Sending Money to India One-Time Large
How to send USD to India on a one-time large basis. Set up recurring transfers, track limits, and save on every transfer with Root.
Many NRIs in the USA send one-time large transfers to India for property purchases, investments, or family emergencies. These transfers require careful planning around tax rules, exchange rates, and delivery reliability. Key considerations include navigating India's TCS rules, securing the best USD to INR rate, and ensuring funds reach the correct account type. This guide helps you manage large remittances confidently and cost-effectively with Root.
One-time large transfers typically range from $10,000 to $100,000+ and are made by NRIs for specific needs like real estate down payments, business investments, or sudden family expenses. Since these aren’t recurring, getting the timing and amount right is crucial to avoid unnecessary costs or regulatory complications.
Key Considerations
TCS Threshold
India collects 5% Tax Collected at Source (TCS) on remittances exceeding ₹7,00,000 (~$8,400) in a financial year under the LRS. This applies to the recipient's annual total, not per transaction. Factor in this cost if sending frequently or in multiple large parts.
Exchange Rate Timing
Large transfers are highly sensitive to exchange rate fluctuations. A small shift in the USD to INR rate can mean thousands in difference. Use tools like rate alerts to lock in favorable rates before sending.
Recipient Account Type
Root supports transfers to NRO and regular savings or current accounts in India. NRE accounts are not yet supported but coming soon. Confirm your recipient’s account type to avoid delays or rejection.
IFSC Code Accuracy
An accurate IFSC code is essential for successful bank delivery in India. A single error can delay the transfer or return funds. Double-check the 11-character code with the recipient before initiating.
PAN Requirement
Indian banks may require the recipient’s PAN for large transfers as part of AML/KYC compliance. While not always enforced, it's safer to have it ready to prevent processing issues.
How to Set It Up — Step by Step
Confirm Recipient Details
Collect the recipient’s full name, Indian bank account number, and correct IFSC code. Verify if they have an NRO or regular savings/current account, as NRE is not yet supported on Root.
Pro tip: Ask the recipient to confirm their bank branch’s IFSC via their passbook or net banking.
Check Current USD to INR Rate
Monitor the interbank exchange rate to decide the best time to send. Consider setting rate alerts to act when the market is favorable for your large transfer.
Pro tip: Even a 0.5 rupee shift in the rate can save or cost thousands on large amounts.
Initiate Transfer via Root
Log in to Root, enter the transfer amount in USD, select ‘Send to India’, and input verified recipient details. Review the estimated INR amount using the live exchange rate.
Pro tip: Enter the correct purpose code such as ‘gift’, ‘property purchase’, or ‘family maintenance’ as required.
Factor in TCS if Applicable
If the recipient has received other remittances exceeding ₹7,00,000 in the financial year, they may be subject to 5% TCS. This doesn’t stop the transfer but affects net credit. Inform them to track total inflows.
Pro tip: TCS is adjustable against the recipient’s final tax liability and not a permanent tax loss.
Complete Verification & Send
Complete any required KYC or identity verification on Root. Once approved, confirm the transfer. Root uses secure banking networks for fast, transparent delivery.
Pro tip: Large transfers may require additional verification steps—start early to avoid delays.
Track & Confirm Delivery
Track the transfer in real time through Root. Once credited, confirm with the recipient that the full amount arrived in their account as expected.
Send Money to India One-Time Large with Root
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Get StartedFrequently Asked Questions
How much can I send to India in one transfer?
There is no legal cap on how much you can send as an NRI. However, individual service providers may impose limits. Root does not set transfer caps, allowing large one-time transfers with no upper limit.
Does TCS apply when I send a large amount as an NRI?
TCS at 5% applies if the recipient in India receives total remittances exceeding ₹7,00,000 in a financial year under LRS. As an NRI sender, you aren't subject to LRS, but the recipient's total inflows may trigger TCS.
Do I need the recipient’s PAN for a large transfer?
While not always mandatory, Indian banks often require the recipient’s PAN for large transfers to comply with tax regulations. Providing it helps prevent delays or return of funds.
Are there any US taxes on sending money abroad?
As of early 2026, the proposed 1% US Excise Tax on international wire transfers has not been enacted. US citizens and residents are not taxed on sending money abroad, but gifts over $15,000 may require IRS reporting (Form 709).
How long does a large transfer take?
Most transfers via Root are delivered within 1-2 business days. Large amounts may take slightly longer if additional bank verification is required on the Indian side.
Can I send money to an NRE account through Root?
Currently, Root supports transfers to NRO and regular savings or current accounts in India. NRE account support is in development and will be available soon.