Western Union can be a convenient way to receive money from friends, family, or employees. Money sent via Western Union can be transferred directly to a bank account in 2-5 days, or sent directly to a mobile wallet in minutes. You can also receive funds in cash directly at Western Union locations, usually within a day of the transfer being made. Provide accurate sender information, choose a shipping method that's convenient for you, and request a tracking number once the funds have been transferred.
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Method 1 of 3: Requesting Money Sent to Your Bank Account
Step 1. Give your account number to the sender
The sender will also need your bank name, account number, and routing number to be able to send money directly to the bank account. You should only provide bank information if you receive money from a fully trusted person, or from a legitimate and well-known company.
You can find your account number and routing by calling your bank or logging into the bank's website
Step 2. Make sure the sender includes your full name as it appears on the bank account
For example, if your name on your bank account is Muhammad Faisal and your friend writes “M. Faisal” on the transfer form, you may have difficulty receiving funds. Double-check that the sender has your correct full name.
Step 3. Provide the International Bank Account Number (IBAN) if you receive funds from abroad
If you are going to receive money from someone overseas, please provide the International Bank Account Number (international bank account number) and/or International Bank Identifier Code (your international bank identification code. Contact the bank or check their website for these numbers.
Step 4. Wait for the money transfer period for 2-5 days
In most cases, money sent directly to the bank will arrive within 2-5 days. The sender will also receive a receipt stating that the money has been collected.
Step 5. Check the bank account to see if the funds have been transferred
Log in to your bank's online account, contact the bank, or visit a bank branch office to see if the remittance has arrived. Funds should arrive no later than 5 days from being sent, or according to the date on the sender's receipt.
Step 6. Use the Money Transfer Control Number (MTCN) to monitor the transfer
The sender may find the Money Transfer Control Number on the receipt. You can use this number to monitor remittances using the Western Union website or app.
Method 2 of 3: Receiving Money at Western Union Locations
Step 1. Provide your full name and address to the sender
You will need to provide the sender's name and address as shown in the ID to be able to receive money from a Western Union location. Make sure you provide an address that matches your ID card, even if it's not your current domicile address.
Step 2. Write down the full name and address of the sender
This information will be needed when withdrawing money. Ask the name and address the sender will use to transfer funds.
Step 3. Request the MTCN number from the sender's receipt
After the sender has transferred the money, ask him or her to provide the tracking number, or Money Transfer Control Number, that appears on the receipt. This allows you to monitor money transfers and know when funds can be withdrawn.
The sender's receipt also includes the estimated date the funds can be collected. However, it's a good idea to keep a close eye on the transfer to make sure it's available for collection before going to a Western Union location
Step 4. Go to the nearest Western Union location
You can receive funds at any Western Union branch. Find the branch closest to you using Western Union's online location tool:
Step 5. Show ID card
The name and address on the ID card must match the name and address the sender wrote down when filling out the submission form. Your ID card must be alive and not expired.
Step 6. Provide the sender's name and address, as well as the transfer tracking number
You also need to know the amount of money that will be received. In some countries, you will also have to answer a security question, which the sender should have told you beforehand.
Method 3 of 3: Receiving Money Using Mobile Wallet App
Step 1. Install the mobile wallet app on the phone
Some phones have a mobile wallet installed. Check to see if your phone already has a mobile wallet, and if not, download it from a mobile operator. Some of the most commonly used mobile wallet apps are Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Android Pay.
Step 2. Enter your credit and debit card information
Once the mobile wallet is installed, you will be asked to enter your credit or debit card information. Use a bank card that will receive funds, or will be used to send money at a later date.
Step 3. Give your phone number to the sender
Unlike the bank deposit or direct pick up methods at Western Union locations, the sender only needs your phone number to send funds to a mobile wallet. Make sure you provide the country code if you receive funds from abroad.
Step 4. Use the tracking number to see when the funds were transferred
Money sent to a mobile wallet usually arrives in just a few minutes, but it can take longer depending on various factors, such as the amount transferred, country of destination, and currency availability.
