What information do you need to send money western union

When you need to send money in person, we’re as close as your neighbourhood market. Our agents will help you send money quickly.

It’s simple to send a money transfer from one of our 515,000 agent locations worldwide. Find an agent location near you and fill out the ‘Send Money’ form when you arrive. Choose the service that’s best for you and your receiver. Make sure that you know your receiver’s name, country and bank account information if you’re sending money directly to their account. Then, give the information and your cash or debit card to the agent, and your money will be on its way.

The infographic below will show you how to send money in person. When you’re ready, find an agent location or learn more about our services to get started

How to send money in person?

Western Union wants to make it as convenient and fast as possible for you or your loved ones to receive your money. Choose the option that suits you and your Agent location best:

  • Bank account payout (where available) – recommended where movement has been restricted due to COVID-19
  • WU® Agent location (Due to COVID-19 concerns, some Agent locations may be temporarily closed or have altered hours of location; please check our Agent Locator for additional information and details of the locations nearest you.)

What documents do I need to bring to pick up money?
A picture identification card will be required to pick up money from an agent location. Depending on the country and the agent location where the receiver will pick up the money, the forms of acceptable ID may vary. In general, passports and national IDs are acceptable. A driver’s license might not be valid.

In some cases, the receiver might also need to verify their current address, for example with a utility bill.

Western Union recommends confirming specific requirements with your local agent location prior to leaving your house.

What information is required from the sender to send a Direct to Bank Account money transfer?
The bank information required to send a Direct to Bank Account money transfer varies by country. In general, you will need to know at least:

  • Your Receiver’s bank name.
  • Your Receiver’s bank code and bank account number.
  • The amount and country to which you wish to send.

Our website offers additional details about the list of countries where you can send money directly to a bank, we have additional information below as well.* You can also see specifically what details are required for each country.

What currencies are available for payouts?
Payouts will only be made in the local currency. Senders should ensure their receiver’s bank account is a local currency account to avoid potential service delays or additional charges from the receiver’s bank.

How can I find out if my money has been sent?
You can track any money transfer. All you need is the tracking number (MTCN) and the sender’s name.

WU.com and the mobile App are available online 24/7.

For additional information, please visit the Western Union COVID-19 Resource Center.

*Additional countries not listed on the website include the following:

Country Information Receiver to Provide to Sender
Bahrain Bank Name, BIC, Bank Location, IBAN
Brazil Bank Name, Branch Number, Account Number, Account Type, Receiver’s DOB (dd/mm/yyyy), CPF (Tax ID)
Chile Bank Name, Account Number, Account Type, Bank Location, National ID Number (RUT)
Egypt Bank Name, Account Number
Finland Bank Name, BIC, Bank Location, IBAN
Hong Kong Bank Name, Bank Code, Bank Location, Account Number
Malaysia Bank Name, BIC, Bank Location, Account Number
Pakistan Bank Name, Account Number, Bank Location
Turkey Bank Name, IBAN, Bank Location
United Kingdom Bank Name, Sort Code, Bank Location, Account Number

COVID-19

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ/ 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, travelers, 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 the service fee, in cash. In some locations, you can also pay using a debit or a credit card, so you can ask the agent if they have this option available.

What do I need to send money from an agent location?

Sending money with Western Union from an agent location doesn’t require credit cards, debit cards or bank accounts. But you will need to show a valid ID.

What are acceptable documents for picking up money?

Acceptable ID will vary depending on the country and the agent where the receiver picks up the money. In general passports and national ID documents are acceptable. A driver’s license might not be valid.

In some cases the receiver might also need to verify their current address, for example with a utility bill.

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.

How are money transfers paid out to receivers?

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

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 the tracking number (MTCN), which is printed on your receipt, the receiver’s country, and the amount (receive amount).

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 tracking number (MTCN), which is printed on your receipt, the receiver’s country, and the amount (receive 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 with the following information:

  • MTCN (tracking number)
  • Receiver name
  • Receiver city and country
  • Expected amount
  • Sender name
  • Sender 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.

Can’t find what you are looking for?

If you need to get in touch with Western Union, don’t hesitate to contact our Customer Care