FAQ: How to Send Money Online

You aren’t the only new Western Union customer with questions about how to send money online. Get started with answers to frequently asked questions from fellow customers. If you can’t find what you need here, contact a Customer Care representative who’d be happy to walk you through the steps in more detail.

Send Money Online

Can I change the name on a money transfer?

You can make minor typographical corrections to the receiver’s name on a regular money transfer as long as the money hasn’t yet been picked up. This can’t be done on a money order, or bill payment.

How do I send money online?

You can send money online to a Western Union location for a cash pickup, directly into your receiver’s bank account, or to your receiver’s mobile phone. After choose your destination country, you’ll see the types of services available.

Learn more about how to send money online.

How long does it take to send money online?

Here are a few ways you can send money online using Western Union:

If your money is needed within minutes, you can send online using your credit or debit card. Receivers can pick up cash at Western Union locations worldwide, depending on the hours of operation at that location and other applicable restrictions. See Terms and Conditions for details.

If your receiver lives in a country where we offer mobile money transfer, you can send money to their mobile phone in a matter of minutes. Make sure your receiver has activated a mobile wallet with one of our partner mobile operators in their country.

Direct to back money transfers will generally be credited at the receiver’s bank account within 3 banking business days after money is sent, subject to restrictions. See Terms and Conditions for details.

How do I pay?

You can always pay with a Visa® or Mastercard® credit card. In some countries, you can pay with debit cards or bank transfer.

How do I send money to a bank account?

This service is available for certain countries. Direct to bank money transfers will generally be credited at the receiver’s bank account within 3 banking business days after money is sent, subject to restrictions. See Terms and Conditions for details.

After you send money, ask your receiver to contact their bank or check their bank statement to verify the deposit.

How do I send money to a mobile phone?

If your receiver lives in a country where we offer this service, you can even send money to their mobile phone—so they can get their money quicker and easier than ever. Make sure your receiver has activated a mobile wallet with one of our partner mobile operators in their country.

Check available destination countries and mobile networks.

How much can I send online?

You can send up to 999 CAD per day.

Will my credit card charge a fee for sending money with Western Union?

Some card issuers may charge additional fees for using our services. Please contact your card issuer for more information.

What is Verified by Visa® and MasterCard SecureCode®?

Verified by Visa® and MasterCard SecureCode® help prevent unauthorised online use of cards. These services use personal passwords or identity information and are available for most cards from participating financial institutions.

Once you activate your card is activated, your card number will be recognised whenever it’s used at participating online stores. A window will automatically appear, and your card issuer will ask for your password. You’ll enter your password to verify your identity and complete your purchase.

How do I know if my online transfer has been approved?

Your online receipt will show whether your transfer was approved. If we need more information before we can complete it, you’ll be asked to call us. When the transfer is complete, you’ll get an email with your tracking number (MTCN).

How many Alipay wallet transfers can I make in a month?

You can make up to 5 transfers to the same receiver on Alipay wallet within a 30-day period starting from the date of the first transfer. If it’s urgent, you can always choose a different payout method such as bank account or cash.

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