7 Western Union also makes money from currency exchange. When choosing a money transmitter, carefully compare both transfer fees and exchange rates. Fees, foreign exchange rates, and taxes may vary by brand, channel, and location based on a number of factors. Fees and rates subject to change without notice. Fee reductions apply only to the Western Union® transfer fee for a single Western Union Money Transfer® or Quick Collect® transaction. Excludes all other services, including without limitation, online bill payments, and money transfers via social/chat applications. Points used will not be reversible and if amount of transfer fee is less than redeemed discount, no cash, credit or refund will be provided. Western Union reserves the right to offer promotional discounts that cannot be combined with My WU® fee reductions
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What are the foreign exchange rates* for sending money?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"To find the foreign exchange rates for sending money, visit
WU.com.
In the upper right, click the
Menu icon

and select
Estimate Price from the dropdown.
*Western Union also makes money from currency exchange. When choosing a money transmitter, carefully compare both transfer fees and exchange rates. Fees, foreign exchange rates and taxes may vary by brand, channel, and location based on a number of factors. Fees and rates subject to change without notice.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How can my receiver get the money?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"This depends on the money transfer delivery options available in the destination country.
Cash pick up at an Agent location. They can pick up the money at any nearby Western Union location. Your receiver will need to fill out the To Receive Money Form (TRMF) and present Government-issued ID*.
- Sender’s complete name
- Sender’s country state/city/province may be required
- Expected amount
Direct to Bank. The money is sent to the receiver’s bank account you provided when you sent the money transfer.
Mobile Money Transfer (transfer to a receiver’s mobile wallet). The funds are sent to the receiver’s mobile wallet. Your receiver can visit the qualifying mobile network operator to receive the cash.
Money transfer to a correctional facility. The money is sent to the correctional facility and account number you provided when you sent the money transfer.
* Your receiver may be required to provide identity information depending on the service, send amount and the destination of the money transfer.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How do I send money to an inmate in a correctional facility?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"WU.com or mobile app
1. Log on to your WU Profile.
2. Click the
Menu icon

and select Pay inmate from the dropdown.
3. Fill out the required information to send money.
You will need:
• Correctional facility name (also known as code city and state)
• Inmate’s number
• Inmate’s complete name • Amount
• Reference number if applicable (provided by the correctional facility)
In person
Ask the Agent for the To Send Money Form (TSMF) for Bill Payments service.
You will need:
• Correctional facility name (or code city)
• Inmate’s account number
• Inmate’s complete name
• Amount
• Speed of delivery (Same Day, Next Day and 2nd Day).
Note: Service fee varies on the chosen speed of delivery. This is applicable in select Agent locations.
Telephone Money Transfer – US to US
Call 1-800-CALL-CASH (1-800-225-5227) to send money using a credit** or debit card.
You will need:
• Correctional facility name (or code city)
• Inmate’s account number
• Inmate’s complete name
• Amount
** Card issuer cash advance fee and associated interest charges may apply. Use a debit card to avoid these fees and charges.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What are the reasons my large amount money transfer is declined?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Unfortunately, sometimes we may not be able to approve a large amount money transfer you intended to send.
These situations may include, but are not limited to, the below reasons:
We are not able to validate that your source of funds supports your money transfer activity.
The provided documents do not contain the required information.
We couldn’t verify the authenticity of the documentation provided.
The provided documents were illegible, blurry, obscured, expired, or not recent.
We couldn’t establish you have sufficient funds to send a large amount money transfer.
If the documents provided are incomplete and/or rejected, you will receive an email notification. You will need to provide the correct documentation, or your money transfer will be canceled.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Test by Raja-How do I send money?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Go to the send money option in the app"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What’s the fastest way to send money for a cash pick up?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"You can send money quickly using WU Money in Minutes*:
With WU.com or the mobile app
Log in to WU.com and select Send Money and choose Cash at agent location, or access the mobile app and select Cash pick up, then pay with a credit* or debit card.
In Person
Visit an Agent location and pay with cash or debit card, where available. Be sure to choose Money in Minutes*.
Telephone Money Transfer – US to US
Call 1800-CALL-CASH (1800-225-5227) to send money using a credit** or debit card.
* Date available will be displayed on receipt for international transfers over $15 USD. Service and funds availability depends on certain factors including the Service selected, the selection of delayed delivery options, special terms applicable to each Service, amount sent, destination country, currency availability, regulatory issues, consumer protection issues, identification requirements, delivery restrictions, Agent location hours, and differences in time zones (collectively, “Restrictions”).
** Card issuer cash advance fee and associated interest charges may apply. Use a debit card to avoid these fees and charges.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Does it take longer to complete a large amount money transfer?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The delivery time varies, depending on the sending and receiving countries, payment, and payout methods selected.
To create a better service for you while complying with local and international regulations, each money transfer goes through different layers of security, and you may receive a call from us requesting further information and/or documentation.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Can I send a money transfer on a holiday?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Our online services are always available on
westernunion.com or by sending from the Western Union mobile application. Holiday hours vary by Agent location and can be confirmed by contacting the Agent directly. Agent phone numbers can be found on our
Find Locations page.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What do I need to pick up my money transfer? ","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"You can pick up your transfer from any of our
agent locations. You just need to provide the following:
The tracking number (MTCN)
Your and your sender’s full name
The expected amount
Your government-issued ID
Sender’s country and state/city/province may be required
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How do I send money to India with UPI?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"About UPI
Understanding UPI ID
Current list supported banks for international UPI transfer
Send limits using UPI
Steps to send money using a UPI through Western Union
About UPI
Unified Payments Interface (UPI) is a payment method that allows you to instantly transfer money to a bank account.
Understanding UPI ID
UPI ID is a virtual payment address (VPA) that uniquely identifies one person. A UPI ID format is like an email ID: with the sign “@” in the middle. For example, your receiver’s UPI ID could be “receiver’s_name@bank_name” or “phone_number@bank_name.”
When sending with a UPI ID, you only need to have your receiver's UPI ID. You do not need to ask receivers for their account number, account type, bank name, or IFSC code.
To receive the payment, the receiver needs to have their UPI ID linked to the bank enabled for international UPI remittance. Please see the supported banks list below.
Current list supported banks for international UPI transfer
Below are the banks currently supported. More banks will be made available soon.
Bank Name / Bank Code
ICICI BANK Ltd. / ICIC
AXIS BANK / UTIB
BANK of INDIA / BKID
Andhra Bank / ANDB
YES BANK Ltd. / YESB
INDUSIND BANK Ltd. / INDB
UCO Bank / UCBA
Central Bank of India / CBIN
Bank of Baroda / BARB
Kotak Mahindra bank / KKBK
State Bank Of India / SBI
Allahabad Bank\t / ALLA
HSBC / HSBC
IDBI Bank Limited / IBKL
Oriental Bank of Commerce / ORBC
Punjab and Sind Bank / PSIB
RBL / RATN
South Indian Bank / SIBL
Send limits using UPI
Currently you can send up to 200,000 INR per transfer.
Steps to send money using a UPI through Western Union
Western Union is the first money transfer service company to use a UPI transfer internationally.
- Log in to your Western Union profile.
- Choose India as your receiving country (you will need to know your receiver’s mailing address).
- Choose to send using a bank pay out and use any payment method.
- Choose UPI ID under the bank information section. You’ll be able to browse all the banks enabled for international UPI transfer.
- Choose to send your transfer, and you’re all set! Generally, your transfer should be completed in minutes.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How do I use a promotion code?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"- Go to WU.com, at the top of the page, choose Send money.
- Enter the required information. Before selecting Continue, choose I have a promo code.
- Enter the promo code and click Apply.
Mobile app
- On the home screen, select Send money.
- Enter the required information. Before selecting Continue, select Transfer discount: (enter code).
- Enter the promo code and select Apply.
In person
Provide the promotion code to the Agent before completing the money transfer.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How do I edit my profile settings? ","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"On the mobile WU app, tap My Profile at the bottom of the screen. Enter your username and password and tap Log In. Once logged in, you can update all of your personal details by tapping the appropriate button.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Who can I contact about my large amount money transfer?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"For general information, get in touch with us through the
Contact us section
at
westernunion.com.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What are the fees to send money?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"You can find the fee* and applicable FX rates of your transfers online, click
estimate price.
You may also receive fee discounts and other promotions by registering with our loyalty program -
My WU, and can earn points every time you send a qualifying transfer.
Note: If you're using a credit card to send money online or over the phone, a credit card issuer cash advance fee and associated interest charges may apply. You can avoid these fees by using a debit card.
* Western Union also makes money from currency exchange. When choosing a money transmitter, carefully compare both transfer fees and exchange rates. Fees, foreign exchange rates, and taxes may vary by brand, channel, and location based on a number of factors. Fees and rates subject to change without notice. Fee reductions apply only to the Western Union® transfer fee for a single Western Union Money Transfer® or Quick Collect® transaction. Excludes all other services, including without limitation, online bill payments, and money transfers via social/chat applications. Points used will not be reversible and if amount of transfer fee is less than redeemed discount, no cash, credit or refund will be provided. Western Union reserves the right to offer promotional discounts that cannot be combined with My WU® fee reductions.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Why do I have to send my source of funds documentation?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"At certain threshold, before you can send a large amount of money transfer, we need to request additional documentation to verify the source of your funds. It is required to meet our regulatory obligations and internal policies, which allow us to serve you better, speed up the transfer process and protect your money.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Can I send money to a prison inmate?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes, you can send money to a prison inmate.
Note: You must be at least 18 years old to send or receive money with Western Union.
2. Click the
Menu icon

and select
Pay inmate from the dropdown.
3. Select the Correctional facility from the dropdown and follow the instructions provided.
You will need:
• Facility name
• Amount
• Receiver’s first and last name
• Inmate’s account/register number
Mobile app
1. Log on to your WU profile.
2. On the bottom right, tap More.
3. Tap Pay bills/Inmate.
4. Locate the facility by tapping Inmate at the top of the screen.
5. Type the company name in the Search field or scroll through the list of billers.
6. Follow the instructions provided.
You will need:
• Facility name
• Amount
• Receiver’s first and last name
• Inmate’s account/register number
In person
Ask the Agent for the To Send Money Form (TSMF) for Bill Payments service.
You will need:
• Facility name (enter into Company Name (or Code City) field)
• Inmate’s account/register number followed by the inmate’s last name (enter in
Account Number field)
• First and last name (enter in Attention field)
• Amount
Note: Agents can assist with any questions on the form.
Telephone Money Transfer – US to US
Call 1-800-CALL-CASH (1-800-225-5227) to send money using a credit** or debit card.
You will need:
• Facility name
• Amount
• Receiver’s first and last name
• Inmate’s account/register number
**Card issuer cash advance fee and associated interest charges may apply. Use a debit card to avoid these fees and charges.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How much money can I send with Western Union?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Specific money transfer limits will vary based on a number of factors, including:
- Your transfer history
- Your location
- Your receiver’s location
- The service you choose
- Your payment method
- Agent location limits
- Country receive limits
Sending on WU.com or mobile app
To determine how much you can send on
WU.com or the mobile app, click
Send Money.
Sending in-person
To determine how much you can send in-person, visit one of our
Agent locations.
Sending by phone (Telephone Money Transfer)
To determine how much you can send from a US location to another US location over the phone, please call 1-800-CALL-CASH® (1-800-225-5227).
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What does my receiver need to pick up their money?\t","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"This depends on the money transfer delivery you choose and the destination country.
Cash pick up at an Agent location
Your receiver will need:
- Tracking number (MTCN),
- Sender’s complete name,
- Sender’s country and state/city/province may be required,
- Expected amount, and
- Government-issued ID*.
- In some receiving countries, a security question may be required.
Direct to Bank
Funds are sent directly to the receiver’s bank account and receiver will need to comply with bank’s requirements and policies to receive funds.
Mobile Money Transfer
Funds are sent directly to mobile account and receiver will need to comply with mobile network operator’s requirements and policies to receive funds.
Money transfer to a correctional facility
Funds are sent directly to the inmate’s account. The inmate will need to comply with the facility’s requirements and policies to receive funds.
* Your receiver may be required to provide identity information depending on the service, send amount and the destination of the money transfer.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How can I pay for my money transfer? ","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"You can pay for a money transfer in the US using a credit* or debit card, by making a bank transfer, or with a wire transfer. You may also start your transfer using the mobile app and pay cash at participating
Western Union Agent locations.
In-person
Visit a Western Union Agent location to send money using cash or, in some cases, a debit card.
Telephone Money Transfer
Transfer money by phone, using a credit* or debit card, by calling the Telephone Money Transfer hotline at 1-800-CALL-CASH (1800-225-5227), for transfers sent within the US.
* Card issuer cash advance fee and associated interest charges may apply. Use a debit card to avoid these fees and charges.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What is the limit of the amount that I can transfer through Western Union?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"You can transfer up to 50000 USD/ EURO (or local equivalent) from United Kingdom, France, Germany, Australia, Hong Kong, or the United States when sending from your bank account directly to the receiver’s bank account. The limit may not be available for all receiver countries and is subject to restrictions based on various factors.
In most other countries, the limit is 5,000 USD/EURO (or local equivalent) when sending money from one personal bank account to the other. However, some agent locations and/or countries might have certain restrictions. They vary depending on the payment method, sending and receiving countries, and other factors.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What is wire transfer payment option?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The wire transfer payment lets you pay for an international money transfer using your bank account. You will be able to begin your money transfer on wu.com or the WU mobile app and pay for it via electronic bank transfer once you get the money transfer control number (MTCN). Depending on your bank, you can choose to pay for a money transfer online, in person by visiting your bank or, over the phone by calling your bank directly. You will get the steps to pay for the money transfer via email. Also see
How do I pay formy wire transfer? for more details.
Once we have received your payment, you will be notified via email when your transfer will be available for pick up.
Note:
When paying with a wire transfer:
- Your bank may charge you an additional fee (check with your bank).
- Make sure the name on your bank account matches the name on your Western Union profile.
- We don't accept payments for wire transfers using cash, bank checks or business accounts. Your money transfer will be cancelled if you use one of those payment methods.
- Keep in mind that there could be delays in refunding your money if your identity is not confirmed.
- Make sure you pay the total amount indicated in the email, or your transfer will be cancelled.
- If the transfer is cancelled for not meeting the requirements, an electronic refund will be issued. Your bank may charge you an additional fee for a refund.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How many documents do I need to provide to validate the source of my funds?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"We will let you know which documents need to be provided to prove the source of your funds and validate its legitimacy.
Once Western Union asks you for specific documents during a call or via email, please make sure to provide the required document(s) only.
Providing accurate documents that validate the legitimacy of the funds you intend to transfer in a timely manner helps us to speed up the verification process.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How many Alipay wallet transfers can I make in a month?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"You can make up to 5 transfers to the same receiver on Alipay wallet within a 30-day period starting from the date of the first transfer. If it’s urgent, you can always choose a different payout method such as bank account or cash.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How do I send money directly to my receiver's bank account?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"If Direct to Bank is available, you can send money directly to your receiver's bank account.
You’ll need:
Within the US: bank name, account name, account number and routing number
Outside the US: one or all of the following may be required:
- Branch name, bank, or branch code
- Account number or International Bank Account Number (IBAN)
- Routing number, International Bank Identifier Code (BIC), swift BIC or Indian Financial System Code (IFSC)
Other information: in some cases, you may also need the receiver’s complete address.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Can I send money from my mobile phone?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"iPhone
Then, you can send money using a credit*/debit card or bank account.
Android
Then, you can send money using a credit*/debit card or bank account.
* Card issuer cash advance fee and associated interest charges may apply. Use a debit card to avoid these fees and charges.
You can also access
westernunion.com from any web browser on your mobile device.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"When is the money taken from my bank account?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The money is deducted from your bank account once you submit and authorize the money transfer.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Sending money directly to a bank account","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"If Direct to Bank is available, you can send money directly to your receiver's bank account.
WU.com or mobile app
When sending money, choose Bank account as the delivery option.
In person
When sending money from an Agent location, choose Bank account deposit as the money delivery option.
Note: This option is not offered via Telephone Money Transfer.
You’ll need:
Within the US: Bank name, account name, account number and routing number
Outside the US: One or all of the following may be required:
• Branch name, bank, or branch code
• Account number or International Bank Account Number (IBAN)
• Routing number, International Bank Identifier Code (BIC), swift BIC or Indian Financial System Code (IFSC)
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Write something gibberish","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":""}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How do I send money?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"You can send money with Western Union a few different ways, including
online,
in person, and by
phone.
If you're a first time user of
WU.com, you'll need to create a
profile. If you're a first time user of the mobile app, download the app first.
- Click Send Money, enter the send amount, currency, and destination.
- You can choose how would you like to pay: cash at retail agent location, credit** or debit card, or bank account.
- Select how your receiver would like to get the money. You can choose: cash pick up, Mobile Money Transfers, Direct to Bank, (services vary, depending on the receive country).
- Review the transfer summary and submit.
*For a visual on how to send money online, please click here.
In person
You can visit a Western Union Agent location to send money using cash or, in some cases, a debit card.
You'll need:
- Your receiver’s name as it appears on their government-issued ID
- Your receiver’s city/province/state and country
- Your government-issued ID*
Telephone Money Transfer
You can send money by phone by calling the Telephone Money Transfer hotline at 1-800-CALL-CASH, for a US to US money transfer.
You'll need:
- Your credit** or debit card info
- Your receiver’s name as it appears on their government-issued ID
- Your receiver’s city, state, and country
- Your government-issued ID*
Note: Your transfer fee will vary, based on the options you choose.
* You may be required to provide identity information depending on the service, send amount and the destination of the money transfer.
** Card issuer cash advance fee and associated interest charges may apply. Use a debit card to avoid these fees and charges.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What information do I need to send money?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"To send money with us, you may need to fill in certain information about yourself and your receiver, depending on which send and receive methods you choose.
If you already have a WU profile, you may have this information stored in that profile. If not, please keep this information handy when you send money online or visit a Western Union location.
To send or receive money with us through various methods, you may need to keep the following information ready. Please choose the method you will be using.
WU.com or the mobile app
Start online, finish in store
Transfer to a mobile wallet
Transfer to a bank account
Pay a bill
Make a telephone money transfer
Send money to an inmate
Note: You must be at least 18 years old with a valid, government-issued ID to send or receive money with Western Union.
In certain jurisdictions you also have an option to create a test question for your receiver to ensure the security of your transfer. Your receiver will need to present an ID and answer the test question to receive the money.
WU.com or the mobile app:
- Your Western Union log in information
- Your credit** or debit card information
- Your receiver’s first and last name, as it appears on their government-issued ID
- Your receiver’s country, and in some cases*** their full address
In specific cases, additional information about your receiver may be required. For more details, please see Transfer to a bank account, Send money to an inmate, and Pay a bill.
Start online, finish in store:
- Your government-issued ID to be shown at the agent location.
- Your cash or debit card to pay for the transfer amount and fees.
- Your receiver’s first and last name, to be entered as it appears on their government-issued ID.
- Your receiver’s country, and in some cases*** their full address.
In specific cases, additional information about your receiver may be required. For more details, please see Transfer to a bank account, Send money to an inmate, and Pay a bill.
Transfer to a mobile wallet:
- Your mobile phone number
- Your receiver’s first and last name, as it appears on his /her government-issued ID
- Your receiver’s country, and in some cases*** their full address
- Your receiver’s mobile phone number
Transfer to a bank account:
- Your receiver’s first and last name, as it appears on their government-issued ID
- Your receiver’s country, and in some cases*** their full address
- Your receiver’s phone number
- For a receiving bank located within the US, your receiver’s bank name, receiver’s bank routing number, and receiver’s account number
- For a receiving bank located outside the US, your receiver’s international Bank Account Number (IBAN) and the receiving bank’s Bank Identifier Code (BIC or the receiving country equivalent)
Additional information may be required for some receiving countries. Before starting your transfer to a bank account, please remember to check the bank’s routing information.
Paying a bill:
- Company name (also known as code city and state)
- Your billing account number
- Amount to send
- Reference number, if applicable (provided by the company or biller)
Making a telephone money transfer:
- Your government-issued ID*
- Your credit** or debit card information
- Your receiver’s first and last name, as it appears on their government-issued ID
- Your receiver’s country, and in some cases their full address
Send money to an inmate:
- Your government-issued ID*
- Your receiver’s correctional facility name (also known as code city and state)
- Inmate’s register number
- Inmate’s first and last name
- Reference number, if applicable (provided by the correctional facility)
*You may be required to provide government-issued identification, depending on the service, send amount, and the destination of the money transfer. Secondary ID may also be required for some transactions (e.g., residence status document or country of birth information).
** Card issuer cash advance fee and associated interest charges may apply. Use a debit card to avoid these fees and charges.
*** When sending money from the USA directly to your receiver’s bank account, you will need to provide your receiver’s full postal address to the Agent for the following countries: United States, Argentina, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Ecuador, El Salvador, Ghana, Guam, Guatemala, Honduras, India, Mexico, Peru, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands. Your receiver’s full postal address will also be required for these countries when sending from WU.com or the WU app to your receiver’s bank account, where available.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Do I need to complete an identity verification process to send a large amount money transfer? What are the acceptable verification documents?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Identity verification is independent of large amount money transfers. A customer can only send a large amount money transfer if they have already been verified by Western Union. Refer to the below links for country-specific Know-Your-Customer/ID verification requirements:
France, United Kingdom, Germany, Australia, Hong Kong, United States
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Sending money with my bank account","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":" WU.com or mobile app
If you're a first time user of
WU.com, you'll need to create a
profile. If you're a first time user of the mobile app, download the app first, then create a profile.
- Click Send Money and select the destination.
- Enter the send amount and currency.
- Choose Bank account as the payment option.
Note: Bank account as a payment option is unavailable when sending money in person, by phone, or if sending to a mobile wallet.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Which credit cards do you accept?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":" WU.com, mobile app, and Agent locations
WU accepts Visa®, MasterCard®, and Discover® credit cards*.
Telephone Money Transfer
Visa® and MasterCard® credit cards*.
* Card issuer cash advance fee and associated interest charges may apply. Use a debit card to avoid these fees and charges.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"When will I receive a call/an email from Western Union?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"You can expect a call or an email from Western Union within 30 minutes of initiating a large amount money transfer.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Do I need to get my documents translated?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"You don’t need to get your documents translated. You can send them to us in the original language.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Do I need to register to send money?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes. You need to create a profile. To
Register for a profile, you will need:
- Your complete name as it appears on your government-issued ID
- Your email address
- Your mobile number
- Your billing address
Note: After successful registration, your profile can be accessed either via
westernunion.com or mobile app.
In person
No. Registration is not required.
Telephone Money Transfer - US to US
No. Registration is not required.
Note: You must be at least 18 years old to send or receive money with Western Union.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Can I cancel my money transfer? When will I receive a refund?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes, you can cancel your money transfer if it hasn’t been deposited. It may take up to 7 business days from the day the refund was issued for the funds to show in your account, depending on your bank’s refund-processing practice.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Do I need a landline to send money over the phone?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"No. You can send money transfers over the phone using either a landline or a mobile phone.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What is a Money Transfer Control Number (MTCN)?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The Money Transfer Control Number (MTCN) is a unique number assigned to your transfer.
Your receiver will need this number when they pick up their money, and it can also be used to
track your transfer.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What if I miss the call from Western Union?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"If you miss our call, we will send you an email asking you to call us back within 24 hours. Always make sure to check your email after initiating a large amount money transfer.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How do I know if a company accepts a payment from Western Union?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"
2. At the top of the web page, click
Pay Bills.
3. In the Biller name field, start typing the company name. If the company name appears, they accept payments from Western Union.
Mobile app
1. Tap Pay bills.
2. On the top right, tap More.
3. Type the company name in the Search field or scroll through the list of billers.
In person
The Agent at the Agent location can check if the Biller accepts payment from Western Union.
Telephone Money Transfer – US to US
Call 1-800-CALL-CASH (1-800-225-5227) to check if the Biller accepts payment from Western Union.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What to do if I receive error message “there is already an account with this email address.”? Error C1052","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"WEB: To recover your username, visit www.westernunion.com and click Log In. Click the link called Forgot username. Enter the email address associated with your Western Union online profile, then the security code, and click Continue. Enter the answer to your security question and click Continue.
SMARTPHONE: To recover your username, tap My Profile, then Forgot your Username. Enter the email address associated with your Western Union online profile, and tap Get Security Question. Enter the answer, then tap Get Username. "}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What care do I need to take when sending the documents?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Please make sure the documents aren’t damaged, illegible, or expired and letters, numbers, signs, and security features are clear. When taking a digital photo of your document, please ensure that all four corners are visible and that there is no glare or other obstruction, the lighting is sufficient, and the letters are not blurred or too faint.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What qualifies as a large amount money transfer?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"An amount of over 15,000 USD is considered a large amount money transfer.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How secure is my large amount money transfer?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Western Union uses the latest technology to ensure convenient and reliable online money transfers. We operate according to the local and international regulations and compliance programs to protect our customers.
For the best experience when using Western Union, we recommend our customers to make sure their contact information is up to date on their online banking and Western Union profile.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How long does it take to verify my document?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Once we receive the required documents from you, they will be processed within 30 minutes.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How much can I send with Western Union? ","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"To send more than 3,000 USD from the United States, you will need to verify your identity1. Once verified, you can send up to 50,000USD.
1You can verify your identity online or at an agent location.
Please note: The sending limit may vary depending on the destination country and the service you choose.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Are there any additional checks to sending multiple large amount money transfers in a short period of time?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"There are no limits to sending multiple large amount money transfers over any time frame. However, Western Union policy defines certain thresholds to monitor the customer’s total money transfer activity during a respective period. If a customer exceeds these thresholds, we may ask for additional information to comply with internal policies and regulations. These thresholds may vary depending on the sending customer’s country of residence and the country where the money is sent.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Which banks can I use to make a wire transfer?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"You can use a wire transfer at any U.S. bank where you have an account. This can be done via online banking, by visiting a nearby bank branch or by calling your bank directly.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What is a tracking number (MTCN)? Where can I find it? ","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"
A tracking number (MTCN) is a unique 10-digit number assigned to your transfer. You can use the MTCN to track your transfer status.
You can find the MTCN on the receipt of your transfer or log into your profile and go to History, select a transfer to get the MTCN.
Note: NEVER share your MTCN with anyone except your receiver or a Western Union representative.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"Where do I need to send the additional documents?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"You don’t need to send any documents in advance. If Western Union asks you to provide any additional documents (such as proof of source of your funds), you'll be provided with directions at that time.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How do I fund my wire transfer?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"If you select the wire transfer payment option, you will receive specific payment instructions on your email along with your money transfer control number (MTCN). Depending on your bank, you may be able to choose one of the following payment options to pay for your wire transfer:
- Online: Log in to your bank’s website
- In person: Visit your bank branch
- By phone: Call your bank directly
Western Union can only accept payments from personal bank accounts. We will not accept payments for wire transfers using cash, bank checks or business accounts. Your money transfer will be cancelled if you use one of those payment methods. Keep in mind that there could be delays in refunding your money if your identity is not confirmed.
Please carefully follow the instructions in the email we sent you, so you can fill out the bank form. The terms used by your bank may be slightly different than what you see in the instructions email. Please see the information below if you need clarification:
Term used in Western Union instructions e-mail | Term that your bank might use
Transfer Amount* | Amount
*Enter the exact amount on your instructions e-mail. If you pay less than the total amount indicated in the email, your transfer will be cancelled
Name of Recipient* | Beneficiary name, Recipient name, Business name
*The recipient is Western Union
WU bank name* | Bank name, Final receiving bank name
*See your WU instructions e-mail for specific details
WU bank account number |Account number, Recipient account number, IBAN, Receiving bank account number
WU routing number\t | ABA, Bank routing number (US ABA/SWIFT), Routing number, International Routing number (IRC)
WU address |Address, City, State, Zip code, Country, Territory
Mandatory Information* |Special instructions, Message to recipient, Notes, Description, Additional wire instructions
*You must include the transfer reference number (EBxxxxxxx) and the receiver’s name as it is listed on your WU instructions e-mail
WU e-mail* | no-reply-email@wu.com
*Add if required by your bank\t
Note: You might also be required to agree to your bank’s Terms and Conditions. Some banks may require you to pass an identity verification process. Your bank may also charge you an additional fee for the wire transfer. Check with your bank for specific details.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How to send a large amount money transfer, and do I need to provide any additional documents?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"You can send and receive large amount money transfers online on westernunion.com or the Western Union app at your convenience 24/7.
To send a large amount money transfer, simply follow the steps to fill in the required money transfer details, such as destination country, your receiver’s name, send amount, and select the payment method.
To meet our regulatory and compliance obligations, we may sometimes collect additional information and/or documents which will include documents to validate your occupation and the source of funds.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What are the fees to send a large amount money transfer?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"To find out the estimated fee and currency exchange rates for your online money transfers, click
Estimate Price and fill in the required fields, such as your receiver’s country and send amount.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What happens if some of my documents are not accepted?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"We will send you an email requesting additional documents and directions on how to send them. You need to provide the correct documentation within the stipulated time, or your money transfer will be canceled.
"}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How do I know if my transfer has been approved?","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"For online transfers, we’ll notify you when your transfer status has changed. For transfers at agent locations, you’ll need to
check your transfer status after some time for any updates.
In case your transfer status shows In Progress for more than 48 hours,
contact us.
Sometimes, we need to confirm a few details before we send your transfer. This is a standard process and sometimes takes longer than usual.
If necessary, we’ll reach out to you. Otherwise, no further action is needed.
"}}]}]}
How do I update my email address/phone number?
On the app, tap My Profile at the bottom of the screen. Enter your username and password and tap Log In. Once logged in, you can update all of your personal details by tapping the appropriate button.
Can I pay in cash even if I use the app to send money?
Yes, if your receiver is picking up the money at an agent location. You can do this using our
mobile app. You must be at least 18 years old to send or receive money with Western Union
7 Western Union also makes money from currency exchange. When choosing a money transmitter, carefully compare both transfer fees and exchange rates. Fees, foreign exchange rates, and taxes may vary by brand, channel, and location based on a number of factors. Fees and rates subject to change without notice. Fee reductions apply only to the Western Union® transfer fee for a single Western Union Money Transfer® or Quick Collect® transaction. Excludes all other services, including without limitation, online bill payments, and money transfers via social/chat applications. Points used will not be reversible and if amount of transfer fee is less than redeemed discount, no cash, credit or refund will be provided. Western Union reserves the right to offer promotional discounts that cannot be combined with My WU® fee reductions
What are the foreign exchange rates* for sending money?
To find the foreign exchange rates for sending money, visit
WU.com.
In the upper right, click the
Menu icon

and select
Estimate Price from the dropdown.
*Western Union also makes money from currency exchange. When choosing a money transmitter, carefully compare both transfer fees and exchange rates. Fees, foreign exchange rates and taxes may vary by brand, channel, and location based on a number of factors. Fees and rates subject to change without notice.
How can my receiver get the money?
This depends on the money transfer delivery options available in the destination country.
Cash pick up at an Agent location. They can pick up the money at any nearby Western Union location. Your receiver will need to fill out the To Receive Money Form (TRMF) and present Government-issued ID*.
- Sender’s complete name
- Sender’s country state/city/province may be required
- Expected amount
Direct to Bank. The money is sent to the receiver’s bank account you provided when you sent the money transfer.
Mobile Money Transfer (transfer to a receiver’s mobile wallet). The funds are sent to the receiver’s mobile wallet. Your receiver can visit the qualifying mobile network operator to receive the cash.
Money transfer to a correctional facility. The money is sent to the correctional facility and account number you provided when you sent the money transfer.
* Your receiver may be required to provide identity information depending on the service, send amount and the destination of the money transfer.
How do I send money to an inmate in a correctional facility?
WU.com or mobile app
1. Log on to your WU Profile.
2. Click the
Menu icon

and select Pay inmate from the dropdown.
3. Fill out the required information to send money.
You will need:
• Correctional facility name (also known as code city and state)
• Inmate’s number
• Inmate’s complete name • Amount
• Reference number if applicable (provided by the correctional facility)
In person
Ask the Agent for the To Send Money Form (TSMF) for Bill Payments service.
You will need:
• Correctional facility name (or code city)
• Inmate’s account number
• Inmate’s complete name
• Amount
• Speed of delivery (Same Day, Next Day and 2nd Day).
Note: Service fee varies on the chosen speed of delivery. This is applicable in select Agent locations.
Telephone Money Transfer – US to US
Call 1-800-CALL-CASH (1-800-225-5227) to send money using a credit** or debit card.
You will need:
• Correctional facility name (or code city)
• Inmate’s account number
• Inmate’s complete name
• Amount
** Card issuer cash advance fee and associated interest charges may apply. Use a debit card to avoid these fees and charges.
What are the reasons my large amount money transfer is declined?
Unfortunately, sometimes we may not be able to approve a large amount money transfer you intended to send.
These situations may include, but are not limited to, the below reasons:
We are not able to validate that your source of funds supports your money transfer activity.
The provided documents do not contain the required information.
We couldn’t verify the authenticity of the documentation provided.
The provided documents were illegible, blurry, obscured, expired, or not recent.
We couldn’t establish you have sufficient funds to send a large amount money transfer.
If the documents provided are incomplete and/or rejected, you will receive an email notification. You will need to provide the correct documentation, or your money transfer will be canceled.
Test by Raja-How do I send money?
Go to the send money option in the app
What’s the fastest way to send money for a cash pick up?
You can send money quickly using WU Money in Minutes*:
With WU.com or the mobile app
Log in to WU.com and select Send Money and choose Cash at agent location, or access the mobile app and select Cash pick up, then pay with a credit* or debit card.
In Person
Visit an Agent location and pay with cash or debit card, where available. Be sure to choose Money in Minutes*.
Telephone Money Transfer – US to US
Call 1800-CALL-CASH (1800-225-5227) to send money using a credit** or debit card.
* Date available will be displayed on receipt for international transfers over $15 USD. Service and funds availability depends on certain factors including the Service selected, the selection of delayed delivery options, special terms applicable to each Service, amount sent, destination country, currency availability, regulatory issues, consumer protection issues, identification requirements, delivery restrictions, Agent location hours, and differences in time zones (collectively, “Restrictions”).
** Card issuer cash advance fee and associated interest charges may apply. Use a debit card to avoid these fees and charges.
Does it take longer to complete a large amount money transfer?
The delivery time varies, depending on the sending and receiving countries, payment, and payout methods selected.
To create a better service for you while complying with local and international regulations, each money transfer goes through different layers of security, and you may receive a call from us requesting further information and/or documentation.
Can I send a money transfer on a holiday?
Our online services are always available on
westernunion.com or by sending from the Western Union mobile application. Holiday hours vary by Agent location and can be confirmed by contacting the Agent directly. Agent phone numbers can be found on our
Find Locations page.
What do I need to pick up my money transfer?
You can pick up your transfer from any of our
agent locations. You just need to provide the following:
The tracking number (MTCN)
Your and your sender’s full name
The expected amount
Your government-issued ID
Sender’s country and state/city/province may be required
How do I send money to India with UPI?
About UPI
Understanding UPI ID
Current list supported banks for international UPI transfer
Send limits using UPI
Steps to send money using a UPI through Western Union
About UPI
Unified Payments Interface (UPI) is a payment method that allows you to instantly transfer money to a bank account.
Understanding UPI ID
UPI ID is a virtual payment address (VPA) that uniquely identifies one person. A UPI ID format is like an email ID: with the sign “@” in the middle. For example, your receiver’s UPI ID could be “receiver’s_name@bank_name” or “phone_number@bank_name.”
When sending with a UPI ID, you only need to have your receiver’s UPI ID. You do not need to ask receivers for their account number, account type, bank name, or IFSC code.
To receive the payment, the receiver needs to have their UPI ID linked to the bank enabled for international UPI remittance. Please see the supported banks list below.
Current list supported banks for international UPI transfer
Below are the banks currently supported. More banks will be made available soon.
Bank Name / Bank Code
ICICI BANK Ltd. / ICIC
AXIS BANK / UTIB
BANK of INDIA / BKID
Andhra Bank / ANDB
YES BANK Ltd. / YESB
INDUSIND BANK Ltd. / INDB
UCO Bank / UCBA
Central Bank of India / CBIN
Bank of Baroda / BARB
Kotak Mahindra bank / KKBK
State Bank Of India / SBI
Allahabad Bank / ALLA
HSBC / HSBC
IDBI Bank Limited / IBKL
Oriental Bank of Commerce / ORBC
Punjab and Sind Bank / PSIB
RBL / RATN
South Indian Bank / SIBL
Send limits using UPI
Currently you can send up to 200,000 INR per transfer.
Steps to send money using a UPI through Western Union
Western Union is the first money transfer service company to use a UPI transfer internationally.
- Log in to your Western Union profile.
- Choose India as your receiving country (you will need to know your receiver’s mailing address).
- Choose to send using a bank pay out and use any payment method.
- Choose UPI ID under the bank information section. You’ll be able to browse all the banks enabled for international UPI transfer.
- Choose to send your transfer, and you’re all set! Generally, your transfer should be completed in minutes.
- Go to WU.com, at the top of the page, choose Send money.
- Enter the required information. Before selecting Continue, choose I have a promo code.
- Enter the promo code and click Apply.
Mobile app
- On the home screen, select Send money.
- Enter the required information. Before selecting Continue, select Transfer discount: (enter code).
- Enter the promo code and select Apply.
In person
Provide the promotion code to the Agent before completing the money transfer.
How do I edit my profile settings?
On the mobile WU app, tap My Profile at the bottom of the screen. Enter your username and password and tap Log In. Once logged in, you can update all of your personal details by tapping the appropriate button.
For general information, get in touch with us through the
Contact us section
at
westernunion.com.
What are the fees to send money?
You can find the fee* and applicable FX rates of your transfers online, click
estimate price.
You may also receive fee discounts and other promotions by registering with our loyalty program – My WU, and can earn points every time you send a qualifying transfer.
Note: If you’re using a credit card to send money online or over the phone, a credit card issuer cash advance fee and associated interest charges may apply. You can avoid these fees by using a debit card.
* Western Union also makes money from currency exchange. When choosing a money transmitter, carefully compare both transfer fees and exchange rates. Fees, foreign exchange rates, and taxes may vary by brand, channel, and location based on a number of factors. Fees and rates subject to change without notice. Fee reductions apply only to the Western Union® transfer fee for a single Western Union Money Transfer® or Quick Collect® transaction. Excludes all other services, including without limitation, online bill payments, and money transfers via social/chat applications. Points used will not be reversible and if amount of transfer fee is less than redeemed discount, no cash, credit or refund will be provided. Western Union reserves the right to offer promotional discounts that cannot be combined with My WU® fee reductions.
Why do I have to send my source of funds documentation?
At certain threshold, before you can send a large amount of money transfer, we need to request additional documentation to verify the source of your funds. It is required to meet our regulatory obligations and internal policies, which allow us to serve you better, speed up the transfer process and protect your money.
Can I send money to a prison inmate?
Yes, you can send money to a prison inmate.
Note: You must be at least 18 years old to send or receive money with Western Union.
2. Click the
Menu icon

and select
Pay inmate from the dropdown.
3. Select the Correctional facility from the dropdown and follow the instructions provided.
You will need:
• Facility name
• Amount
• Receiver’s first and last name
• Inmate’s account/register number
Mobile app
1. Log on to your WU profile.
2. On the bottom right, tap More.
3. Tap Pay bills/Inmate.
4. Locate the facility by tapping Inmate at the top of the screen.
5. Type the company name in the Search field or scroll through the list of billers.
6. Follow the instructions provided.
You will need:
• Facility name
• Amount
• Receiver’s first and last name
• Inmate’s account/register number
In person
Ask the Agent for the To Send Money Form (TSMF) for Bill Payments service.
You will need:
• Facility name (enter into Company Name (or Code City) field)
• Inmate’s account/register number followed by the inmate’s last name (enter in
Account Number field)
• First and last name (enter in Attention field)
• Amount
Note: Agents can assist with any questions on the form.
Telephone Money Transfer – US to US
Call 1-800-CALL-CASH (1-800-225-5227) to send money using a credit** or debit card.
You will need:
• Facility name
• Amount
• Receiver’s first and last name
• Inmate’s account/register number
**Card issuer cash advance fee and associated interest charges may apply. Use a debit card to avoid these fees and charges.
How much money can I send with Western Union?
Specific money transfer limits will vary based on a number of factors, including:
- Your transfer history
- Your location
- Your receiver’s location
- The service you choose
- Your payment method
- Agent location limits
- Country receive limits
Sending on WU.com or mobile app
To determine how much you can send on
WU.com or the mobile app, click
Send Money.
Sending in-person
To determine how much you can send in-person, visit one of our
Agent locations.
Sending by phone (Telephone Money Transfer)
To determine how much you can send from a US location to another US location over the phone, please call 1-800-CALL-CASH® (1-800-225-5227).
What does my receiver need to pick up their money?
This depends on the money transfer delivery you choose and the destination country.
Cash pick up at an Agent location
Your receiver will need:
- Tracking number (MTCN),
- Sender’s complete name,
- Sender’s country and state/city/province may be required,
- Expected amount, and
- Government-issued ID*.
- In some receiving countries, a security question may be required.
Direct to Bank
Funds are sent directly to the receiver’s bank account and receiver will need to comply with bank’s requirements and policies to receive funds.
Mobile Money Transfer
Funds are sent directly to mobile account and receiver will need to comply with mobile network operator’s requirements and policies to receive funds.
Money transfer to a correctional facility
Funds are sent directly to the inmate’s account. The inmate will need to comply with the facility’s requirements and policies to receive funds.
* Your receiver may be required to provide identity information depending on the service, send amount and the destination of the money transfer.
How can I pay for my money transfer?
You can pay for a money transfer in the US using a credit* or debit card, by making a bank transfer, or with a wire transfer. You may also start your transfer using the mobile app and pay cash at participating
Western Union Agent locations.
In-person
Visit a Western Union Agent location to send money using cash or, in some cases, a debit card.
Telephone Money Transfer
Transfer money by phone, using a credit* or debit card, by calling the Telephone Money Transfer hotline at 1-800-CALL-CASH (1800-225-5227), for transfers sent within the US.
* Card issuer cash advance fee and associated interest charges may apply. Use a debit card to avoid these fees and charges.
What is the limit of the amount that I can transfer through Western Union?
You can transfer up to 50000 USD/ EURO (or local equivalent) from United Kingdom, France, Germany, Australia, Hong Kong, or the United States when sending from your bank account directly to the receiver’s bank account. The limit may not be available for all receiver countries and is subject to restrictions based on various factors.
In most other countries, the limit is 5,000 USD/EURO (or local equivalent) when sending money from one personal bank account to the other. However, some agent locations and/or countries might have certain restrictions. They vary depending on the payment method, sending and receiving countries, and other factors.
What is wire transfer payment option?
The wire transfer payment lets you pay for an international money transfer using your bank account. You will be able to begin your money transfer on wu.com or the WU mobile app and pay for it via electronic bank transfer once you get the money transfer control number (MTCN). Depending on your bank, you can choose to pay for a money transfer online, in person by visiting your bank or, over the phone by calling your bank directly. You will get the steps to pay for the money transfer via email. Also see
How do I pay formy wire transfer? for more details.
Once we have received your payment, you will be notified via email when your transfer will be available for pick up.
Note:
When paying with a wire transfer:
- Your bank may charge you an additional fee (check with your bank).
- Make sure the name on your bank account matches the name on your Western Union profile.
- We don’t accept payments for wire transfers using cash, bank checks or business accounts. Your money transfer will be cancelled if you use one of those payment methods.
- Keep in mind that there could be delays in refunding your money if your identity is not confirmed.
- Make sure you pay the total amount indicated in the email, or your transfer will be cancelled.
- If the transfer is cancelled for not meeting the requirements, an electronic refund will be issued. Your bank may charge you an additional fee for a refund.
How many documents do I need to provide to validate the source of my funds?
We will let you know which documents need to be provided to prove the source of your funds and validate its legitimacy.
Once Western Union asks you for specific documents during a call or via email, please make sure to provide the required document(s) only.
Providing accurate documents that validate the legitimacy of the funds you intend to transfer in a timely manner helps us to speed up the verification process.
How many Alipay wallet transfers can I make in a month?
You can make up to 5 transfers to the same receiver on Alipay wallet within a 30-day period starting from the date of the first transfer. If it’s urgent, you can always choose a different payout method such as bank account or cash.
How do I send money directly to my receiver’s bank account?
If Direct to Bank is available, you can send money directly to your receiver’s bank account.
You’ll need:
Within the US: bank name, account name, account number and routing number
Outside the US: one or all of the following may be required:
- Branch name, bank, or branch code
- Account number or International Bank Account Number (IBAN)
- Routing number, International Bank Identifier Code (BIC), swift BIC or Indian Financial System Code (IFSC)
Other information: in some cases, you may also need the receiver’s complete address.
Can I send money from my mobile phone?
iPhone
Then, you can send money using a credit*/debit card or bank account.
Android
Then, you can send money using a credit*/debit card or bank account.
* Card issuer cash advance fee and associated interest charges may apply. Use a debit card to avoid these fees and charges.
You can also access
westernunion.com from any web browser on your mobile device.
When is the money taken from my bank account?
The money is deducted from your bank account once you submit and authorize the money transfer.
Sending money directly to a bank account
If Direct to Bank is available, you can send money directly to your receiver’s bank account.
WU.com or mobile app
When sending money, choose Bank account as the delivery option.
In person
When sending money from an Agent location, choose Bank account deposit as the money delivery option.
Note: This option is not offered via Telephone Money Transfer.
You’ll need:
Within the US: Bank name, account name, account number and routing number
Outside the US: One or all of the following may be required:
• Branch name, bank, or branch code
• Account number or International Bank Account Number (IBAN)
• Routing number, International Bank Identifier Code (BIC), swift BIC or Indian Financial System Code (IFSC)
Write something gibberish
You can send money with Western Union a few different ways, including
online,
in person, and by
phone.
If you’re a first time user of
WU.com, you’ll need to create a
profile. If you’re a first time user of the mobile app, download the app first.
- Click Send Money, enter the send amount, currency, and destination.
- You can choose how would you like to pay: cash at retail agent location, credit** or debit card, or bank account.
- Select how your receiver would like to get the money. You can choose: cash pick up, Mobile Money Transfers, Direct to Bank, (services vary, depending on the receive country).
- Review the transfer summary and submit.
*For a visual on how to send money online, please click here. In person
You can visit a Western Union Agent location to send money using cash or, in some cases, a debit card.
You’ll need:
- Your receiver’s name as it appears on their government-issued ID
- Your receiver’s city/province/state and country
- Your government-issued ID*
Telephone Money Transfer
You can send money by phone by calling the Telephone Money Transfer hotline at 1-800-CALL-CASH, for a US to US money transfer.
You’ll need:
- Your credit** or debit card info
- Your receiver’s name as it appears on their government-issued ID
- Your receiver’s city, state, and country
- Your government-issued ID*
Note: Your transfer fee will vary, based on the options you choose.
* You may be required to provide identity information depending on the service, send amount and the destination of the money transfer.
** Card issuer cash advance fee and associated interest charges may apply. Use a debit card to avoid these fees and charges.
To send money with us, you may need to fill in certain information about yourself and your receiver, depending on which send and receive methods you choose.
If you already have a WU profile, you may have this information stored in that profile. If not, please keep this information handy when you send money online or visit a Western Union location.
To send or receive money with us through various methods, you may need to keep the following information ready. Please choose the method you will be using.
WU.com or the mobile app
Start online, finish in store
Transfer to a mobile wallet
Transfer to a bank account
Pay a bill
Make a telephone money transfer
Send money to an inmate
Note: You must be at least 18 years old with a valid, government-issued ID to send or receive money with Western Union.
In certain jurisdictions you also have an option to create a test question for your receiver to ensure the security of your transfer. Your receiver will need to present an ID and answer the test question to receive the money.
WU.com or the mobile app:
- Your Western Union log in information
- Your credit** or debit card information
- Your receiver’s first and last name, as it appears on their government-issued ID
- Your receiver’s country, and in some cases*** their full address
In specific cases, additional information about your receiver may be required. For more details, please see Transfer to a bank account, Send money to an inmate, and Pay a bill.
Start online, finish in store:
- Your government-issued ID to be shown at the agent location.
- Your cash or debit card to pay for the transfer amount and fees.
- Your receiver’s first and last name, to be entered as it appears on their government-issued ID.
- Your receiver’s country, and in some cases*** their full address.
In specific cases, additional information about your receiver may be required. For more details, please see Transfer to a bank account, Send money to an inmate, and Pay a bill.
Transfer to a mobile wallet:
- Your mobile phone number
- Your receiver’s first and last name, as it appears on his /her government-issued ID
- Your receiver’s country, and in some cases*** their full address
- Your receiver’s mobile phone number
Transfer to a bank account:
- Your receiver’s first and last name, as it appears on their government-issued ID
- Your receiver’s country, and in some cases*** their full address
- Your receiver’s phone number
- For a receiving bank located within the US, your receiver’s bank name, receiver’s bank routing number, and receiver’s account number
- For a receiving bank located outside the US, your receiver’s international Bank Account Number (IBAN) and the receiving bank’s Bank Identifier Code (BIC or the receiving country equivalent)
Additional information may be required for some receiving countries. Before starting your transfer to a bank account, please remember to check the bank’s routing information.
Paying a bill:
- Company name (also known as code city and state)
- Your billing account number
- Amount to send
- Reference number, if applicable (provided by the company or biller)
Making a telephone money transfer:
- Your government-issued ID*
- Your credit** or debit card information
- Your receiver’s first and last name, as it appears on their government-issued ID
- Your receiver’s country, and in some cases their full address
Send money to an inmate:
- Your government-issued ID*
- Your receiver’s correctional facility name (also known as code city and state)
- Inmate’s register number
- Inmate’s first and last name
- Reference number, if applicable (provided by the correctional facility)
*You may be required to provide government-issued identification, depending on the service, send amount, and the destination of the money transfer. Secondary ID may also be required for some transactions (e.g., residence status document or country of birth information).
** Card issuer cash advance fee and associated interest charges may apply. Use a debit card to avoid these fees and charges.
*** When sending money from the USA directly to your receiver’s bank account, you will need to provide your receiver’s full postal address to the Agent for the following countries: United States, Argentina, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Ecuador, El Salvador, Ghana, Guam, Guatemala, Honduras, India, Mexico, Peru, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands. Your receiver’s full postal address will also be required for these countries when sending from WU.com or the WU app to your receiver’s bank account, where available.
Do I need to complete an identity verification process to send a large amount money transfer? What are the acceptable verification documents?
Identity verification is independent of large amount money transfers. A customer can only send a large amount money transfer if they have already been verified by Western Union. Refer to the below links for country-specific Know-Your-Customer/ID verification requirements:
France, United Kingdom, Germany, Australia, Hong Kong, United States
Sending money with my bank account
WU.com or mobile app
If you’re a first time user of
WU.com, you’ll need to create a
profile. If you’re a first time user of the mobile app, download the app first, then create a profile.
- Click Send Money and select the destination.
- Enter the send amount and currency.
- Choose Bank account as the payment option.
Note: Bank account as a payment option is unavailable when sending money in person, by phone, or if sending to a mobile wallet.
Which credit cards do you accept?
WU.com, mobile app, and Agent locations
WU accepts Visa®, MasterCard®, and Discover® credit cards*.
Telephone Money Transfer
Visa® and MasterCard® credit cards*.
* Card issuer cash advance fee and associated interest charges may apply. Use a debit card to avoid these fees and charges.
When will I receive a call/an email from Western Union?
You can expect a call or an email from Western Union within 30 minutes of initiating a large amount money transfer.
Do I need to get my documents translated?
You don’t need to get your documents translated. You can send them to us in the original language.
Do I need to register to send money?
Yes. You need to create a profile. To
Register for a profile, you will need:
- Your complete name as it appears on your government-issued ID
- Your email address
- Your mobile number
- Your billing address
Note: After successful registration, your profile can be accessed either via
westernunion.com or mobile app.
In person
No. Registration is not required.
Telephone Money Transfer – US to US
No. Registration is not required.
Note: You must be at least 18 years old to send or receive money with Western Union.
Can I cancel my money transfer? When will I receive a refund?
Yes, you can cancel your money transfer if it hasn’t been deposited. It may take up to 7 business days from the day the refund was issued for the funds to show in your account, depending on your bank’s refund-processing practice.
Do I need a landline to send money over the phone?
No. You can send money transfers over the phone using either a landline or a mobile phone.
What is a Money Transfer Control Number (MTCN)?
The Money Transfer Control Number (MTCN) is a unique number assigned to your transfer.
Your receiver will need this number when they pick up their money, and it can also be used to
track your transfer.
What if I miss the call from Western Union?
If you miss our call, we will send you an email asking you to call us back within 24 hours. Always make sure to check your email after initiating a large amount money transfer.
How do I know if a company accepts a payment from Western Union?
2. At the top of the web page, click
Pay Bills.
3. In the Biller name field, start typing the company name. If the company name appears, they accept payments from Western Union.
Mobile app
1. Tap Pay bills.
2. On the top right, tap More.
3. Type the company name in the Search field or scroll through the list of billers.
In person
The Agent at the Agent location can check if the Biller accepts payment from Western Union.
Telephone Money Transfer – US to US
Call 1-800-CALL-CASH (1-800-225-5227) to check if the Biller accepts payment from Western Union.
What to do if I receive error message “there is already an account with this email address.”? Error C1052
WEB: To recover your username, visit www.westernunion.com and click Log In. Click the link called Forgot username. Enter the email address associated with your Western Union online profile, then the security code, and click Continue. Enter the answer to your security question and click Continue.SMARTPHONE: To recover your username, tap My Profile, then Forgot your Username. Enter the email address associated with your Western Union online profile, and tap Get Security Question. Enter the answer, then tap Get Username.
What care do I need to take when sending the documents?
Please make sure the documents aren’t damaged, illegible, or expired and letters, numbers, signs, and security features are clear. When taking a digital photo of your document, please ensure that all four corners are visible and that there is no glare or other obstruction, the lighting is sufficient, and the letters are not blurred or too faint.
What qualifies as a large amount money transfer?
An amount of over 15,000 USD is considered a large amount money transfer.
How secure is my large amount money transfer?
Western Union uses the latest technology to ensure convenient and reliable online money transfers. We operate according to the local and international regulations and compliance programs to protect our customers.
For the best experience when using Western Union, we recommend our customers to make sure their contact information is up to date on their online banking and Western Union profile.
How long does it take to verify my document?
Once we receive the required documents from you, they will be processed within 30 minutes.
How much can I send with Western Union?
To send more than 3,000 USD from the United States, you will need to verify your identity1. Once verified, you can send up to 50,000USD.
1You can verify your identity online or at an agent location.
Please note: The sending limit may vary depending on the destination country and the service you choose.
Are there any additional checks to sending multiple large amount money transfers in a short period of time?
There are no limits to sending multiple large amount money transfers over any time frame. However, Western Union policy defines certain thresholds to monitor the customer’s total money transfer activity during a respective period. If a customer exceeds these thresholds, we may ask for additional information to comply with internal policies and regulations. These thresholds may vary depending on the sending customer’s country of residence and the country where the money is sent.
Which banks can I use to make a wire transfer?
You can use a wire transfer at any U.S. bank where you have an account. This can be done via online banking, by visiting a nearby bank branch or by calling your bank directly.
What is a tracking number (MTCN)? Where can I find it?
A tracking number (MTCN) is a unique 10-digit number assigned to your transfer. You can use the MTCN to track your transfer status.
You can find the MTCN on the receipt of your transfer or log into your profile and go to History, select a transfer to get the MTCN.
Note: NEVER share your MTCN with anyone except your receiver or a Western Union representative.
Where do I need to send the additional documents?
You don’t need to send any documents in advance. If Western Union asks you to provide any additional documents (such as proof of source of your funds), you’ll be provided with directions at that time.
How do I fund my wire transfer?
If you select the wire transfer payment option, you will receive specific payment instructions on your email along with your money transfer control number (MTCN). Depending on your bank, you may be able to choose one of the following payment options to pay for your wire transfer:
- Online: Log in to your bank’s website
- In person: Visit your bank branch
- By phone: Call your bank directly
Western Union can only accept payments from personal bank accounts. We will not accept payments for wire transfers using cash, bank checks or business accounts. Your money transfer will be cancelled if you use one of those payment methods. Keep in mind that there could be delays in refunding your money if your identity is not confirmed.
Please carefully follow the instructions in the email we sent you, so you can fill out the bank form. The terms used by your bank may be slightly different than what you see in the instructions email. Please see the information below if you need clarification:
Term used in Western Union instructions e-mail | Term that your bank might use
Transfer Amount* | Amount
*Enter the exact amount on your instructions e-mail. If you pay less than the total amount indicated in the email, your transfer will be cancelled
Name of Recipient* | Beneficiary name, Recipient name, Business name
*The recipient is Western Union
WU bank name* | Bank name, Final receiving bank name
*See your WU instructions e-mail for specific details
WU bank account number |Account number, Recipient account number, IBAN, Receiving bank account number
WU routing number | ABA, Bank routing number (US ABA/SWIFT), Routing number, International Routing number (IRC)
WU address |Address, City, State, Zip code, Country, Territory
Mandatory Information* |Special instructions, Message to recipient, Notes, Description, Additional wire instructions
*You must include the transfer reference number (EBxxxxxxx) and the receiver’s name as it is listed on your WU instructions e-mail
WU e-mail* | no-reply-email@wu.com
*Add if required by your bank
Note: You might also be required to agree to your bank’s Terms and Conditions. Some banks may require you to pass an identity verification process. Your bank may also charge you an additional fee for the wire transfer. Check with your bank for specific details.
How to send a large amount money transfer, and do I need to provide any additional documents?
You can send and receive large amount money transfers online on westernunion.com or the Western Union app at your convenience 24/7.
To send a large amount money transfer, simply follow the steps to fill in the required money transfer details, such as destination country, your receiver’s name, send amount, and select the payment method.
To meet our regulatory and compliance obligations, we may sometimes collect additional information and/or documents which will include documents to validate your occupation and the source of funds.
What are the fees to send a large amount money transfer?
To find out the estimated fee and currency exchange rates for your online money transfers, click
Estimate Price and fill in the required fields, such as your receiver’s country and send amount.
What happens if some of my documents are not accepted?
We will send you an email requesting additional documents and directions on how to send them. You need to provide the correct documentation within the stipulated time, or your money transfer will be canceled.
How do I know if my transfer has been approved?
For online transfers, we’ll notify you when your transfer status has changed. For transfers at agent locations, you’ll need to
check your transfer status after some time for any updates.
In case your transfer status shows In Progress for more than 48 hours,
contact us.
Sometimes, we need to confirm a few details before we send your transfer. This is a standard process and sometimes takes longer than usual.
If necessary, we’ll reach out to you. Otherwise, no further action is needed.