How to Send Money to Someone Without a Bank Account

Last updated 04/08/2024 by

Summary:

Wondering how to send money without using a bank account? You’re not alone. Sending money to friends and relatives is a common problem for many people, especially if they don’t have access to a bank account or credit card. The good news, though, is that it’s possible! In this blog post, I will give you step-by-step instructions on how to transfer money without a bank account and the best way of doing so, depending on your situation.

Banks are often the go-to option when sending money, but that’s not always convenient or affordable, especially if you or the recipient don’t have a bank account. The good news is there are several ways to send money without a bank account.

These services accept alternative payment methods, such as credit cards, cash, money orders, PayPal, Apple Pay, and even Bitcoin! The best part is that most of them charge less than banks do for international transfers too!

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How to send money to someone without a checking account

Follow the below steps to transfer money without a bank account. Alternatively, check out our list of best money transfer services, which allow you to transfer cash online – many of them do not require a bank account either!

First, choose the type of service you want to use. The section below provides a detailed review of the different methods available.
Find out which services are available for the country or state where you want to send the money. We recommend comparing the money transfer services below.
Calculate the total cost of each method you consider. Check for hidden fees.
Finally, choose the transfer method that works best for you and your recipient.
Create an account and choose the payment method that works for you.

Of course, each money transfer service works differently. Here are a few examples of how to send money without a checking account with some of the most popular services around.

How to send international money transfers using Wise without a bank account?

Sending money with an international money transfer is easy with services like Wise and Xoom. Here is how you do it.

Sign up for an account. They will ask you for your email address, and you’ll create a password. You can also choose to sign up with your Google or Facebook account.
Select the amount you’d like to transfer. You can select the amount you want to send or how much you’d like your recipient to get in the target currency.
Choose the type of transfer you want to make. If you don’t want to (or can’t) use a checking account, there are other options.
Fill in the form. You will need to provide personal details, such as your full name and address, to comply with finance regulations.
Enter who will be receiving the money. If you don’t want to send it to a bank account, you can just enter an email address. If they have an account, they can select where to send the money. If they’re not on Wise, they will receive an email with instructions.
Confirm the details of your transfer are accurate. Check everything is correct. You also have the option of adding a reference for the recipient to see if you want to.
Choose the transfer type and payment method. Notice how fees and delivery speed change depending on the method you choose. Notice that paying from your bank account is usually the cheapest method, so prepare yourself for higher fees if that is not an option.

How to send money through PayPal without linking a checking account?

You can deposit money to a PayPal account for a fee at stores like Walmart, CVS, Walgreen, Target, Rite Aid, 7-eleven, or Duane’s. You can also ask your clients, employer, friends, or family to send you money to your PayPal account. Once you have money in your account, there is no charge to send money to friends within the United States. There are fees associated with sending money to other countries.

You can also link your account to a MasterCard debit card, which allows you to spend the funds on your account or withdraw them for free in the form of cash at Money Pass ATMs (at 7–11s and elsewhere).

Top money transfer services to send money without a bank account

There are companies out there that allow you to transfer money without requiring a bank account – these are called remittance services. In some cases, you can do everything on your phone. Other services use local agents in other countries, so your recipient can pick up their funds at any time of day or night. These services make sending money easy because they accept credit cards, PayPal accounts, Apple Pay, and cash.

The best part is that most of them charge less than banks do for international transfers too!

Six ways to send money without a checking account

Do you need to send money quickly to friends or family? While many individuals would think of using a bank account transfer, many people don’t have one for a variety of reasons. Here are five methods that don’t require a checking account.

Mobile wallets

Mobile wallets, sometimes known as e-wallets, are a good answer to the question of how to send money to someone who does not have a bank account. A large number of these mobile wallets do not need a bank account in order to function, and most of them do not charge fees for their basic services.

You just need to download the app, open it, and follow the directions for loading and sending money from your mobile wallet.

Mobile wallets are also referred to as “mobile money” because they’re linked to a debit or credit card account, and the funds are deposited into the recipient’s mobile wallet. These transactions happen almost immediately, and they are one of the most cost-effective methods of transferring cash around.

It’s important to remember that both the sender and receiver need to use the same mobile wallet provider to avoid any additional costs. Transfers in a variety of currencies are also available, although foreign exchange fees may apply.

Money orders

Money orders are another option to transfer money to someone who does not have a bank account. Although they resemble checks in many respects, they differ in key ways, such as the absence of a need for a bank account.

The only thing you’ll need to buy a money order is a post office, MoneyGram, Western Union, or another company that handles money order transactions. Fill out the money order form with the dollar amount you wish to send someone else and then sign it before sending it directly to the recipient.

There are several advantages and disadvantages to sending money by money order. Because no bank account information is provided or revealed, you’ll enjoy greater anonymity and security. Money orders are safer to send by mail than cash since they can usually be canceled before being cashed.

Credit cards

Paying for a money transfer with a credit card is one way to send funds without having a bank account. This technique is ideal for individuals without bank accounts, but keep in mind that there are usually additional costs involved with these transactions. It’s possible to locate a cash transfer service that allows you to pay by credit card and get the cash ready for collection within minutes. While this approach is handy, it may be more expensive.

If you don’t have a credit card, this tool can help you find the right one for you.

Prepaid debit cards

Debit cards are not only available from banks and financial organizations, but they’re also possible without the need for a bank account. These cards are prepaid with a pre-determined amount that is loaded at first use and can be used just like a debit card.

Prepaid debit cards may be found in stores or purchased online. It may cost a few dollars for the actual card, or it might be free. These cards can be reloaded as many times as needed, and fees and balance limits are set out in the terms at purchase.

Use the filters below to find a prepaid card that meets your needs.

Cash

Sending cash certainly allows you to send money without a bank account, but there is a risk involved and a chance that your recipient will never receive the money if it gets stolen or lost in the mail.

If you do decide to send cash, there are a few things you can do to increase the likelihood that it will reach its intended destination and person.

Choose an envelope that keeps the cash well hidden.
Consider paying for a tracking service on your package so you can confirm delivery.
Insure your package for the amount you send.

Sending cash is not recommended. Instead, choose from a wide range of safer alternatives.

Money transfer services

People have been using money transfer services for decades, and there are several reliable providers that allow you to send money without the need for a bank account.

With most money transfer solutions, you’ll be able to choose how to send money to someone who doesn’t have a bank account: online, by phone, in person, or using a money transfer app. Some money transfer businesses enable you to pay in cash as well as receive it, so neither of you need a bank account.

5 Things to consider when choosing how to send money without using an account

There are many things to think about while deciding how to send money without a bank account. Here are five important ones.

How quickly do you need the money transferred?

Mobile wallet transfers will allow your recipient to receive money faster than a money order or a mailed prepaid debit card.

Convenience

It’s critical to think about which is the most convenient option for both you and your recipient. One technique may make more sense than another, depending on what your beneficiary uses the funds for and where they reside. In some instances, it may be preferable to send cash online so that it can be used online immediately, while in other situations, a money drop-off may be best.

Cost

Another factor to consider while selecting a transfer method is the costs involved. Mobile wallet transfers generally do not have an exit fee, but if your recipient prefers cash, this method may make it more difficult to access the money.

Prepaid debit cards and money orders have low, straightforward costs; most of the time, using a credit card to move money will result in the greatest fees. Money transfer service expenses are determined by a variety of criteria such as the service provider, amount transferred, location, and currency rates.

Source and destination of the transfer

Transfers to and from other countries may be more expensive than those within the United States, and some methods may not be accessible in certain nations. As a result, when selecting how to send money abroad without a bank account, it’s important to consider the locations involved.

Security

The safety of online purchases is enhanced by data encryption and additional security precautions, but money orders or prepaid debit cards are vulnerable to loss or theft.

Frequently asked questions

Can you transfer money if you don’t have a bank account?

Many of the companies listed above require users to have an email address or PayPal account, but some also accept cash, prepaid cards, and credit cards. This means that it is possible for people without accounts to transfer their own cash in this way.

How do I transfer money to someone with no bank account?

There are several options, depending on your circumstances. Some businesses enable you to move funds electronically using e-wallets like PayPal or Apple Pay. Other services utilize local agents in other nations so that the recipient can collect their money at any time of day or night.

What if I only have a checking account?

The good news is that there are plenty of transfer methods available to you. Many businesses allow users to transfer money with just a checking account without the need for an email, debit card, or credit card.

How can I send money to someone instantly?

Most transfer services are able to transfer money within 24 hours. Some can do it in minutes. A lot depends on the transfer method you choose (for example, if you send by cash or debit card).

How much does a transfer cost?

This varies depending on your service provider and how quickly you want the transfer – some companies offer free transfers, while others charge for their services. Check each company’s website carefully before deciding which one is right for you.

Is there an alternative way of transferring funds without using my bank account?

Yes, there are transfer services that allow you to transfer funds electronically with cash and prepaid cards. Of course, this means spending out of your pocket before sending the money (and making sure it reaches its destination).

What services allow you to send money without a bank account?

This list is not exhaustive but shows some of the most popular companies used by people who want or need to transfer their own money: PayPal, Apple Pay, TransferWise, Western Union, WorldRemit, Azimo, Xoom, CashU, Skrill, Social Media Payments, such as Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, Telegram, WeChat, KKday, Viber, Skype, Alibaba’s Alipay, Wallet SnapCash, Square Up, Venmo, Green Dot, and Moneypak.

Most, if not all, provide multiple alternative payment options that don’t include providing your (or the recipients) checking account.

How fast can I transfer money without a bank account?

Most transfer services can transfer funds within 24 hours. Some transfer methods will allow you to send the money in minutes, while others take longer depending on how they’re sent – through electronic transfer or local agents, for instance. The length of time does depend on your service provider and whether you choose an instant transfer method or one that takes several days very often depends on where your recipient is located (countries like India can be faster than countries like Australia).

Can I transfer money to someone with no bank account?

Yes, there are transfer services that allow you to transfer funds electronically using e-wallets like PayPal or Apple Pay. Other methods use local agents in other countries so the recipient can collect their money at any time of day or night.

Do mobile wallets have to be connected to an account?

Certain mobile wallets, such as PayPal and Venmo, do not require you to link a bank account.

Is it possible to move money from a mobile wallet to a bank account?

Typically, yes. Though the transfer to the mobile wallet is instant, processing times to transfer the funds to their bank account could range from one to five business days.

Is it possible to use a money transfer service to send funds to a mobile wallet?

Yes, some money transfer services, such as Western Union and CashApp, allow you to send cash to a phone number via a mobile wallet. Here is our list of the best money transfer apps.

How can I receive money without a bank account?

The easiest option is to have someone send money through a money transfer service for cash pick-up. Other options include sending cash, a money order, transferring money to a mobile wallet, or a prepaid debit card.

Key takeaways

There are several ways to send money without a bank account, such as money orders, mobile wallets, cash, prepaid credit cards, and money transfer services.
Consider the following factors when determining the best option for you: speed, convenience, cost, source and destination, and security.
Determine the full cost of money transfers before you settle for a money transfer service.
Most transfer services can transfer funds within 24 hours. Some transfer methods will allow you to send the money in minutes.
Certain mobile wallets do not require you to link a bank account.

Andrew Latham

Andrew is the Content Director for SuperMoney, a Certified Financial Planner®, and a Certified Personal Finance Counselor. He loves to geek out on financial data and translate it into actionable insights everyone can understand. His work is often cited by major publications and institutions, such as Forbes, U.S. News, Fox Business, SFGate, Realtor, Deloitte, and Business Insider.

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