Canada’s Interac broadens access to e-Transfer service

October 2, 2023

Interac, the renowned Canadian debit network, is taking a significant step forward by expanding access to its e-Transfer service.

This move goes beyond the traditional scope of regulated banks and credit unions, with Wealthsimple emerging as the pioneering participant in this transformative venture.

The decision to broaden access to the Interac e-Transfer service is motivated by the aim to democratise and simplify money transfers for Canadians. By opening the door to a wider range of organiSations, including Fintrac-regulated money service businesses and investment dealers regulated by the Canadian Investment Regulatory OrganiSation, Interac seeks to offer consumers and businesses new, secure, and flexible ways to transact.

Interac is a prominent Canadian debit network known for its innovative financial solutions. The company has been at the forefront of revolutioniSing the way Canadians manage their finances, with a strong focus on security and convenience.

The Interac e-Transfer service empowers Canadians to send money directly from their bank accounts to the accounts of other consumers and businesses, using simple identifiers such as email addresses or mobile numbers. This streamlined process ensures hassle-free and efficient money movement.

Under the new rules, organiSations that fall under the umbrella of being both Fintrac-regulated money service businesses and investment dealers regulated by the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organisation can now apply to become participants in the Interac e-Transfer service. This expansion promises to offer Canadians greater options and a more diverse landscape for their financial transactions.

The Interac e-Transfer service enables Canadians to effortlessly send money from their bank accounts to the accounts of other individuals and businesses, using either their email addresses or mobile numbers as identifiers.

Historically, federally regulated banks and provincially regulated credit unions were the primary eligible participants in this service. However, with the introduction of new regulations, financial institutions that hold both Fintrac regulation and are investment dealers regulated by the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organisation can now seek participation.

Jeremy Wilmot, CEO, Interac, says: “By extending our trusted product and platform to new organisations, while maintaining high security standards, we will allow Canadian consumers and businesses to confidently transact in new ways.”

Wealthsimple is the first such organisation to receive provisional approval to join the service as a participant.

Michael Katchen, Wealthsimple CEO, says: “We look forward to joining the Interac e-Transfer service as a participant and providing the millions of Canadians that choose Wealthsimple an even better money movement experience.”