Sending Money to Overseas Citizens Services
If a U.S. citizen abroad faces an emergency financial situation, you can send money through the U.S. Department of State, which will set up a trust account in the recipient’s name and forward the funds to the appropriate U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Key Information
- A $30 processing fee is charged per fiscal year for long-term trust accounts.
- Personal checks are not accepted. Use money orders or cashier’s checks.
- Funds are typically disbursed in local currency by the Embassy or Consulate.
- It is essential to provide the recipient’s full name and overseas location to avoid delays.
Payment Methods
Western Union
- You may send funds using a “Quick Collect” transfer through Western Union.
- The transfer must include your name, contact details, and the recipient’s full name and overseas location.
- Be sure to include the $30 fee in the total amount.
- A message with relevant sender and recipient information must accompany the transfer.
Bank Wire
- Bank wires may take between 1 to 7 days.
- Include your full name, the recipient’s name and location, and a reference indicating the funds are for the benefit of the recipient via the Embassy or Consulate.
- The total fee is $42, which includes both the Department of State and bank fees.
Overnight Mail
- Send a cashier’s check or money order with the desired amount plus the $30 fee.
- Include a cover letter with your full contact details and the recipient’s full name and location.
- Overnight mail may take 3 to 4 days to arrive.
Regular Mail
- This method is strongly discouraged for emergency situations, as it can take 3 to 4 weeks due to mail processing delays.