RTGS Full Form


RTGS stands for Real Time Gross Settlement. It is a fund transfer method where money is transferred from one bank to another in real-time, ensuring immediate settlement. This system is used for high-value transactions (minimum Rs. 2 lakh), providing fast and secure transfers without any waiting period. It is commonly used by businesses and individuals for quick fund transfers that need to be processed instantly.


RTGS is preferred for high-value, real-time transactions with a minimum transaction limit of ₹2 lakh, making it ideal for urgent, large transfers. It operates 24/7, ensuring funds are transferred instantly and securely without batch delays.

RTGS Full Form

RTGS Full Form in banking is ‘Real Time Gross Settlement’

The money transferred is settled instantly, unlike NEFT, where the money is transferred in batches.

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Understanding RTGS Transactions

RTGS (Real-Time Gross Settlement) enables quick, real-time money transfers between banks for high-value transactions. The process follows these steps:

  • Initiation: The sender starts the transfer by providing the beneficiary’s bank details (account number, IFSC code) and the amount to be transferred.
  • Verification: The bank checks if the sender has sufficient funds to cover the transfer amount.
  • Role of Central Bank: The central bank, acting as an intermediary, is notified and verifies the transaction.
  • Transfer in Real-Time: The central bank transfers the amount from the sender’s account to the recipient’s bank account in real time, usually within a few seconds.
  • Beneficiary Bank Update: The central bank sends a notification to the beneficiary's bank confirming the transfer.
  • Completion: The beneficiary receives the funds, and both parties are notified about the transaction completion.

Ways to do RTGS Transfers

There are multiple methods available for initiating an RTGS transfer. Each method offers convenience based on the user’s preference and access to technology.

  • Mobile Banking Apps: You can quickly initiate an RTGS transfer using your bank’s mobile app. It allows you to transfer funds anytime, anywhere, using your smartphone. These apps are user-friendly and provide the fastest way to complete RTGS transactions on the go.
  • Internet Banking: Log in to your bank’s internet banking portal to initiate an RTGS transfer. After adding the beneficiary’s details, select the RTGS option, enter the transfer amount, and proceed with the transaction.
  • Bank Branch: If you prefer in-person transactions, you can visit your bank branch to initiate RTGS transfers. Fill out the necessary forms with the help of the bank staff, and they will process the transfer on your behalf.

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RTGS Charges

It is completely free to receive payments through RTGS. Whereas, only sending money through RTGS may be charged based on the bank’s decision. Here’s the breakdown of RTGS charges for RTGS bank transfers based on the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) guidelines:

Transaction Type Transaction Amount Maximum Service Fee (Exclusive of Taxes)
Inward Transactions Any amount Free (No charges as per RBI mandate)
Outward Transactions ₹2 lakh to ₹5 lakh Not exceeding ₹25
Outward Transactions Above ₹5 lakh Not exceeding ₹50

Important Notes:

  • These are the maximum limits set by the RBI. Some banks may charge lower fees.
  • Always check your bank's specific RTGS charges before initiating a transfer through their website or mobile app​

RTGS Transaction Time

Here’s a table showing the RTGS 24/7 availability along with the maintenance windows for different banks:

Bank RTGS Availability Maintenance Window
State Bank of India (SBI) 24/7 11:50 PM - 12:30 AM
HDFC Bank 24/7 11:30 PM - 12:30 AM
Axis Bank 24/7 Real-time processing from 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM on weekdays; transactions between 7:00 PM - 7:00 AM processed next business day
Note: Always verify RTGS availability with your bank before initiating a transaction, as banks may have specific maintenance schedules​

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RTGS Limit Per Day

Here’s the table summarizing RTGS transaction limits in India:

Transaction Type Minimum Amount Maximum Amount (Per Day)
RTGS via Bank Branch ₹2 lakh No upper limit
RTGS via Internet Banking ₹2 lakh ₹25 lakh (varies by bank)

Note: The minimum limit for RTGS is ₹2 lakh, and while there is no upper limit for RTGS transactions via bank branches, internet banking usually imposes a cap, which is commonly set at ₹25 lakh per day, though this may vary by bank

RTGS Features & Benefits

RTGS (Real-Time Gross Settlement) offers numerous advantages for individuals and businesses looking to transfer large sums of money securely and efficiently. Below are the key features and benefits of RTGS:

  • Speed and Efficiency: RTGS allows for the immediate transfer of funds, making it ideal for urgent or time-sensitive transactions. This helps improve economic efficiency by ensuring quick circulation of money.
  • Lowered Risk of Fraud: Once processed, RTGS transactions are final and cannot be altered, reducing the risk of fraud and providing users with greater confidence in the payment system.
  • Reduced Settlement Risk: Since transactions are settled in real-time, RTGS reduces the risk of payment defaults, unlike systems that settle transactions with a delay.
  • Improved Liquidity Management: With real-time settlement, banks have a clear view of their cash position, enabling better liquidity management and optimal use of available funds.
  • Improved Security: RTGS employs strong security measures, protecting transactions from fraud and cyber threats, making it one of the most secure payment methods.
  • High-Value Transactions: RTGS is particularly suited for large-value transfers, ensuring quick, reliable settlement, which is critical for commercial and interbank transactions.

Details Required for RTGS Funds Transfer

For an RTGS transfer, whether by mobile app or by filling out an RTGS application form in a bank branch, you need to provide the following information:

  • Amount to be Remitted: The exact transfer amount, adhering to RTGS limits.
  • Remitting Account Details: Your account number from which the funds will be debited.
  • Beneficiary Details: Name, account number, bank name, and IFSC code of the recipient.
  • Optional Details:
    • Reference note for the recipient (if applicable).
    • Legal Entity Identifier (LEI) for eligible high-value transactions

Quick Tip: It is a good practice to keep your PAN card handy.

RTGS Money Transfer

RTGS transfers can be done both online and offline. Here’s how:

Online RTGS Fund Transfer

To transfer funds via RTGS online, follow these steps:

  1. Log in to your bank’s internet banking portal or mobile app.
  2. Navigate to the 'Funds Transfer' section.
  3. Select ‘RTGS’ as the transfer method.
  4. Add beneficiary details including account number and IFSC code.
  5. Enter the amount and confirm the transfer with the OTP provided by your bank.

RTGS Fund Transfer by Bank Branch Visit

For offline RTGS transactions:

  1. Visit the bank branch.
  2. Request and fill out the RTGS form with beneficiary and transfer details.
  3. Submit the form at the counter.
  4. The bank will process the transaction, and a receipt will be provided for confirmation

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NEFT vs RTGS

While NEFT (National Electronic Funds Transfer) and RTGS (Real-Time Gross Settlement) are both electronic payment methods, they differ significantly in how they process transactions, limits, and charges. Below is a comparison table:

Criteria NEFT RTGS
Settlement Processed in batches at intervals Real-time, one-on-one settlement
Minimum Transaction Amount No minimum amount ₹2 lakh minimum
Maximum Transaction Amount Up to ₹2 lakh (varies by bank) No maximum limit
Charges No charges for inward transfers; outward charges range from ₹2.5 to ₹25 depending on the amount No charges for inward transfers; outward charges range from ₹25 to ₹50 depending on the amount
Settlement Time Within hours (based on batch processing) Instant (real-time processing)

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NEFT is generally preferred for smaller, non-urgent payments, while RTGS is favored for high-value, immediate transfers​

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Frequently Asked Questions

RTGS stands for Real-Time Gross Settlement, a system where fund transfers occur in real-time.

RTGS is a method of transferring large sums of money instantly between banks without waiting for batch processing.

RTGS is mainly used for high-value transactions (minimum ₹2 lakh), ensuring immediate fund settlement between banks.

Yes, since December 2020, RTGS is available 24/7, although banks may have brief maintenance windows

Minimum limit: ₹2 lakh. Maximum limit: No limit for branch transactions; typically up to ₹25 lakh via internet banking, though it varies by bank​

RTGS transfers are processed in real-time, usually within seconds to minutes​.

RTGS is only for high-value transactions (minimum ₹2 lakh), and there may be limited service during maintenance hours.

Yes, RTGS is a highly secure system with real-time verification, reducing fraud risks​

Any individual or entity with a bank account can use RTGS, provided they meet the minimum transaction value of ₹2 lakh.

Inward transactions are free. Outward transactions typically cost up to ₹25 for ₹2–5 lakh transfers and up to ₹50 for amounts above ₹5 lakh

RTGS can be initiated via mobile banking apps, internet banking, or by visiting a bank branch​.

No, RTGS is only for domestic transfers within India.

Yes, you can transfer ₹7 lakh through RTGS as it exceeds the minimum limit of ₹2 lakh

RTGS is better for high-value, instant transfers, while NEFT is suitable for smaller transactions that are processed in batches.

IMPS is better for smaller, instant transfers (available 24/7), while RTGS is ideal for large, secure transactions​

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