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Frequently Asked Questions

Customer support questions? We got you! Western Union Malaysia

You can find the answers to many of your questions below.
But if you still need to know more, do not hesitate to contact us.

How do I send money to India with UPI?

About UPI

Unified Payment Interface (UPI) is a payment method that allows you to instantly transfer money to a bank account in India.

Understanding UPI ID

UPI ID is a virtual payment address (VPA) that uniquely identifies one person. A UPI ID format is like an email ID: with the sign “@” in the middle. For example, your receiver’s UPI ID could be “receiver’s_name@bank_name” or “phone_number@bank_name.”

When sending with a UPI ID, you only need to have your receiver’s UPI ID. You do not need to ask receivers for their account number, account type, bank name, or IFSC code.

To receive the payment, the receiver needs to have their UPI ID linked to the bank enabled for international UPI remittance. Please see below the list of banks that support international UPI.

Current list of banks that support international UPI transfer

Below are the banks currently supported. More banks will be made available soon.

•Abhyudaya Cooperative Bank Limited•Janata Sahakari Bank Limited•Airtel Payments Bank Limited•Jana Small Finance Bank Limited
•Andhra Bank•Karnataka Bank Limited•The Andhra Pradesh State Cooperative Bank Limited•Kalupur Commercial Cooperative Bank
•Andhra Pragathi Grameena Bank•Kalyan Janata Sahakari Bank•Andhra Pradesh Grameena Vikas Bank•Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited
•Apna Sahakari Bank Limited•Kerala Gramin Bank•Bassein Catholic Cooperative Bank Limited•The Karanataka State Cooperative Apex Bank Limited
•Bank Of Baroda•Karnataka Vikas Grameena Bank•Bandhan Bank Limited•Laxmi Vilas Bank
•Dena Bank•Bank Of Maharashtra•Bank Of India•Maharashtra Gramin Bank
•Central Bank Of India•Mahanagar Cooperative Bank•City Union Bank Limited•The Mehsana Urban Cooperative Bank
•Canara Bank•Oriental Bank of Commerce•Corporation Bank•G P Parsik Bank
•The Cosmos Co Operative Bank Limited•Pragathi Krishna Gramin Bank•Catholic Syrian Bank Limited•Punjab And Sind Bank
•Development Bank of Singapore•Punjab National Bank•DCB Bank Limited
•Deustche Bank•Ratnakar Bank Limited•Deutsche Bank (Bij Alle Sepa-Transacties)•Rajkot Nagrik Sahakari Bank Limited
•Dhanalakshmi Bank•State Bank of India•Equitas Small Finance Bank Limited•Standard Chartered Bank
•Federal Bank•South Indian Bank•Fino Payments Bank•The Surath Peoples Cooperative Bank Limited
•Fincare Small Finance Bank Ltd•Saraswat Cooperative Bank Limited•The Gujarat State Cooperative Bank Limited•Suryoday Small Finance Bank Limited
•Hasti Coop Bank Ltd•The Shamrao Vithal Cooperative Bank•HSBC Bank•Syndicate Bank
•IDBI Bank•The Thane Bharat Sahakari Bank Limited•ICICI Bank Limited•TJSB Sahakari Bank Limited
•IDFC Bank Limited•Tamilnad Mercantile Bank Limited•Indian Bank•The Tamil Nadu State Apex Cooperative Bank
•Indusind Bank•Union Bank Of India•Indian Overseas Bank•UCO Bank
•India Post Payment Bank•Ujjivan Small Finance Bank Limited•Jammu And Kashmir Bank Limited•Axis Bank
•Jio Payments Bank Limited•The Varachha Cooperative Bank Limited•Janakalyan Sahakari Bank Limited•Vijaya Bank
•Karur Vysya Bank•The Vishweshwar Sahakari Bank Limited•Vasai Vikas Sahakari Bank Limited•Yes Bank

 

Send limits using UPI

Currently, you can send up to 200,000 INR per transfer.

Steps to send money using a UPI through Western Union

Western Union is the first money transfer service company to use a UPI transfer internationally.

1. Log in to your Western Union profile.

2. Choose India as your receiving country (you will need to know your receiver’s mailing address).

3. Choose to send using a bank pay out and use any payment method.

4. Choose UPI ID under the bank information section. You’ll be able to browse all the banks enabled for international UPI transfer.

5. Choose to send your transfer, and you’re all set. Generally, your transfer should be completed in minutes.

Can I send money online with Western Union?

Yes, you can send money online from our Western Union app or at wu.com, to a Western Union agent location for a cash pickup. After you’ve chosen your destination country, you’ll see the types of services available to you.

Learn more about how to send money online.

How do I complete my first money transfer online within the Western Union app or wu.com in Malaysia?

To complete your first money transfer online you need to register and get your profile confirmation. During your profile confirmation process, you will have to start a money transfer through the app and pay at an agent location. Remember that you need to show the agent the same ID you uploaded in the app. If your profile is successfully confirmed, you will then be able to send money from the app, ready for a cash pick-up or directly to a bank account.  However, if your profile cannot be confirmed right away, you can still transfer money by initiating your money transfer on the app and paying at an agent location.

If you have any questions while registering, please call Western Union’s Customer Service Center toll free number 1-800-81-3399, direct dial-in +85234080460.

I already have a profile created and have sent money through the app at an agent location. How do I send money online using the Western Union app or from wu.com in Malaysia?

Once you have started a money transfer on the app and completed it at an agent location, please upload the ID presented to the agent, to the app or web. When your profile status changes to “verified” you will be able to send money online using FPX method – direct bank debit.

FPX method allows you to make money available to your receiver in cash, by taking it directly from your bank account. After you’ve chosen your destination country, you’ll see the types of services available to you. Money transfers will generally be paid in cash, upon availability to receiver’s bank account, or to your receiver’s mobile phone.

How do I upload my ID?

To upload your ID, please login into your profile and go to the last step before starting a money transfer, then select the “upload your ID” option. Remember to upload the same ID you used when creating your profile. You can upload up to two different files depending on the ID type. The file can be a bmp, gif, png, jpg, jpeg or pdf with a maximum size of 10 megabytes (10 MB).

If your ID matches the one provided at the agent location, your profile status will remain “verified”. If your ID is different, your profile status may change and you will temporarily not be able to use FPX method – direct bank debit.

FPX method allows you to make money available to your receiver in cash, by taking it directly from your bank account. After you’ve chosen your destination country, you’ll see the types of services available to you. Money transfers will generally be paid in cash, upon availability to receiver’s bank account, or to receiver’s mobile phone.

If you have any question while registering, please call our Western Union’s Customer Service Center toll free number 1-800-81-3399, direct dial-in +85234080460.

How long does it take for the money to be available to my receiver in Malaysia?

You can send money online from the Western Union app or wu.com using our money in minutes* service.

If your money transfer is needed within minutes*, you can send it online using FPX method – direct bank debit.

FPX method allows you to make money available to your receiver in cash, by taking it directly from your bank account. Receivers can pick up cash at any Western Union agent locations around the world, depending on the hours of operations. After you’ve chosen your destination country, you’ll see the types of services available to you. Money transfers will generally be paid in cash, upon availability to receiver’s bank account, or to your receiver’s mobile phone.

*Funds may be delayed or services unavailable based on certain transfer conditions, including amount sent, destination country, currency availability, regulatory and foreign exchange issues, required receiver action(s), identification requirements, agent location hours, differences in time zones, or selection of delayed options. Additional restrictions may apply. See Terms and Conditions for details.

Which countries and territories can I send money online?

Please click here to see all countries you can send money online from the Western Union app or from wu.com in Malaysia.

Domestic transfers within Malaysia are also available.

How do I pay for my online money transfer?

You can pay for your online money transfer in any of the following ways:
• Visa® or Mastercard® debit card; or
• FPX1
For more details, please contact Customer Care.

How much money can I send online from Malaysia?

Once your profile has been confirmed at an agent location, you will be able to send online up to 3,000 MYR per transfer, per day; 15,000 MYR per week or 30,000 MYR per month.

If you wish to send more you can visit an agent location.

How do I know if my online transfer has been approved?

Your online receipt will show whether your transfer has been approved. When the transfer is complete, you’ll get an email with your money tracking control number (MTCN).

How can I cancel a money transfer after it has been sent?

A money transfer can only be cancelled if it has not been collected by the receiver in the destination country.

If you wish to cancel your money transfer, please call our Western Union’s Customer Service Center toll free number 1-800-81-3399, direct dial-in +85234080460.

Can I get a receipt for my transfer?

Yes, a receipt will be sent to your email after the transfer is completed. You can also see the details of all your transfers in your profile section on the Western Union app.

What is a Money Transfer Control Number (MTCN)?

The Money Transfer Control Number (MTCN) is a unique number assigned to your transfer.

Your receiver will need this number when they pick up their money, and it can also be used to track your transfer.

What if my ID has expired?

If you have created your profile with an ID that has now expired, you will have to get your profile verified again before you can send money using the direct bank debit service (FPX) again. To verify your profile, you will need to send a new copy of the valid ID document to malaysiaid@westernunion.com

Please note that if you receive a C5859 or R5859 error when trying to transfer money, this means that your ID has expired.

How many Alipay wallet transfers can I make in a month?

You can make up to 5 transfers to the same receiver on Alipay wallet within a 30-day period starting from the date of the first transfer. If it’s urgent, you can always choose a different payout method such as bank account or cash.

Can I pay using Wallet?

Anyone who has done a bank account debit transaction before, can pay using Wallet.

Why do I have to complete a 1 MYR transaction via FPX to activate my Wallet?

We need to verify your bank account before you can pay with your Wallet. To verify your bank account, you’ll need to complete a 1 MYR transaction to Western Union. The 1 MYR will be refunded to your account.

How can I verify my bank account to activate my Wallet?
  1. Select Wallet as your payment method.
  2. Choose your bank.
  3. Confirm the transaction for the refundable amount of 1 MYR to Western Union.
  4. Continue this transfer via FPX.

 

Please note that your account verification may take some time, please wait until we have completed it. After the verification is completed, the 1 MYR will be refunded to your account and you’ll be able to start a new transfer with Wallet as your payment method.

Why did my bank verification fail?

It is probable that your bank account verification failed even after you completed your 1 MYR transaction, because the name on your Western Union profile does not match the name on your bank account.

Please make sure that the name on the bank account matches the name on Western Union profile and try again.

How can I pay using my Wallet?
  1. Go to our website or the Western Union app and select Send money.
  2. Enter your receiver’s details, amount and delivery method.
  3. Select Wallet as your payment method.
  4. Choose your Wallet.
  5. Confirm the transaction amount.
Do I need to complete a 1 MYR transaction every time before paying with my Wallet?

No, this is a one-time process and you will receive your refund.

After the verification is completed, you’ll be able to transfer with Wallet as your payment method.

Which e-wallets can I use and what are their transfer limits?
  • GrabPay: Up to 1500 MYR
  • Touch ‘n Go: Up to 5000 MYR
  • Boost: Up to 4999 MYR
  • ShopeePay: Up to 4999 MYR
  • MAE by Maybank2U1: Up to 1000 MYR

1 Available only on Desktop browsers.

Who uses Western Union money transfer services?

Western Union services are for anyone who needs to send or receive money quickly. From travelers and people supporting friends or relatives abroad, to business people who need to make faster international transfers.

Who are Western Union® agents?

They are our representatives in the different countries you need to send or receive money, they may be banks, post offices, supermarkets, grocery stores, check cashers, mailbox centers, drug stores, travel agencies, depots, airports, train and bus stations, currency exchange offices and other retailers.

How can I find a Western Union® agent location in Malaysia?

Finding an agent location in Malaysia is easy, go to our agent finder.

How do I send money from an agent location?

Once you get to our agent location, you will be asked to provide some information like your receiver’s first name, last name, the amount you wish to send, and the country you are sending to and your Government issued ID; then just give the agent the total amount including the applicable fees. Your money will be available in minutes to your receiver after the transfer is completed.

What documents can I use to send money in Malaysia?

You need to present any official Government issued ID (e.g. valid passport, Government issued ID, driver’s license, residence permit with photo, work permit with photo, emergency passport, UNHCR Card, military/police/government ID, I Kad) to send money at a Western Union agent location. Acceptable IDs are subject to the Banking laws and regulations of Malaysia.

How much money can I send from a Western Union agent location in Malaysia?

You can usually send any amount you wish.  However, for some transfers, you may have to provide additional information or documentation. Currently, you can send in person up to 50,000 MYR per transfer, per day.

How are money transfers paid out to receivers?

Money transfers will generally be paid in cash.

Other restrictions may apply. Please contact a Western Union agent (link to “Find location” page) to get more information about restrictions or you can call Western Union’s Customer Service Center toll free number 1-800-81-3399, direct dial-in +85234080460.

How can I know the status of my money transfer?

You can check your transfer status online. All you need is the sender’s name and the tracking number (MTCN – Money Transfer Control Number) printed on the sender’s receipt.

Can I send money at any time at an agent location?

Each Western Union agent location determines its own hours of operation. Some have extended hours and open during weekends.

Find a nearby Western Union agent location with our agent finder.

What documents can I use to pick up money in Malaysia?

You need to present any official government-issued ID (e.g. valid passport, Government issued ID, driver’s license, residence permit with photo, work permit with photo, emergency passport, UNHCR Card, military/police/government ID, i-Kad) to pick up money at a Western Union agent location. Acceptable IDs are subject to the Banking laws and regulations of Malaysia.

How do I know if my money transfer has been received?

You can go to the track a transfer at wu.com or our Western Union app. Then type in the sender’s name and the MTCN (Money Transfer Control Number). You’ll get an update on the latest status of your money transfer.

You can also call our Western Union’s Customer Service Center toll free number 1-800-81-3399, direct dial-in +85234080460.

How do I pick up a money transfer?

You can pick up the money at any Western Union agent location. You’ll need to provide the following information:

  • The sender’s full name.
  • The country where the money was sent from.
  • The approximate amount that was sent.
  • The tracking number (MTCN – Money Transfer Control Number)
  • Acceptable ID documents are also required

For more information, please visit your nearest Western Union agent location. Or call our Western Union’s Customer Service Center toll free number 1-800-81-3399, direct dial-in +85234080460.

How does a Western Union agent pay out money transfer?

Money transfers will generally be paid in cash.

Other restrictions may apply. For more information, please visit your nearest Western Union agent location. Or call our Western Union’s Customer Service Center toll free number 1-800-81-3399, direct dial-in +85234080460.

How much does it cost to receive money?

All fees are paid by the sender. The receiver pays no transfer fees.

If you have received a notification from us, it means that a transaction you did was not paid out to the recipient. Please call us to process a refund. You can find the full MTCN (known as a Money Transfer Control Number) on the history page of the Western Union app or website that you used to make the transfer.

How do I know if my transaction was not paid out?

You will receive an email or SMS from us notifying that you have sent a transfer, but it has not been paid out to your recipient.

How do I collect a refund for the unpaid transaction?

You will need to call us at 1800-813-399. If you are outside of Malaysia call us at +852-340-80460 (non-toll free). Please have your MTCN handy with you when you call so that we can help you as quickly as possible. Please note that refunds will be available with us until February 18, 2024. Post that any unclaimed funds will be handed over to the Unclaimed Monies Authority.

How do I find out my MTCN?

You can refer to the email or SMS notification that we have sent. You may also log in to westernunion.com or our app and check the history page for the specific transfer and its corresponding MTCN.

What if I cannot find my MTCN?

If you cannot find the MTCN, please call us at 1800-813-399 from Malaysia or +852-340-80460 (non-toll free) if you are outside Malaysia. Please keep the transfer date and reference number received with the email or SMS from us handy.

What will happen if I miss the refund window?

All unclaimed funds will be handed over to the Accountant General’s Department of Malaysia.
You can claim back your funds by checking the Electronic Government Unclaimed Money Information System (eGUMIS) or by going to the AGD’s department at Menara Maybank.
Once you have confirmed your unclaimed funds, you can send the e-GUMIS printout to us via chat through westernunion.com website or app, and we will prepare a confirmation letter (or “surat pengesahan”) for you to claim your money from the AGD.

How do I register online using the Western Union app or on westernunion.com in Malaysia?

Registration is required for most of our services. After you download the Western Union app or open our wu.com site you’ll need to complete the profile registration form and follow these steps:

1.     You will be asked to provide your full name, your full Malaysian address, a phone number, email address, country, date of birth, gender and nationality.

2.     Start a money transfer using the Western Union app.

3.     Visit the nearest agent location to pay and complete your transfer.

4.     Present the same identification document used when you started the money transfer on the app. Remember that you must present a valid identification document (passport, government issued ID, driver’s license, residence permit with photo, work permit with photo, emergency passport, UNHCR Card, military/police/government ID, i-Kad). Acceptable IDs are subject to the Central Bank of Malaysia rules and regulations.

5.     Give the money to the agent at the location.

6.     Once you complete your money transfer, you will need to upload a copy of the same ID you presented to the agent.

7.      If you have any questions while registering, please call Western Union’s Customer Service Center toll free number 1-800-81-3399, direct dial-in +85234080460.

Do I need to register on the Western Union app or at wu.com in Malaysia even if I already have a “guest” account?

Yes, registration is required to be able to use our services to send money online.

How do I upload my ID?

To upload your ID, please log in to your profile and go to the last step before starting a money transfer, then select the “upload your ID” option. Remember to upload the same ID you used when creating your profile. You can upload up to two different files depending on the ID type. The file can be a bmp, gif, png, jpg, jpeg or pdf with a maximum size of 10 megabytes (10 MB).

If your ID matches the one provided at the agent location, your profile status will remain “verified”. If your ID is different, your profile status may change and you will temporarily not be able to use FPX method – direct bank debit.

FPX method allows you to make money available to your receiver in cash by taking it directly from your bank account. After you’ve chosen your destination country, you’ll see the types of services available to you. Money transfers will generally be paid in cash or, if available, to your receiver’s bank account or mobile phone.

If you have any question while registering, please call our Customer Care toll free number 1-800-81-3399, direct dial-in +85234080460.

Does it cost anything to register for online services in Malaysia?

No, it’s free to register.

Who can register and send money online?

Anyone who meets the following conditions, can use our online money transfer service:

  • Must have a valid ID
  • Must be at least 18 years of age on the date of application
  • Must accept the Terms and Conditions of using this service
  • Must have a valid email address
  • Must have a valid phone number
  • Must have a bank account in Malaysia
How many times can I register?

Registration with a valid identification document and an email address is possible only once.

How can I change/update my Western Union profile?

You can change/update your Western Union profile information from the Profile Overview tab after you log in to westernunion.com, only if your profile has not yet been verified.

After your identity has been verified, you cannot change your name, last name, date of birth, or nationality. If you need to change this information after your identity has been verified, please contact Western Union’s Customer Service Center toll free number 1-800-81-3399, direct dial-in +85234080460.

What do I do if I forgot my User ID, password, or if I repeatedly entered incorrect details?

Your user ID is your email address.

If you have forgotten your password, you can select the “Forgot password” option and a new password will be sent to your email address.

If you repeatedly entered incorrect details or your profile is locked, please try to log in to your profile after 30 minutes. Or contact our Customer Care toll free number 1-800-81-3399, direct dial-in +85234080460.

What do I do if I want to change or update my password and email address?

You can change your password on the Profile Overview page after you log in. Please select “Edit profile” from the right-side menu and change your password.

For online registration, you can use only one email address. After you verify your email, it cannot be changed.

How can I cancel my Western Union online profile?

Please contact Western Union’s Customer Care by calling the toll free number 1-800-81-3399, dialing directly +85234080460.

How can receivers register in Colombia?

Registering to receive transfers in Colombia

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The Government of Colombia will require you to register if you receive a transfer in Colombia that exceeds its cash and frequency limits.

If you know you need to register, you can call Western Union’s Colombian partner, Giros y Finanzas, at any of the numbers below.

You can also wait for Giros y Finanzas to call you. They will try to contact you up to 3 times in the 15 days after we send the money. If Giros y Finanzas cannot reach you after 3 tries, we will cancel the transfer and refund the sender.

Giros y Finanzas contact numbers in Colombia (country code +57):

  • National office: 018000 111 999
  • Cali: (2) 518 48 00
  • Bogotá: (1) 635 35 60
  • Medellín: (4) 511 51 51
  • Barranquilla: (5) 368 79 96
  • Pereira: (6) 335 16 11

Giros y Finanzas contact numbers outside Colombia:

  • Miami (USA): +1 (786) 206 6144
  • Montreal (Canada): +1 (514) 448 1874
  • Panamá: +507 833 9275

Giros y Finanzas office hours of operation, Colombia Time (COT) (UTC -5):

  • Monday to Friday: 7:00 am – 9:00 pm
  • Saturday, Sunday, and holidays: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm

Giros y Finanzas may ask you to provide the following:

  • Your full name (first name, middle name, paternal name, and maternal name)
  • Your date of birth
  • The country and city where you were born
  • The city you live in
  • Your address, phone/cell numbers, and email address
  • Your occupation
How can receivers register in Argentina?

Receiving money in Argentina

If you receive a money transfer in Argentina, you need to complete a one-time registration within 90 days of getting it.

Also, if you receive 2 additional transfers within that 90-day period (a total of 3 transfers), you will need to register before you can pick up the third transfer.

To make sure you are registered, we will contact you within 24 hours of the transfer at the number provided by your sender. You will be asked to provide additional identifying information on an online form used for registering transfers.

How can receivers register in China?
  1. If you’re the receiver, you may need to complete a one-time registration before you can get the money.
  2. If you need to register, you will be contacted within 24 hours by us at the number provided by your sender.
  3. To register and confirm your identity, you will need:
    • The tracking number (MTCN)
    • To confirm your bank card number
    • To confirm your Chinese name as it appears on your government-issued ID
    • Your government-issued ID
  4. If the receiver cannot be contacted within 3 days, we will not be able to finish your transfer, and the sender will be issued a refund.
  5. You can also call Customer Care at 4008190488 or 02168664622 to provide your identity information.
What are Western Union agent locations?

Western Union agent locations are independent businesses that provide money transfer services to their customers on behalf of Western Union. In Malaysia these are Exchange houses and Banks.

How can I find a nearby Western Union agent location?

Use this link to find an agent location near you.

How do I send money from a Western Union agent location?

You’ll need to provide a valid identification document, transaction details, and pay the agent the amount you want to send, plus fees, in cash.

Which transfer service is offered at Western Union agent locations?

Western Union agent locations offer the ability to send and receive money around the world using cash.

How much money can I send from a Western Union agent location?

You can usually send up to 50,000 MYR. However, for certain amounts and transfers, you may be required to provide additional information or documentation as follows:

A passport, Government issued ID, driver’s license, residence permit with photo, work permit with photo, emergency passport, UNHCR Card, military/police/government ID, I Kad for sending money at a Western Union agent location.

Acceptable IDs are subject to the Central Bank of Malaysia rules and regulations.

Western Union continues to monitor the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) developments closely. Our primary concern is the safety of our customers and employees, as well as the well-being of those impacted. Here, you can find answers to questions that you might have about how our services may change during this time. We will keep this information updated as the situation develops.

Is Western Union open for business?
  • Yes, we continue to serve our customers and operate globally. Given the current situation, we encourage those in affected areas to send or receive money using our mobile app, or westernunion.com.
  • Please note that our agent locations in areas with a high concentration of COVID-19 outbreaks may close their businesses temporarily or may have updated operating hours. Be sure to check our agent locator for current hours of operation. You should also consider calling before visiting to confirm availability of services and open hours.
I cannot pick up my money transfer because no agent locations are open due to COVID-19.

We are sorry for the inconvenience. Given the ever-changing situation, we recommend those experiencing local restrictions due to COVID-19 visit westernunion.com or use our mobile app to send transfers for payout directly to a bank account or a digital wallet.

If I can’t pick up my money transfer, what will happen to my money?

Your transfer will be available for 30 days. After this time, your sender will have to contact our Customer Care to restart the transfer or cancel the transfer for refund.

Can I authorize someone to pick up money for me if I can’t leave my home?

For security reasons, only the designated receiver can pick up a transfer. However, you can ask your sender to contact our Customer Care to cancel that transfer and start a new one. Your sender can then transfer money online directly to a bank account or a mobile wallet, if available.

What can I do to protect myself from fraud?

Please be aware of the risk of fraud and phishing, especially during this time, and take extra caution when sending money:

  • Don’t send money for loan or credit card fees, customs, or shipping fees.
  • Don’t send money to someone you haven’t met in person.
  • Be suspicious of businesses without a verified street address.
  • Don’t pay for an item or service with a money transfer to an individual.
  • Be suspicious about transferring money for charity and ask a representative for an ID.
  • Think twice before sharing your financial information.

Please visit our Fraud awareness page to learn more and check current Coronavirus-related online scams.

Is it true that paper money can spread Coronavirus?

We have no reason to believe that banknotes are more likely to spread viruses like Coronavirus than any other surface. The guidance from the World Health Organization remains that basic hygiene is the best possible defense against Coronavirus.

Is there any charitable cause that I can participate in via Western Union?

Western Union and the Western Union Foundation launched a  $1M USD global appeal and is accepting donations through May 15th Western Union and the Western Union Foundation will match up to $500,000 USD in donations to go toward supplies, equipment, and frontline medical aid. Donate here.

What is Western Union doing to support customers during this time?
  • Our goal is to keep our digital and retail services operational across the world, while abiding by local regulations and guidelines.
  •  We are constantly improving our services, such as adding new ways to speed up the ID verification process and offering a home delivery feature in some countries.
  • Given the ever-changing situation, we recommend those experiencing local restrictions due to COVID-19 visit westernunion.com or use our mobile app to send transfers for payout directly to a bank account or a digital wallet. This service is currently available in more than 100 countries.

Western Union values its business and takes pride in delivering your funds in the quickest and most reliable way possible. However, it is important that you protect yourself from fraudsters who are out to get your money.

Below are some frequently asked questions about fraud. For more information, please visit the Fraud awareness section here.

Are there common fraud scenarios that I should be aware of and things I shouldn’t send my money for?

Yes. Only use Western Union to send money to friends and family. Never send money to someone you have not met in person. Scammers sometimes encourage people to transfer money. Do not transfer money to anyone who asks you to send them money:

  • For an emergency situation you haven’t confirmed.
  • For an online purchase.
  • For anti‐virus protection.
  • For a deposit or payment on a rental property.
  • To claim lottery or prize winnings.
  • To pay taxes.
  • For a donation to charity.
  • For a mystery shopping assignment.
  • For a job opportunity.
  • For a credit card or loan fee.
  • To resolve an immigration matter.

If you transfer money, the person you’re sending it to gets the money quickly. After the money is paid, Western Union may not be able to give you a refund, even if you are the victim of fraud, except under limited circumstances.

Someone claiming to be from Western Union e-mailed me. What should I do?

If you receive an email from anyone claiming to be from Western Union and you are unsure about it, do not click on any links in the mail. This may be a “phishing” attempt to acquire sensitive information from you. Instead, contact us.

Western Union will never send you e-mails to ask for your user ID, password, or credit card details.

What is a Test Question? When is it used?

In some countries, senders are asked to provide a ‘Test Question’ and its answer when they initiate the transfer.  In cases where a ‘Test Question’ was provided by the sender, the receiver may be required to give the answer when picking up the funds.  The ‘Test Question’ feature is designed for emergency situations where the receiver still needs to provide proper identification. It should never be used as additional security or to delay payment. In many places, we’ll pay the receiver whenever the receiver shows proper identification, even if he/she does not know the answer to the question. Test question is not available for payout in Malaysia.

Can the Test Question feature secure my funds or delay payment of a transaction?

The ‘Test Question’ feature is designed for emergency situations where the receiver still needs to provide proper identification. It should never be used as additional security or to delay payment. In many places, we’ll pay the receiver whenever the receiver shows proper identification, even if he/she does no.t know the answer to the question. Test question is not available for payout in Malaysia.

What can I do if I suspect fraud or am a victim of fraud?

You should contact the Western Union Fraud Hotline at 1-800-816-332 immediately for assistance with a transaction that you believe was sent for fraud.  You should also file a report with your local law enforcement.

You should also contact your government’s Office of Consumer Affairs and police station if you are uncertain or suspicious of a telephone, mail, or e-mail solicitation.

What additional tips should I keep in mind?
  • Always make sure you know who you are sending money to.
  • Discontinue a call if a caller coaches you to respond to questions asked by Western Union.
  • Security is everyone’s responsibility. Stay informed. Keep abreast of new fraud trends.
  • Remember, if it seems too-good-to-be-true, it probably is.

For more information about how to protect yourself from fraud, click here.

What is online ID verification?

Online ID verification is a process we follow to verify our customers’ identity. After you’ve registered your Western Union profile, you can choose to verify your identity through Online ID verification by just uploading your valid government- issued ID document and your selfie or use a prior retail transaction for online ID verification. After your profile is successfully verified, you will be able to start sending money.

How do I verify my profile through online ID verification?

Malaysian citizens:

  1. Fill in the online registration form  and provide us the following information:
  • Full name
  • Government-issued ID details
  • Address
  • Nationality
  • Country of birth
  • Phone number
  • Email address
  • Date of birth
  • Gender
  • Occupation

Online ID verification.

Enter the following details:

  • If you’ve sent money at a Western Union location before, please provide the same government-issued ID used most recently, to get verified quickly.
  • Make sure your government- issued ID is not expired.
  • Your first and last name should be exactly as it appears on your government-issued national ID.

Or

  • Take a picture of the front and back of your government-issued ID.
  • Take your selfie using your smartphone’s camera or a webcam within the margins shown on the screen and keep your face still to get a clear image. (Follow the onscreen instructions.)
  • After uploading the ID document and your selfie, wait for a few seconds for the system to perform the necessary checks.

 

Non-Malaysian citizens:

Fill in online registration form the and provide us the following information:

  • Full name
  • Full address in Malaysia
  • Phone number
  • Email address
  • Country of birth
  • Date of birth
  • Gender
  • Occupation
  • Valid passport details and work permit/Visa
  • Residence permit card
  • Nationality

Online ID verification

Enter the following details:

  • If you’ve sent money at a Western Union location before, please provide the same government-issued ID used most recently, to get verified quickly.
  • Make sure your government- issued ID is not expired.
  • Your first and last name should be exactly as it appears on your government-issued ID.

Or

  • Take a picture of the front and back of your government-issued ID.
  • Take your selfie using your smartphone’s camera or a webcam within the margins shown on the screen and keep your face still to get a clear image. (Follow the onscreen instructions.)
  • After uploading your government- issued ID documents and your selfie, wait for a few seconds for the system to perform the necessary checks.
Which documents are accepted for verification using online ID verification?

For Malaysian citizens, only the government-issued national ID card, Malaysian passport or a Police/law enforcement ID is accepted for verification using online ID verification.

For non-Malaysian citizens, only a valid international passport and valid work permit/visa or a residence permit card are accepted for verification using online ID verification.

How long does it take to verify my profile information?

After we verify your profile, you will be redirected to the FPX page to complete your transfer.
Sometimes, verification may take longer, and you will need to check in your profile and transaction history page to resume the same transfer at a later time.

If you are not successfully verified, you will need to redo your verification with the same government- issued ID again or with another valid ID.

Why was my online ID verification rejected?

Your online ID verification may be rejected due to any of the following reasons:

  • Your selfie is not clear or is blurred.
  • The information in your documents does not match the information you entered to create your profile.
  • Your government-issued ID has expired.
How can I get verified if my online ID verification is rejected?

You can get verified through physical verification at our agent locations.

How can I ensure a successful online ID verification?

To ensure a successful online ID verification, it is important that you submit a clear photo of yourself for verification. You must also submit a clear photo of your valid government-issued ID.

Here are some tips to capture a clear selfie:

  • Do not wear a cap, hat, glasses, or a scarf that may cover your face.
  • Pick a spot where light will fall on your face and not behind you. Otherwise, the image may appear dark.
  • Follow the instructions on screen while taking the selfie.
  • Make sure your whole face is visible within the margins shown on the screen.

For best results, follow the onscreen instructions while taking your selfie.

Why am I not able to scan my ID and take a selfie?

This may be due to a technical error. Please log out from your profile and log in again to retry scanning your government-issued ID and taking your selfie.

How much can I send online after my profile is verified?

After your profile is verified, Malaysian citizens and expatriate can send up to 30,000 MYR daily and foreign workers can send up to 5,000 MYR per month.

How many receivers can I send money to?

If you are a Malaysian citizen or expatriate, you can send money to up to 20 receivers.

If you are a foreign worker, you can send money to up to 6 receivers.

For foreign worker, please note that if you want to add more than 1 receiver, you will be required to answer your security question that you have set during your profile creation.

What is the My WU℠ loyalty program?

My WU is a free loyalty program from Western Union. You can register on westernunion.com or our mobile app.

What are the benefits of My WU℠ loyalty program?

• Transfer fee discounts on qualifying money transfers.
• Special promotions on money transfers.

Learn more about My WU program

How can I earn My WU℠ points?

Earning reward points is currently disabled in the program. If you are a My WU member, we will notify you about our new rewards program.

How do I redeem My WU℠ points?

On our website and app:

  1. Log in to your Western Union profile.
  2. Go to Menu and select My WU.
  3. Select Redeem points.
  4. Select Yes in the popup.
  5. Select Use reward.

The discount will be automatically applied to your next transfer fee.

Via the My WU portal:

  1. Log in to your profile and go to My WU Rewards.
  2. Go to the Rewards section to view your reward options.
  3. Choose your reward and select Use reward.

The discount will be applied automatically to your next transfer fee.

You can use your My WU points till they expire as per My WU terms and conditions.

Why can I not earn points in the My WU℠ loyalty program anymore?

Earning reward points is currently disabled in the program. If you are a My WU member, we will notify you about our new rewards program.

Can I still redeem My WU℠ points?

Yes, you can continue to redeem your My WU points until their expiry.

Why am I unable to use Western Union services after receiving the message “Additional info needed, go to westernunion.com/gcr”?

To protect our customers, we review every money transfer to make sure it’s safe. For a variety of reasons, we may ask you to provide us with more information before we can allow you to continue using our services.

Why do I need to provide additional information?

We need additional information to understand why you use Western Union and the relationship between you and the person or entities you’re transacting with. The more information you provide, the quicker we’ll be able to complete your request.

How can I use Western Union services again?

To have access to our services again, follow the steps below:

  1. Gather the required documents. Please note that these will vary depending on your reason for using Western Union and your relationship to the person or entities you’re transacting with. At minimum you must be prepared with your government-issued photo ID, documents that relate to your purpose for using Western Union, proof of the source of the funds, and any additional documents that may provide support for the answers provided on the questionnaire. For more information, go to Help section at westernunion.com.
  2. Go to westernunion.com/gcr and start the customer questionnaire.
  3. Complete the customer questionnaire:
  • Personal information:
    – Provide your first, middle (optional) and last names as they appear on your ID.
    – Share your current email, physical address and mobile number. Please make sure you provide an active email address for communication purposes.
    – Specify your country of birth.
    – Select your occupation and provide additional clarification if needed.
    – Enter a recent tracking number (MTCN) if available.
    – Upload a copy of your valid government-issued photo ID.
  • Relationships:
    – List people or entities you’ve transacted with using Western Union.
    – For each person or entity, enter the full name, relationship, purpose of transaction and upload supporting documents.
  • Source of funds:
    – Choose the source of funds from the drop-down list and upload supporting documents.
  • Third party details (if you are transacting on behalf of someone else) (if applicable):
    – Explain the purpose of transaction(s) and your relationship to the third party.
    – Provide the details related to the third party.
  • Fraud (if applicable):
    – Indicate if you’ve been a victim of fraud or scam.
    – If yes, share a brief description of what happened.
  1. Review the accuracy of the information you provided.
  2. Select Submit questionnaire to complete the process.
What documents are suitable and why does Western Union need them?

a. Valid government-issued photo ID is needed to verify your identity.

  • Examples: passport, driver’s license, national ID.

b. Source of funds is needed to make sure that the money transfers are not related to illegal acts and correspond to the nature of your activity.

  • Examples: at least the latest 3 months of bank statements, at least the latest 3 months of pay slips, employment contract with salary, loan papers, sale agreement, winning receipt, tax return statement, etc.

c. Purpose of money transfer or intended use of money is needed to understand the basis for making the payment and the type of relations between the sender and the payee.

  • Examples:
    • Personal remittance/family support – the following documents are suitable to prove relationship: pictures with persons you transacted with, marriage certificate, counterparty’s birth certificate, counterparty’s government issued ID, etc.
    • Business remittance/payment for goods/services – bills, receipts, sale or purchase agreements, etc.
    • Education – evidence of tuition fees, etc.
    • Medical expenses – hospital bills, pharmacy receipts, health insurance premiums, etc.
    • Charity support – written acknowledgment from the charity, etc.
    • Purchase home – purchase agreement, mortgage documents, etc.
    • Gift – receipts, etc.
    • Travel expenses – travel tickets, hotel bookings, etc.

d. Third party activity (sending or receiving money on behalf of individual or business) information is needed to understand the purpose and nature of your relationship with Western Union.

  • Examples: business registration documents, letter of authorization by the company or notary, bank statement showing access to third party funds, etc.
What happens after I provided the additional information?

After we’ve received your completed questionnaire and required documentation, we’ll email you a response within 3 business days.

In case we have additional questions, we may contact you via the email address provided in the questionnaire.

Are my documents safe?

We’re committed to the security of your personal information. We use organizational, technical and administrative safeguards that comply with applicable government laws and regulations to secure your personal information. We also restrict access to the personal information that we process to only our employees, agents and representatives that have a business need to know it. For more information, read our Terms and Conditions and Online Privacy Statement.

1 You can transfer money directly from your bank account using FPX. Your receiver can collect the funds in person at an agent location, in their bank account, or mobile wallet depending on the services available in the receive country.