Frequently Asked Questions

Become an agent

Who’s responsible for setting the price for the money transfer service?

We’ll provide the fee tables. The system will automatically calculate the fee based on the amount of money sent, the service chosen, and the destination country.

What do I need in order to offer Western Union money transfer services?

You’ll need a computer, an internet connection and a printer (depending on your country of residence) at your retail location. After you’ve installed the software we’ll provide, you’ll be able to offer money transfer services and earn a commission on every Western Union money transfer that’s sent or received from your retail location(s).

How will I earn money with Western Union?

Each time a consumer sends a Western Union money transfer, they pay a transfer fee for the service. As a Western Union agent, you’ll earn a commission on the transfer fee for every transfer you process. The more transfers you send or receive, the more you earn.

How is a Western Union money transfer processed?

To send money: The consumer follows Western Union’s instructions providing all necessary information transfer money. The agent enters the consumer’s information into the Western Union system, checks their identification, and collects the cash (including the sending fee). The agent ensures that the consumer signs the receipt and provides them with a copy.

To receive money: The consumer follows Western Union’s instructions providing all necessary information to receive the money. The agent enters the consumer’s information into the system, checks their identification, and gives the consumer the funds and a copy of the receipt.

Will I be able to process money transfers to any destination?

Yes, your customers will be able to send money to more than 500,000 agent locations in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. You’ll also be able to pay out money that’s been sent from any Western Union location across the world.

What do I need to know about Anti-Money Laundering (AML) compliance?

While all money transfer agents have a responsibility to implement Anti-Money Laundering (AML) compliance procedures, Western Union has an industry-leading AML program and provides first-class training and support to help you succeed as an agent and protect your business.

What support will I receive from Western Union?

After you’ve been enrolled as an agent, Western Union will help you get started and make your first transfer. You’ll get a free starter pack, with training and marketing promotion materials. We’ll provide training and software free of charge. As a Western Union agent, you’ll have access to Customer Care to answer any questions you may have about offering our service.

Do I need to have a specific licence and will I be regulated?

Yes, but Western Union will handle this for you.

What type of business do I need to have to be eligible?

Many retail businesses make great Western Union agents. Agents in our network own businesses as diverse as convenience stores, financial services providers, newsagents, pawnbrokers, and travel agencies.