It can be difficult to get funds across country lines, especially if you are sending money home to India. Many students and professionals from India go to schools or work in the United States, but they rely on international transfers to keep their accounts fluid. Thankfully, there are quick and hassle-free transfer options available to help these students.
While wiring money internationally seems old school, it’s faster than ever before to send funds with online banking and money transfer services. This step-by-step guide can help you gather everything you need to send transfers reliably from India to your recipient in the US. We also go through the process of sending money back to India from the US.
It’s Easier to Send Payments To and From India Now. In the old days, it was more difficult and time-consuming to send and receive payments to India. However, there are so many options available now that you could still wind up paying more and waiting too long if you don’t select the right service.
The first thing to do is choose how to transfer money to India.
To do this, you want to pick a service that offers the following:
Speedy Transfers
You don’t want to wait two weeks for the money to arrive whether you are sending from the US or India. Many services promise payouts within 1 to 2 days internationally, but is it the same for India? There are special cases where it takes longer to verify funds. If you want money to arrive faster, you may also pay a fee.
Exchange Rates
The other important thing to consider is the conversion rate for the transfer. In some cases, you may pay additional fees to convert USD to rupees. You should always ensure that you are getting the best rate when transferring funds.
Other Fees
Typically you will have to pay an international wire transfer fee up to $50. This is pretty standard, but other companies may charge additional fees depending on the speed and timing of the request. In addition, you may pay more if you try to initiate transfers with a credit or debit card. It’s cheaper to use a bank account or cash.
Convenience
Most international transfers can be started and completed online, but is it the same with your institution for India transfers? You may have to go to a location to complete the transfer if additional verification is required. There are also some mobile apps that may make it seem easy to send money, but they may hold funds until you provide verification.
Guide to Transferring Money Between India and US
International wire transfers between US and India can be hassle-free with this process. Here is the quickest way to get your money:
1. Pick a Fast Service to Wire Money
There are two institutions that mainly handle international wire transfers the fastest. These include banks and money transfer providers. Some have different rules for sending money internationally versus domestic, so make sure that you do your homework based on the requirements above. You are looking for a speedy, convenient option that allows you to send money in 1 to 2 days to India or to US from India.
2. Look at Fees First
Most institutions will charge a fee regardless of whether you are sending to India or another country. International wire transfers should not be more than $50. There are also additional fees for using a debit card or credit card in some cases. Other institutions charge fees for sending to specific areas in India.
3. Gather Necessary Information
To send an international wire transfer, you will need to have certain information available about you and the recipient. This includes:
- Your bank account number
- Your name, address, and phone number
- Recipient’s full name
- Recipient’s bank information including name and address
- Routing number or BIC/SWIFT code for recipient
- Recipient’s bank account number
- ID for verification (typically for US transfers)
4. Initiate the Transfer Online
The fastest and most convenient way to send money is through an online money transfer service that works with India. You will need to follow the money transfer service provider’s instructions as you fill out the form. Typically, these forms require you to supply your information, such as name and address, and you’ll need to have your account information ready.
As you fill out the form, make sure to check that all information is correct before submitting the request. If there are any problems with your name or banking information, the transfer may take longer or not go through at all.
A word of caution: Banks and money transfer services typically take the money out of your account first, but the transfer may not complete, which could leave you without funds until they are refunded to your account. This is why it’s so important to double-check all of the information before you submit.
Some costly mistakes to avoid:
- Making typos in your recipient’s name or banking information.
- Not looking at the exchange rate for transfers between rupees and USD
- Sending too much cash too often than acceptable
If you are sending money on a regular basis, for example as a student studying in US, then you want to set up a schedule to avoid more fees and having your transfers stopped for suspicious activity. Once to twice a month transfers are acceptable, but even this could cost you up to $200 or more.
5. Keep Your Confirmation Number and Receipt
Once you submit the form, you should receive a confirmation number and receipt for the transaction. These are important so try to keep them in a drawer where they will not be misplaced. If you have issues with the transfer taking too long, you can always follow up to check on the transfer if you have your confirmation number.
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