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Sending money internationally during the coronavirus pandemic
Learn what you need to know about getting money abroad to loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Updated
Self-quarantining and social distancing are changing the way we send money across borders. Here's everything you need to know about what impacts the coronavirus might have on getting money to your loved ones.
How is the coronavirus affecting money transfers?
As Australia reacts to the coronavirus pandemic, the remittance industry is being affected by the following:
- Closures. Non-essential businesses like bars and theatres are closing in many cities. Although banks and money transfer agent locations may remain open, using online transfer options will help you maintain your self-imposed quarantine.
- Exchange rate volatility. We haven't seen this kind of volatility in decades. Fluctuating exchange rates could make a difference of several hundred dollars to what arrives in your receiver's pockets, so it's important to pay close attention to the live rate – things could change quickly. To keep on top of the two global currencies you're comparing, check out our guide on current exchange rates.
- Customer service availability. Many companies will be reducing the availability of their customer service agents, both online and in call centres. OFX, for instance, recently alerted customers that "We are facing unprecedented events globally as countries around the world work to slow the advance of COVID-19. As a result, we're seeing very high volatility in global markets, including in currency markets. During this period of increased market volatility we are experiencing higher than usual call volumes and enquiries to our customer support team and encourage people to use our digital platforms," So if you happen to make a mistake in your online transaction and need to reach someone on the phone to fix it immediately, or need a human voice to help you through the online steps, don't expect the same support you'd normally receive.
Sending $1,000 from Australia to New Zealand during the coronavirus pandemic
Let's say you need to send $1,000 to friends or family members that are stuck quarantined abroad. Here is what you might face in fees and physical contact risks as of 19 March, 2020.
| Online money transfer service | Cash transfer | Bank transfer | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physical contact | No | Yes | Maybe |
| Fee | $6 | $9 | $6 ($30 if sending at a branch) + additional correspondent bank fees |
| Exchange rate | 1 AUD = 1.010 NZD | 1 AUD = 0.948 NZD | 1 AUD = 0.9701 NZD |
| Transfer speed | Within 1 day | Minutes | 1-3 days |
| Amount received | 1,003 NZD | 948 NZD | 970 NZD |
| Verdict |
|
|
|
The bank option ends up being both the slowest and gets the smallest amount of money to your recipient, but you may be able to send it entirely online. If you go with the digital money transfer service, your recipient ends up with NZD$33 more than the bank offers. If speed is crucial, a cash transfer can typically have your transfer to New Zealand in as little as 15 minutes; just be aware of the need to pick it up in person.
Be sure to look at the margin on the exchange rate as well as the fees to figure out if you're getting a good deal. We've gone into more detail on this in our full guide on sending money internationally.
Online money transfer services
The table below shows a round-up of some of the most popular online services that can help you send money to where it needs to go.
Disclaimer: Exchange rates change often. Confirm the total cost with the provider before transferring money.
What if my recipient doesn't have a bank account?
Depending on the provider, you can still make an online transfer to a recipient who doesn't have a bank account.
Emergency cash transfers
If you need to get money abroad now instead of later, there are ways to speed it up. Many online money transfer services offer delivery in as fast as a few minutes. Learn more about the limits and fees for emergency transfers.
Many emergency transfer options require your recipient to pick the money up in person, as delivering to a bank account often takes more time. Double-check how the transfer will be received, especially if you are sending to a country that is recommending self-quarantine or social distancing practices during the coronavirus pandemic.
According to a recent report in Reuters, handling banknotes doesn't pose any added risk of contracting the coronavirus. Your recipient shouldn't fear collecting cash so long as they take the usual precautions and wash their hands frequently.
How to send money to someone without a bank account
Unfortunately, options without physical contact are limited when it comes to sending money to someone without a bank account.
If you or your recipient doesn't have a bank account, look for a local company that supports storefronts for cash payments. These services include agent locations in other countries that allow your recipient to pick up cash without a bank account.
Call the agent location before sending your transfer, if possible, to make sure they will be open when your recipient goes to pick up cash.
How do fluctuating exchange rates affect my international transfer?
No one has a crystal ball here, so it's important to keep an eye on exchange rates regularly. That will help you gauge when it's a good time for you to send money abroad. Online transfers can often lock in a rate for you, which, with roller-coaster markets, could potentially help you get more bang for your buck.
To see how the Australian dollar is performing globally, use our A to Z list of AUD exchange rates against other currencies.
What other ways can I send money around the world?
Aside from traditional money transfers and bank transfers, there are other alternatives you can use to help move money during the coronavirus pandemic.
- International digital banking. Although it may take some time to set up, creating an international digital bank account can help reduce the costs of moving money to loved ones abroad. Read our short guide on digital banking to get started.
- E-wallets. Electronic wallets are a great way to manage your funds digitally. Apple Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Pay are very popular options. By relying entirely on digital services, you won't have to touch cash or interact physically with anyone. Many stores accept e-wallets for payment, making your transaction entirely contactless.
- Cryptocurrencies. If you and the recipient are both computer savvy, cryptocurrency can be a very fast and cheap way of sending money internationally, in a way that doesn't require either of you to have a bank account or leave your homes. If you're interested, our comprehensive guide over at Crypto Finder can get you started.
Bottom line
Sending money internationally may be more important for you now than ever, especially if you have loved ones quarantined abroad. Although it's become trickier to send money overseas, there are still plenty of online options that can help you get your money where it needs to go.
Pay extra attention to movements in the exchange rate, and compare a number of money transfer services to make sure they meet your needs and can give you the best deal.
Need to save some quick cash?
If you're struggling to keep up with your finances - you're not alone. You can save plenty of cash by doing some simple admin with your bills and expenses. Maybe switching credit cards or downgrading your mobile phone plan could save some money.
Managing your daily finances can help you get through this difficult time - You'll be glad you did it.
Picture: GettyImages
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