When you need to send money to friends and family overseas, there are many options to consider. Here are some tips to save time and money.
Wire Transfers
Fees for international wire transfers costs typically range from $35 to $50. Your financial institution may charge less or waive fees for some accounts. Many people depend on licensed money transfer companies because they're faster and support transfers to other countries. Some offer mobile apps, making the process even more convenient.1
Compare Fees
You're charged at least two types of fees — the cost to send the wire and what you'll be charged to convert dollars to the chosen country's currency rate, unless the funds will be received in U.S. dollars. Watch out for unnecessary or hidden fees.
Here are five secure options to consider:
Wise
Wise is highly ranked because it offers competitive fees and exchange rates, and has a great Mobile Banking app, too. Keep in mind that cash pickup services aren't available, and transfers to some locations can take two to three days.
Western Union
Western Union offers wire transfer services to more than 200 countries and territories, including prisons and military branches. Unlike most nonbank transfer services, you can use cash or a debit card to transfer money and the recipient can pick it up at a physical location, including a bank or grocery store. You can send money via its website, mobile app, by phone or in person.
OFX
OFX uses bank-to-bank transfers and while it charges more than some companies, it's a logical choice if you want to send larger amounts of money, with a minimum of $1,000 and no set maximum limits. There are no transfer fees, but you will pay between 2% to 4% in exchange rates. It also has a user-friendly mobile app and 24/7 customer phone support.
Currencies Direct
Although Currencies Direct delivers to just a little more than 20 countries, it doesn't charge transfer fees but the exchange rates are low. Accounts are easy to set up online or on mobile devices and the company features fulltime customer support.
XE
Customers use XE to wire money for personal and business reasons. Their services offer speedy transfer times, no hidden fees and low service fees. Keep in mind you will pay for any transaction fees charged by the financial institution you're transferring money to. Transaction limits are high, up to $500,000.
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