Whether you’re sending money to family or to businesses across the world, there are multiple options that can help you transfer funds without the need for a bank account. From online money transfer to digital wallets, here's how you can send money to someone without a bank account.

More than 5.9 million families in the US didn’t have a bank account till 2021, according to data collected by FDIC (Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation). While previously it was easy to transfer funds to a person’s bank account, today, money transactions know no boundaries.

This blog explores how to send money to someone without a bank account. You can also use end-to-end encrypted Beem to send money online, even if you don’t have a bank account.

How To Send Money To Someone Without A Bank Account

Option 1: Digital Wallets (e.g., PayPal, Venmo)

Digital wallets such as PayPal and Venmo are popular for their ease of use. They allow money transfers without requiring a bank account.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Sign Up: Both sender and receiver need to create accounts on the chosen platform (e.g., PayPal, Venmo).
Sender, link your bank account, debit, or credit card to your digital wallet account.
Send money using the recipient’s email or phone number linked to their digital wallet.
The recipient can withdraw the money to their linked bank account or use the platform’s card for direct access.

Option 2: Prepaid Debit Cards

Prepaid debit cards are a convenient way to send money to someone without a bank account. You can purchase these cards at various retailers.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Purchase a Prepaid Card: Buy a prepaid debit card from a retailer. Load it with the desired amount.
Register the Card: Have the recipient register the card online in their name. This often enables more functionality. For example, making online purchases or withdrawing cash.
Use the Card: The recipient can now use the prepaid card as they would any debit card.

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Option 3: Money Transfer Services (e.g., Western Union, MoneyGram)

Western Union and MoneyGram send money locally and globally without needing a bank account.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Find a Local Agent: Locate a nearby agent through the service’s website or app.
Give the agent the recipient’s name, destination, and amount to send. You’ll also need to present a valid ID.
Pay for the Transfer: You can pay in cash, or sometimes by debit or credit card.
Collect the Transfer Code: You’ll receive a reference number or code. Share this with your recipient.
The recipient can collect the funds from a local agent in their area. They need to present the transfer code and their ID.

Option 4: Cash Delivery Services

Some services deliver cash directly to the recipient’s door. This is a good option for urgent needs.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Choose a reputable cash delivery service in your recipient’s area.
Arrange the Delivery: Provide the recipient’s address and the amount you want to send.
Payment: Pay for the service online or in person.
Delivery: The service will deliver the cash to the recipient’s address. Some services allow you to track the delivery in real-time.

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Option 5: Gift Cards

You can opt for Visa gift cards or retailer gift cards. These cards are open-loop gift cards based on network-branded cards, accepted in places they have their network in. You can get these at the local grocery store or online.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Method

Here are some of the factors to consider when choosing a method to transfer money without a bank account:

Take into account the amount of money you need to send. Depending on the amount, certain methods are more likely to be suited. Wire transfers can send a considerable amount of money compared to a wallet.
The speed of transfer you need. Different methods take different amounts of time to process and reflect.
The location you are sending the money to. Your source may be available at a different location than the receiver’s. Hence, check with the company if they serve at the receiver’s location.

Conclusion

These payment methods may be beneficial if you need help to use net banking or link your bank account. To choose a reliable service, it is vital to understand the risks involved with the methods described above. Use Beem to send money to your closed ones instantly without the need for a bank account.