How to Seamlessly Transfer Money from Wells Fargo to Capital One: A Comprehensive Guide
Ever found yourself needing to move funds between your bank accounts at different institutions, only to be met with a confusing array of options and procedures? You're not alone! Transferring money between banks like Wells Fargo and Capital One is a common need, whether you're consolidating finances, paying bills, or simply managing your money more efficiently.
This guide will walk you through the various methods to transfer funds from your Wells Fargo account to your Capital One account, providing a clear, step-by-step approach for each. We'll cover everything from digital convenience to traditional methods, ensuring you have all the information you need to make the best choice for your specific situation.
Step 1: Decide Your Transfer Method - Let's Get Started!
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let's consider how you want to move your money. Think about the amount you're transferring, how quickly you need it to arrive, and your comfort level with online banking. This initial decision will guide which method is best for you.
Here are the primary ways to transfer money from Wells Fargo to Capital One:
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Electronic Transfers (ACH): This is the most common and often free method for transferring funds between different banks. It's great for regular transfers and doesn't involve physical cash or checks.
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Zelle®: For smaller, instant transfers to people you trust, Zelle is an excellent option built into many banking apps.
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Wire Transfers: Best for large, urgent transfers, though they typically come with fees.
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External Account Linking (Initiated from Capital One): You can often "pull" money from Wells Fargo into Capital One by linking the accounts within your Capital One online banking.
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Physical Methods (Checks/Cash Deposits): While less common for direct bank-to-bank transfers, these are always an option if digital methods aren't suitable.
Once you have a method in mind, let's explore the steps!
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| How To Transfer Money From Wells Fargo To Capital One |
Step 2: Electronic Transfers (ACH) - The Go-To for Most Transfers
Automated Clearing House (ACH) transfers are digital movements of money between bank accounts. They are generally free for standard transfers and are ideal for non-urgent transactions.
Sub-heading: Initiating the Transfer from Wells Fargo Online
This method allows you to "push" money from your Wells Fargo account to your Capital One account.
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Log In to Wells Fargo Online:
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Open your web browser or the Wells Fargo Mobile App.
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Go to the Wells Fargo website (wellsfargo.com) or launch the app.
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Enter your username and password to securely log in to your account.
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Navigate to Transfers:
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Once logged in, look for a section or menu option typically labeled "Transfers" or "Transfer & Pay." This is usually prominently displayed.
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Add a Non-Wells Fargo Account (Capital One):
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If you haven't transferred to Capital One before, you'll need to add it as an external account. Look for an option like "Add Non-Wells Fargo Accounts" or "Add External Account."
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You will need the following information for your Capital One account:
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Capital One Bank Name: Capital One
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Capital One Routing Number: This is a 9-digit number that identifies Capital One. You can find it on your Capital One checks, statements, or by logging into your Capital One online banking/app.
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Your Capital One Account Number: This is the specific account number of your Capital One checking or savings account.
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Account Type: (e.g., Checking, Savings).
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Follow the on-screen prompts to input this information. Wells Fargo will likely initiate small "test deposits" (usually a few cents) to your Capital One account to verify ownership. This can take 1-3 business days.
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Once the test deposits appear in your Capital One account, you'll return to Wells Fargo Online to confirm the amounts, thereby verifying the link.
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Initiate the Transfer:
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After your Capital One account is linked and verified, go back to the "Transfers" section.
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Select your Wells Fargo account as the "From" account.
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Select your Capital One account as the "To" account.
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Enter the amount you wish to transfer.
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Choose the frequency (e.g., "Once," "Recurring").
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Select the date you want the transfer to occur.
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Review all the details carefully on the "Review and Transfer" page. Accuracy is key here!
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Confirm and Submit the transfer.
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Sub-heading: Transfer Times and Limits for ACH (from Wells Fargo)
QuickTip: Absorb ideas one at a time.
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Delivery Speed: Transfers from your Wells Fargo account to another financial institution typically take 2 business days.
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Fees: Generally, standard ACH transfers are free.
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Limits: Wells Fargo's online transfer limits for ACH may vary. You can usually view your specific limits within the online banking platform. For larger transfers beyond typical daily limits, you might need to contact Wells Fargo directly or consider a wire transfer.
Step 3: Zelle® - For Quick, Smaller Transfers
Zelle is integrated into many banking apps and allows you to send money directly to someone else's bank account using just their email address or U.S. mobile number. It's fast and typically free for personal use.
Sub-heading: Sending Money via Zelle from Wells Fargo
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Enroll in Zelle (if not already):
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Open the Wells Fargo Mobile App or log in to Wells Fargo Online.
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Look for the "Zelle" or "Send Money with Zelle" option.
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If you haven't enrolled, follow the steps to link your Wells Fargo checking or savings account to your U.S. mobile number or email address.
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Add Your Capital One Contact:
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In the Zelle section, select "Send."
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You'll need to add your Capital One account as a recipient. This is crucial: You will use your own email address or U.S. mobile number that is linked to your Capital One Zelle enrollment.
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Enter your name and the email address or mobile number associated with your Capital One Zelle account.
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Initiate the Transfer:
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Select the contact you just added (your Capital One contact).
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Enter the amount you wish to send.
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Review the details to ensure you're sending it to the correct email or mobile number linked to your Capital One account.
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Confirm and Send.
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Sub-heading: Zelle Times and Limits
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Delivery Speed: Zelle transfers between enrolled users typically happen in minutes.
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Fees: Wells Fargo generally charges no fees for sending money with Zelle.
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Limits: Wells Fargo has Zelle limits. As of recent information, Wells Fargo's daily Zelle limit is typically $3,500, and the monthly limit is $20,000. Capital One 360 Checking account holders can send up to $3,000 per rolling 24 hours. Keep these limits in mind, especially if you're transferring a larger sum.
Step 4: Wire Transfers - For Large or Urgent Amounts
Wire transfers are the fastest way to move money between banks, often arriving within hours. However, they come with higher fees and generally have stricter requirements.
Sub-heading: Initiating a Wire Transfer from Wells Fargo
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Gather Required Capital One Information:
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Capital One's Full Name and Address: Capital One, McLean, VA (or the specific address of the Capital One branch where your account is held, if applicable).
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Capital One's Wire Routing Number (ABA/RTN): This is different from the ACH routing number. You will need to find the specific wire transfer routing number for Capital One. It's best to verify this directly with Capital One.
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Your Capital One Account Number: The full account number of the Capital One account receiving the funds.
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Your Name as it Appears on the Capital One Account: Ensure it matches exactly.
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Purpose of Payment: A brief description of why you are sending the money (e.g., "Transfer to personal savings," "Funding brokerage account").
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Choose Your Method of Initiation:
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Wells Fargo Online (Digital Wires): If eligible, you can initiate a domestic wire transfer online through Wells Fargo's Digital Wires service.
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Log in to Wells Fargo Online.
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Go to "Transfer & Pay" and select "Wire Money."
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You may need to enroll in Digital Wires first.
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Add your Capital One account as a recipient, providing all the necessary wire details.
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Enter the amount and review the details. You will likely need a valid U.S. mobile number or a secure ID device for verification.
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Wells Fargo Branch: For larger amounts or if you prefer in-person assistance, visit a Wells Fargo branch.
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Bring all the required Capital One information and your valid government-issued ID.
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A Wells Fargo representative will assist you in completing the wire transfer form.
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Sub-heading: Wire Transfer Times, Fees, and Limits
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Delivery Speed: Domestic wire transfers are typically processed within the same business day if initiated before the cut-off time (often 3:00 PM PST for Wells Fargo).
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Wells Fargo Fees: Wells Fargo charges a fee for outgoing wire transfers. As of recent information, a digital wire can be $25, while an in-branch wire can be $40.
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Capital One Incoming Fees: Capital One may charge a fee for receiving a wire transfer. For consumer accounts, this is typically $15.
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Wells Fargo Limits: While in-branch wire transfers often have very high limits (subject to verification), online digital wire limits may vary and can be checked within your Wells Fargo online banking.
Step 5: External Account Linking - Pulling Money from Capital One
QuickTip: Slow down when you hit numbers or data.
Instead of pushing money from Wells Fargo, you can also "pull" money from your Wells Fargo account into your Capital One account by setting up an external account link within Capital One's online banking.
Sub-heading: Linking Wells Fargo to Capital One
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Log In to Capital One Online:
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Open your web browser or the Capital One Mobile App.
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Go to capitalone.com or launch the app.
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Enter your username and password to securely log in.
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Navigate to External Accounts:
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Once logged in, look for a section like "Account & Feature Settings" or "Manage External Accounts" (the exact wording may vary slightly).
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Add an External Account:
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Select "Add an External Account" or a similar option.
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You will need the following information for your Wells Fargo account:
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Wells Fargo Bank Name: Wells Fargo Bank
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Wells Fargo Routing Number: This is a 9-digit number specific to your Wells Fargo account.
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Your Wells Fargo Account Number: The full account number of your Wells Fargo checking or savings account.
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Account Type: (e.g., Checking, Savings).
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Choose how you'd like to use the account (e.g., "Payments and Transfers").
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Capital One may verify the account instantly, or they may initiate small "test deposits" (usually less than $1) to your Wells Fargo account. These can take up to 3 business days.
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If test deposits are sent, you'll need to log back into Capital One and enter the two small amounts you see in your Wells Fargo transaction history to confirm the link.
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Initiate the Transfer (Pull):
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Once your Wells Fargo account is linked and verified, go to the "Transfers" section within your Capital One online banking.
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Select your Wells Fargo account as the "From" account.
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Select your Capital One account as the "To" account.
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Enter the amount you wish to transfer.
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Choose the frequency and date.
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Review all the details carefully.
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Confirm and Submit the transfer.
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Sub-heading: Transfer Times and Limits (from Capital One)
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Delivery Speed: Transfers initiated from Capital One to an external linked account (like Wells Fargo) typically take 3 business days.
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Fees: Capital One generally charges no fees for ACH transfers between linked external accounts.
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Limits: Capital One will have daily and monthly limits for transfers from linked external accounts. Check within your online banking or contact Capital One customer service for your specific limits.
Step 6: Consider Physical Methods (Less Common, But Options)
While digital transfers are usually preferred, sometimes a physical approach is necessary or more convenient for certain situations.
Sub-heading: Using a Check or Cash Deposit
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Write a Check from Wells Fargo:
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Write a check from your Wells Fargo checking account payable to yourself.
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Ensure the amount is available in your Wells Fargo account.
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Deposit at Capital One:
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Mobile Deposit: Use the Capital One Mobile App to deposit the check by taking photos of the front and back. Check Capital One's mobile deposit limits.
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ATM Deposit: Deposit the check at a Capital One ATM.
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Branch Deposit: Visit a Capital One branch and deposit the check with a teller.
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Cash Deposit: If you withdraw cash from Wells Fargo, you can physically deposit it at a Capital One branch or ATM.
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Sub-heading: Considerations for Physical Methods
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Availability: Funds from checks may be subject to holds by Capital One, meaning they won't be immediately available. Cash deposits are typically available instantly.
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Convenience: This method requires more effort compared to digital transfers.
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Security: Carrying large amounts of cash carries inherent risks.
Wrapping Up: Choose Wisely!
The best method for you depends on the amount, urgency, and your personal preference. For most routine transfers, ACH (electronic transfers) is the most cost-effective and convenient. For instant, smaller transfers, Zelle is ideal. For large, time-sensitive sums, a wire transfer is the way to go, despite the fees. And don't forget the convenience of linking accounts and pulling funds from Capital One.
Always double-check routing and account numbers, especially when setting up new external accounts or initiating wire transfers, to avoid delays or misdirected funds. Your financial peace of mind is worth the extra few seconds of verification!
Tip: Highlight what feels important.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check my Wells Fargo routing number?
You can find your Wells Fargo routing number on your checks (usually the first set of numbers at the bottom left), by logging into Wells Fargo Online, or by checking your bank statement.
How to find my Capital One routing number for transfers?
For ACH transfers, your Capital One routing number can be found on your checks, statements, or within your Capital One online banking. For wire transfers, you'll need a specific wire routing number, which you should verify directly with Capital One's help center or by calling them.
How to increase Zelle limits with Wells Fargo?
Zelle limits with Wells Fargo are generally fixed at $3,500 daily and $20,000 monthly. While some banks may offer limit increases based on transaction history, it's generally not possible to increase standard Zelle limits with Wells Fargo. For larger transfers, consider ACH or wire transfers.
How to avoid fees when transferring money between banks?
To avoid fees, use ACH transfers (electronic transfers) initiated through your online banking, as these are typically free for standard transfers. Zelle is also a fee-free option for smaller, instant transfers. Avoid wire transfers if fees are a concern, as they almost always incur charges.
How to link an external account on Capital One?
Tip: Read in a quiet space for focus.
Log in to your Capital One online banking, navigate to "Account & Feature Settings" or "Manage External Accounts," and select "Add an External Account." You'll need the external bank's routing number, your account number, and account type.
How to track a money transfer from Wells Fargo?
For ACH transfers, you can usually see the status in your Wells Fargo online banking under "Transfer Activity" or "Scheduled Transfers." For wire transfers, Wells Fargo will provide a confirmation number, and you can contact their wire transfer department for updates.
How to cancel a money transfer from Wells Fargo?
The ability to cancel a transfer depends on its status. For ACH transfers, you might be able to cancel it if it's still "pending" or "scheduled" before its processing cut-off time. Wire transfers are very difficult, if not impossible, to cancel once initiated due to their real-time nature. Contact Wells Fargo immediately if you need to attempt a cancellation.
How to transfer money instantly from Wells Fargo to Capital One?
The only truly "instant" method for transferring money between these banks is Zelle, provided both accounts are enrolled. However, Zelle has lower transaction limits. Wire transfers are very fast (same business day) but not instantaneous.
How to transfer a large amount of money from Wells Fargo to Capital One?
For large amounts, wire transfers are the most reliable option, although they involve fees. You can initiate these online (if eligible for digital wires) or in person at a Wells Fargo branch. Be prepared to provide detailed recipient information and potentially answer questions about the purpose of the transfer.
How to find my Capital One account number?
Your Capital One account number can be found on your Capital One bank statements, by logging into your Capital One online banking or mobile app, or on your checks if you have a checking account.
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