This archive report was first published on 25 November 2019.
With the rise of digital transactions, sending and receiving money has become easier and more convenient in Kenya. Two popular modes of sending money locally and abroad are Western Union and Money Gram. However, many Kenyans are not aware of how to easily transact through these channels. In this article, we will guide you on how to send and receive money via Western Union and Money Gram in Kenya.
Western Union and Money Gram are operated through authorized agents in Kenya, which are licensed commercial banks. One of the best banks to send and receive money through either Western Union or Money Gram in less than ten minutes is the Co-operative Bank.
Money Gram Kenya ¶
Co-op bank is an authorized agent for Money Gram services, which can be accessed from any of the bank's branches countrywide, Co-op Kwa Jirani, and Saccos. It is essential to note that your name on the transfer record must exactly match your name as it appears on your ID, otherwise, you may be delayed or unable to pick up your funds.
How to Receive Money via Money Gram ¶
- Request for the reference number from the person sending you money.
- Visit your nearest Co-operative bank branch or selected Co-op Kwa Jirani agents or Saccos, taking your reference number and national Identity card, a valid passport, or ID.
- Complete the remittance form available at our branches countrywide.
- Once verified, you will receive your money (usually in local currency, Kenya shillings).
How to Send Money via Money Gram ¶
- Visit the nearest Co-operative bank branch and bring your national ID card, a valid passport, or an ID.
- Complete a simple remittance form indicating the amount you wish to send, destination country, and the name of the person you intend to send to.
- The agent/teller will calculate the cost of the transaction and process it.
- You'll receive a receipt and reference number for the transaction. Save both for your records.
- Contact the person receiving your money transfer and let them know the transfer has been sent, providing the Reference Number.
Western Union ¶
You can send and receive money locally or around the globe within minutes via Western Union at a Co-op bank branch.
How to Send Money via Western Union ¶
- Visit the nearest Co-operative bank branch.
- Complete a simple remittance form indicating the amount you wish to send, destination country, and the name of the person you intend to send to.
- Give the teller the completed form with the applicable funds (including transaction fee). Pay with cash or debit your Co-op bank account.
- The agent/teller will process the transaction and give you a receipt and MTCN number for the transaction.
- Contact the person receiving your money transfer and let them know the transfer has been done, providing the MTCN for them to receive the money.
- Save your receipts for the record.
How to Receive Money via Western Union ¶
- Request for the MTCN (tracking number) from the person sending you money.
- Visit your nearest Co-op bank branch or selected Co-op Kwa Jirani agents or selected Sacco, taking your MTCN and national Identity card, a valid passport, or a government-issued ID.
- Complete the remittance form available at our branches countrywide.
- Once verified, you will receive your money (usually in local currency, Kenya shillings).
Additionally, you can receive funds directly into your account or to your mobile wallet if the sender indicated so when sending the money. Always remember that your name on the transfer record must exactly match your name as it appears on your ID, otherwise, you may be delayed or unable to pick up your funds.
