Bank transfer / instant transfer
call your bank immediately – an executed transfer cannot be unilaterally reversed
Deadline
call your bank immediately – an executed transfer cannot be unilaterally reversed
What you need to know
An authorised SEPA transfer cannot be unilaterally reversed after execution. An instant transfer can be executed very quickly. A “transfer recall” by your bank has the best chance while the transfer has not yet been executed. Afterwards, your bank may try to arrange a refund through the recipient bank, but there is no guarantee.
How to get your money back
- 1Call your bank IMMEDIATELY (not just online) and request a “transfer recall” or “recall”.
- 2State the recipient’s IBAN, the amount, and the date and time of the transfer so the bank can react as quickly as possible.
- 3At the same time, file a criminal complaint with the police (online or in person) – this is worthwhile regardless of the bank recall and is often a prerequisite for further steps.
- 4Ask your bank whether it can contact the recipient’s bank even if the automatic recall is technically no longer possible – some institutions help further as a gesture of goodwill.
- 5Secure all evidence: the transfer receipt, order confirmation, communication with the shop, screenshots.
Legal note
An authorised, correctly executed SEPA transfer is legally deemed fulfilled – there is no statutory right to a reversal from your bank. A recall is a technical goodwill option, not a legal entitlement.
How much time do you have left?
Use the deadline calculator: enter the purchase date, choose the payment type, and see the remaining time instantly.
To the deadline calculatorOther payment types
View all payment typesPayPal Buyer Protection
180 days from the payment date
View guideSEPA direct debit return
8 weeks from the account debit (authorised) – up to 13 months for an unauthorised direct debit
View guideCredit-card chargeback (reversal)
deadline depends on the bank, card network and dispute reason – ask directly
View guideThis overview is independent, editorial consumer information and does not replace legal advice. All information is provided to the best of our knowledge and without guarantee – the terms and conditions of the respective payment provider or the conditions of your bank or savings bank are always authoritative. In specific cases, contact a consumer advice centre (Verbraucherzentrale) or a lawyer specialising in contract law. The deadlines described here reflect the German legal situation.