How Does Western Union Work? Explained Simply

How Western Union works

Western Union is not a new institution; money has been sent through it since 1851.

• The only thing you need to use Western Union’s service is a form of ID. You can send money either at a branch or online.
• The process is simple: Anyone who wants to send money pays the desired amount and the applicable fee. This varies depending on the type of money transfer. If you send money to a bank account, fees start at 0.90 euros. If the recipient picks up the money in cash, fees start at 1.90 euros.
• The money is then transferred to a Western Union account in the recipient’s country or can be picked up in cash at one of the many locations.
• The branch in the recipient’s country is notified that the money is available, and the recipient can then pick up the money directly or have it transferred to their account.
• How long the transfer takes depends on several factors, such as whether you deposit the money in cash or transfer it. The duration can vary from a few minutes to several days.

• First, you must fill out a form and then submit it at the counter. To do this, you must provide identification, i.e., present a valid ID card or passport.
• Finally, you must deposit the money you wish to send.
• In return, you will receive a so-called MTCN, the Money Transfer Control Number. This number is unique, meaning it is valid only for your transaction. It allows you to track the status of the transfer.
• In order for the recipient to receive the money, they must know this MTCN. They must also provide the amount and the sender’s contact information. In some countries, a password set by the sender is also required.

Sending money online is cheaper