Yes, but the method depends on whose card it is and what you're trying to do
You can transfer money from someone else's card to your bank account, but not directly. Cards don't connect to bank accounts the way two bank accounts do. Instead, the money has to move through a payment processor, a peer-to-peer app, or a cash withdrawal first. The route you take depends on whether the cardholder is sending you money intentionally, whether it's a debit card or credit card, and what relationship you have to that person.
If someone wants to send you money from their card, the fastest and safest way is usually a peer-to-peer payment app like Venmo, PayPal, or Cash App. If you need to move money from a card you have access to but don't own, the options narrow considerably and carry more risk—both legally and for fraud.
Key Takeaways
- Peer-to-peer apps like Venmo and PayPal let cardholders send you money directly to your bank account, usually within one to three business days.
- A cardholder can also transfer their own card balance to a bank account through their card issuer's website or app, though this may cost a fee.
- Withdrawing cash from an ATM and depositing it is slower but works if the cardholder doesn't have digital payment access.
- Using someone else's card without permission—even to send money to your own account—is fraud and can result in criminal charges.
- Credit card transfers to bank accounts often carry higher fees and interest charges than debit card transfers.
Peer-to-peer apps: the fastest route when someone wants to send you money
If the cardholder has a Venmo, PayPal, Cash App, or similar account linked to their card, they can send you money in minutes. The cardholder initiates the transfer from their app, enters your username or phone number, and the money lands in your bank account within one to three business days. You don't need access to their card—they control the transaction entirely.
The cardholder's card issuer may flag large transfers or frequent ones as unusual activity, which can temporarily hold the transaction. Most peer-to-peer apps also charge a fee if the cardholder chooses to fund the transfer with a credit card rather than a debit card or linked bank account—typically 2 to 3 percent of the amount. Using a debit card or bank account as the source is free or costs less.
This method works best when both people have smartphones and the cardholder trusts the app. It's also the safest for you, because the cardholder controls the entire process and you're not handling their card information.
Direct card-to-bank transfers through the card issuer
If the cardholder owns the card and wants to move money from it to a bank account, they can often do this through their card issuer's website or mobile app. Most banks and credit card companies offer a "transfer to bank account" or "cash advance" option in their account settings. The cardholder logs in, enters their bank account details, and requests the transfer.
Timing varies by issuer. Some transfers complete within one business day; others take three to five. The cardholder's bank may also charge a fee—typically $10 to $25 for a cash advance, or a percentage of the amount transferred. Credit card issuers are more likely to charge fees than debit card issuers.
This route requires the cardholder to have online access to their card account and to know their own bank account number. It's direct and doesn't involve a third-party app, but it's also the most expensive option if fees apply.
ATM withdrawal and deposit: slower but always available
If the cardholder doesn't have access to digital payment apps or their card issuer's online transfer tool, they can withdraw cash from an ATM using their card and then deposit it into your bank account at your bank's ATM or branch. This works with any debit card and most credit cards, though credit card cash advances usually carry a fee and start accruing interest immediately.
The withdrawal is instant, but the deposit may take one to two business days to clear, depending on your bank and the time of day the deposit is made. If the cardholder uses an out-of-network ATM, they'll pay a surcharge—usually $2 to $3 per withdrawal. This method is the slowest and most expensive, but it requires no apps or online accounts.
What not to do: using someone else's card without permission
Do not use someone else's card to transfer money to your account, even if you have temporary access to it or they've given you the card to make a purchase. Transferring money to yourself or a third party without explicit permission is fraud, regardless of your relationship to the cardholder. This includes using their card to pay a bill in your name, fund a peer-to-peer app in your name, or withdraw cash for yourself.
Cardholders can dispute these transactions, and the card issuer will reverse them. You could face criminal charges for fraud or theft, even if the cardholder later forgives you. If you need money from someone, ask them directly to send it through a legitimate payment method. If you're authorized to use their card for specific purchases, stick to that purpose only.
Credit cards versus debit cards: why the method matters
Debit cards pull money directly from a bank account, so transferring from a debit card to a bank account is straightforward and usually free or low-cost. Credit cards, by contrast, are borrowing—the cardholder is spending the credit card company's money, not their own. Transferring a credit card balance to a bank account is treated as a cash advance, which means fees, interest, and a higher cost overall.
If the cardholder uses a credit card to fund a peer-to-peer transfer, the app will charge a processing fee (usually 2 to 3 percent) and the credit card company may also charge a cash advance fee. The interest on a credit card cash advance typically starts accruing immediately, with no grace period like there is for purchases. For this reason, debit card transfers are always cheaper if the cardholder has a choice.
Timing: how long each method actually takes
Peer-to-peer apps are the fastest for the recipient. Once the cardholder sends money through Venmo, PayPal, or Cash App, it usually reaches your bank account within one to three business days. Weekends and holidays can add time. Some apps offer instant transfers for a fee, but this is optional.
Direct card-to-bank transfers through the issuer vary widely. Some banks complete transfers the same day; others take three to five business days. The cardholder should check their card issuer's website for their specific timeline. ATM withdrawals and deposits are the slowest overall—the withdrawal is instant, but the deposit may take one to two business days to clear, and you're dependent on both the cardholder's schedule and yours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can someone send me money from a credit card?
Yes, through a peer-to-peer app or by transferring their credit card balance to their own bank account first, then sending it to you. Direct credit card to bank account transfers are treated as cash advances and cost more in fees and interest. The cheapest way is for them to use a debit card or linked bank account in a peer-to-peer app instead.
What if the transfer fails or gets stuck?
Contact the cardholder and ask them to check their app or card issuer's account for error messages or holds. If the money left their account but didn't reach yours, the cardholder should contact their card issuer's customer service with the transaction details. Your bank can also search for incoming transfers if you provide the cardholder's name and the date.
Is there a limit to how much someone can send me?
Yes. Peer-to-peer apps usually cap daily transfers at $2,000 to $5,000 per transaction, though limits vary by app and account age. Card issuers may also limit daily ATM withdrawals or transfer amounts. The cardholder should check their specific app or card issuer's limits before attempting a large transfer.
Do I need a bank account to receive money from someone's card?
For peer-to-peer apps and direct card-to-bank transfers, yes. Some apps let you receive money into a digital wallet instead of a bank account, but you'll eventually need to move it to a bank account to use it. ATM deposits require a bank account at the institution where you're depositing.
What happens if someone disputes the transfer after sending it to me?
If the cardholder disputes the transaction with their card issuer, the issuer will investigate and likely reverse it, pulling the money back from your account. This can leave your account overdrawn if you've already spent the money. Only accept transfers from people you trust, and don't spend the money immediately if there's any doubt about the sender's intent.