MoneyGram Money Transfer: Review & Comprehensive Guide
Navigating the complex landscape of international money transfers has become an essential part of our interconnected world. Whether you're sending funds to support family abroad or conducting business transactions across borders, the choice of a reliable money transfer service can make all the difference. MoneyGram, a venerable name in the realm of financial services, has long been at the forefront of simplifying international money transfers. As the demand for fast, secure, and accessible cross-border transactions continues to rise, MoneyGram, with its extensive network of over 200 countries and territories, stands as a beacon of reliability and convenience. In this comprehensive review and guide, we delve into MoneyGram's money transfer services, shedding light on its features, fees, reliability, and ease of use. We'll help you make informed decisions, ensuring that your hard-earned money reaches its intended destination securely and efficiently. Say goodbye to the uncertainties of international money transfers as we explore the ins and outs of MoneyGram's offerings.What is MoneyGram Money Transfer?MoneyGram is a financial services company that specializes in international money transfers and bill payments. Founded in 1940, the company has since grown into a global network with thousands of locations worldwide. MoneyGram enables individuals and businesses to send and receive money quickly and securely across borders.MoneyGrams offers consumers to send money from the United States securely through cash pickup, to mobile wallets, to bank accounts, or to a Visa debit card. To further provide their customers with ease and affordability, MoneyGram partnered with Walmart to provide a variety of financial services to customers within the United States. In particular, their partnership aims to provide a swift solution for customers looking for the best remittance deal from the convenience of their local Walmart. To get started with MoneyGram, you simply need to create a free account and begin the simple money transfer process, which will be outlined later in this review. Maintaining your MoneyGram account requires no fee. Once you have secured your MoneyGram login, you can begin the money transfer process through MoneyGram.com or the MoneyGram App.Countries supported by MoneyGram money transfer: AustriaAustraliaBelgiumBrazilBulgariaCanadaChileCroatiaDenmarkEstoniaFinlandFranceGermanyGreat BritainGreeceHong KongHungaryIcelandIrelandItalyNew ZealandNorwayPolandPortugalRomaniaSingaporeSpainSwedenSwitzerlandAnd more. . . To view the full list of countries that MoneyGram services, visit the MoneyGram home page, navigate to the “Estimate Fees” tool, click on the “Receiver Country” bar, and scroll through the large list of countries that you can send money to.What is Walmart x MoneyGram? MoneyGram and Walmart have joined forces to offer an innovative solution for sending money internationally. Whether you need to send funds to your loved ones in your home country or for any other purpose, Walmart and MoneyGram have streamlined the process, making it both simple and cost-effective. Whether you're sending money to support loved ones in your home country or for any other purpose, Walmart and MoneyGram have made it both effortless and cost-effective. With the revamped lower online rates for Walmart money transfers powered by MoneyGram, you can send money to bank accounts, mobile wallets, or opt for cash pickup. Experience the convenience of sending money through Walmart, coupled with the assurance of speedy and dependable money transfers. You can swiftly and securely transfer money online, pick up funds anywhere within the United States or at designated MoneyGram locations inside Walmart stores, and even send and receive money, pay bills, and obtain money orders all conveniently in one place – Walmart. You can even facilitate Walmart to Walmart MoneyGram transfers, allowing your recipient to easily receive their money. How Much Does MoneyGram Money Transfer Cost? Your MoneyGram fee that you will pay for your money transfer will depend on where you are sending, how much, and how you are paying. MoneyGram offers a $0 fee on your first online money transfer. As stated on the MoneyGram website: “Fees are typically lower if you pay with a bank account (must be a U.S. checking account). If you pay with your credit or debit card, the fees are slightly higher.” To view your exact fee breakdown before you confirm your money transfer either through the fee estimator on the MoneyGram homepage or starting your transfer on the MoneyGram site or the MoneyGram app. How Much Money Can I Send Using MoneyGram? Because of international limitations, international money transfer does have limits on how much you can transfer in a single transaction. As stated on the MoneyGram website: “For most countries, you can send up to $10,000.00 per online transfer, and up to $10,000.00 every 30 calendar days.In the United States you can send up to $25,000.00* per online transfer to 42 different countries.”Please note that your send limit may also depend on the sender’s bank account limits. How Long Does MoneyGram Take to Transfer Money?While it is important for us to highlight that each transfer is unique and their transfer times are dependent on the amount and destination country, MoneyGram is known for their speedy transfers. If not sent in just a few seconds of your transfer confirmation, your MoneyGram transfer should be complete in a maximum of 2 days. To get an estimate of how long your transfer will take, log into your account and initiate your transfer. Here MoneyGram will provide you with a more solidified deadline for your transfer. Once your transfer is confirmed, if you have the MoneyGram app, you will even be able to track your money transfer right from the convenience of your mobile device. Is MoneyGram Safe? MoneyGram, like many reputable money transfer services, places a strong emphasis on security and has implemented various measures to ensure the safety of your transactions.Here are the multiple ways that MoneyGram strives to keep your money safe: MoneyGram employs robust encryption technology to protect the transmission of your financial and personal information. This encryption helps safeguard your data from unauthorized access during the transfer process.MoneyGram has strict identity verification processes in place. Senders are typically required to provide valid identification, and recipients often need to show identification when receiving funds. This helps ensure that money is sent and received by legitimate parties.MoneyGram has implemented anti-fraud measures to detect and prevent fraudulent transactions. Their systems may flag suspicious activities, helping to mitigate potential fraud risks.MoneyGram complies with various financial regulations and anti-money laundering (AML) laws. This includes reporting large transactions and conducting due diligence on customers, which helps deter illegal activities.Beyond that, MoneyGram offers accurate money tracking to let you keep an eye on your money at all times and a thorough fraud prevention system, FaudAware, that empowers you to stay safe from fraud. How to Send Money Using MoneyGram? Now for the biggest question you must have: how does MoneyGram work? There are multiple ways that you can send money through MoneyGram, be it an online transfer, physical location initiated transfer, or a walmart to walmart moneygram transfer, we have the how-tos for it all. Let’s walk through how to send money from a physical location. How to Transfer Money with MoneyGram from a Physical Location:Locate a nearby MoneyGram agent or kiosk from the array of MoneyGram locations available. You can use the MoneyGram website or mobile app to find the nearest location to you.Provide the necessary information for the transfer. You will need: Your identification: You'll typically need a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport. Recipient's information: Full name, contact details, and their location. Amount to send: Decide on the amount you want to transfer. Your branch may ask for more information based on the requirements and policies of that location or your transfer’s receiving country. Complete the money transfer form your agent will provide you. Fill out the form with the required information, including your details, the recipient's details, the destination country (if international) and the amount to be transferred.Choose the transfer method. MoneyGram offers options such as cash pickup, bank deposit, or mobile wallet transfers, depending on the destination.Pay the transfer amount and fees. Pay the total amount (transfer amount + fees) to the MoneyGram agent. You can usually pay in cash or with a debit/credit card, depending on the agent location's policies.Receive a reference number. After completing the transaction, the MoneyGram agent will provide you with a reference number. This number is crucial for the recipient to pick up the funds.Share the reference number with the recipient. They will need this number to pick up the funds.Track the transfer (optional). You can track the status of your money transfer using MoneyGram's online tracking tool. This helps you monitor the progress of the transaction.The recipient can visit their local MoneyGram agent location with the reference number and a valid ID to collect the transferred funds.Once the recipient has successfully collected the money, confirm with them to ensure the transfer is complete.Now we will walk you through the process of transferring money using Walmart. How to Use MoneyGram's Walmart Money Transfer In-Person:Locate a Walmart store near you. MoneyGram services are typically available at the Walmart MoneyCenter or Customer Service desk.Bring the necessary identification. When visiting Walmart to send money, bring a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport. Your branch may ask for more information based on the requirements and policies of that location. Request a MoneyGram send form from the Walmart agent or use a self-service kiosk if available. Fill out the form with the required information, including: your full name and contact details, the recipient's full name and contact details, the amount you want to send, the destination country (if international). Select your preferred payment method, which can include cash, debit/credit card, or a Walmart MoneyCard.Pay for the transfer, including any associated fees. Walmart will provide you with a reference number or receipt for the transaction.Share reference number with recipient. If you're sending money for someone else to collect, share the reference number with the recipient. They will need this number to pick up the funds. Retain the receipt and reference number until the recipient has successfully received the money. It serves as proof of the transaction.The recipient can visit a Walmart store, go to the MoneyCenter or Customer Service desk, provide the reference number, and show their identification to collect the funds. They may have the option to receive cash, have the funds loaded onto a Walmart MoneyCard, or choose another payout method.Walmart's MoneyCenter may offer additional services such as bill payments, check cashing, and purchasing money orders. You can inquire about these services if needed.Finally, we will cover how to complete an online MoneyGram transfer. How to Transfer Money Online with MoneyGram: Create a MoneyGram Account. Visit the official MoneyGram website and sign up for an account if you don't already have one. You will need to provide your personal information, including your name, address, phone number, and email.After creating an account, log in with your email and password.From your account dashboard, select the "Send Money Online" option.Choose the recipient and destination. Enter the recipient's information, including their full name and contact details. Here is where you will need to specify the destination country.Enter the transfer details. Provide the transfer details, including the amount you want to send and the purpose of the transfer (e.g., family support, purchase, etc.).Choose your preferred payment method. MoneyGram offers options such as debit/credit card or bank account transfer. Enter the necessary payment details.Review all the information you've entered to ensure it's accurate. Check the transfer fees and exchange rates associated with your transaction. MoneyGram will display the total amount to be paid, including fees.MoneyGram may require additional identity verification steps to ensure security. Follow the instructions to complete this step.Once you've confirmed the details and passed the identity verification, proceed to make the payment. You will receive an order number or reference number for your transaction.Share the reference number with the recipient. If you're sending money to someone else, provide them with the reference number. They will need this number to pick up the funds. Retain the receipt and reference number until the recipient has successfully received the money. It serves as proof of the transaction. The recipient can visit a MoneyGram location or partner agent in their country, provide the reference number, and present their identification to collect the funds. MoneyGram offers various payout options, including cash pickup, bank deposit, or mobile wallet, depending on the destination.You can track the status of your online money transfer by logging into your MoneyGram account and using the reference number provided during the transaction.MoneyGram's online platform may also offer additional services like bill payment and money orders. Explore these options if needed.Always be aware of the fees associated with your transaction and the exchange rates for international transfers. MoneyGram's website provides a fee estimator and exchange rate calculator to help you understand the costs involved.How to Contact MoneyGram? For immediate assistance call the MoneyGram customer service, toll free phone number 1-800-926-9400. Or you can fill out the “Contact Us” form.Pros of MoneyGram Money TransferBased on our research of customer reviews and comparison to other remittance providers, the pros of the MoneyGram money transfer service are:Global Accessibility. MoneyGram boasts an extensive network of agent locations, making it accessible in over 200 countries and territories.Speed. MoneyGram offers fast transfers, with many transactions processed within minutes, depending on the chosen service.Multiple Transfer Options. MoneyGram provides various transfer methods, including cash pickup, bank deposit, mobile wallet, and home delivery, catering to diverse recipient preferences.MoneyGram x Walmart. Providing customers with ease, accessibility, affordability, and convenience, MoneyGram’s partnership with Walmart is a huge pro. Security. MoneyGram employs robust security measures to protect your financial information and transactions.Fee estimator. The fee estimator on the home page allows users to get a gist of what their fee breakdown will be before committing to the process of creating an account. Cons of MoneyGram Money Transfer ServiceBased on our research of customer reviews and comparison to other remittance providers, the cons of the MoneyGram service are:No competitive transfer calculation tool. While MoneyGram has a simple fee calculator, its competitors provide more thorough tools that allow users to get a near-accurate estimate of the full details of what their transfer could look like before they commit to the process of creating a login. Fees and exchange Rates. MoneyGram charges fees for its services, and the exchange rates may not always be the most competitive. It's essential to compare costs before making a transfer.MoneyGram Money Transfer Service: Best FeatureMoneyGram's standout feature undoubtedly lies in its strategic partnership with Walmart. This collaboration brings immense convenience to customers, allowing them to access MoneyGram's reliable money transfer services within the vast network of Walmart stores. It's a game-changer for both parties. Walmart's extensive reach means that customers can send and receive money at familiar locations, making it a one-stop solution for various financial needs. This partnership not only enhances accessibility but also offers competitive pricing, making it a cost-effective choice for savvy customers. MoneyGram's affiliation with the trusted Walmart brand adds an extra layer of reliability, setting them apart from competitors and ensuring that customers can count on a seamless and secure money transfer experience.MoneyGram Money Transfer Service AlternativesIf you’re looking for an alternative to MoneyGram’s remittance service, here are some top remittance providers we recommend that offers low fees, excellent exchange rates, and are easy to use: Wise Xe Money TransferInstaremSBI CaliforniaPandaRemitMoneyGram ReviewsNeed more assurance about MoneyGram? Is MoneyGram legit? Let’s see what users of MoneyGram have to say. Sourced from multiple platforms, customer reviews of MoneyGram are: MoneyGram scores high on TrustPilot with a TrustScore of 4.5 out of 5. “I wanted to send money to the Philippines and searched for an easy solution, cause most people only have Gcash there. Super easy to handle. Self explaining and very fast transactions possible to a very fair price.” - Orestis Anastasiadis on TrustPilot“The App is easy to use, the fees are clearly indicated based on the amount you wish to send and one gives the option to send money using your bank account or debit/credit card. I opted to use my bank account. I sent money to Guatemala and my cousin picked up the money with no issues. I think that as long as one provides a legit profile with credentials and are sending money to someone who has a valid government issued ID, there is no reason for MoneyGram to flag anyone. But I'm glad to hear that MoneyGram does flag accounts or individuals when needed since there are a lot of scammers out there. Will definitely use MoneyGram App again, if I ever need to.” - Vanessa on ConsumerAffairsNegative reviews pertain to issues with identity verification and transfer cancellations/delays as a result. Do We Recommend MoneyGram?MoneyGram offers a reliable and convenient way to send and receive money globally. With its extensive network, secure transactions, and various transfer options, it's a valuable financial service for individuals and businesses alike. Whether you need to support loved ones abroad or pay bills efficiently, MoneyGram is a trustworthy choice for your financial needs.We invite you to compare remittance providers using CompareRemit’s comparison tool today to find the best rates, lowest fees, and fastest turnaround times for your specific destination and transfer amount.