NEFT Payment Time: Complete Guide for 2025

What is NEFT?

Introduction

In today’s digital age, transferring money is quicker and more convenient than ever. Among various fund transfer modes in India, NEFT (National Electronic Funds Transfer) remains one of the most trusted methods for sending money from one bank account to another.

However, many people still have questions like What is the NEFT payment time?, How much time does NEFT take to transfer money?, or What is the NEFT payment process time?

At Ultra, India’s trusted platform for smart financial decisions and investments, we explain NEFT in detail so that you know exactly what to expect when you make an NEFT transfer.

NEFT stands for National Electronic Funds Transfer. It is a nationwide payment system that allows individuals, firms, and corporates to electronically transfer funds from one bank account to another.

It is managed by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and works on a deferred settlement basis, which means transactions are settled in batches.

How Does NEFT Work?

When you initiate an NEFT transfer, your bank pools your request with others and forwards it in batches to the NEFT clearing centre operated by the RBI. The RBI settles these transactions between banks and credits the money to the beneficiary’s account.

Unlike RTGS (Real Time Gross Settlement), which settles transactions instantly, NEFT works in half-hourly batches.

NEFT Payment Time: How Long Does NEFT Take?

One of the most common queries is What is the NEFT payment transfer time?

As per the RBI guidelines, NEFT settlements occur in half-hourly batches, 24x7 — including weekends and bank holidays.

How long does it take?

• NEFT transactions usually get processed within 30 minutes to 2 hours.

• If you initiate NEFT during banking hours, your payment will likely be settled in the next available batch.

• If you initiate NEFT late at night or on a holiday, it will still be processed in the next available batch since NEFT is now available 24x7.

NEFT Timings: Old vs New

Earlier, NEFT operated only during bank working hours (8 AM to 7 PM on weekdays). But since December 2019, the RBI has made NEFT available 24x7, 365 days, making it easier for individuals and businesses to transfer funds anytime.

However, the credit to the beneficiary’s account depends on the bank’s internal processes. Sometimes, it may take a little longer due to technical or backend verifications.

NEFT Payment Process Time: Factors That Affect It

While NEFT is reliable, the total NEFT payment process time depends on:

• Batch Timing: NEFT works in half-hourly batches. Your transaction is settled in the next available batch.

• Bank Cut-off Time: Some banks have cut-off times for same-day processing.

• Beneficiary Bank: Some banks may credit funds faster than others.

• Working Days: NEFT is 24x7 but maintenance downtime may delay rare transactions.

Generally, most NEFT transactions are settled within 2 hours.

How to Transfer Money via NEFT

Transferring money through NEFT is easy.

Step 1: Log in to your bank’s net banking or mobile banking.

Step 2: Add the beneficiary with account number, IFSC, and other details.

Step 3: Once the beneficiary is approved, enter the transfer amount.

Step 4: Confirm and submit the NEFT transaction.

Step 5: The bank processes your NEFT request in the next batch.

You will receive an SMS/email confirmation once the transfer is successful.

Is There Any NEFT Charges?

Most banks have made NEFT transactions free for savings account holders after RBI’s directions. Some banks may levy minimal charges for NEFT done through branch visits.

Is NEFT Safe?

Yes, NEFT is regulated by the RBI and considered one of the safest modes for domestic fund transfers.

FAQs on NEFT Payment Time

Q1: How long does NEFT take to transfer money?

Usually, NEFT takes 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the batch and bank processing time.

Q2: Can I do NEFT at night?

Yes, NEFT is now available 24x7. You can transfer money at night, on weekends, or holidays.

Q3: How many batches are there in NEFT?

NEFT works in half-hourly batches, which means 48 batches daily.

Q4: Why is my NEFT payment delayed?

Reasons may include incorrect beneficiary details, bank server downtime, or holidays. Usually, delays are rare.

Q5: Which is faster: NEFT or IMPS?

IMPS is faster than NEFT as it settles instantly and is best for urgent, small-value transfers.

Conclusion

NEFT remains one of the most reliable and widely used fund transfer methods in India. Now that NEFT works round the clock, you can transfer money anytime with confidence.

At Ultra, we help you make smarter financial choices by explaining money matters clearly. Whether you’re planning to invest, save, or transfer, stay informed and secure.

To learn more about smart banking, fixed deposits, bonds and safe investment options, visit Ultra.