
MoneyGram is a popular way to send money internationally, but it's essential to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
One of the main advantages of using MoneyGram is its wide reach, with over 350,000 locations in more than 200 countries.
It's also relatively fast, with funds often arriving in minutes or hours, depending on the recipient's location and the transfer method chosen.
However, MoneyGram's fees can be steep, ranging from 10% to 20% of the transfer amount, depending on the service used.
These fees can add up quickly, making it a more expensive option than some other money transfer services.
Sending Money with MoneyGram
Sending money with MoneyGram is a convenient and efficient way to transfer funds to loved ones abroad. You can complete a MoneyGram money transfer entirely online, which is a big advantage over traditional money orders that typically require a visit to a local post office or convenience store.
MoneyGram offers a wide range of services, including sending money to over 200 countries and territories. This is a significant benefit compared to traditional money orders, which can only be sent to 13 countries with a USPS money order.
Transfers can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few days, depending on the country and the method of transfer. This is a big improvement over traditional money orders, which can take days or weeks to process.
Here's a comparison of MoneyGram and traditional money orders:
As you can see, MoneyGram offers a range of benefits over traditional money orders, including faster transfer times, higher transfer limits, and the ability to send money online.
Fees and Limits
MoneyGram's fees and limits can be a bit confusing, but don't worry, I've got you covered.
International transfer fees depend on the country you're sending to, and can range from $1.99 to $2.99 for a $1,000 transfer. The fees are lower for transfers to countries like Brazil, China, and Germany, while transfers to countries like Jamaica and South Africa incur higher fees.
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The total payout for a transfer can vary significantly depending on the country and the exchange rate. For example, sending $1,000 to Brazil would result in a total payout of 4,893.57 BRL, while sending the same amount to China would result in a total payout of 7,114.46 CNY.
Here's a breakdown of the estimated fees and exchange rates for international $1,000 money transfers originating in the U.S.:
As for limits, MoneyGram allows you to send up to $10,000 per online transfer and up to $10,000 every 30 calendar days for most countries. However, your bank account, credit card, or debit card provider may have additional transfer limits, so it's always a good idea to check with them before making a transfer.
Is a Money Order?
Money orders have some limitations when it comes to sending large amounts of money. You can typically send no more than 1,000 USD with a money order.
MoneyGram, on the other hand, allows for much larger transfers. For most countries, you can send up to 10,000 USD per online transfer.
Another key difference is the processing time. Money order processing times vary, but can be days or weeks. In contrast, MoneyGram transfers can take between a few minutes to a few days.
Here's a quick comparison of the two:
Fees and Limits
You'll want to know about the fees associated with MoneyGram transactions. There is no mention of a fixed fee in the article sections.
Fees are likely to be incurred when sending money internationally, and they can eat into your funds. The article mentions that MoneyGram does not use the mid-market rate, which means they make money from currency exchange.
The article doesn't specify the exact fees charged by MoneyGram. However, it does mention that the exchange rate you'll see on Google is not the one you'll get. The interbank rate or mid-market rate is what banks use between themselves, but MoneyGram adds a markup on top.
There is no information on any transfer limits for MoneyGram transactions in the article sections. However, if the transaction is unsuccessful, you'll receive a message with the Foreign Exchange application number, and you can contact the Foreign Exchange help desk for assistance.
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Fees
Fees can be a real pain when sending money abroad. MoneyGram international transfer fees depend on the country you're sending to and the amount you're sending. For some destinations, there's also a difference depending on whether you're sending money to a bank account or for cash pickup.
The fees can add up quickly, as shown in the table below. Here are some estimated fees for sending money to popular destinations:
MoneyGram transfer fees also vary based on the payment method, payment amount, sender location, recipient location, and method of receipt. For example, debit card and bank account payments are the least expensive, while credit card payments cost the most.
If you're sending money within the US, the fees are as follows:
International transfers incur transfer fees, and a currency exchange rate may apply. While the transfer fees for international transfers are low, be aware that MoneyGram also makes money on the currency exchange by adding a margin to the exchange rate.
If this caught your attention, see: Moneygram Foreign Exchange Rate
Transfer Details
MoneyGram transfer limits are quite straightforward. You can send up to 10,000 USD per online transfer and up to 10,000 USD every 30 calendar days. However, your bank account, credit card, or debit card provider may have additional transfer limits.
To check the specific limits for your transfer, simply log into your MoneyGram account. This is the easiest way to see what limits apply to your particular case.
Transfer fees depend on where you're sending money and how. Keep in mind that Western Union also makes money from currency exchange, which can increase your cost.
Cash pickup transfers are usually ready within 10 minutes of being sent during the pickup location's business hours. This is a convenient option for those who need quick access to their funds.
Payment sent to a debit card or mobile wallet is usually complete within minutes. This is a fast and efficient way to transfer money.
Sending money to a bank account is the least expensive method, but it takes the longest. Depending on the recipient country, it could be completed within minutes or days.
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International Transfers
International transfers with MoneyGram are generally fast, with many transactions completing in just a few minutes. International transfers typically take longer than domestic ones, but most recipients can still access their money within a few hours or a couple of days.
The exact timing of a MoneyGram international money transfer depends on the payment option and receive method. For faster transfers, MoneyGram recommends using a debit card as your payment option.
You can send up to 10,000 USD per online transfer and up to 10,000 USD every 30 calendar days for most countries. However, your bank account, credit card, or debit card provider may have additional transfer limits.
Here's a breakdown of MoneyGram international fees for popular destinations when paying cash at a CVS MoneyGram location:
International Transfer Fees
International Transfer Fees can be a bit of a mystery, but don't worry, I'm here to break it down for you.
MoneyGram international transfer fees depend on several factors, including the country you're sending to and the amount you're sending. For some destinations, there's also a difference depending on whether you're sending money to a bank account or for cash pickup.
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International transfers incur transfer fees, and a currency exchange rate may apply. While the transfer fees for international transfers are low, be aware that MoneyGram also makes money on the currency exchange by adding a margin to the exchange rate.
The transfer fees for international transfers are estimated to be around $1.99 for a $1,000 transfer originating in the U.S. and paid by debit card directly to a bank account. However, sending payment by credit card or picking up in cash results in higher transfer fees.
Here's a breakdown of estimated fees and exchange rates for international $1,000 money transfers originating in the U.S. and paid by debit card directly to a bank account:
Keep in mind that transfer fees and currency exchange rates fluctuate, so the estimates discussed here are subject to change.
Partners with Brightwell, Simplifies Global Transfers for Cruise Ship Workers
MoneyGram has partnered with Brightwell, a FinTech company that helps global workers get paid and send money safely and easily worldwide.
This innovative partnership enables crew members to digitally send their money home using MoneyGram within the Brightwell app.
Hundreds of thousands of people leave their homes to work in the cruise industry, and this partnership gives them an easy and cost-effective way to send money home directly from their mobile devices while at sea.
The partnership eliminates the need to wait until arriving at port to complete a money transfer, saving crew members valuable time and money.
Crew members can now support their friends and family in over 200 countries and territories worldwide.
The MoneyGram-Brightwell partnership is a result of MoneyGram's digital transformation through new partnerships and service offerings that address the needs of its customers.
MoneyGram's innovative platform leverages its leading digital and physical network, global financial settlement engine, cloud-based infrastructure with integrated APIs, and its unparalleled compliance program that leads the industry in protecting consumers.
This partnership brings financial freedom to those in the cruise industry with a quick and seamless way to send funds back home while working at sea.
Pros and Cons
MoneyGram has its downsides, and it's essential to consider them before sending money. Fees can be steep, with some transfers costing up to £11.99 in fees alone.
You'll also need to provide bank details to send money, which can be a hassle. This can be a problem if you're trying to send money quickly.
To make matters worse, you can't track your payment, making it a prime target for scammers. Although MoneyGram's exchange rates are generally better than those at high street banks, you might be able to find even better rates with other providers.
Are There Alternatives?
If you're put off by MoneyGram's high fees, there's good news: there are alternatives. One option is Paysend, a fast and easy money transfer platform that lets users send money directly to bank accounts or cards with just a name and card number.
Paysend has zero transfer fees for money transfers to bank accounts, and a low fee of £1, €1.5 or $2 (or equivalent amount) for transfers to cards. This can help you save money and send more to your recipient.
Paysend's competitive exchange rates also make it a more cost-effective option compared to MoneyGram. You can check if Paysend is a better option for you by visiting their homepage, where you'll find a useful tool to help you compare costs.
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Pros:

When sending money, you want it to be convenient and flexible for both you and the recipient. You can choose how you want the money to be received, whether directly to a bank account or to be picked up as cash by your recipient.
Lots of cash pick-up locations are available, making it easy for the recipient to get their money quickly. Instant transfer of funds to the recipient for cash pick-up is also a great feature, allowing them to get their money right away.
Here are some key benefits of this service:
- You can choose how you want the money to be received
- Lots of cash pick-up locations
- Instant transfer of funds to the recipient for cash pick-up
Cons:
MoneyGram has its downsides, and it's essential to be aware of them before making a decision.
Fees can be high, and I've seen examples where sending £400 to Nigeria would cost £11.99 in fees alone.
You'll need to provide various bank details to send money, which can be a hassle.
Tracking your payment is not possible with MoneyGram, making it a vulnerable option for scammers.
While MoneyGram's exchange rates are generally better than high street banks, you may be able to find even better rates with other money transfer providers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to send $100 MoneyGram?
To send $100 via MoneyGram, you'll pay a fee of $1.89 within the United States. This fee applies when sending from an online bank account.
Can you pay for a MoneyGram with a debit card?
Yes, you can pay for a MoneyGram transfer using a debit card, including Visa, MasterCard, and Discover. Debit cards from other brands, such as Diners Club International and Union Pay, are also accepted.
Can you send $1000 dollars through MoneyGram?
Yes, you can send up to $10,000 per online transfer, so $1,000 is well within the limit. However, there may be additional limits and requirements to consider.
Is it safe to send money online with MoneyGram?
MoneyGram's online money transfer service is secure when sending to known recipients. Learn more about our reliable and convenient payment process
What is needed for MoneyGram transfer?
To send a MoneyGram transfer, you'll need a valid ID, the recipient's information, and the transfer amount, plus fees. Hand over this information to a MoneyGram agent to initiate the transfer.
Sources
- https://wise.com/us/blog/moneygram-international-money-order
- https://paysend.com/en/blog/article-using-moneygram-to-send-money-online
- https://www.brightwell.com/post/moneygram-partners-with-brightwell-simplifies-money-transfers-for-cruise-ship-workers-around-the-globe
- https://www.fnb.co.za/forex/payments/moneygram.html
- https://www.gobankingrates.com/saving-money/shopping/moneygram-fee/
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