Remitly Review: Is it the Best Way to Send Money Abroad?
Are you tired of losing money to hidden bank fees and bad exchange rates? Sending money to loved ones shouldn't be expensive or complicated. Whether you are supporting family back home, paying for services, or managing international bills, finding the right transfer service is crucial.
At Xendwise.com, we compare the top money transfer services to help you save on every transaction. Today, we are deep-diving into one of the most popular platforms on our list: Remitly.
In this detailed review and tutorial, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Remitly: fees, speed, safety, and show you exactly how to use it to get the best deal.
[!TIP] > Special Offer: Click here to get your first transfer fee-free with Remitly!
What is Remitly?
Remitly is a digital money transfer service founded in 2011 with a clear mission: to make sending money internationally faster, affordable, and transparent. Unlike traditional banks that rely on outdated SWIFT networks and charge hefty fees, Remitly is built for the mobile age.
It is particularly famous for its vast network of cash pickup locations and mobile wallet integrations, making it a top choice for transfers to countries in Asia, Latin America, and Africa.
Key Features at a Glance
- Coverage: Send to over 170+ countries.
- Speed: Choose between Express (minutes) or Economy (3-5 days).
- Delivery Options: Bank deposit, Cash pickup, Mobile Money, and even Home Delivery in some regions.
- Platform: Highly rated mobile app (iOS and Android) and website.
Remitly Fees & Exchange Rates: The Breakdown
One of the biggest questions we get at Xendwise is: "Is Remitly actually cheap?" The answer depends on how you choose to send:
1. Economy (The Saver's Choice)
- Cost: Low fees (sometimes $0.00 for transfers over a certain amount).
- Speed: Takes 3-5 business days.
- Rate: You get a solid exchange rate. Use this if you plan ahead.
2. Express (The Speed Choice)
- Cost: Slightly higher flat fee (e.g., $3.99).
- Speed: Arrives in minutes.
- Rate: Funded by your Debit Card. Perfect for emergencies.
The "New Customer" Offer
This is where Remitly shines. New users often get a promotional exchange rate for their first transfer that is significantly better than the standard market rate, plus zero fees.
Step-by-Step Tutorial: How to Send Money with Remitly
Step 1: Create Your Account
Go to Remitly.com and click "Join Now". You only need an email address and a strong password.
Step 2: Choose Your Destination
Select the country you are sending to. Remitly will immediately show you the current exchange rate and the "New Customer" promo rate.
Step 3: Enter Amount & Delivery Method
- Amount: Type how much you want to send.
- Delivery Method:
- Bank Deposit: Best for large amounts.
- Cash Pickup: Select a location like Walmart, Elektra, Cebuana, etc.
- Mobile Money: Send directly to GCash, M-Pesa, etc.
Step 4: Enter Recipient Details
You will need their name (exactly as it appears on their ID) and phone number so they get text updates.
Step 5: Pay and Send
Link your bank account (for Economy) or Debit/Credit card (for Express). Review the total cost and hit Send.
Is Remitly Safe?
Absolutely. Remitly is a licensed money transmitter and is registered with the US Department of Treasury, as well as regulatory bodies in the UK, Canada, and Australia. They use 256-bit SSL encryption (bank-level security) to protect your data.
Furthermore, their 100% Satisfaction Guarantee means that if your money doesn't arrive on time, they will refund your transaction fees.
The Verdict: Should You Use Remitly?
If you are looking for a blend of speed, reliability, and excellent cash pickup options, Remitly is a fantastic choice. While their standard rates are competitive, their new customer offer makes them practically unbeatable for your first transfer.
We recommend Remitly for:
- Expats sending money home to family.
- Emergency transfers that need to arrive instantly.
- Sending to recipients who prefer cash over bank deposits.
🔎 Ready to send? Get Started with Remitly Today & Get Your First Transfer Fee-Free
For more in-depth comparisons, always check Xendwise.com to ensure you are getting the best rate for your specific corridor.