Receive money your way in the UK

Western Union offers many convenient ways for you to receive money transfers from abroad or in the UK. You and your sender can choose what’s best for you.

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Receive your money transfer in a variety of ways

Knowing money is on its way is a good feeling. Whether you need money because your flight was cancelled, for an emergency repair, or you’re simply the recipient of a very nice birthday gift, Western Union makes it easy to receive money in a variety of ways. Whatever the occasion, receiving money from abroad or in the UK. is not only a lifesaver — it’s a reminder that the world isn’t nearly as big as it felt a few minutes ago.

  • bank-building
    Receive money to your bank account

    Your loved ones can send money directly to billions of bank accounts1. Check if you’ve received the money transfer using digital or online banking, online at westernunion.com, or with the Western Union® app.

    Why send to a bank account?
  • WU-retail-location
    Receive money from abroad, pick it up in cash at an agent location

    All you need to pick up cash at any of our agent locations around the world in minutes1 is a few transfer details, your Money Transfer Control Number2 (MTCN), and a valid ID.

    Find nearest location
  • mobile-wallet-notes
    Receive money transfers directly to your mobile wallet

    In selected countries, you can receive money directly to your mobile wallet1.

    Learn more

When you receive money, track your transfer on our app

Send money on the go or start a transfer and pay in-store.
Track your money transfer in real time.
Repeat transfers quickly to friends and family.
Download now
4.6/5
4.5/5

Rating as of 5 July 2021.

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Frequently asked questions about receiving money from abroad

How will I know if my money is ready to collect?

Simply locate the ‘Tracking’ link on westernunion.com or the Western Union® app. Type the sender’s name and MTCN then you will see an update on the status of your transfer. Check your money transfer status now.

How do I receive money with Western Union without a bank account?

You can easily pick up cash at one of hundreds of thousands of agent locations around the world. Simply take your MTCN (tracking number) and valid ID to collect your money. Find your nearby Western Union location.

What do I need to pick up cash at an agent location?

Please have these on hand:

    • The sender’s full name (first, middle, and last name)
    • The country where the money was sent from
    • The approximate amount that was sent
    • The unique number of the transaction (MTCN)
    • Your government-issued identification document(s) as required

The following documents are accepted in the UK:

    • Current signed passport
    • Current full driving licence (EU) and provisional licence (UK only)
    • National identity card (EU only with the exception of UK)
    • EU residency card
    • Emergency/Temporary passport, Emergency travel documents
    • Ships passport

Still have questions about sending money online?

Contact our Customer Care team or visit our FAQ page for more information.

See FAQs

1 Funds may be delayed or services unavailable based on certain transaction conditions, including amount sent, destination country, currency availability, regulatory issues, identification requirements, Agent location hours, differences in time zones, or selection of delayed options. For mobile transactions funds will be paid to receiver’s mWallet account provider for credit to account tied to receiver’s mobile number. Additional third-party charges may apply, including SMS and account over-limit and cash-out fees. See the transfer form for restrictions.

2 Do not share details of the money transfer to anyone other than your receiver.

3 Western Union also makes money from currency exchange. When choosing a money transmitter, carefully compare both transfer fees and exchange rates. Fees, foreign exchange rates and taxes may vary by brand, channel, and location based on a number of factors. Fees and rates subject to change without notice.