Recently I read some bad experience of people on many remitting and times money sites for money transfer. Recently after got recommendation from my friends I tried Western Union. As it was my first deal I requested for only US$500 from my Brother in US as wanted to know how fast and easy it is. My brother from US walked into nearby Western Union Office where they requested his Photo ID and SS no. with US$500.
The charges are $10 up to $500. He said $15 up to $1, 000. After filling up the form within 10 minutes they gave him one unique 10 digit number which he gave me on phone. Upon contacting nearest Western Union Office in India they asked for the CODE 10 digit. Next they requested my Photo ID which I gave them as mine was Election Card. The next thing I was having the cash in my hand within 10 minutes.(RS. 20, 200) No long long worst formalities as bank people asks.
Some Information about Western union.
They provide cash up to Rs.50, 000 only. For every transaction over Rs. 50, 000/= they will give you cheque.
One person can receive maximum 12 transaction per year regardless of value of each transaction.
Many Western Union outlet give gift items(as I got 1 watch) for receipt of transaction.
You can use the slip of receipt for your income tax purpose and it’s valid doc.
You can receive money from any Western Union office in your area.
There are many people who have got franchisee of WU and they give you gifts and all that.
The exchange rate is fixed from sender’s side so make sure your sender fix the good exchange rate at his/her end. As It was my first transaction I understood all above. If anybody has different or relevant experience, comments are requested.