To send money through Western Union from the USA, visit a Western Union agent location such as Walmart, CVS, or a dedicated Western Union office. Bring a valid government-issued photo ID, the recipient's full name and address, and cash or a debit card to pay for the transfer. At the counter, provide the recipient's details and the amount you wish to send. You'll receive a reference number to share with the recipient, who can pick up the money at a Western Union location in their country using that number and their ID.
Alternatively, you can initiate transfers online through Western Union's website or mobile app if you have an account. This option lets you arrange the transfer from home, though you may still need to pay in person at an agent location or link a bank account. When sending internationally, be aware that exchange rates and fees apply—Western Union charges based on the destination country and amount sent. The recipient typically picks up funds within minutes to hours, making it faster than traditional bank transfers. For domestic US transfers, the process is similar but may have different fee structures and shorter pickup windows. Always confirm the recipient's location has a Western Union agent before sending, and keep your reference number safe until the money is collected.