Quick Summary
MoneyGram is the world's second-largest money transfer company, with 350,000+ agent locations in 200 countries and territories. While smaller than Western Union, MoneyGram offers competitive pricing and has invested heavily in digital capabilities, including partnerships with Walmart and Visa Direct for instant delivery. The service bridges traditional cash-based transfers with modern digital options, making it accessible to both banked and unbanked populations.
Score Breakdown
What We Like
- ✓ 350,000+ locations worldwide
- ✓ Walmart partnership for convenient access
- ✓ Visa Direct instant delivery option
- ✓ Competitive with Western Union on pricing
- ✓ Growing digital transfer capabilities
What Could Improve
- ✗ Fees higher than digital-only services
- ✗ Exchange rates not always transparent
- ✗ Agent experience can be inconsistent
Features
MoneyGram offers cash pickup at 350,000+ locations, bank deposit, mobile wallet delivery, and Visa Direct instant transfer. Send online, via app, in-person at agents, or at Walmart. Real-time tracking. MoneyGram Plus Rewards loyalty program. Pre-arranged pickups with reference numbers. Kiosk sending at select Walmart locations.
Pricing
Fees vary by corridor, amount, payment method, and delivery option. Online transfers start around $1.99 for some corridors. In-person transfers typically cost more. Exchange rate markup is typically 1-3%. Walmart kiosk transfers offer reduced fees. MoneyGram Plus Rewards provides fee discounts for loyal customers.
Usability
MoneyGram's digital experience has improved but still lags behind digital-first services like Remitly. The app handles sending and tracking adequately. In-person sending at agents and Walmart is straightforward. The fee structure can be complex, varying by many factors. Customer support is available but response times can be slow.
Key Specifications
| Transfer Fee | From $1.99 |
| Exchange Rate Markup | 1% - 3% |
| Transfer Speed | Minutes to days |
| Sending Countries | 200+ |
| Receiving Countries | 200+ |
| Delivery Methods | Cash, bank, mobile wallet |
| Maximum Transfer | Varies by corridor |
Final Verdict
MoneyGram is a reliable second option to Western Union for cash-based international transfers. The Walmart partnership provides convenient access in the US, and the growing digital capabilities make it increasingly competitive. For digital-only transfers between banks, cheaper options exist. MoneyGram's value is in its physical network and cash delivery capabilities.