What identification is needed for money transfer (2024)

Basic customer identification is a key element in ensuring that a money transaction is secure, and that it is delivered to its intended recipient. It is also a legal obligation for banks and money transfer operators to accurately identify their customers to help prevent money laundering and terrorist financing. The person receiving the money may also need to show ID to be able to prove they are the intended recipient.

For personal transfers, most forms of standard photographic ID and official documents that prove your address are accepted by banks and money transfer operators. The document will need to have a clear photo of you and show your full name. If you are having problems producing this kind of ID, some organisations may accept a letter of reference from a professional person known to you personally, such as a doctor, solicitor, policeman or woman, judge, accountant or notary.

If you have to provide address verification, one of the following types of documents no older than three months showing your full name and address are typically accepted:

  • Utility bill - gas, electricity, landline phone
  • Bank or credit card statement (A copy of physical letter, not an online statement).
  • Driving license with address
  • Other government or financial institution issued document

For a business account, the documentation will typically be proof of company registration and information that relates to company directors and sometimes shareholders. The ID and address requirements for the directors and shareholders will be in line with those requirements for personal transfers above.

The money transfer provider who you choose to work with will be able to guide through this process and many have automated it to make it as seamless as possible.

See Also:

Or find our best deals by comparing now

Help and Support - Money Transfer FAQs | FXcompared

FXcompared.com is an fx money comparison site for international money transfer and to compare rates from currency brokers for sending money abroad. The website and the information provided is for informational purposes onlyand does not constitute an offer, solicitation or advice on any financial service or transaction. None of the information presented is intended to form the basis for any investment decision, and no specific recommendations are intended. FXC Group Ltd and FX Compared Ltd does not provide any guarantees of any data from third parties listed on this website. FX compared Ltd expressly disclaims any and all responsibility for any direct or consequential loss or damage of any kind whatsoever arising directly or indirectly from (i) any error, omission or inaccuracy in any such information or (ii) any action resulting therefrom.

What identification is needed for money transfer (2024)

FAQs

What ID do I need to transfer money? ›

Your recipient's 6-digit sort code. Your recipient's 8-digit account number. A payment reference (usually with your name, so the recipient can identify the source of money) Date of transfer.

What info do you need for a money transfer? ›

When sending a domestic bank wire, you will need to provide the recipient's name, address, bank account number, and ABA number (routing number).

Can I pick up a money transfer without ID? ›

To collect a cash transfer, your recipient will need: the transfer's unique PIN. a piece of government-issued photo ID which is in their name and is in date.

What documentation must be provided to a US sender who is sending a money transfer? ›

For domestic wire transfers, you need the following basic information. The recipient's full name and physical address are necessary to ensure the money is going to the right person. You'll need the recipient's bank account and ABA or routing number if the funds are going directly to the recipients' bank.

What counts as ID? ›

Name documents:
  • passport.
  • driving licence.
  • biometric residence card.
  • national identity card.
  • travel document.
  • birth or adoption certificate or certificate of registry of birth.

Why do you need an ID to send money? ›

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 do I transfer money to someone's bank account? ›

SHARE:
  1. Make an electronic transfer.
  2. Make a wire transfer.
  3. Write a check.
  4. Deposit cash at the bank.
  5. Use a cashier's check.
  6. Use a money order.
  7. See what other banks offer.
Dec 22, 2023

How can I transfer money from a bank account? ›

You can move money from one bank to your other one online in a few steps: Log into your bank's website or connect via the bank's app. Click on the transfer feature and choose transfer to another bank. Enter the routing and account numbers for the account at the other bank.

What type of ID do I need for Western Union? ›

A picture identification card will be required to pick up money from an agent location. Depending on the country and the agent location where the receiver will pick up the money, the forms of acceptable ID may vary. In general, passports and national IDs are acceptable. A driver's license might not be valid.

Do you need an ID to pick up money transfer from Walmart? ›

To receive a money transfer, visit the Customer Service Desk or Money Center & present a valid photo ID.

Which money transfer service does not require identification? ›

Payment transfer providers such as Western Union, MoneyGram, Money2World offer remittance services that allow customers to send money without ID verification. Clients need to provide the recipients' details as well as a valid photo ID for their own identity verification.

Does Western Union require ID to pick up money? ›

pick up your money. Bring your government-issued photo ID and tracking number (MTCN) to receive your receipt and get your cash.

What is the $3000 rule? ›

The requirement that financial institutions verify and record the identity of each cash purchaser of money orders and bank, cashier's, and traveler's checks in excess of $3,000.

What happens if money is transferred but not received? ›

If the bank initiated the transfer, notify the bank immediately so that it can investigate your claim. If you first contact the bank by phone, it is a good practice to follow up in writing. If you wired the funds through a third party (e.g., Western Union), contact that party to find out what their procedures are.

Can someone see my bank details if I transfer money? ›

Only you and the receiver can see the bank transfer reference, so you don't need to worry about this information being shared with external sources and getting into the hands of the wrong people. The only way someone is able to find out this information is if you tell them.

Is it safe to give out bank details for bank transfer? ›

It's generally considered safe to give out your account number and sort code, but you should always use common sense and avoid sharing your bank details with people you don't know or expect payments from.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Delena Feil

Last Updated:

Views: 6238

Rating: 4.4 / 5 (65 voted)

Reviews: 80% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Delena Feil

Birthday: 1998-08-29

Address: 747 Lubowitz Run, Sidmouth, HI 90646-5543

Phone: +99513241752844

Job: Design Supervisor

Hobby: Digital arts, Lacemaking, Air sports, Running, Scouting, Shooting, Puzzles

Introduction: My name is Delena Feil, I am a clean, splendid, calm, fancy, jolly, bright, faithful person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.