How to Send Western Union Wire Transfers to Business Accounts in 2025

Western Union is one of the most recognized names when it comes to sending money. With decades of experience and a massive global network, it offers wire transfer services that are both convenient and widely accessible.

You can send money online, through their mobile app or in person at thousands of agent locations. Wire transfers aren’t the cheapest option out there, but they’re often chosen for their speed and international reach. On top of that, recipients don’t even need a bank account in some cases; they can pick up cash at a Western Union location.

So let’s take a look at how Western Union wire transfers to businesses work, the fees involved, and what to know before hitting “send.”

How Western Union Wire Transfers To Businesses Work

When you need to send money, Western Union has several options to make the process accessible. Transfers can be initiated online, through their mobile app, by phone or in person at one of their many agent locations around the world.¹

After setting up your business account with Western Union and completing any required ID or company verification, you’ll enter the necessary sender and recipient information, including the recipient’s country and preferred delivery method. Payment can typically be made from a linked business bank account, or in some cases, using a business credit or debit card or cash at a physical location.

For international bank transfers, additional details such as the recipient’s SWIFT/BIC code or IBAN may be required.²

Once the transfer is complete, you’ll receive a tracking number (MTCN) that allows both parties to monitor the status. Delivery times can vary, but many transfers are received within minutes.¹

Are Business and Personal Wire Transfers the Same?

Business and personal wire transfers through Western Union follow a similar process, but they’re designed for different needs. Both can be done online, in-app or at a location, but business transfers often involve larger amounts, additional verification steps and may offer tools for compliance or accounting. Here’s a quick side-by-side comparison to help you understand the differences.

Fees, Exchange Rates, and What to Expect

When you’re using a money transfer service such as Western Union to send money, it’s important to understand how fees and exchange rates work so you’re not caught off guard. The total cost of a transfer depends on several factors: where you're sending money, the amount you’re sending, how quickly it needs to arrive, and whether the recipient will receive it in cash or directly to a bank account.¹ It’s important to note that fees can be higher for instant cash pickups compared to slower bank transfers.

In general, outgoing transfer fees for business and personal transfers are anywhere between $20 to $35 for domestic transfers and $35 to $50 for international.² Incoming transfers are typically $0 to $16.²

Western Union makes money not just through fees, but also by applying a markup to the exchange rate, so the rate you see might not be the mid-market rate you’d find on Google.² You can view all fees and exchange rates in advance before finalizing your transaction online or in the app.¹

Wise Business Could Help Your Company Save on Global Payments

Domestic vs. International Transfers

Western Union provides wire transfer services suitable for both domestic and international business payments. While the overall process is similar, there are notable differences in speed, cost, and requirements that businesses should be aware of.

Domestic transfers are usually faster and involve fewer steps, which can be beneficial for routine business payments within the U.S. International transfers offer more options regarding currency and payment methods but may involve longer processing times and additional fees.

Save Time and Money On Overseas Payments With Wise Business

Wise Business can help you save big time on international payments.

Wise is not a bank, but a Money Services Business (MSB) provider and a smart alternative to banks. The Wise Business account is designed with international business in mind, and makes it easy to send, hold, and manage business funds in currencies.

Signing up to Wise Business allows access to BatchTransfer which you can use to pay up to 1000 invoices in one go. This is perfect for small businesses that are managing a global team, saving a ton of time and hassle when making payments.

Use Wise Business >>

Some key features of Wise Business include:

• Mid-market rate: Get the mid-market exchange rate with no hidden fees on international transfers

• Global Account: Send money to countries and hold balances in multiple currencies, all in one place. You can also get major currency account details for a one-off fee to receive overseas payments like a local

• Access to BatchTransfer: Pay up to 1000 invoices in one click. Save time, money, and stress when you make 1000 payments in one click with BatchTransfer payments. Access to BatchTransfer is free with a Wise Business account

• Auto-conversions: Don't like the current currency exchange rate? Set your desired rate, and Wise sends the transfer the moment the rate is met

• Free invoicing tool: Generate and send professional invoices

• No minimum balance requirements or monthly fees: US-based businesses can open an account for free. Learn more about fees here

Final Thoughts

A Western Union Wire Transfer to a business is a practical solution for sending money both domestically and internationally, especially when speed and accessibility matter. There are multiple ways to send a Western Union wire transfer, whether that’s online, through the app or in person; it’s a flexible option for individuals and businesses.¹

The process is generally straightforward, but it's important to review the fees, exchange rates and required recipient information before completing a transfer. Each transaction may differ depending on the destination, delivery method and payment source.

So what you should take from this article is this: If you need a fast and globally recognized wire transfer provider, Western Union is an option to consider, especially if the recipient plans to pick up the funds in person.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I cancel a Western Union wire transfer to a business after sending it?

Yes, if the funds haven’t been picked up or deposited, you may be able to cancel the transfer and request a refund.¹

Do I need a Western Union business account to receive money?

No account is required to receive funds. For cash pickups, recipients just need a valid ID and the tracking number (MTCN)

What’s the daily limit for sending money through Western Union?

Limits vary by location, payment method and destination. Business accounts may qualify for higher limits and will often exceed the $5,000 daily cap for personal transfers¹ depending on business needs.

Is the process the same for a wire transfer to a foreign business?

The overall process is similar but sending a wire transfer to a foreign business involves a few extra steps. You’ll typically need more detailed recipient information, such as a SWIFT/BIC code and possibly an IBAN, depending on the destination country. International transfers may also take longer to process and come with higher fees such as $35 to $50 per transfer compared to domestic wires which are $20 to $35.¹

Can I schedule a Western Union wire transfer to a business for a future date?

Currently, Western Union does not offer scheduled or recurring transfers; you’ll need to submit the transfer at the time you want it sent.

Sources:

1. Western Union – Send Money
2. Western Union - Money Transfer