How to Send Money to Honduras from the United States: A Complete Guide
Remittances to Honduras play a vital role in the country’s economy. Whether you want to support your family, conduct business or simply send a gift, there are several options for sending money to Honduras from the United States.
This guide will give you a complete overview, from the most popular applications to rates and exchange rates.
In general, we would say there are 3 methods to send money to honduras
| Method | How it works | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Bank transfer | The sender transfers money directly from his bank account to the recipient’s bank account in Honduras. | The cost of the transfer varies according to the bank and the amount sent. |
| Cash transfer | The sender pays in cash at a Western Union, MoneyGram or other money transfer company. The recipient can collect the money in cash at an office of the same company in Honduras. | The cost of the transfer varies depending on the company, the amount sent and the location of the office. |
| Online transfer | The sender sends money online through a money transfer service such as Remitly or Xoom. The recipient can collect the money in cash at a company office in Honduras, transfer it to his or her bank account or receive it on a debit or credit card. | The cost of the transfer varies according to the service, the amount sent and the location of the recipient. |
In general, bank transfers are usually the cheapest option, but they can also be the slowest.
Cash transfers are the fastest option, but may have higher fees. Online transfers offer a balance between speed and cost.
Traditional options
- Banks: Many banks in the United States offer international wire transfer services. One of the most popular is Banco Atlantida, which has agreements with certain banking institutions in Honduras. However, these transfers may incur high fees and the exchange rate may not be the most favorable.
- Specialized companies: Western Union is one of the oldest and most reliable methods for sending money to Honduras. Its wide network allows the recipient to pick up the money in different parts of the country.
Online applications and platforms
The rise of digital technology has revolutionized the way we send money internationally. Online applications and platforms offer convenience, security and, in many cases, lower rates than traditional options. Below, we dive into detail about some of the most popular applications for sending money to Honduras from the United States:
1. Xoom
Main characteristics:
- Owned by PayPal, Xoom is recognized for its reliability and security.
- It offers fast transfers, with delivery options in minutes.
- Users can send money directly to bank accounts in Honduras, or choose cash pick-up points.
- The platform provides real-time updates and notifications on the status of the transfer.
2. Remitly
Main characteristics:
- It offers different shipping modes, from urgent transfers to more economical options that may take a few days.
- Allows you to send money to bank accounts in Honduras or set up collection points.
- The application has robust security features to protect transactions.
3. TransferWise (now Wise)
Main characteristics:
- It stands out for offering the real exchange rate, that is, the one you see on Google, with no additional margin.
- The fee structure is transparent, showing in advance how much the transfer will cost.
- It is ideal for transfers of large sums due to its low proportional costs.
4. International banking applications
International banking apps are mobile tools designed to facilitate banking transactions worldwide.
They allow users to access their accounts, view balances, make transfers, pay bills and withdraw cash at international ATMs. In addition, these applications facilitate money transfers to other countries with lower commissions than traditional transfers and allow mobile payments in stores and online.
These applications are especially useful for expatriates, international students and frequent travelers, providing a convenient and secure way to manage their finances from anywhere in the world.
Well-known examples include Wise, Xoom, PayPal, Bank of America and Chase. Despite their advantages, such as convenience and enhanced security, some may have limitations in customer support and in the type of transactions they can perform, and it is important to evaluate each one according to personal needs.
5. Zelle
Main characteristics:
- Popular in the United States, Zelle allows instant transfers between bank accounts.
- Although its main use is within the United States, it is recommended to check with your bank to see if they allow transfers to Honduras using Zelle.
Fees and costs
The cost of sending money to Honduras from the United States varies depending on the transfer method used.
Bank transfer
The cost of a wire transfer is usually between US$10 and US$30, regardless of the amount sent. However, some banks may charge a higher fee for international transfers.
Cash transfer
The cost of a cash transfer is usually between US$5 and US$10 per US$100 sent. Some money transfer companies may charge a higher fee for transfers to rural or remote areas.
Online transfer
The cost of an online transfer is usually between US$2 and US$5 per US$100 sent. Some money transfer services may charge a higher fee for transfers to rural or remote areas.
In addition to commissions, senders must also take into account the exchange rate. The exchange rate is the value of one currency in relation to another. When sending money to Honduras, the sender must convert their U.S. dollars to Honduran Lempiras. The exchange rate may vary depending on the day and time of the transfer.
Additional tips
- If you search for “money transfers to Honduras near me” in search engines, you will find local options, such as stores or agencies that offer these services.
- When evaluating applications to send money to Honduras, it is vital to read reviews and testimonials to ensure you are choosing a reliable platform.
- It is important to be aware of the laws and regulations in Honduras regarding remittances, to make sure you are sending money legally and safely.
Sending money to Honduras from the United States is a process that can vary in complexity and cost. However, with the right information and by comparing the different options available, you can ensure that your money reaches its destination quickly and safely.
Honduran Consulates in the USA
