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Cheapest Ways To Send Money Internationally

Updated on July 06, 2020 11:11 pm
Cheap Remittances

Despite an increase in the volume of international money transfer over the years, the global average cost to send money internationally remains high. According to the World Bank, the average cost of sending money is 7% globally.

When you are sending money through a high street bank from the United States, depending on the bank you use, the usual international money transfer fee through a high street bank could be cost you up to $30 to send $500 when you are sending money through your checking account or savings account. Banks are one of the most expensive ways to exchange money, transfer funds, and send money overseas.

The good news is that the money transfer options have expanded over the last few years. You can find money transfer services in convenience and drug stores, supermarkets, retailers such as Walmart, and stand-alone storefront operations. Traditional brick and mortar agencies are expensive too.

The cheapest way to send money internationally is through Money Transfer Service Providers online. Tech-enabled
platform-agnostic money transfer service providers have lower costs and offer higher exchange rates compared to their traditional payment methods by cutting out the middlemen.

This brings us to the next point of discussion, which money transfer service provider should you use?

Compare the transfer fees, speed, exchange rates, and the terms of the services provided to pick the best and the cheapest way to send money internationally that suits you.

Cheap ways to send money


 

  • Fees: Banks and money transfer companies charge different fees. It may be a fixed amount or a percentage of the amount you are sending. Fees are also charged depending on the method of payment you want to use. Payment made with a credit card or debit card instead of bank transfer to send money comes with its own fees. Normally, credit card charge fees are higher over a debit card or bank account transfer.
  • Speed: Some transfer service providers also charge fees depending on the speed of the transfer. Faster transfer speed that takes only a few minutes to reach the recipient costs fees over a slower transfer speed.
  • Exchange Rate: The exchange rate is the value of a currency compared to another currency. It is set by the Foreign Exchange Market or simply Forex. The rate is determined by the demand and supply of currencies at any point in time. Banks and money transfer companies make money from the difference in the exchange rate of the currencies. Ultimately, sending money internationally without spending a dime is not easy. You will be charged either in the form of a fee or through a lower exchange rate. However, it is right to find the cheapest way to send money also using reputable companies and services.

Here are some of the cheapest ways to send money internationally online:

  • TransferWise: TransferWise is an online money transfer service provider based in London. TransferWise reviews are very positive, with many verified users rating excellent for their high exchange rate. They offer mid-market exchange rates, which is the rate that you would see on Google of XE.com also known as the “real exchange rate.” TransferWise has a transparent fee structure and it is one of the cheapest ways to send money online.
  • Western Union: Western Union is one of the oldest and undoubtedly the most well-known money transfer companies in the world. It operates both online and offline models with a large agent network span across many countries. Their branches are almost in every country in the world. Their fees and rates change by location and type of transfer you choose. Western Union is best known for its convenience and speed, usually within a day for Cash Pickups or few business days for bank transfer. It may not offer the best exchange rate in the industry but definitely the cheapest way to transfer money compared to banks.
  • WorldRemit: WorldRemit also provides online money transfer services. It does not have physical locations where you can convert cash to transfer like traditional money transfer companies such as Western Union. WorldRemit Transfer fees range from $3.99 to $24.99 depending on the currency you are sending in, the recipient’s country, the amount of money, and the delivery option. It is one of the cheapest international money transfer service available in the market. Find out more about WorldRemit.
  • Xoom: Xoom, a PayPal service has been providing quick and affordable money transfer online services for 14 years. It also has wide coverage, allowing customers to send money to 131 countries around the world. You can also use multiple payment methods; debit or credit card, bank transfer, or PayPal balance to send money overseas through Xoom. Our favorite feature is their money-back guarantee. Xoom will refund your transaction in full if your recipient does not receive the money. Xoom is also popular for its speed, high transfer limits, and exchange rate. Read how you can save money on transfer fees through Xoom.
  • Remitly: This Seattle-based online money transfer company is one of the users’ favorites. Remitly offers competitive exchange rates. And if you are sending $1001 and above, your transfer fees will most likely be waived off. Remitly users can only send money in an electronic form through the website and mobile app. Their online model helps them save huge cost and are able to pass on the benefits to its users by offering low transfer fees.
  • Skrill: Skrill is a very popular money transfer company amongst the tech-savvy and crypto enthusiasts. You pay ZERO fees when you send money internationally through Skrill. In addition, Still offers interbank exchange rates.
  • OFX: OFX is another money transfer service provider popular for offering low transfer fees. OFX is known to be strict with its user's identification and verification. This makes it a little longer to get a verified account. Once you clear this step, you can send money through bank transfer or wire transfer or credit/debit card.

To find the cheapest way to transfer money internationally that works for you and suits your needs, compare the top money transfer services providers said-by-side, and save on every transfer. Check out what's on offer on CompareRemit today.

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How Remitly Makes Sending and Receiving Money Easy

When you need to send money internationally, finding a service that’s reliable, easy to use, and offers a variety of options is essential. Selecting the right money transfer service can make all the difference.[Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a money transfer, CompareRemit may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.]Remitly, a leader in the money transfer industry, has carved a niche for itself by offering not just competitive rates but also a wide range of transfer and delivery options tailored to meet the unique needs of customers. These varied options ensure that no matter where your recipient is, how quickly they need funds, or what type of banking access they have, Remitly has a solution. In this article, we will explore the different ways Remitly enables you to send and receive money, highlighting how each method works, and who benefits the most from each option.Why Choose Remitly for International Money Transfers?Remitly provides a wide range of services designed to fit the financial needs of its customers. For senders, the platform is simple to use—money can be sent using a mobile app or website in a few steps. For recipients, there are multiple ways to receive the funds, including cash pick-up, direct bank deposit, mobile wallet, home delivery, and even debit card deposit.By offering these delivery methods, Remitly ensures that money transfers are accessible and easy, whether you are living in a bustling city or a remote town. This flexibility makes it a convenient platform for sending money internationally.Cash Pickup: Fast Access to Money Without a Bank AccountOne of Remitly’s most popular options is cash pickup. This is an excellent choice for people who may not have a bank account or for those who need money urgently. With Remitly cash pickup, recipients can collect cash at approximately 470,000 options including various currencies provided worldwide.How Remitly Cash Pickup WorksThe sender selects cash pickup when sending money online, and the recipient can go to a partner location (often a bank or money service provider) to collect the cash. The recipient will need a valid ID and a reference number from the sender.Who Benefits Most?People without bank accounts: For those who don’t have access to a bank, cash pickup money transfers provide a fast, easy way to get funds.Emergency situations: If the recipient needs immediate access to money, cash pickup is one of the quickest ways to receive money.Bank Deposit: Secure and ConvenientFor recipients who have bank accounts, a bank deposit is often the most secure and straightforward way to receive money. This method transfers money directly to the recipient’s bank account.How Bank Deposit WorksThe sender provides the recipient’s bank information, and the money is transferred directly to their account. Depending on the destination country, the transfer can be almost instant or take a few days.Who Benefits Most?People with regular bank access: If the recipient uses their bank account regularly, this is one of the safest and most convenient ways to receive funds.Large or frequent transfers: When sending larger sums of money, a direct bank deposit is ideal as it avoids the risks of carrying large amounts of cash.Using Remitly’s bank deposit option ensures that funds are securely delivered to the recipient’s account, making it a reliable solution for those who prefer online money transfers directly to their bank.Mobile Wallet: Digital ConvenienceAs mobile technology grows, so does the use of mobile wallets. For recipients in countries where mobile wallets are common, Remitly supports sending money directly to a mobile wallet account.How Mobile Wallet Transfers WorkThe sender selects a mobile wallet as the transfer method and enters the recipient’s wallet number. Once the money is sent, the recipient can use their mobile wallet to pay bills, make purchases, or withdraw cash.Who Benefits Most?Tech-savvy recipients: If the recipient is comfortable using mobile technology, mobile wallet transfers offer a fast and convenient way to receive money.Countries with strong mobile networks: In regions where mobile wallets are commonly used for everyday transactions (such as Kenya with M-Pesa), this option is ideal.Quick access: Mobile wallet transfers are typically completed quickly, allowing recipients immediate access to their funds.Remitly’s support for mobile money transfers reflects the growing trend of digital banking, offering a modern, flexible option.Home Delivery: Money Delivered Directly to the DoorFor recipients in the Dominican Republic, Philippines, or Vietnam, home delivery is a great option. 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Diwali-2024_4
Is Diwali the Best Time for NRIs to Invest in Indian Real Estate?

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This belief is particularly significant when it comes to large investments like real estate. Many NRIs see this time as a chance to bring a part of their cultural heritage into their investments, making Diwali an ideal moment to buy property that can grow in value over time.Key Benefits of Investing During DiwaliWider Selection of PropertiesDuring the festive season, there is usually an increased supply of properties as developers release new projects. This gives NRIs access to a greater range of choices, from luxury apartments in metro cities to affordable housing in up-and-coming locations.Flexible Payment OptionsDiwali offers more than just discounts. Developers often introduce payment plans that make it easier for NRIs to manage finances when investing from abroad. 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It’s also recommended to confirm property titles and builder credentials to ensure a secure transaction.Are there any hidden costs in real estate investments for NRIs?In addition to the property price, NRIs should consider maintenance fees, property tax, registration costs, and conversion charges for money transfers. Understanding these costs helps NRIs make a more informed financial decision.

Diwali-2024_3
How to Make the Most of Diwali 2024 Remittance Rewards and Loyalty Programs

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Whether you’re looking to get the best money transfer rate to India, minimize fees, or earn rewards for future transfers, choosing the right remittance provider during Diwali can make a significant difference.Understanding Remittance Rewards, Loyalty Programs, and First-Time User DiscountsRemittance Rewards ProgramsMany remittance providers have developed rewards programs where users can earn points, cashback, or fee discounts on each transaction. These rewards accumulate over time, offering a chance to save on future transfers or get added value with each remittance. Some providers even allow you to exchange these points for various perks, making it easier to save money while regularly sending money home.Loyalty ProgramsLoyalty programs are another way for NRIs to maximize savings. When you use the same provider repeatedly, loyalty points can be accumulated and used for discounts or exclusive benefits. These programs reward consistent usage and often have tiered benefits, which means that as you send money internationally more frequently, you may qualify for even higher savings or exclusive features.First-Time User DiscountsFor those trying out a new remittance service, Diwali can be a prime time to benefit from first-time user discounts. Many providers offer high-value promotional rates and reduced fees for new customers, often giving rates higher than the standard exchange rate—sometimes even better than the Google exchange rate. These one-time offers can help NRIs secure the best rate possible, providing additional value on their initial transfer.CompareRemit InsightIf you’re looking to navigate all these options efficiently, platforms like CompareRemit make it easy to compare rates, fees, and current Diwali promotions across different money transfer companies. CompareRemit’s in-depth guides also help users understand each provider’s benefits and limitations, simplifying the decision-making process and saving both time and money.Tips to Maximize Your Diwali 2024 Remittance RewardsChoose a Provider with the Best Exchange RateThe exchange rate is a crucial factor in maximizing the value of each transfer. By selecting a provider that offers a high exchange rate, NRIs can ensure their recipients in India receive the maximum amount possible. Since exchange rates vary by provider, using a comparison tool like CompareRemit can be helpful in identifying which service currently offers the best rate for sending money to India from the USA, Canada, or other locations.Look for Fee Waivers and Cashback OffersMany providers offer fee waivers or cashback incentives during Diwali. Fee waivers reduce the cost of sending money online, allowing the sender to get more value out of each transfer. Similarly, cashback offers can either offset fees or provide funds that can be used in future transfers, making it a budget-friendly option. NRIs sending money to India from the US, Canada, or other countries should explore these offers to see where they can save.Use a Comparison Tool to Find the Best DealsWith so many options available, it can be challenging to choose the best remittance provider. A reliable comparison tool like CompareRemit allows users to compare providers based on real-time rates, fees, rewards, and Diwali offers. This tool simplifies the process of finding the right provider, ensuring that NRIs make informed choices and secure the best money transfer rates to India and other locations.Make Use of Loyalty Programs and Accumulate PointsFor NRIs who frequently send money online, selecting a provider with a loyalty program can provide long-term value. By accumulating loyalty points, senders can earn discounts, exclusive rewards, and sometimes even special promotional rates reserved for loyal customers. This is an excellent strategy for those who regularly transfer money to India and want to save consistently over time.Secure First-Time User BenefitsIf you haven’t yet used a particular remittance service, taking advantage of first-time user offers is highly recommended. These offers often come with reduced fees and better-than-average exchange rates, allowing NRIs to get the most out of their initial transfer. By securing these benefits, new users can enjoy a significant discount compared to standard rates.How to Use CompareRemit to Find the Best DealsCompareRemit offers a straightforward way to find remittance services that meet your needs. By providing real-time comparisons of exchange rates, fees, and rewards programs, CompareRemit allows users to quickly identify which provider offers the best deal. Additionally, with the platform’s detailed guides on major remittance providers, NRIs can confidently choose the best way to send money to India, the USA, or other destinations.To get started, simply enter your transfer details, and CompareRemit will display a range of provider options, highlighting those with the best exchange rates, lowest fees, and Diwali-specific promotions. This platform is particularly helpful for those looking to make the most of seasonal offers and save on every transfer.Common Challenges and How to Overcome ThemUnderstanding Exchange Rates and FeesExchange rates and transfer fees can vary widely depending on the provider. This fluctuation can make it challenging to predict the final amount received in India. To counter this, NRIs can use CompareRemit to view live exchange rates and compare transfer fees, ensuring they’re selecting the most cost-effective provider for their needs.Recognizing Fine Print in PromotionsMany Diwali offers and promotions come with specific terms and conditions. It’s important to read the fine print to understand any limitations, such as expiration dates or usage restrictions. This ensures NRIs can fully benefit from the rewards without encountering unexpected costs.Making Secure TransactionsSafety is a top priority when sending money internationally. Choosing reputable providers with a solid track record can help NRIs avoid potential issues. Using a comparison platform like CompareRemit ensures that users are selecting from established and trustworthy providers, enhancing transaction security and peace of mind.ConclusionDiwali 2024 is an ideal time for NRIs to maximize the value of their remittances by taking advantage of special rewards, loyalty programs, and first-time user discounts. By choosing the right provider, securing the best exchange rates, and leveraging platforms like CompareRemit to find the top deals, NRIs can ensure that every dollar or rupee they send counts. Wishing you a prosperous Diwali filled with savings and meaningful connections across the miles!

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