Western Union, nearly 100 years old, was one of the first wire transfer companies, allowing customers to send money domestically or internationally almost instantaneously. With the proper identification, Western Union can verify your funds and have them delivered to a location or person of your choosing almost anywhere in the globe. While funds originally had to be picked up at a Western Union office, nowadays you have many delivery options available.
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Difficulty:
Moderately Easy
Instructions
In Person
1
Visit a Western Union office. Bring the money you want to send.
2
Tell the clerk you want to send money and ask for a money transfer form.
3
Hand your cash and the completed money transfer form to the clerk.
4
Get the Money Transfer Control Number from the clerk. You will need this number to track your wire transfer.
On the Phone
1
Dial 1-800-225-5227. Remember this number by using the mnemonic 1-800-CALL-CASH.
2
Have a U.S. bank-issued credit or debit card available. Western Union only accepts Visa, MasterCard and debit cards.
3
Speak to a customer service agent. Provide him with the information regarding your transfer, including the destination and the amount. Give him your credit or debit card number.
4
Receive your Money Transfer Control Number to track your transaction.
Online
1
Create an online profile at the Western Union website.
2
Log in to your account.
3
Enter your transaction information. Follow the online prompts to provide the necessary data.
4
Follow instructions for payment. Western Union accepts Visa and MasterCard credit cards, along with debit cards, for online wire transfers.
5
Send your money. Write down or keep a copy of the tracking number, known as the Money Transfer Control Number.
Tips & Warnings
Many banks can perform wire transfers or online electronic transfers using methods similar to Western Union.
Western Union charges different fees based on the type of service you request. As an immediate transfer agency, the fees can be much higher than sending the money via slower methods, such as money orders or paper checks.
Western Union was a pioneer in telecommunications when it established the first transcontinental telegraph line in 1861. Over the years that followed,...
