Credit Cards and Western Union -

smithja

Hi there

I am considering transfering some money to someone in India and I was wondering if anyone here has used their credit card with Wester Union and know for certain if it appears as a purchase or cash advance on their statement. I have found out that Western Union themselves charge a slightly higher fee to accept a credit card than a debit card.

Thanks in advance.

James

skyrider007

You will certainly be charged for cash advance if you pay for Western Union by credit card. Use a debit card.

Also, it is much cheaper if you can transfer money via SWIFT telegraphic transfer rather than Western Union which is pricier although is the only option if the recipient does not have a bank account.

smithja

Cheers, I thought that would be cheaper too but for some reason to India the charge is just under £4 (about £6 if you use a credit card) to send £80, not the usual £18.

James

nick74

skyrider007 wrote: »

You will certainly be charged for cash advance if you pay for Western Union by credit card.

Is this a recent development? I made a Western Union payment by HSBC Visa credit card in late 2006 and it didn't show on my statement as a cash advance.

smithja

Really, I think I will give LTSB and Barclaycard a call and see what they say then post the answer.

James

smithja

Turned out neither bank was too sure so I emailed WU and they replied today saying if I used a credit card it would be treated as a cash advance. So will be using my debit card or cash.

James

skyrider007

nick74 wrote: »

Is this a recent development? I made a Western Union payment by HSBC Visa credit card in late 2006 and it didn't show on my statement as a cash advance.

The rule has changed now.