How to get a refund from Wise for a failed transfer
If you've sent money via Wise and the transfer hasn't gone through, it can be incredibly frustrating. You have a right to expect your money to either reach its destination or be returned to you promptly. This guide will help you navigate Wise's process and reclaim your funds.
Skip the writing, get your claim in 15 seconds.
We'll draft a firm, ready-to-send demand tailored to your situation. Free.
Build my claim →Your rights
Under Wise's service agreement and standard financial practices, if a transfer fails to reach its intended recipient, Wise is obliged to either successfully complete the transfer or return the funds to the sender. Your money is protected until the transfer is complete, and Wise is responsible for ensuring the transaction's success or refunding your payment.
Step by step
- 1Check your Wise account dashboard for the transfer status. Often, failed transfers are automatically cancelled and refunded within a few business days.
- 2Verify the recipient's details. Double-check the bank account number, sort code, SWIFT/BIC, and name provided. Incorrect details are a common reason for failure.
- 3Contact Wise customer support via their in-app chat or phone. Provide your transfer number and explain that the transfer has failed and you require a refund.
- 4If the issue isn't resolved, formally escalate your complaint through Wise's official complaints procedure, which can usually be found on their website. Keep records of all communication.
What they'll say, and your comeback
“The transfer is still processing, please wait.”
Comeback, The estimated delivery time for this transfer has passed. If Wise cannot complete the transfer within a reasonable timeframe, I expect a full refund as per your service agreement.
“The recipient details were incorrect, so the transfer failed.”
Comeback, If the details were incorrect, the funds should have been returned to my account. Please confirm the exact date and method of the refund, or provide proof of the funds being held by an intermediary bank.
“There are delays with the recipient's bank, not Wise.”
Comeback, As the service provider, Wise is responsible for the end-to-end transfer. If the recipient's bank cannot accept the funds, Wise should return them to me. Please provide evidence that the funds were successfully sent to the recipient's bank and are now out of Wise's control.
FAQ
How long does a refund from Wise usually take?
For failed transfers, Wise typically processes refunds within 2 to 10 business days, depending on the currency and payment method used for the original transfer. It can sometimes be quicker if the funds never left Wise's system.
What if Wise says the money was sent, but the recipient didn't get it?
Ask Wise for a SWIFT confirmation or a transaction reference number (UTR) that proves the funds were sent to the recipient's bank. You can then provide this to the recipient, who can use it to inquire with their own bank about the missing funds. If the recipient's bank confirms non-receipt, Wise is responsible for investigating further or initiating a recall.
Ready to get your money back?
Reclaim it now, free →More money you might be owed
- UKChallenge your council tax band and reclaim overpayments
- PortugalReclamar uma cobrança indevida de serviços em Portugal
- UKEnergy back-billing: refuse charges over 12 months old
- UKDisputing a water bill overcharge and getting a refund
- UKReclaiming mobile roaming and out-of-bundle charges
- USDispute a Surprise Medical Bill (No Surprises Act)
A self-serve tool, not a law firm. General information, not legal advice.