FAQ / Become a Western Union agent
Become a Western Union agent
What do I need in order to offer Western Union money transfer services?
If you want to become a Western Union agent, you’ll need a computer, an Internet connection and a printer* (*depending on your country of residence) at your retail location. Once you’ve installed the software we’ll provide, you’ll be able to offer money transfer services and earn a commission on every Western Union Money Transfer that’s sent or received from your retail locations(s).
How will I earn money as a Western Union agent?
Each time a consumer sends a Western Union money transfer, they pay a transfer fee for the service. As a Western Union agent, you’ll earn a commission on the transfer fee for every transaction you process. The more transactions you send or receive, the more you earn.
Who’s responsible for setting the price for the money transfer service?
We’ll provide the fee tables. The system will automatically calculate the fee based on the amount of money sent, the service chosen and the destination country.
How is a Western Union money transfer processed?
To send money: The consumer completes a send money form and gives it to the Western Union agent. The agent enters the consumer’s information into the Western Union system, checks their identification and collects the cash (including the sending fee). The agent ensures that the consumer signs the receipt and provides them with a copy.
To receive money: The consumer completes the receive money form and gives it to the Western Union agent. The agent enters the consumer’s information into the system, checks their identification and gives the consumer the funds and a copy of the receipt.
Will I be able to process money transfers to any destination?
Customers will be able to send money to more than 500,000 Agent locations in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. You’ll also be able to pay out money that’s been sent from any Western Union location across the world.
What support will I receive from Western Union?
Once you’ve been enrolled as a Western Union agent, we’ll help you get started and make your first transaction. You’ll get a free starter pack, with training and marketing promotion materials. We’ll provide training and software free of charge. As a Western Union agent, you’ll have access to customer support to answer any questions you may have about offering our service.
What do I need to know about Anti Money Laundering (AML) compliance?
While all money transfer agents have a responsibility to implement Anti-Money Laundering (AML) compliance procedures, Western Union has an industry-leading AML program and provides first-class training and support to help you succeed as an agent and protect your business.
What type of business do I need to have to be eligible?
Many retail businesses make great Western Union agents. Agents in our network own businesses as diverse as convenience stores, financial services providers, newsagents, pawnbrokers and travel agencies.
Do I need to have a specific licence to become a Western Union agent, and will I be regulated?
Yes, but Western Union will handle this for you.
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