Receiving money from abroad safely

For many families, money sent by relatives abroad helps to pay for school fees, health care, housing and daily needs. It matters that this money arrives safely and that as little as possible is lost along the way.

Ways to receive money

Into a bank account. The sender transfers money directly to your account. Your money is held securely and you have a clear record of every payment.

Through a money transfer operator. You collect cash at an agent or branch, usually with a reference number and identification.

Into a mobile wallet. Some services send money straight to a mobile wallet, which can be convenient for smaller amounts.

Use licensed, well-known providers. Avoid informal channels that operate outside the regulated system. If something goes wrong, you may have no way to recover your money.

Understand the full cost

The cost of sending money has two parts, and both matter.

• The transfer fee, which the sender usually pays when sending
• The exchange rate, which decides how many dalasi you receive for each pound, euro or dollar sent

A service with a low fee, or no fee at all, may offer a less favourable exchange rate, so you receive fewer dalasi. To compare fairly, ask the sender to check the final amount you will receive in dalasi with each provider, after all fees and conversion.

What you need to collect money

• A valid identification document in the same name the sender used
• The transfer reference number, sometimes called a tracking or control number
• The sender’s name and the country the money was sent from
• The expected amount

Ask the sender to spell your name exactly as it appears on your identification. Small differences can delay collection.

Protect yourself from scams

• Never share a transfer reference number with anyone except the official agent paying you.
• Be wary of calls or messages saying a relative abroad is in trouble and needs money urgently. Check directly with the relative on a number you already know.
• Do not pay a fee to "release" money that someone says is waiting for you.
• Refuse requests from people you have met online to receive money and pass it on. You could be helping criminals move stolen funds, and you could be held responsible.
• Count your cash and check your receipt before you leave the counter.

Make the money go further

If you receive money regularly, consider having it paid into a bank account. Agree with the sender how much is for immediate needs and how much should be saved. Over time, a record of regular deposits can also support a future loan application.