Frequently Asked Questions

Receive money

How can my receiver pick up the money?

Your receiver can pick up the money at any of our agent locations. They’ll simply need to show the following:

  • The tracking number (MTCN)
  • A valid identity proof
  • The amount to receive

How are money transfers paid out to receivers?

Generally, you can choose how your receiver will get the money. These are some of the common receive methods:

  • In cash at an agent location.
  • Online to their bank account, credit/debit card, or mobile wallet.

Please note: The receive method may vary, depending on your receiving country and the send method selected by you.

How long will it take for my money to reach my receiver?

It typically takes up to 1-2 business days after the transfer is processed, for the money to be ready for pickup at an agent location or to be credited to your receiver’s bank account or credit or debit card.

The duration may, however, vary depending on the receiving country and transfer amount.

How are money transfers paid out to receivers?

Generally, you can choose how your receiver will get the money. These are some of the common receive methods:
  • In cash at an agent location.
  • Online to their bank account, credit/debit card, or mobile wallet.
Please note: The receive method may vary, depending on your receiving country and the send method selected by you.

How can my receiver pick up the money?

Your receiver can pick up the money at any of our agent locations. They’ll simply need to show the following:
  • The tracking number (MTCN)
  • A valid identity proof
  • The amount to receive

How long will it take for my money to reach my receiver?

It typically takes up to 1-2 business days after the transfer is processed, for the money to be ready for pickup at an agent location or to be credited to your receiver’s bank account or credit or debit card.
The duration may, however, vary depending on the receiving country and the transfer amount.

How do I pick up a money transfer?

You can pick up your money at any agent location. You’ll need to complete a “To Receive money” form and include the following information:

  • Tracking number or MTCN
  • Sender’s name
  • Sender’s address
  • Receiver’s name
  • Receiver’s address
  • Expected amount

Acceptable ID documents also are required.

Some restrictions may apply.

What are acceptable documents for picking up money?

You can pick up your money transfer at any nearby agent location with one of the following:

  • Your passport¹
  • Your UK, EU, or EEA driver’s license.
  • Your, EU, or EEA residence card.
  • Your EU national ID card with the exception of the UK
  • UK Application registration card
¹We also accept temporary or emergency passports.

What does my receiver need to pick up the money transfer?

Your receiver can pick up their money from any of our agent locations. They just need to provide the following:

  • Tracking number (MTCN)
  • Sender’s and receiver’s full names
  • Expected amount
  • Your government-issued photo ID
  • Sender’s country and state/city/province.

How can my receiver get the money?

1. Cash pickup at an agent location

Your receiver can pick up the money at any nearby Western Union location. They need to complete the To Receive Money Form (TRMF) and provide their government-issued photo ID4, along with the following information:

  • Tracking number (MTCN)
  • Sender’s complete name
  • Sender’s country state/city/province
  • Expected amount

2. Bank transfer

The money is sent to the receiver’s bank account you provided when you sent the transfer.

3. Mobile wallet

The money is sent to your receiver’s mobile wallet. Your receiver can visit their mobile network operator to receive the cash.

Note: You must be at least 18 years old to send or receive money with Western Union.

Superscript:

4 We might ask your receiver to provide additional details for identity verification.

 

How do I find out if a money transfer is available for pickup?

You can check your transfer status online. All you need is the sender’s name and the tracking number (MTCN) printed on the sender’s receipt.