Frequently Asked Questions

Send money in person

Who uses Western Union money transfer services?

Anyone who needs to send or receive money quickly uses Western Union. These include people supporting friends or relatives abroad, travellers and business people who need to make fast, international remittances.

What are Western Union agent locations?

Western Union agent locations are independent businesses that provide money transfer services to their customers on behalf of Western Union.

Which transfer service is offered at Western Union agent locations?

Western Union agent locations offer the ability to send money worldwide using cash.

How do I send money from an agent location?

You’ll need to complete a “To Send Money” form and pay the agent the amount you want to send, plus fees, in cash.

To pick up the money, the receiver will complete a “To Receive Money” form at any Western Union agent location and provide proper identification. The agent then pays the transfer amount to the receiver.

How much money can I send from an agent location?

You can usually send any amount. However, for certain amounts and transfers, you may be subject to additional security and asked to provide additional information or documentation.

What are acceptable documents for picking up money?

Acceptable IDs:

  • Current passport
  • National identity card

How are money transfers paid out to receivers?

Generally, we pay cash to your receiver. But, in some cases, payment may be made by cheque, or a combination of cash and cheque.

Other restrictions may apply.

How can I find out if my money transfer has been paid?

Any time after the money has been sent, you can check your transfer status online. All you need is your name and the tracking number (MTCN) printed on your receipt.

How can 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.

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 with the following information:

  • Name
  • Address
  • Amount expected
  • Sender’s name
  • Sender’s city and country

Acceptable ID documents are also required.

Some restrictions may apply.

When are Western Union services available?

Each Western Union agent location determines its own hours of operation. Some have extended hours and some even stay open 24 hours.

Find a nearby agent location.

How do I find a Western Union agent location?

Find a nearby agent location online or look for Western Union in your local telephone directory.

What does my receiver need to pick up their money?

If you choose cash pickup at a WU location, your receiver will need at least the tracking number (MTCN) and an acceptable form of ID. The agent location staff will inform you of any other pickup requirements.

Can I cancel a “Pay in cash” transfer?

If you don’t go to a participating agent location to pay for your transfer within 12 hours of setting it up, it will automatically cancel. However, we recommend you call Customer Care to cancel.
If you’ve already paid for your transfer, you can call Customer Care at 0 808 234 9168 to cancel before your receiver picks up the money.

What does “Pay in cash” mean?

When you choose "Pay in cash," you can set up the transfer on your mobile device, then go to a participating agent location to pay for it.