In this guide

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  • Ask an expert
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Western Union
Fastest Transfer Speed
Within minutes
Minimum Transfer Amount
$1
Maximum Transfer Amount
$50,000

Our verdict

A straightforward way to send money overseas with multiple transfer options - just watch out for high fees and weak exchange rates.

Western Union has a gigantic global network of agent locations and bank connections that makes it easy to send money almost anywhere. Transfer money fast for higher fees or a bit slower for lower fees, depending on your needs and resources.

However, given Western Union's history of customer complaints and lawsuits, maybe consider looking at smaller money transfer providers with a better track record and offering better exchange rates and lower fees. Having said that, Western Union will almost always be a cheaper option than your bank, especially when sending one-off transfers or to remote destinations.

Pros

  • Low minimum transfer amount of $1
  • Option to send money in minutes
  • Transfer to a wide range of countries

In this guide

  • Our verdict
  • Ask an expert

Why should I consider Western Union?

  • Established service. Western Union has managed both domestic and international money transfers since 1871.
  • Huge network. With over 500,000 agent locations worldwide in more than 200 countries, Western Union is one of the world’s largest money transfer providers. There are more than 42,000 agent locations in the US alone.
  • Flexible transfer options. With a mix of online and agent locations services, you can pay with cash, credit, debit, bank accounts and more. Also, Western Union’s business transfer options let you use hedging tools for even more flexibility.
  • Fast transfers. Some transfers through Western Union be received within minutes, which helps in an emergency or when you don’t want to wait a few days for your transfer to go through.

What to be aware of

  • Weak exchange rates. Unfavorable exchange rates will lead to less money going to your recipient and more to Western Union. Exchange rates offered by Western Union can be as high as 20% — worse than the mid-market rate.
  • Maximum transfer limits. There is a maximum limit on how much you can send online, which is determined by which country you are sending to. However, agent locations typically have no limit as long as you can provide adequate identification while sending.
  • High fees. Nearly all transactions through Western Union will have a transfer fee attached, ranging from $3.50 to $100 or more. Occasional promotions and coupons may help but always expect to pay a fee when sending money through Western Union.

How much are Western Union’s transfer fees?

Western Union has different fees for nearly every country it sends to, and we’ve seen fees range from as low as $3.50 up to $100 or more. These fees depend on how you are paying for the transfer and how the transfer will be collected. Agent location fees aren’t typically posted online, but Western Union’s online fees are based on:

  • Location. The fees you pay will be different when sending to different countries around the world.
  • Payment. Paying with a credit card versus a debit card or a bank account will have different fees. Keep in mind that if you choose to pay with a credit card, you may be charged fees by your credit card provider too.
  • Receiving method. Picking up cash is typically more expensive than having money sent straight to a bank account.

When sending money to China from the US for cash pickup, here are the fees we encountered using Western Union’s price estimator tool on November 21, 2022:

Sending $1,000 toPaying withFee
China Debit card$75
Credit card$102
Bank account$26
Cash (in-store)$8

How does Western Union compare to other money transfer services?

Enter your transaction details to see how Western Union compares to the exchange rates and fees offered by other money transfer services.

1 - 14 of 14
Name Product Filter Values Fastest Transfer Speed Fees (Pay by Bank Transfer)
Western Union
Within minutes
From $0
Enjoy $0 fee on your first online transfer. Western Union makes money from currency exchange. Not valid on credit cards or sends to Cuba.
Western Union sends money online to friends and family in 200+ countries and territories around the world.
Airwallex
Airwallex
Within minutes
$0
After spending $15k in your first 90 days, receive a one-time $500 bonus that will automatically be credited to your account on any FX conversion.
Airwallex can help you make business payments to 150+ countries in 60+ currencies.
Wise (TransferWise)
Within minutes
From 0.41%
Wise uses the mid-market rate and transparent fees to help you send money in 45+ currencies.
Instarem
24 hours
From 0%
New Instarem customers will get a special FX rate and zero-fees on their first transfer.
Instarem offers offers rewards on every transaction.
MoneyGram
Within minutes
From $0
First online transfer is free.
MoneyGram has fast cash pick-up transfers to more than 350,000 agent locations worldwide.
Cash App
Within minutes
From $0
With this peer-to-peer payment app make payments to your friends and family with no transfer fees within the US or from the US to the UK or EU.
OFX International Money Transfers (Business)
24 hours
$0
Business customers: Send safe, no-limit transfers with no fees and competitive exchange rates.
CurrencyTransfer for Business
24 hours
$0
Increase business efficiency with zero transaction fees and same-day transfers.
OFX
24 hours
$0
OFX has no maximum limit transfers, with competitive exchange rates for 45+ currencies.
Xe Money Transfer for Business
24 hours
$0
Save your time and money with Xe Money Transfer for business.
Currencies Direct (business)
24 hours
$0
Minimizes costs of international transactions and offers custom solutions for business clients. Currencies Direct may call you to confirm your transfer, so be prepared for a phone call shortly after initiating a transfer.
Xe
Within minutes
$3
Xe has fast transfers with low fees and a range of foreign currency tools.
CurrencyTransfer
24 hours
$0
CurrencyTransfer lets you shop around for the best exchange rate on its online marketplace.
Currencies Direct
24 hours
$0
CurrenciesDirect makes transferring money abroad simple with bank-beating exchange rates. Currencies Direct may call you to confirm your transfer, so be prepared for a phone call shortly after initiating a transfer.
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Fees for money transfers within the US

The cost to send money within the US via Western Union depends on the amount you are sending, your payment method and how your recipient would like to receive their cash. To send $100 from your bank account to theirs still carries a significant fee of $14.00.

Sending the same amount from your credit card as a cash pickup will cost you $20.50. The maximum you can send in one day is $5,000, which would cost you $243 with a credit card and $50 via bank transfer.

How are Western Union’s exchange rates?

Western Union makes money by adding a margin to the exchange rate in addition to any fees charged. It applies different exchange rates to different transfer types.

It also uses stronger or weaker exchange rates based on the currency you are transferring. Use Western Union’s price estimator tool to see what exchange rate you would be offered on your transfer.

You can compare the displayed rate on Western Union with the current mid-market rate to determine the margin they charge. Then, use the interbank rate as a benchmark for comparing the rates of other money transfer providers.

What are the ways I can send money abroad with Western Union?

Western Union has a diverse range of transfer options. We’ll go through the most used options and what the steps look like:

How to send money transfer online with Western Union

To send your first money transfer with Western Union, you will need to create a profile online:

How to send money transfer via the Western Union app

With the Western Union app, you can send money, transfer transfers, review exchange rates and find agent locations. Sending a transfer is simple:

Send money in person at Western Union locations

If you prefer to send your money transfer in person, then complete the following steps:

Send money by phone

Western Union has the option to send money by phone. Customers can call the Telephone Money Transfer hotline at 800-CALL-CASH, if they are sending money from the US to a recipient in the US.

Send money online and pay in cash

If you want to pay in cash, then you can start your money transfer online and opt for Pay in-store.

How can my recipient get the money?

Western Union has several options for how your intended recipient can get their money. Choose from any of the following:

  • Cash (in-store)
  • Bank account
  • Mobile wallet
  • Prepaid card
  • Pay your bills

What are Western Union’s payment options?

Several payment options are available with Western Union, each with its own set of limits, fees and restrictions. Its online, phone and in-store options include:

  • Credit card
  • Debit card
  • Bank account
  • Cash (in-store)
  • Wire transfer

How long does an international transfer with Western Union take?

Send your transfer a few different ways, which determines how quickly your transfer is sent and how much it will cost.

If you pay for your transfer with a credit or debit card and have it sent for cash pickup – you’ll typically pay a higher fee, but your money can arrive in as little as 10 minutes. However, your credit card may charge a cash advance fee, further increasing the cost of your total transfer.

The cheaper but slower option would be to make a bank transfer. This can take up to five business days. Depending on verification needs, you may have to wait longer while Western Union confirms you own the registered bank account.

Transfers typically takeClock icon for transfer speed

1 day

How much money can I send with Western Union?

Your limits will vary based on a number of factors, including your transfer history, location, transfer destination and what service you choose.

See the maximum amount you can send when inputting your transfer details in the Send Money section on Western Union’s homepage.

If you want to make a large money transfer, Western Union allows you to transfer up to $50,000 from the US when sending from your bank account directly to the receiver’s bank account. But keep in mind that this limit may not be available for all receiver countries and is subject to restrictions based on the factors mentioned above.

Limits at Agent Locations

There’s usually no restriction on the amount you may send at an agent location. However, some countries set limits on how much can be received. If you have questions about a specific amount you’re sending or a specific country, you can call Customer Care to inquire.

Is Western Union safe to use?

Western Union uses policies and procedures like photo identification and tracking number (MTNC) verification to help make sure your money is sent to the right person. It also educates its agents and customers on how to protect themselves from fraud and scams.

Typical scams through Western Union include:

  • Payment requests. Someone online offers to sell you something and asks that you pay through Western Union. They pick up the cash that you sent to a Western Union agent location, and you never hear from them again.
  • Overpayment scam. You receive a check that appears valid for a new job, a service or a product you are offering. The check amount is more than you earned, so the sender requests you return the extra amount by money transfer. After sending the money transfer, you’ll learn that the check bounced and there is no way to reverse the money transfer.
  • Tax scam. You are contacted by someone claiming to be from a government agency, stating that you owe taxes and they must be paid immediately. They will claim the fastest way to send money and avoid penalties is through a money transfer.

To combat these types of scams, Western Union provides clear warnings on its website before a user sends a money transfer. This popup warning requires users to choose Accept before sending their transfers.

Western Union has a specific Twitter account dedicated to fraud awareness that tweets about the newest and most relevant scams while they are popping up. Also, Western Union now operates 24/7 phone lines for customer support all over the world.

Can I trust Western Union?

Western Union is headquartered in Denver, Colorado, and has been in business since 1851. The company originated as a telegram service and launched its money transfer service in 1871. This has been growing ever since through wire transfers, money orders and money transfers in general to over 200 countries.

Between 2004 and 2010, Western Union was accused of allowing fraudulent transactions and received more than 550,000 complaints about fraud. Since then, it has paid over $586 million in fines to settle this issue. Being extra cautious by only sending or receiving money from people you know is a necessary extra step for your safety.

Frequently asked questions

How do I contact Western Union?

Contact Western Union’s customer care team through live chat, phone and post. Its website also has a FAQ section.

How long does Western Union hold money?

Money transfers are available for pickup for 90 days. If the recipient cannot pick up the funds and it has been 90 days, you’ll need to contact customer services for the transfer to be renewed and made available for payout.

How do I get my money back from Western Union?

If you wish to cancel your money transfer, log in to your account. Look at your recent money transfer activity, and select the transfer you want to cancel. You can only cancel the transfer if the money hasn’t been picked up or deposited. The amount of money refunded depends on the service chosen and the reason for cancellation.

How good is Western Union’s service?

Western Union reviews are generally positive, with the expected negative reviews popping up on review sites like Trustpilot and ConsumerAffairs. It’s no surprise that many users have great experiences and many have poor experiences, given that Western Union caters to hundreds of millions of customers.

How do I avoid Western Union’s fees?

Unfortunately, you can’t avoid Western Union’s fees in full — but you can try to make them as low as possible. One way to do this not using a credit card as a payment method, as this tends to carry a high fee.

Bank transfers also tend to be cheaper than cash pickups. It’s worth comparing Western Union’s fees and rates against other money transfer providers to see how they stack up.

Whether products shown are available to you is subject to individual provider sole approval and discretion in accordance with the eligibility criteria and T&Cs on the provider website.

Name Product Filter Values Fastest Transfer Speed Fees (Pay by Bank Transfer)
OFX International Money Transfers (Business)
24 hours
$0
Business customers: Send safe, no-limit transfers with no fees and competitive exchange rates.
Xe
Within minutes
$4
Xe has fast transfers with low fees and a range of foreign currency tools.
MoneyGram
Within minutes
From $0
First online transfer is free.
MoneyGram has fast cash pick-up transfers to more than 350,000 agent locations worldwide.
Instarem
24 hours
From 0%
New Instarem customers will get a special FX rate and zero-fees on their first transfer.
Instarem offers offers rewards on every transaction.
Xe Money Transfer for Business
24 hours
$0
Save your time and money with Xe Money Transfer for business.
Remitly
Within minutes
From $0
Remitly has quick, affordable transfers around the world, with both express and economy options.
CurrencyTransfer
24 hours
$0
CurrencyTransfer lets you shop around for the best exchange rate on its online marketplace.
WorldRemit - 4free
Within minutes
From $0.99
Use promo code 3FREE and pay no fees on your first 3 transfers. Conditions apply.
WorldRemit sends money to 110+ countries for bank-to-bank deposits, cash pick-ups or mobile top-ups.
OFX
24 hours
$0
OFX has no maximum limit transfers, with competitive exchange rates for 45+ currencies.
PayPal (business)
Within minutes
$0
Provides business solutions for small business owners in over 24 currencies worldwide. Try 3 months free of Spotify Premium when you sign up with PayPal.
Wise (TransferWise) International Money Transfers Business
Within minutes
From $8.16
Enjoy high maximum transfers into more than 20 currencies, while saving up to 90% over local banks.
Wise (TransferWise)
Within minutes
From 0.41%
Wise uses the mid-market rate and transparent fees to help you send money in 45+ currencies.
Wise (TransferWise)
Within minutes
From 0.41%
Wise uses the mid-market rate and transparent fees to help you send money in 45+ currencies.
CurrencyTransfer for Business
24 hours
$0
Increase business efficiency with zero transaction fees and same-day transfers.
WorldRemit
Within minutes
From $0.99
Use promo code 3FREE and pay no fees on your first 3 transfers. Conditions apply.
WorldRemit sends money to 110+ countries for bank-to-bank deposits, cash pick-ups or mobile top-ups.
CurrencyFair
24 hours
€3
CurrencyFair has bank-beating exchange rates and fast transfer times on 15+ popular currencies.
OFX
24 hours
$0
OFX has no maximum limit transfers, with competitive exchange rates for 45+ currencies.
CurrencyFair
24 hours
€3
CurrencyFair has bank-beating exchange rates and fast transfer times on 15+ popular currencies.
Remitly
Within minutes
From $0
Special offers like free transfers and better exchange rates available for new customers.
Remitly has quick, affordable transfers around the world, with both express and economy options.
Remitly
Within minutes
From $0
Special offers like free transfers and better exchange rates available for new customers.
Remitly has quick, affordable transfers around the world, with both express and economy options.
Remitly
Within minutes
From $0
Special offers like free transfers and better exchange rates available for new customers.
Remitly has quick, affordable transfers around the world, with both express and economy options.
PayPal
Within minutes
From $0
Use PayPal to safely send money and receive payments from around the world in over 25 currencies with just an email address or mobile number. Try 3 months free of Spotify Premium when you sign up with PayPal.
Xe
Within minutes
$3
Xe has fast transfers with low fees and a range of foreign currency tools.
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Zak Finder

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Avatar

CS

July 13, 2019

IF I USE MY BANK ACCOUNT TO SEND MONEY TO A BANK ACCOUNT IN ANOTHER COUNTRY, DOES MY BANK CHARGE FOR A TRANSFER FEE? SO IN OTHER WORDS, BESIDES THE FEE I’M PAYING TO WESTERN UNION, I WOULD ALSO HAVE SOME FEES FROM MY BANK, NO?


Avatar

fayemanuel Finder

July 14, 2019

Hi CS,


Thanks for contacting Finder.


Generally, you’ll pay fees for incoming and outgoing wires. The wire transfer fees your bank charges depend on whether you’re sending the money. Some banks charge more depending on how you initiate the wire transfer — for example, online or in person.


For Western Union, the specific transfer fees for a money transaction are indicated in the “Send Money Online” field on their website. The receiver may incur additional fees for receiving the sender’s funds through an account-based money transfer, a mobile telephone, or to a bank account.


I hope that helps.


Kind Regards,

Faye


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Avatar

Dave

July 11, 2019

Someone sent me money, and when I tracked it, the status is “on hold”. What does it mean?


Avatar

Jhez Finder

July 11, 2019

Hi Dave,


Thank you for your comment.


Upon checking, there are a few reasons why a money transfer might be on hold. If it’s been less than 30-40 minutes since you completed it, it may not be fully processed yet. Please wait a few more minutes and then check the status again.


There are times that they need to confirm the sender’s identity before they can process a money transfer. If this is the case, they will send the sender an online web receipt and an email asking them to call. Once they have confirmed the sender’s information, the transfer will be completed and the receiver can pick up the money. You may contact Western Union to find out more details about the status of the transfer.


Regards,

Jhezelyn


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Halimat

July 10, 2019

I received the MTCN today from my mum based in Saudi Arabia to Nigeria. Unfortunately, I couldn’t receive the money into my bank because it shows “customer is not allowed, refund in progress”. Why? And what should I do please?


Avatar

Jeni Finder

July 12, 2019

Hi Halimat,


Thank you for getting in touch with Finder.


It is best to contact WU directly on this matter. You may also advise your mum, who is the sender about this so she can check if the refund pushed through or not.


I hope this helps.


Thank you and have a wonderful day!


Cheers,

Jeni


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Anna

May 14, 2019

Ccem poslat 450€ zo slovenska do spojenych arabskych emiratov dubaja aky je poplatok


Avatar

Bella Finder

May 15, 2019

Hi Anna,


Thanks for your inquiry.


The fees to send 450€ from Slovakia to the UAE would be €4.90. This rate applies if you pay Western Union through a credit/debit card and your recipient will receive the money as a cash pickup. Furthermore, Western Union would tell you how much you will be paid upon checkout. This way, you can review your fees before you continue the cash transfer.


I hope this helps.


Kind regards,

Bella


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Deo

May 14, 2019

Hello,


There is no transfer from Paypal to Western Union, why is that? I need this.


Avatar

Jeni Finder

May 14, 2019

Hi Deo,


Thank you for getting in touch with Finder.


Transferring directly from Paypal to WU is not possible but you may transfer your funds from Paypal to a local bank, and then send it to Western Union. You may use some exchange websites that offer this service however it could a bit risky.


I hope this helps.


Thank you and have a wonderful day!


Cheers,

Jeni


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