NEFT (National Electronic Fund Transfer) and RTGS (Real Time Gross Settlement) enable individuals, firms, and organisations to transfer money from one bank account to another. Although these two systems act quite similar as they are involved in payment activities, there are a few differences between NEFT and RTGS. This article takes you through every detail of NEFT and RTGS and the key differences between them. Read on!
The full form of NEFT is National Electronic Funds Transfer. It is an electronic method of funds transfer controlled by the RBI. NEFT takes part in transferring funds from one bank account to another across the country. However, both of the banks must be NEFT-enabled.
Due to the popularisation of online banking, transferring money electronically has been widely used by individuals or companies. Moreover, allocating money online is much more convenient, quick, and safe than traditional payment methods.
NEFT funds transfer process is quite easy and straightforward. The following steps will show you how the entire process of NEFT works and how the funds get transferred:
The full form of RTGS is Real Time Gross Settlement. It is a funds transfer system in which the money is transferred electronically from one bank to another but on a “gross time” or “real-time” basis. The method of RTGS transfers money instantly after the payer sends it. This transfer method is applicable for high-value transactions.
Here’s how RTGS works:
Also Read: NEFT vs IMPS: A Detailed Comparison Between Payment Methods
The major differences between NEFT & RTGS are discussed below:
Basis | NEFT | RTGS |
Minimum transferable amount | Re.1 | Rs.2 lakh |
Maximum transferable amount | No limit | No limit |
Settlement type | Amount settled in batches | Amount settled one by one |
Settlement time | Within an hour or two | Instantly |
Transfer Timings | 24X7, all 365 days | Differs from bank to bank |
NEFT and RTGS are two different funds transfer methods. On one hand, NEFT has no such criteria about a minimum or maximum amount limit, on the other, RTGS gives the criteria that you have to transfer a minimum amount of Rs.2 lakh when you are making a payment. Therefore NEFT can be used for any type of transaction, whereas RTGS can only be applied for big transactions.
When it comes to timing, NEFT takes a few hours to complete the transaction, but in the case of RTGS, the funds are transferred at once.
If you are wondering which one to choose between NEFT and RTGS, the answer is, that it depends on the amount and urgency. If you are transferring a small amount and there is no such hurry, you can select NEFT. If the amount is huge (more than Rs.2 lakh) and there is urgency, you can go for the RTGS system.
Also Read: 7 Best Payment Apps of 2022
Online money transfer methods have made it easier for customers across the country to send and receive money. NEFT and RTGS have many similarities as they are both payment methods, but certain conditions distinguish NEFT from RTGS. Choose any of these money transfer methods depending on the amount needed to be transferred and the urgency.
Ans: NEFT has no limit on the minimum or maximum amount to be transferred through it. But, while making NEFT cash transactions, the maximum amount you can transfer is Rs.50,000.
Ans: The timings for RTGS transactions differ from bank to bank. Hence, you have to read the terms and conditions of every bank to figure out the exact RTGS timings.
Ans: There are various methods available for money transfer. They are RTGS, NEFT, IMPS, UPI and digital wallet. All of them are online methods so sending money through them is more quick and convenient.
Ans: No. The RTGS method of payment is only available through the banks or financial institutions that are RTGS-enabled and situated inside India.
Ans: There are three types of channels through which NEFT transactions occur. They are:
– Internet Banking – Send money from your computer
– Mobile Banking – Send money via a mobile app
– Branch – Visit the nearest bank and fill out an NEFT form
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