Alternatives11 options · updated 26 October 2026

Western Union alternatives

Western Union is a popular choice for cash pickup almost anywhere. But it is not the only option. Here are 11 other money transfer & multi-currency tools and what each one does best.

The original

Western Union

One of the oldest money transfer companies, with a huge network of cash pickup locations plus online and app transfers.

Read about Western Union →

11 alternatives to Western Union

Listed alphabetically.

Western Union vs. the alternatives

ToolBest forPricingAvailable in
Western UnionCash pickup almost anywherePay as you goGlobal
InstaremTransfers from Asia-PacificPay as you goGlobal
MoneyGramCash transfers and pickupsPay as you goGlobal
OFXLarge transfers such as property or tuitionPay as you goGlobal
PaysendCard-to-card transfersPay as you goGlobal
RemitlySending money home to familyPay as you goGlobal
RevolutTravellers and people who hold several currenciesFree planUK, EU, US and more
SkrillOnline payments and transfers between walletsPay as you goGlobal
Taptap SendSending to Africa, Asia and the CaribbeanPay as you goUS, UK, EU, Canada and more
WiseTransfers to a bank account at the real exchange ratePay as you goGlobal
WorldRemitTransfers to mobile money and cash pickupPay as you goGlobal
XoomPayPal users sending money abroadPay as you goUS, Canada, UK, EU

How to choose

  • The exchange rate compared with the mid-market rate (our fee calculator does this).
  • How fast money arrives and how the recipient can collect it.
  • Coverage for the countries and currencies you need.
  • Whether it is licensed in your country.

Head-to-head

Heads-up: some links on this page may be affiliate links. If you sign up through one, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Tools are listed alphabetically; paid placements are always labelled "Featured". How we make money.

Newsletter

New finance tools, every week

The best new fintech tools and deals for freelancers and small businesses, in one short email. Free.