By Sarah Chen
Published ยท Updated
Quick Summary
Remitly is a digital-first money transfer service that has quickly become one of the most popular options for sending money internationally. With competitive exchange rates, multiple delivery speeds (including instant transfers to select countries), and a guaranteed delivery promise, Remitly excels at serving the diaspora community sending money home. The mobile-first design and transparent pricing make it easy to know exactly what you're paying before you send.
Score Breakdown
What We Like
- โ Express transfers arrive in minutes
- โ Guaranteed delivery or money back
- โ Competitive exchange rates
- โ Excellent mobile app experience
- โ First transfer promotional rates
What Could Improve
- โ Limited sending countries (primarily US, UK, Canada)
- โ Fees vary by delivery method and speed
- โ Not ideal for large business transfers
Features
Remitly offers three delivery speeds: Express (minutes to hours), Economy (3-5 business days), and instant (to mobile wallets). Delivery options include bank deposit, mobile money, cash pickup, and door-to-door delivery. Rate alerts notify you when exchange rates are favorable. Recurring transfers automate regular sending. Referral bonuses for inviting friends.
Pricing
Transfer fees range from $0-$4.99 depending on send amount, delivery speed, and destination. Express transfers have higher fees than Economy. Exchange rate markup is typically 0.5-2% depending on the corridor. First transfer often free or at a promotional rate. No hidden fees โ all costs shown upfront before sending.
Usability
Remitly's mobile app is beautifully designed and guides you through sending money in minutes. The recipient management system remembers previous receivers. Real-time tracking shows transfer status. Push notifications alert you when money is delivered. Customer support is available 24/7 via chat and phone. The app supports multiple languages.
Key Specifications
| Transfer Fee | $0 - $4.99 |
| Exchange Rate Markup | 0.5% - 2% |
| Transfer Speed | Minutes to 5 days |
| Sending Countries | 17+ |
| Receiving Countries | 170+ |
| Delivery Methods | Bank, mobile money, cash pickup |
| Maximum Transfer | Varies by country |
Final Verdict
Remitly is the best money transfer service for individuals sending money to family abroad. The combination of speed, competitive rates, and an excellent mobile experience makes it our top pick. The guaranteed delivery promise provides peace of mind. While it's not built for business transfers or rare currency corridors, for personal remittances, Remitly is hard to beat.
Remitly money order service: cash pickup, fees and alternatives
This section was updated from live Google Search Console query data so the page answers the exact searches users are already making.
2026 Decision Card
| Best for | Fast international transfers and cash pickup corridors |
|---|---|
| Watch-out | Fees and delivery speed vary by country and payment method |
| Compare with | Money transfer comparison |
Fast next steps
- /money-transfer/comparison/
- /money-transfer/revolut/
- /money-transfer/moneygram/
- /money-transfer/western-union/
FAQ
Does Remitly offer money orders?
Remitly is primarily a digital money transfer service, not a traditional domestic money order provider. Users looking for cash pickup should compare supported pickup partners by country.
Is Remitly safe?
Remitly is a regulated transfer provider, but users should verify recipient details, fees and delivery method before sending.
Is Remitly cheaper than MoneyGram?
It depends on corridor, payment method and delivery speed. Compare total received amount, not just advertised fee.
Calculate delivered amount before sending money
Use the money transfer fee calculator to compare provider fees, exchange-rate markup and receiver-side costs before choosing a transfer service.