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Receiving money from abroad or in the U.K. is easy when you have choices
Western Union offers many convenient ways for you to receive money transfers from abroad or in the U.K. You and your sender can choose what’s best for you.
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 U.K. is not only a lifesaver — it’s a reminder that the world isn’t nearly as big as it felt a few minutes ago.
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 WU.com or with the Western Union® app.
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.
Receive money transfers directly to your mobile wallet
In selected countries, you can receive money directly to your mobile wallet1.
When you receive money, track your transfer on our app
When you receive money online, or want to know when you can pick up your cash, track your transfer with the Western Union® app. Using your unique MTCN tracking number, both your sender and you will know your money has arrived.
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 WU.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 nearest 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 license (EU) and provisional license (UK only)
- National Identity Card (EU only with the exception of UK)
- EU Residency Card
- Emergency/Temporary Passport, Emergency Travel Documents
- Ships Passport
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.