Wiring Money

[Liz and Miguel 3]

Does anyone use Western Union on a regular basis? Last night after I sent money, I received a call from WU stating I needed to go claim my refund and that I am no longer allowed to use Western Union. I called three customer service agents, and the supermarket where I send money also called, and they all said they cannot disclose why I have been blacklisted. They said they would consider reactivating my account if I submit tax returns, mortgage payments, loan information, and proof of "why I have interest in country I send money to."

I would like to know if I can report this somewhere, or if WU has the right to cut someone off without providing a reason. I think my phone number and address have been blacklisted too, so my husband will not be able to send money, either.

Does anyone know an alternative safe way to wire money internationally? Has anyone else been blacklisted from WU?

[JP and Tee 13]

Does anyone use Western Union on a regular basis? Last night after I sent money, I received a call from WU stating I needed to go claim my refund and that I am no longer allowed to use Western Union. I called three customer service agents, and the supermarket where I send money also called, and they all said they cannot disclose why I have been blacklisted. They said they would consider reactivating my account if I submit tax returns, mortgage payments, loan information, and proof of "why I have interest in country I send money to."

I would like to know if I can report this somewhere, or if WU has the right to cut someone off without providing a reason. I think my phone number and address have been blacklisted too, so my husband will not be able to send money, either.

Does anyone know an alternative safe way to wire money internationally? Has anyone else been blacklisted from WU?

Cant you do it through a normal wire transfer via your bank? I could just do mine online and have it sent to my husband's account or vice versa. Maybe talk to your bank and ask? They should have a min/max amount as well as charges, but they might not be a lot at all. For me, I can send up to 3000USD and the bank only charge me 10USD for it.

[Liz and Miguel 3]

My husband's family does not have access to a bank or bank account. They would probably have to travel a few hours on a bus to get to a bank. In the very rural communities, only WU is available.

[Carlos&Alyssa 4]

Do they have access to Moneygram? That's what we have always used...and the sending fees are much cheaper than Western Union...good luck!

[pauly 0]

I use xoom.com. It costs $5 flat fee and it's super fast/reliable.

[robertntess2012 0]

I have used xoom for 2 years. I recommend it.

[AngieandScratcha 1]

Zoom all the way

The reason is because ppl do illegal things with western union just google it

[OnMyWayID 1,489]

I've tried various routes.. I've not had too many issues with WU other than one time when the amount was over 5000 and I had to do a wire transfer (I found it to be a hassle dealing with a foreign bank and they found it a hassle getting the funds).

One solution - and it depends on the amount of money you are sending - I sent them a PayPal debit card.. We put funds in the PayPal account and they can withdraw it at an ATM. There is a flat fee so it should not be for continuous 20 dollar withdrawals.. But the exchange rate they give is much better than WU and there is no foreign exchange fee (if I remember right)... So you stock the card, they get it from an ATM. There is a limit of 300-400 per day.

[Firesp33dR 2]

True, Xoom all the way

I use xoom.com. It costs $5 flat fee and it's super fast/reliable.

[Dieseltu 19]

I use Western union all the time. To China. Never had a problem Its fast and convenient. $14. And they give the convert currency fee back to my Chinese fiancée. Nicaragua is the problem. And drug money. Probably suspect you are transferring drug money. Why don't you submit the requested items. Fill out the papers. Tell them why you are sending money. And let them reactivate you. If you don't do it . That is suspect enough. Its America. Anybody can cut off anyone for any reason. They don't have to give you a reason. Its THEIR business. Submit your papers . Solve YOUR problem.

Edited September 18, 2013 by Dieseltu