Western Union is one of the best-known remittance options worldwide, due to its extensive experience, coverage and accessibility. Many immigrants choose it to send money to their families from the United States.
If you want to make the most of the money your family receives, it is very important that you understand the different remittance methods available at Western Union, as well as the fees that each one generates.
That is why on this occasion we will explain how to send money by Western Union step by step, the requirements, its different modalities, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of opting for this international agency.
What is Western Union and how does it work to send money?
Western Union is a network specialized in international money transfers, through a large number of physical establishments, as well as online methods. It is an accessible way to send remittances, since it is not necessary to have a bank account to access its services.
It has two main methods for international money transfers: online and agency.
These are the requirements to send money by Western Union from the United States.
What is needed to make a Western Union money transfer?
1. Be at least 18 years old
2. Valid photo ID
If you go in person to a Western Union agency, you can present your passport and, in some cases, your driver's license.
In case you opt for the procedure through westernunion.com, you will need to upload a photograph of the document and possibly a selfie or other identification requirements.
3. Recipient Information
Make sure you have complete and correct information about the person who will receive the money:
- Full name (as it appears on your identity card)
- Recipient's country and city
- Method of receipt (cash, bank deposit or other)
- Payment method (card, bank account or cash)
Comparison between Western Union and Comun
*Please note that the exchange rate is subject to change at any time.
In addition to offering more favorable commissions and exchange rates for international money transfers, Comun allows you to send money digitally from home 365 days a year, including holidays, which can be affected by longer waiting times due to higher customer volume.
Steps to send money by Western Union: Online and in person
Currently, with Western Union you can make international money transfers from the U.S. through the website, mobile application or in person.
Online shipping with Western Union
In case you prefer to send money online by Western Union, just follow the steps below:
Login or register on their platform
Remember that in order to open a Western Union account you must have the above documents, as well as the identity verification.
Then, log in to the Western Union application or website.
Select destination country and amount
At Western Union you can choose from a variety of destinations in Latin America and the world, such as Mexico, Dominican Republic, Colombia, Argentina, among others.
Choose payment method
Western Union offers a variety of payment methods, including credit card, debit card, bank account deposit and cash payment.
Enter the recipient's data
Be sure to write your recipient's information correctly.
Confirm and get tracking number (MTCN)
Once you have entered the data, confirm that they are written correctly and confirm. Afterwards, you will be able to obtain a tracking number to verify the transaction.
Sending money at a Western Union agency
If you prefer to ship in person, please follow the steps below:
Locate an agency near you
To locate the agency closest to you, log in to the website and select the "Find Location" option, then enter your zip code and review the options.
You can also call Western Union at 1-800-325-6000 to request customer service information.
Fill out the submission form
Go to the counter and request the submission form, which you will have to fill in with the same data as explained for the online form.
Delivers the money and pays commissions to the agent
Once you fill out the form correctly, pay the agent the total amount plus the commission generated.
Receive tracking number (MTCN)
Finally, receive the tracking number and share it with the recipient so that he/she can collect the money transfer correctly.
Advantages and disadvantages of using Western Union for your remittances
Western Union is a popular alternative for sending remittances securely and quickly, and is used by thousands of immigrants in the United States every month.
Here are the main advantages and disadvantages of sending money with Western Union.
Advantages
Broad global coverage and physical presence
Western Union allows you to send money almost anywhere in the world, since it has approximately 500,000 agencies distributed in more than 200 countries. It is even possible to send money to rural and hard-to-reach areas.
Speed in cash shipments
In case you need to send money urgently, Western Union has the option of sending cash, which is available for collection in a matter of minutes.
Track record and brand recognition
Western Union has more than a century of experience in the market, so you can be sure of its reputation and security to send money through its network.
Disadvantages
High commissions
Generally, the smaller the amount to be sent, the higher the fee. The fee varies depending on the payment and shipping method, but ranges from $4.99 to $15 USD, regardless of the exchange rate.
Uncompetitive exchange rate
In addition to the initial commission, you must consider the reduction implied by the currency exchange rate, which is taken at a less competitive margin than the market, so your family members will receive less money compared to other options.
Shipping limits
For users with non-verified accounts, the sending limit is 3,000 USD per transaction. While for verified accounts, the limit is 50,000 USD.
Less clarity in the commission structure
Western Union fees are variable and depend on several factors, such as destination country, payment method, shipping method and total amount.
Comun: A fast, transparent and inexpensive alternative for sending money to your family
There is no doubt that Western Union is one of the most prestigious remittance services, due to its long history and ease of access to its services. However, it is important for users to choose the option that best suits their needs.
Before making a money transfer, it is essential that you are very clear about the fees and additional costs, otherwise, your family could receive less money without prior notice.
Comun is the one-stop solution that facilitates remittances at a fairer price.
In addition, it offers you:
- App mobile is also available in Spanish and allows you to easily send money to more than 17 countries in Latin America!
- Your first money transfer will be free and thereafter you will pay a fee starting at $2.99 USD per transfer, up to the applicable limits.
- You need a mobile device to open your account, your country's official identification (passport, consular registration, driver's license, among others) and a U.S. residential address.
- 24/7 customer support available in English.
- High security standards help you get your money to its destination and track it in real time.
- Transparent rates.
Open your account at Común today.
Frequently asked questions
If you still have questions about how Western Union works, check out our FAQ section.
Can I send money to myself by Western Union?
Yes, in case you travel to another country and do not have a bank account, you can send a remittance in your name.
Why can't I send money by Western Union?
It can be due to different reasons, such as you exceeded the shipping limit, payment method refused or you misspelled the recipient's information.
How much does Western Union charge to send money?
Shipping rates depend on the receiving country, amount, method of payment and shipping method.
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