Finder is committed to editorial independence. While we receive compensation when you click links to partners, they do not influence our content.

Fastest ways to make an emergency money transfer

If you or a loved one are in an emergency and need cash quickly, here are your best options.

Avatar
Adrienne Fuller
Updated . What changed?
Fact checked

Money transfer services offer some of the fastest ways to transfer money to someone in cash or for direct deposit in an emergency — but which provider you should use depends on how much you’re sending and how quickly you need it to arrive.

Compare the fastest international money transfers

Even though speed is crucial, compare exchange rates and fees to make sure you aren’t paying too much for your transfer.

Min. Transfer Amount Transfer Speed Online Transfer Fee Rate Amount Received Description CTA Details
WorldRemit International Money Transfers
AUD 1 Same day NZD 3.99 0.715 USD
712
 Use promo code 3FREE to send your first 3 transfers with no fee. Conditions apply.
WorldRemit sends money to 110+ countries for bank-to-bank deposits, cash pick-ups or mobile top-ups. 		Go to site Show details
Western Union International Money Transfers
AUD 1 Same day NZD 20.00 0.692 USD
679
 Western Union sends money online to friends and family in 200+ countries around the world. Show details

Compare up to 4 providers

Disclaimer: Exchange rates change often. Confirm the total cost with the provider before transferring money.

Moving money domestically?

You may need to use a money transfer specialist when sending money internationally during an emergency, but domestic transfers have more options. Compare your options to make sure you’re getting the best deal on your transfer.

Three of the fastest services to transfer money

When there’s an emergency, getting money out as quickly as possible is key. These three service providers deliver the fastest money transfer services easily and safely.

WorldRemit

WorldRemit is entirely online, meaning you can access it from the convenience of your computer or its app. It operates in more than 140 countries around the world with flexible transfer options from your bank account, credit card or debit card.

Your fastest option is mobile money (if available) or for cash pick-up at a WorldRemit agent location.

WorldRemit money transfers logo
WorldRemit at a glance
  • Maximum transfer: Varies by country
  • Minimum transfer: $1
  • Transfer speed: Within 1 hour
  • Transaction fee: $3.99
How can I send money quickly?

You’ll need to sign up for a free account with WorldRemit. You’ll also need to provide your personal information, the transaction details and your payment information.

What happens next?

WorldRemit will confirm the transaction with both you and your recipient by email or text and notify you when the funds are received or picked up. If you have any problems, you can contact WorldRemit’s customer service 24/7 through live chat.

Back to top

MoneyGram

As the second-largest provider of international money transfers in the world, MoneyGram is one of the most trusted. Its extensive network of 350,000 agent locations has a presence in more than 200 countries.

With MoneyGram, sending funds can take minutes depending on local regulations and procedures. Your fastest option is to pay with a credit or debit card (or with cash at an agent location) and choose the cash pick-up option. Once the money is sent, it arrives for almost immediate cash pick-up at locations worldwide. In some countries, you even have a mobile wallet option.

MoneyGram International Money Transfers logo
MoneyGram at a glance
  • Maximum transfer: $10,000
  • Minimum transfer: $1
  • Delivery speed: Typically within minutes, but up to 1 day
  • Transaction fee: $4.99 plus anywhere between 3% and 7% of the transfer
How can I send money quickly?
  • Head to the MoneyGram site and start a transfer using your bank account, credit card or debit card.
  • Use MoneyGram’s online locator tool or call to find a location near you.
What happens after?

Once the money transfer is complete, the receiver can visit their nearest MoneyGram location to collect it. Remind them to bring along their reference number (which is included in the confirmation emails for online transfer) and ID for pick-up. If you have a problem, contact customer service through their website.

Back to top

Western Union

Western Union has the biggest network of agent locations with 500,000 agent locations in 200 countries. You can send funds online, through a mobile app, in person or by phone. You’re able to pay with a bank transfer, cash, debit card or credit card.

As with MoneyGram, your fastest option is to pay by debit or credit card for cash pick-up.

Western Union Money Transfers logo

Western Union at a glance
  • Maximum transfer: $50,000
  • Minimum transfer: $1
  • Transfer speed: In minutes if using a debit or credit card for cash pick-up
  • Transaction fee: Typically around 5% of the transfer
How can I send money quickly?
  • Head to Western Union’s website. You’ll need your personal information, your recipient’s details and a valid method of payment to make the transfer.
  • Visit a Western Union location near you with cash or a debit card.
What happens next?

You’ll receive a unique Money Transfer Control Number with your confirmation. You can track your transfer online with this number. If you have any problem, contact customer service 24/7 at 800-325-6000 or through the online form on Western Union’s site.

Back to top

What do I need to look out for when sending cash quickly?

Fees for emergency transfers will vary among banks and money transfer services. Before you make your transfer, compare:

  • Exchange rates. Money transfer services make money by skewing exchange rates. You’ll want to look for a rate that’s as close to the mid-market rate as possible.
  • Transfer fees. Fees can range from flat fees of a few dollars to up to $80 or more, depending on how you’re sending it or picking it up.
  • Transfer options. Can your recipient accept a bank account transfer, or do they need to pick up cash right away?
  • Security. For emergencies, you’ll appreciate being able to track your transfer through to receipt.

Bottom line

Being robbed of your valuables, needing emergency medical treatment or missing your return flight home can be stressful. But having the ability to quickly receive funds or help loved ones far away can let off at least some of the pressure. If you have a little more time, however, compare your available options for international money transfers.

Frequently asked questions

More guides on Finder

Ask an Expert

You are about to post a question on finder.com:

  • Do not enter personal information (eg. surname, phone number, bank details) as your question will be made public
  • finder.com is a financial comparison and information service, not a bank or product provider
  • We cannot provide you with personal advice or recommendations
  • Your answer might already be waiting – check previous questions below to see if yours has already been asked

Finder.com provides guides and information on a range of products and services. Because our content is not financial advice, we suggest talking with a professional before you make any decision.

By submitting your comment or question, you agree to our Privacy and Cookies Policy and Terms of Use, Disclaimer & Privacy Policy.

Questions and responses on finder.com are not provided, paid for or otherwise endorsed by any bank or brand. These banks and brands are not responsible for ensuring that comments are answered or accurate.
Go to site