Difference between NEFT, RTGS and IMPS

IMPS vs NEFT vs RTGS

Technological advancements have made banking significantly easy and hassle-free. Today, you can complete many banking tasks without visiting the bank. In addition, these advancements have been beneficial for sending and receiving money.

Electronic funds transfer methods like NEFT, IMPS, and RTGS can be beneficial if you transfer money from one bank account to another. These digital payment systems provide a simple and quick solution to send money to your desired budget. 

However, there are differences between NEFT, RTGS and IMPS. Be it transfer limits, operating hours or transfer speeds, they vary but serve a similar purpose. This is why the NEFT vs RTGS vs IMPS topic is worth discussing. 

Read on to know more and to understand these methods in detail.

What are IMPS, NEFT, and RTGS?

When it comes to transferring funds online, the three most common methods are:

• NEFT (National Electronic Funds Transfer)

NEFT is an electronic payment system managed by the Reserve Bank of India that facilitates the transfer of funds between bank accounts across India. It operates on a centralised network, enabling fast and secure transactions. It is available 24/7, making it accessible to you anytime.

• RTGS (Real-Time Gross Settlement)

RTGS is a payment system that immediately transfers funds from one account to another. Such transactions are carried out in real time and on a gross basis. However, it is important to note that the transferable amount must be equal to or more than ₹2 lakhs as it is designed for high-value transactions.

• IMPS (Immediate Payment Service)

IMPS is an electronic fund transfer service provided by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) enabling you to transfer money between bank accounts in real time. It is available 24/7, making it a convenient and accessible option for you to transfer funds electronically at any time.

IMPS, RTGS, and NEFT Difference

• NEFT vs RTGS

The primary point to note when comparing NEFT vs RTGS is the processing protocols. In the case of NEFT, the transactions requested are processed in batches at a particular cut-off time specified by the bank. As a result, an initiated transaction must wait until the next cut-off time to be processed. 

However, RTGS is different. With RTGS, the transactions requested are settled individually and not in batches. As a result, a transaction will be processed instantly as long as it is within the bank's business hours.

• IMPS vs NEFT

A key point in the IMPS vs NEFT debate is that the former is an instant transaction, and the latter is processed within 2 hours. Both IMPS and NEFT are services that are available 24/7 throughout the year. The difference in processing time is because of how both transactions get settled. 

While negligible, understanding IMPS vs NEFT comparison can help. IMPS transactions are settled on a one-to-one basis which makes them instant. However, NEFTs are settled in batches which may cause a delay in processing. 

For instance, if NEFTs are carried out in 30-minute batches, and you start a transaction at 9:30 am, it can be finished by 10 am. Another difference is the management and charges. While NPCI manages IMPS, the RBI manages NEFT transactions. While NEFTs have no charges as long as it is an online transaction, IMPS is a chargeable service. 

Apart from the above, another factor to note about the IMPS vs NEFT comparison is the maximum amount and transaction mode. IMPS transactions have a maximum limit of ₹2 Lakhs and can only be done online. 

However, NEFTs have no upper limit and can be done online or offline.

• RTGS vs IMPS

While IMPS transactions have no minimum limit, RTGS requires you to carry out only high-value transactions upward of ₹2 lakhs. There is also a difference between NEFT, RTGS and IMPS regarding management. 

While RTGS and NEFT fall under the purview of the Reserve Bank of India, IMPS is managed by the National Payments Corporation of India.

How to Choose Between IMPS, NEFT, and RTGS

Choosing the right mode of payment can make a significant difference in terms of time, convenience, and security. In India, there are several modes of payment available, such as IMPS, NEFT, and RTGS. Each of these payment modes has its unique features and benefits. 

• IMPS (Immediate Payment Service): operates 24x7, even on weekends and bank holidays. IMPS is ideal for small-value transactions, and the maximum amount that can be transferred through IMPS is ₹2 lakhs. To use IMPS, you need to have the recipient's account number and IFSC code.

• NEFT (National Electronic Fund Transfer): works only during banking hours on weekdays and Saturdays. NEFT is suitable for transferring medium to large amounts of money, and there is no upper limit on the amount that can be transferred through NEFT. To use NEFT, you need to have the recipient's account number, bank name, and IFSC code.

• RTGS (Real-Time Gross Settlement): works only during banking hours on weekdays and Saturdays. RTGS is ideal for transferring large amounts of money, and the minimum amount that can be transferred through RTGS is ₹2 lakhs. To use RTGS, you need to have the recipient's account number, bank name, and IFSC code.

  When choosing between IMPS, NEFT, and RTGS, consider the amount you want to transfer, the urgency of the transaction, and the banking hours. 

1. If you need to transfer a small amount of money instantly, use IMPS. 

2. If you need to transfer a medium to a large amount of money during banking hours, use NEFT. 

3. If you need to transfer a large amount of money instantly during banking hours, use RTGS.

What Should You Consider Before Initiating a Fund Transfer

Now that you know the difference between RTGS, NEFT, and IMPS, let us take a look at the key points you need to consider before initiating a fund transfer via any of these channels.

• IMPS, NEFT and RTGS are all available 24x7

• As transferring money using these channels attracts certain fees and charges, compare RTGS vs NEFT vs IMPS charges to find the best match

• As the charges are bank-specific, finding the bank that charges the least is key

• When calculating the total fee to be paid, consider the GST charges levied on the transaction

• To be eligible to avail the transfer facility, both banks should be covered under the scheme

• Along with fees, also check the time taken to process the fund transfer requests

• Often, there tends to be a limit on the amount you can transfer from one account to another; however, this varies from one payment method to another

Key NEFT, RTGS, and IMPS Terms

As digital payment methods continue to become more popular in India, understanding the key terms related to NEFT, RTGS, and IMPS is crucial. Here are some of the most important terms that you need to know:

• IFSC Code: This is an 11-digit alphanumeric code that uniquely identifies every bank branch in India that participates in electronic fund transfers. You need to provide the recipient's bank's IFSC code to initiate an NEFT or RTGS transaction.

• Beneficiary: The recipient of the funds is called the beneficiary. You need to provide their bank account number and IFSC code to transfer funds.

• Remitter: The person who initiates the transaction is called the remitter. The remitter needs to have the beneficiary's bank account number and IFSC code to transfer funds.

• Transaction Limit: NEFT has no minimum or maximum transaction limit. RTGS has a minimum transaction limit of ₹2 lakhs and no maximum limit. IMPS has a maximum transaction limit of ₹2 lakhs per transaction.

• Settlement Time: NEFT transactions are settled in hourly batches, while RTGS and IMPS transactions are settled in real-time.

• Fund Transfer Charges: Banks may charge a fee for using NEFT, RTGS, or IMPS services. The charges may vary depending on the transaction amount and the bank's policies.

• Transaction Reference Number: A unique reference number is generated for every transaction, which can be used to track the transaction's status. 

• Service Availability: The availability of different payment methods also varies. IMPS and NEFT are available 24x7, while RTGS operates only during regular banking hours.

Precautions when using IMPS, NEFT and RTGS Transfer Systems

Fund transfer systems like IMPS (Immediate Payment Service), NEFT (National Electronic Funds Transfer), and RTGS (Real Time Gross Settlement) are convenient and secure ways to transfer money online. 

However, as with any financial transaction, it is important to take certain precautions to ensure your money's and personal information's safety. Here are some precautions you should take when using these transfer systems:

• Verify the recipient's details: Before initiating a transfer, make sure you have the correct bank account number, IFSC code, and other necessary details of the recipient. Double-check the information to avoid any mistakes, which can lead to the funds being transferred to the wrong account.

• Use a secure network: When initiating a transfer, make sure you are connected to a secure network, such as a password-protected Wi-Fi network or a secure mobile data connection. Avoid using public Wi-Fi or unsecured networks as they may expose your personal and financial information to potential hackers.

• Use two-factor authentication: Most banks require two-factor authentication for fund transfers. This includes a combination of a password, OTP (one-time password), or biometric authentication. Make sure you follow the bank's guidelines for two-factor authentication to ensure the security of your transaction.

• Keep your device updated: Make sure your mobile device or computer is updated with the latest security patches and antivirus software to avoid any potential security breaches.

• Keep transaction records: After completing a transfer, make sure you keep a record of the transaction details, including the date, time, and amount transferred. This will help you track the transaction and resolve any issues if there are any discrepancies.

• Be aware of phishing scams: Be cautious of emails, text messages, or phone calls that ask for your personal or financial information. These may be phishing scams designed to steal your information and compromise your bank account.

By following these precautions, you can use IMPS, NEFT, and RTGS transfer systems securely and confidently, and avoid any potential risks associated with online financial transactions.