When you send money from a NAB account to a Commonwealth Bank account, the time it takes for the funds to arrive depends on the payment method used. Most transfers sent today utilize the New Payments Platform (NPP), which allows for near-real-time processing between participating financial institutions.
If a payment is sent via the traditional direct entry system, or if the transaction occurs outside of the NPP framework, it may take longer to process. Understanding which method your bank is using helps you plan your payments, especially when dealing with time-sensitive obligations like rent or bill payments.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Methods | Osko by NPP, Standard Direct Entry (BSB/Account number). |
| Processing Time | NPP payments are typically processed within seconds; Direct Entry takes 1–2 business days. |
| Eligibility | Available to all personal and business banking customers. |
| Key Requirements | Correct BSB and account number; sender must have sufficient cleared funds. |
Sending funds between banks
To initiate a transfer from your NAB account to a Commonwealth Bank account, follow these steps within the NAB mobile app or internet banking:
- Log in to your account: Access your NAB portal using your standard login credentials.
- Select 'Pay & Transfer': Navigate to the payments section and choose the option to transfer to a new or existing payee.
- Enter account details: Input the recipient’s Commonwealth Bank BSB and account number. The system will typically verify the BSB against Commonwealth Bank's records.
- Confirm payment details: Enter the amount and a reference. If the payment is eligible for NPP processing, the app will often indicate this before you confirm the transaction.
- Submit the transfer: Review the confirmation screen before finalizing the payment. Once submitted, you will receive a transaction receipt number.
Troubleshooting common issues
MFA or login issues
If you cannot log in to initiate the transfer, it is often due to an interrupted connection or an outdated app version. Ensure your device has a stable internet connection. If the MFA code does not arrive, verify your mobile number in your account settings or call NAB support to confirm your contact details.
Browser or app errors
If you receive a system error during the transfer, try refreshing your browser or force-closing the app. Occasionally, scheduled maintenance periods can affect specific payment types. If the error continues, wait a few minutes before trying again; if the problem persists, contact NAB support to check for outages.
Locked account or access issues
An account might be locked if there are suspicious transaction flags or multiple failed login attempts. This is a security precaution. You will generally need to call the bank or visit a branch to verify your identity and restore account access, as this cannot be bypassed for security reasons.
Pro-Tip: Check if the payment is sent via 'Osko' or 'NPP' in the confirmation screen. If it isn't, the transfer may default to the slower Direct Entry method. To increase the likelihood of real-time processing, ensure you use the correct BSB and account number rather than an old saved payee with outdated details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why hasn't the money arrived in the Commonwealth Bank account yet?
If you sent the money after business hours or during a weekend, and the transfer was not processed via the NPP, it will typically sit in a pending state until the next business day. Some transactions are also manually reviewed by the bank’s security systems, which can cause a delay. The exception is if you have sent the funds to an incorrect BSB or account number, which may cause the payment to bounce back or stay in limbo. Check your transaction history in your NAB app to see if the payment status is listed as "processed" or "pending," then contact NAB support if it has been more than two business days.
Can I cancel a transfer once it has been submitted?
Once a payment has been authorized and submitted, it is very difficult to recall or cancel, particularly if it was processed through the NPP. The banking system is designed to move funds to the destination as quickly as possible. A limitation exists where, once the funds have left your account and reached the recipient's bank, the sending bank has little control over the transaction. If you have sent funds to the wrong person, your best next step is to call NAB immediately to lodge a 'misdirected payment' claim, although there is no guarantee the funds can be recovered.
