> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.withacclaim.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Payout methods

> Understand how funds are delivered to recipients. Choose the right payout method based on country, currency, speed, and requirements.

Payout methods define how funds are delivered to a payee.
They determine the **banking details required**, **delivery speed**, and **supported currencies and countries**.

Choosing the right payout method ensures payouts are **delivered successfully**, **on time**, and with the expected experience for the recipient.

***

## How payout methods work

Each payout is sent using a specific payout method based on:

* **Destination country**
* **Currency**
* **Available payment rails**
* **Recipient details**

Available methods vary by region. See **[supported countries](/guides/disburse/countries)** for full coverage and availability.

***

## Types of payout methods

### Bank transfers

Standard bank transfers are the most widely supported payout method.

* Local transfers for domestic payouts
* International transfers for cross-border payouts

Bank transfers typically require:

* Bank account number or IBAN
* Bank or routing code (e.g. SWIFT, sort code, ABA)

***

### Real-time and local payment networks

Some countries support faster or local payout methods through domestic payment networks.

These methods may offer:

* Faster delivery times
* Lower fees
* Simpler recipient details

Requirements vary by country and network.

***

### Method selection

Payout methods can be selected in different ways:

* **Explicitly** when creating a payout
* **Implicitly** based on available payee details
* **By the recipient** when using a payout link

If multiple methods are available, Acclaim can guide selection based on **compatibility and completeness of details**.

***

## Required details

Each payout method has specific required fields.

Examples include:

* IBAN and SWIFT code for international bank transfers
* Routing number and account number for domestic transfers
* Local identifiers for country-specific methods

Validation is performed automatically to ensure:

* Correct formatting
* Required fields are present
* Compatibility with the selected method

***

## Method compatibility

Not all payout methods support all combinations of:

* Country
* Currency
* Payee type (individual or business)

If a method is not compatible:

* It will not be available for selection
* Or the payout will require additional or corrected details

***

## Using payout methods with payees

Payees can have one or more payout methods associated with them.

You can:

* Store multiple methods for a single payee
* Set a default method
* Let recipients choose their preferred method via payout links

This allows you to **adapt payouts to different regions and scenarios** without recreating payees.

***

## Using payout methods with payout links

When using payout links, recipients can:

* Provide required banking details
* Select from supported payout methods (if enabled)

This ensures the payout method is **valid, complete, and aligned with recipient preference** before funds are sent.