Start for free

Why is my incoming transfer delayed?

Written by: Valesca Wilms

Updated on: August 24, 2026

Reading time: < 1 minute

Logo RB

💡 Why hasn't my transfer arrived yet?

Standard processing times for transfers in the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA) vary depending on the transfer type and its country of origin. If your transfer shows the status Pending, it may still be in progress — or it could be under review before being credited to your account.

💳 Typical processing times by transfer type:

Regular SEPA Credit Transfer (SCT) 1 to 5 business days (2 days at the sending bank + 2 days through the SEPA network + any additional review)

Instant SEPA Credit Transfer (SCT Inst) a few seconds, available 24/7

International Credit Transfer variable, depending on currency conversion and local regulations

⚠️ What can cause a delay?

Several factors can extend how long a transfer takes:

  • Transfer under review: The transfer may be going through a compliance check before it's credited to your account.

  • Incorrect details: An error in the IBAN, name, or amount can block processing.

  • Closing days: The SEPA network is unavailable on certain bank holidays (TARGET closing days). Transfers sent on those days are processed on the next business day.

  • International transfers: Currency conversion and regulatory requirements may add extra time.

👉 What to do if your transfer is late

Work through these steps in order:

  1. Confirm the transfer details.

    → Make sure the sender used your correct and complete IBAN and full name.

  2. Request a proof of transfer.

    → Ask the sending bank for documentation confirming the transaction was initiated.

  3. Initiate a claim of non-receipt.

    → Ask the sending bank to open an investigation to locate and transfer the funds.

💜 Need help?

Feel free to contact our support team. We'll be happy to help.

Valesca Wilms

Author - Valesca Wilms

As content marketing lead at Accountable Belgium, Valesca writes about freelancing, self-employment, and taxes based on her own experience as a freelancer.

Who is Valesca ?

Did you find what you were looking for?

You might also like

Tax brackets Belgium 2026

As a self-employed individual with a sole proprietorship, your income is taxed under the personal in...

Read more

Peppol e-invoicing: is it free of charge?

Starting from 2026, all self-employed individuals will need to send their invoices electronically in...

Read more

The VAT reverse charge: what you need to know as a self-employed professional

The VAT reverse charge is a complicated word for a simple concept. It helps you purchase and sell sm...

Read more

Hear it straight from our users

5.300 reviews

App Store

4.580 reviews

Google Play

484 reviews

Reviews.io

They always answer right away to any question I have, they provide clear answers, and they are very patient even when I struggle to understand. They try to explain in different ways. They are very helpful, responsive and friendly.

Chiara Marradi

Reviews.io 01/05/2026

Everything was great! All my questions were answered quickly and in a friendly manner.

Wenzeslawa Wegener

Reviews.io 04/05/2026

In the world where everyone seems to be out to get small entrepreneurs and overwhelm them with new rules, more taxes and reporting obligations, Accountable often feels like the one steady partner that actually wants you to succeed, providing quick, clear and personalised support. Thank you!

Janina Arsenjeva

Reviews.io 10/04/2026

This is an amazing application with great support on issues. In short as in day I am addicted to it (in a positive way). I myself is from IT project management and the way they have captured the user requirement, it’s phenomenal.

Sumit Tewary

App Store 01/12/2024

UI is great. Feature packed and very easy to use. The team at Accountable were VERY quick to respond and their team of technicians soon had a fix in place. Very happy with the level of service so far. Thumbs up from me!

Dean Osborne

Google 14/06/2023

This program is a lifesaver, and it is always improving. Plus, it has an AI chat feature that is actually useful.

Jeffrey Humble

Google 14/01/2026

The coaching session on tax management was excellent, good material, excellent explanations and very insightful. Combined with the AI I never feel alone with Accountable.

Sergio Barbarino

Reviews.io 23/04/2026

The availability of your team to help and guide people to understand their finances better is what really makes Accountable valuable. While the AI is able to give answers to most basic questions, specific scenarios need counsel from a human which your team performs beautifully.

Sofiya Bogdan Neves

Reviews.io 18/04/2026

Fast and careful answers from Alina. Top service. Thank you.

Anonymous

Reviews.io 15/04/2023

They always answer for questions wherever is via direct e-mail or through app. If they can’t answer fully they will forward you to the right place. Documents were always prepared well and ready to send further to government. Everything is intuitive in the app and easy to sort out even for someone completely green in this field.

Anonymous

Reviews.io 22/03/2026