What is the cheapest way to send money to Russia? From time to time I need to send small amount to my mother.?

Question

I tried Western Union but it is expensive, international bank wire transfers out of USA are complete ripoff. Any other ideas?

Answer 1

I found that MoneyGram (http://www.moneygram.com/index.htm) is cheaper than Western Union. Sending up to $ 300 will cost only $ 10 when using Economy service option (3 day delivery). I try sending money less frequently, but in bigger amounts and 3% fee is very competitive rate, especially given tha fact that she'll receive money in $ and will convert them to rubles locally. If she uses American ATM card in Russia, she (actually you) will end up paying for currency conversion much more than that. (A comment on "Cyndi's" answer - both Western Union and Money Gram allow receiving money in US $ in Russia)

Western Union works faster than Economic service of MoneyGram (you can make INSTANT transfer if you do it online), but it's more expensive. Another fact - Western Union charges different fees for different states. Sending money to Russia from NY is about twice cheaper than sending it from NJ!

Answer 2

Send Money To Russia

Answer 3

This Site Might Help You.

RE:
What is the cheapest way to send money to Russia? From time to time I need to send small amount to my mother.?
I tried Western Union but it is expensive, international bank wire transfers out of USA are complete ripoff. Any other ideas?

Answer 4

Here is a link that explains the various options for transferring money to Russia: http://www.waytorussia.net/Practicalities/Money.html

As to sending a debit card, keep in mind that the American Patriots Act specifically prohibits sending of a credit or debit card outside the USA. If you do so, and are caught, it is a federal offense. If you want to do this, take a card to her next time you go to visit. Keep in mind that using an ATM in Russia will cost about $7 per withdrawl for the ATM fee, so compare that to the cost of the other options.

Answer 5

I think I might worry more about the most secure way to send funds to Russia.
Western Union has at least 17 locations in Russia and it would be safe and easy fro your mother to recieve the money this way.
Below is the link for Western Union and just choose the option "Find the Location" to find the closest city in Russia to your mother.
www.westernunion.com
It now costs about $ 11.00 to send it for her to receive it 24 hours later. Also, it exchanges the money for you at the most current rate, so she will probably get more for your money!
You will just have to call her or email her with the money transfer number and have all of your names spelled correctly (sender and receiver). Fast, safe and worth it!!

Answer 6

Western Union or Money Gram