Description
Remitly is a straightforward money transfer app that helps users send funds internationally with ease and security. The app focuses on making cross-border transfers more affordable by offering competitive exchange rates and lower fees than traditional banking methods. Developed by a team that understands the challenges of international money movement, Remitly provides real-time tracking so you always know where your money is during the transfer process. Users can send money to over 100 countries including popular destinations like Mexico, India, the Philippines and Guatemala. The app offers multiple delivery options including bank deposits, cash pickup and even home delivery in select locations.
Key Features
- Competitive Exchange Rates: Remitly offers better currency conversion rates than many traditional banks and money transfer services. Users can see exactly how much their recipient will get before confirming the transaction.
- Multiple Delivery Options: The app provides flexibility with bank deposits, cash pickup locations and mobile wallet transfers. In some countries, they even offer home delivery service where cash is brought directly to your recipient's doorstep.
- Real-Time Transfer Tracking: Users can monitor their money transfers at every step of the process. The app sends notifications when money is sent, received and when the recipient collects the funds.
- Express and Economy Options: Remitly gives users choices between faster transfers with slightly higher fees (Express) or more economical transfers that take a bit longer (Economy). This flexibility helps users balance speed and cost based on their needs.
Tips for Using Remitly: Send Money & Transfer
- Verify your identity early in the setup process to avoid delays when you need to make an urgent transfer. Having your ID and proof of address ready before starting will make the verification process much smoother.
- Take advantage of the promo codes and first-time user offers that Remitly frequently provides. New users often get fee-free transfers or special exchange rates on their first few transactions.
- Set up recurring transfers if you regularly send money to the same recipient to save time and ensure consistency. The app makes it easy to schedule monthly transfers for things like family support or bill payments abroad.
- Double-check recipient information before confirming any transfer as incorrect details can cause significant delays. Pay special attention to bank codes, account numbers and the exact spelling of recipient names to ensure smooth delivery.
How to Download and Use Remitly: Send Money & Transfer
- Download the app by clicking on the Google Play Store button if using Android, or use the Apple Store button for iOS. The app is free to download and requires minimal storage space on your device.
- Create an account by providing your email, phone number and personal information for verification purposes. You'll need to verify your identity with a government-issued ID and possibly proof of address before making your first transfer.
- Start a transfer by selecting your recipient country, entering the amount you want to send and choosing your preferred delivery method. After reviewing the exchange rate and fees, add your payment method (bank account, debit card or credit card) and confirm the transaction.
Final Thoughts
After using Remitly for several international transfers, I've found it to be one of the more reliable and transparent money transfer apps available. The combination of competitive rates, multiple delivery options and real-time tracking addresses the main pain points of sending money abroad. While the verification process can be somewhat lengthy for first-time users, it's a necessary security measure that ultimately protects everyone involved. The app interface is clean and intuitive, making it accessible even for those who aren't particularly tech-savvy. For regular international money senders, Remitly offers a solid balance of convenience, speed and value that makes it worth considering over traditional bank transfers or other remittance services.