Frequently Asked Questions

Receive money

How do I know if my money transfer has been received?

You can track your transfer online our through our app at any time.

How do I receive a money transfer?

To receive a money transfer at an agent location, you just need to show a valid government-issued ID and the tracking number (MTCN).

Remember to read and sign the receipt so the agent can give you the money along with a copy of the receipt.

Some agent locations need you to enter the money transfer details online, or in the app, before visiting. To make sure that the agent location selected requires this, please check the information provided on the agent locator.

What documents should I bring to receive the money from an agent?

You will need to present the following:

  • A valid government-issued ID
  • The tracking number (MTCN)

Some agent locations need you to enter the money transfer details online, or in the app, before visiting. To make sure that the agent location selected requires this, please check the information provided on the agent locator.

How will I know if a money transfer is ready for pickup?

You can check the status of your money transfer at any time by selecting ‘Track transfer‘ on westernunion.com or on our app. You only need the tracking number (MTCN) and the country the money was sent from.

How does Western Union pay out money transfers?

Money transfers will generally be paid in cash or will be transferred directly to the receiver’s bank account if the option is available.

How can my receiver pick up the money?

Your receiver can pick up the money at any of our agent locations. They’ll simply need to show the following:

  • The tracking number (MTCN)
  • A valid identity proof
  • The amount to receive

 

How long will it take for my money to reach my receiver?

It may take a few minutes1 or up to 2 business days for your transfer to be ready for pick up at an agent location or credited to your receiver’s wallet, bank account, or credit or debit card.

1The duration may depend on the receiving country, the service you chose, and the transfer amount.

 

 

How are money transfers paid out to receivers?

Generally, you can choose how your receiver will get the money. These are some of the standard receive methods:

  • In cash at an agent location.
  • Online to their bank account, credit/debit card, or mobile wallet.

Please note: The receive method may vary depending on your receiving country and the send method selected by you.

 

What are the acceptable documents to pick up a money transfer?

You can pick up your money transfer at any nearby agent location with one of the following:

  • Your Mercosul ID
  • Your national identification card
  • Your driver’s license
  • Your resident or work permit

How can my receiver get the money?

1. Cash pickup at an agent location

Your receiver can pick up the money at any nearby Western Union location. They need to complete the To Receive Money Form (TRMF) and provide their government-issued photo ID4, along with the following information:

  • Tracking number (MTCN)
  • Sender’s complete name
  • Sender’s country state/city/province
  • Expected amount

2. Bank transfer

The money is sent to the receiver’s bank account you provided when you sent the transfer.

3. Mobile wallet

The money is sent to your receiver’s mobile wallet. Your receiver can visit their mobile network operator to receive the cash.

Note: You must be at least 18 years old to send or receive money with Western Union.

Superscript:

4 We might ask your receiver to provide additional details for identity verification.

 

What does my receiver need to pick up the money transfer? 

Your receiver can pick up their money from any of our agent locations. They just need to provide the following: 

  • Tracking number (MTCN) 
  • Sender’s and receiver’s full names
  • Expected amount
  • Your government-issued photo ID
  • Sender’s country and state/city/province