FAQs
Log in to westernunion.com or go to our app. Select the Profile icon at the top right and choose Start verification now. Select Computer and webcam or Smartphone as the medium of video chat. Follow the instruction to complete the verification.
How to verify your identity with Western Union? ›
Log in to westernunion.com or go to our app. Select the Profile icon at the top right and choose Start verification now. Select Computer and webcam or Smartphone as the medium of video chat. Follow the instruction to complete the verification.
What information do I need to give someone for Western Union? ›
- Start by finding an agent location near you.
- Bring your ID and head to the counter. You'll also need your receiver's bank details4, address and phone number.
- Pay by credit card2/debit card, cash or bank transfer.
- Note down your tracking number (MTCN). Share this with your receiver so they can collect their cash.
Do you need to show ID at Western Union? ›
We do what we can to reduce the risk that your money is given to the wrong person. Western Union requires receivers to provide photo ID as an added way of ensuring they are who they say they are – and although it's not 100% reliable, this simple procedure helps protect your money transfer. Send with confidence.
How can I pick up my Western Union without ID? ›
We need the MTCN (Money Transfer Control Number) and a valid government issued ID. Q: Can I pick up money without an ID? A: As long as the sender used a test question, and the clerk checked the “Pay without ID” box.
How do I update my ID on the Western Union app? ›
You can change or update your Western Union Profile information from the “Profile overview” tab after you log in to wu.com. After your identity is verified, you cannot change your name, last name, date of birth, nationality, and ID number.
Why is Western Union asking for additional information? ›
We need additional information to understand why you use Western Union and the relationship between you and the person or entities you're transacting with. The more information you provide, the quicker we'll be able to complete your request.
Why does Western Union need my SSN? ›
All financial institutions, including Western Union, are required to collect additional identity information to know their customers better. When we understand who is sending money to whom, we can help protect your money from being used for illegal activities.
What details do I provide to receive money through Western Union? ›
Receive Money
- Visit an Agent Location: Use our online Agent locator to find a location near you.
- Provide the following information to the Agent Clerk. Correct money transfer control number (MTCN). Sender's name. Where money was sent from. ...
- Receive the Money. The Agent clerk will check your ID. You will sign the receipt.
Can someone else pick up Western Union for me? ›
For security reasons, only the designated receiver can pick up a transfer.
In response to this measure, and in alignment with the State Government Offices across the United States, Western Union will continue to temporarily allow the acceptance of expired personal identification documents dating back to March 1, 2020 for send & receive money transfers in amounts up to $2,999.99.
Can I send money without ID? ›
Send money in the form of a prepaid debit card or a gift card to keep your identity hidden. Use a separate email and pseudonym when creating accounts on online payment apps, such as Venmo, Cash App, and Zelle to send money anonymously.
Can you use a security question for Western Union if you don't have an ID? ›
The "Test Question" feature in the Western Union® Money Transfer service is designed for emergency situations where the receiver does not have proper identification (e.g. his or her wallet and identification have been stolen). It should never be used as additional security to time or delay the payment of a transfer.
How do I verify my identity on Western Union? ›
Follow these steps to verify your ID at a Western Union agent location:
- Start a transfer at an agent location providing the transfer details to your local agent.
- Present an acceptable government-issued photo ID and proof of address, check the full list of IDs here.
What documents are needed for Western Union? ›
Receive Money Anywhere in India
- Visit a Western Union agent location.
- Provide your sender's details, including the Money Transfer Control Number (MTCN).
- Show a government-issued photo ID.
- Get your money once your details have been verified.
Can I send money through Western Union anonymously? ›
Is Western Union anonymous? When you use Western Union to send money, you must complete a Send Money form that provides the agent with your information. You're also required to show valid identification, so it's not what you'd call an anonymous transaction.
How long does Western Union online verification take? ›
We usually verify your documents within a couple of hours, but it can sometimes take longer. We might reach out to you in case we need additional information.
How much can I send through Western Union without verification? ›
We'll need to verify your identity. Enter a U.S. Social Security Number. To send more than $2,999, you must enter your Social Security Number. If you don't have one, you can still send up to $2,999.
How do I verify a Western Union sender? ›
Sometimes we need to confirm the sender's identity before we can process a money transfer. If this is the case, we'll send the sender an online web receipt and an email asking them to call us. Once we've confirmed the sender's information, the transfer will be completed and the receiver can pick up the money.
How do I verify a Western Union money order? ›
If you have given the Money Order(s) to the payee and/or suspect that the Money Order(s) has been cashed, please verify the status of the Money Order(s) by calling 1-800-999-966.