman Scheme, online at cms.rbi.org.in. This is free.
If you think you were the victim of fraud, report it to the cyber crime helpline 1930 or at cybercrime.gov.in, and tell your bank right away.

Only use these official channels. Never pay anyone who offers to "recover" the money for a fee, and never share your OTP, PIN or password with anyone claiming to help.

How to avoid the mistake

Verify the code. Enter it in our Verify IFSC Code tool. It checks the format and confirms the bank and branch it belongs to.
Take the details from the source. Use the recipient's cheque leaf, passbook or a message they sent you. Our guide on finding an IFSC code lists more options.
Check the beneficiary name if your app shows it after you add the account.
Send a small test amount first for a new payee, especially before a large payment.
Copy, do not retype, and check the fifth character is the digit 0, not the letter O. See what an IFSC code is.
Choose the right transfer type. For big payments, compare the options in our NEFT, RTGS and IMPS guide.

Bank processes and RBI rules change from time to time. Always follow your own bank's instructions and confirm the current complaint process on the RBI website.

Try the tools

Find IFSC Code Verify IFSC Code

More guides

This guide is general information, not financial or legal advice. Limits, timings and charges are set by the Reserve Bank of India, NPCI and individual banks, and can change, so confirm current details with your bank.