Product updates Mar 23, 2026

Email money transfers: everything you need to know

Discover everything you need to know about email money transfers, what they are, and how to send them.

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An email money transfer lets you send money using a recipient’s email address. The money moves through secure networks, recipients are notified instantly, and transfers are protected by verification steps.

It’s a simple, secure way to send and receive money online, whether you’re paying a friend, supporting family, or settling shared expenses.

In this guide, we explain what email money transfers are, how they work, and how you can use them safely and securely.

What is an email money transfer?

An email money transfer works just like any other online money transfer, except you send funds to someone using their email address instead of their bank details. Once the transfer gets started, the recipient receives an email notification. This provides them with instructions on how they can access their funds.

In some regions, like Canada, email money transfers may be referred to as Interac e-Transfers. Regardless of the name, the principle is exactly the same. Funds are moved digitally through trusted financial networks rather than directly through the email itself.

Email money transfers are designed to be fast, convenient, and widely accessible without the risk of sharing sensitive banking data over email.

Some people use email money transfers as a practical alternative to cash or checks.

Hand holding a brown envelope containing money with email icons in the background.

How do email money transfers work?

If you’re wondering how email money transfers work, you’ll be relieved to know that the process is designed to be both easy and secure.

Once an email money transfer is initiated, both the sender and recipient get a notification confirming that the money is on its way. Funds are transferred using a secure transfer network that connects both parties’ banks and financial institutions.

The sender’s account is debited immediately, making sure that the funds are available in the account. However, the recipient needs to take the required verification steps before they can access the money. This balance between speed and security is key to why email money transfers are so appealing for everyday use.

Behind the scenes, providers use automated e-transfer payments systems to route funds quickly and securely.

How can I accept email money transfers?

If you have received an email money transfer, you’ll receive a notification to your email address. This contains instructions that explain how to retrieve your funds, including an embedded link to a secure platform.

In most cases, you’ll also need to answer a security question set by the sender. This extra step ensures that only you, the intended recipient, can access the money.

Once you’ve answered the question correctly, the funds can be deposited into your bank account or digital wallet. The process is quick, intuitive, and designed to minimize friction for both you and the sender.

Are email money transfers safe?

A common anxiety is whether email money transfers are secure. The short answer is a resounding yes, just so long as they’re used correctly.

An email money transfer does not move money through the email network itself.

Instead, it uses established bank transfer networks that communicate with the sender’s and recipient’s banks. These networks are heavily regulated and trusted by financial institutions worldwide.

The email simply acts as a notification and access point.

Security features typically include:

Encrypted transfer networks
Identity verification
Security questions before funds are released

These safeguards help ensure that money reaches the correct person and that both the funds and both parties’ sensitive data remain protected throughout the process.

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How to send email money transfers: A step-by-step guide

So, how do you transfer money via email? It’s easier than you might think. Let us take you through the process in this step-by-step guide.

1. Initiate transfer

To send an email money transfer, you first need to log in to your online banking platform or preferred digital payment service. Select the option to send money by email. Enter the amount and choose your recipient.

2. Security question

Next, create a security question and answer. The recipient must provide the correct answer before accessing the funds. This answer could be something that only the recipient would know, or the question and answer can be communicated privately between the sender and recipient.

This step is essential for protecting the transfer and ensuring that only your chosen recipient gets the funds. If the email is intercepted or accidentally sent to the wrong party, the funds remain inaccessible.

3. Notification

Once the transfer is sent, both parties receive email notifications confirming that the funds are on their way.

4. Deposit

The recipient follows the instructions and link in the email to retrieve the funds from a secure site. After verification, the money is deposited into their chosen bank account or digital wallet.

Make money transfers with Skrill

With Skrill, sending and receiving money transfers is simple. You can send money using the recipient’s email address without needing to share sensitive bank details.

Recipients can then choose how to use their funds. They can spend money wherever Skrill is accepted or withdraw it directly to their bank account.

Skrill provides a flexible and secure way to move money online.