Best Way to Send Money From the UK to the US (2026)
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Countries Covered
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Saved in Fees & FX
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Hours Average Transfer Time
Best Way to Send Money From the UK to the US
Jan 14, 2026Affiliate links featured on this page may help us earn a commission. It's important to note that this does not influence the opinions and recommendations provided by our editors.
If you need to send money from the UK to the US you are in a very common position. The corridor between the UK and the US is one of the busiest for international transfers used by millions of transactions worth several billion pounds each year. People sending money from the UK to the US typically include expats sending earnings home, migrant workers supporting families, students paying tuition and living costs, freelancers receiving client payments, families moving money across borders and businesses paying suppliers or staff.
Using the big high street banks can make a straightforward transfer money from the UK to the US surprisingly costly. Banks such as Barclays, HSBC, Lloyds, NatWest and Santander UK often apply fixed fees, poor exchange rates and hidden markups that add up quickly. International payments through these banks can also be slow with transfers taking several business days to reach the recipient in the US.
Specialist money transfer services are usually faster, cheaper and more efficient for sending money from the UK to the US. Providers like Wise, XE, Remitly, CurrencyFair and Western Union focus on transparency and lower FX markups so you often get better value and clearer fee breakdowns. For many users the best way to send money from the UK to the US is to compare specialists rather than defaulting to a bank.
This guide breaks down the costs involved and explores the best ways to transfer money to the US from the UK so you can choose the most suitable option. You will learn how to send money to the US from the UK while focusing on securing competitive GBP to {#tocurrency#} exchange rates and reducing transfer fees.
Overview: Sending Money from the UK to the US
💸 Number of Providers
10+
💱 Currency Transfer Pair
USD - GBP
💸 Most transferred amount
About the Author
Mohammad Humaid
Verified Author
Mo is the founder of MoneyTransferStore. As an expat who has experienced the challenges of sending money across borders himself, he set out to help others like him avoid hidden fees and unfair exchange rates on international transfers. With a background spanning fintech, payments, and Web3, Mo brings years of practical experience to building a platform focused on transparency and trust.
From £1 up to £1,000,000+ (provider & verification dependent)
How Can I Send Money from the UK to the US
When transferring money from the UK to the US there are three primary methods available for UK senders who need to send money from the UK to the US or make a money transfer from the UK to the US
Specialist Money Transfer Services [Best Option]
Traditional UK Banks [Not Recommended]
Cash Pickup Services
We are going to explore each option in more detail next
Best Ways to Send Money from the UK to the US - Money Transfer Providers
Specialist money transfer providers are usually the best way to send money from the UK to the US, because they focus solely on moving funds across borders, optimise for exchange rates and fees, and use technology to speed up the process. When you need to transfer money from the UK to the US, online money transfer services beat banks in most cases, especially for personal remittances, business payments and freelancing income. They offer a combination of lower costs, faster delivery and clearer pricing that makes sending money from the UK to the US simpler and more cost effective.
Cheaper, online providers often charge a much smaller percentage of the transfer amount than banks, sometimes just a small percentage, so the cheapest way to send money from the UK to the US is frequently with a specialist provider. Transparent Fees, these services show fees and the exchange rate upfront so you know the total cost before you confirm the transfer. Fast Transfers, many online providers offer same day or next day delivery for common routes, so if you need to send money to the US from the UK quickly they are the best option. Specialised Services, providers cater to different needs such as business payments, recurring transfers and cash pickup. User Friendly Platforms, apps and websites make it easy to set up and track transfers. Dedicated Customer Support, many providers offer phone and online help to resolve issues and answer enquiries.
Here are 5 best ways to send money from the UK to the US, with details on when to use each provider and what they do best.
Wise (Best for Mid Market Exchange Rates)
Wise is best known for using the true mid market exchange rate when converting GBP to USD, which means there is no exchange rate markup added on top of the live market rate. The company combines that transparent pricing with low, clearly displayed fees so customers see the total cost before they complete a transfer. Wise is regulated in multiple jurisdictions and has built a strong reputation for reliability and fairness, which makes it ideal for regular transfers, freelancers and businesses who need predictable, low cost transfers.
Wise transfers are often fast, commonly arriving same day or next day for typical bank to bank transfers, and the platform supports recurring payments for regular remittances. The low fees and lack of hidden margins explain why Wise is often considered the fairest and most transparent option when you need to send money from the UK to the US. Use Wise when you want the best way to send money from the UK to the US at close to the mid market rate, with clear pricing and strong regulation.
No exchange rate markup, you get the mid market rate
Low, transparent fees shown upfront
Fast transfers, often same day or next day
Strong regulation and high trust
Ideal for regular transfers, freelancers and businesses
XE Money Transfer (Best for Competitive Rates & Exotic Currencies)
XE stands out for highly competitive exchange rates and support for a wide range of less common currencies, which makes it a strong choice when transferring funds across more unusual currency corridors. Backed by a well established global FX brand, XE offers tools and rate alerts that help you time transfers when rates are favourable for a money transfer from the UK to the US or when converting from other currencies into USD.
XE is suitable for larger transfer amounts because its pricing becomes more competitive at scale and it provides dedicated support for bigger transactions. If you are transferring non standard currencies or moving larger sums when you need competitive rates and solid customer service, XE is a reliable option for transfer money from the UK to the US and for more complex currency needs.
Highly competitive exchange rates
Support for a wide range of exotic and less common currencies
Suitable for larger transfer amounts
Backed by a well established global FX brand
Good for users moving non standard currencies or higher amounts
CurrencyFair (Best for Larger Transfers)
CurrencyFair focuses on securing strong foreign exchange rates close to the mid market rate and offers a marketplace style matching system that can deliver especially good value for larger transfers. The service charges lower percentage fees as transfer values increase, so the larger the amount you transfer the cheaper it can become compared with traditional providers or banks. This makes CurrencyFair popular with users making large or infrequent transfers who want to ensure the cheapest way to send money from the UK to the US for high value payments.
CurrencyFair provides transparent pricing and a straightforward interface for setting up transfers and tracking them to completion, with options for both one off and recurring transfers. If your priority is cost efficiency for a large transfer money transfer from the UK to the US, CurrencyFair is a cost effective choice worth comparing to other providers.
Strong FX rates close to the mid market rate
Lower percentage fees for higher transfer values
Transparent pricing
Popular with users making large or infrequent transfers
Cost effective for higher value transfers
Remitly (Fast Transfers)
Remitly is designed for fast remittances with simple pricing and sometimes fee free options for first time users, which can make it an attractive choice for urgent transfers. The service focuses on speed and convenience and offers multiple payout methods including bank deposit and cash pickup in the US, so recipients can receive funds in the way that works best for them. Remitly is mobile first, which makes sending money to the US from the UK straightforward from a smartphone.
Remitly often has very competitive fees for time critical transfers and offers tiered delivery speeds so you can choose between cost and speed depending on need. If you are sending money from the UK to the US and need funds to arrive quickly with a simple, app based experience, Remitly is an excellent option.
Low cost and sometimes fee free transfers for new customers
Fast remittance options with tiered delivery speeds
Multiple payout methods including bank deposit and cash pickup in the US
Simple and mobile first experience
Ideal for sending money quickly and affordably
Western Union (Best for Cash Pickup)
Western Union is best known for having one of the largest cash pickup networks in the US, which makes it the go to option when the recipient does not have a bank account or needs cash immediately. The service can provide immediate or near instant cash availability in many locations across the US, which is useful for urgent situations or when the recipient prefers cash. Western Union combines an extensive retail footprint with online transfer options so you can choose the most convenient method.
Western Union typically has higher fees and weaker exchange rates compared with online only specialist providers, so it is often more expensive for a money transfer from the UK to the US. Despite the higher costs, Western Union makes sense when you need immediate cash pickup, when the recipient lacks a bank account or when convenience of cash access outweighs the extra expense.
One of the largest cash pickup networks in the US
Immediate or near instant cash availability
Suitable for recipients without bank accounts
Higher fees and weaker exchange rates compared to online only providers
Useful when cash pickup and speed are the priority
Provider
description
Exchange Rate
Fees (fixed or % range)
average time
Wise
Best FX rates for sending money from the UK to the US, low markup and transparent fees
Near mid market
Small fixed fee plus low percentage, typically £0.50 to £3 plus 0.35% to 0.6%
Same day to 2 days
XE
Fast transfers and support for exotic currencies, good option to transfer money from the UK to the US
Competitive
Usually no fixed fee for bank transfers, rate markup typically 0.5% to 1.5%
1 to 4 days
Remitly
Fast and low cost transfers, express option for sending money from the UK to the US in minutes
Competitive to slightly below mid market
Fees vary by speed, typically from £0 for economy to £3 to £10 for express
Minutes for express, up to 1 day for economy
CurrencyFair
Best for large transfers, peer to peer matching helps get better rates when you transfer money to the US from the UK
Good peer rates
Fixed fee around £3 plus percentage 0.1% to 0.6%
1 to 2 days
Western Union
Best for cash pickup and wide network for money transfer from the UK to the US, instant cash option available
Below mid market
Fixed fee £3 to £25 depending on payout method, rate markup typically 1% to 4%
Minutes for cash pickup, up to 3 days for bank transfers
High Street Banks in the UK
Traditional high street banks in the UK are generally not recommended when you need to send money from the UK to the US. A money transfer from the UK to the US with a bank typically combines high fixed fees poor exchange rates and slow processing times. If you are comparing options for transfer money from the UK to the US banks are often the most expensive and the slowest choice.
High fixed international transfer fees Most UK banks charge fixed outbound fees which commonly range from £15 to £40 for standard online transfers and can be higher at a branch
Poor exchange rates with hidden markups on GBP to USD Banks add a margin to the mid market rate when converting the GBP to the USD That so called FX margin is rarely disclosed clearly and can add 2 to 4 or more percent to the cost of the transfer
“Fee free” transfers that still include large FX margins Some accounts advertise fee free international payments but recover the cost through poor FX rates so a supposedly free transfer can still be expensive
Intermediary and correspondent bank fees via the SWIFT network Many transfers route through one or more correspondent banks that charge additional fees These intermediary charges are typically deducted en route and are often invisible until the recipient receives less than expected
Total costs that can range from 6% to 10% of the transfer amount When you add fixed fees FX markups and intermediary charges the real cost of sending money from the UK to the US with a bank frequently sits in this range
Slow processing times Typically 3 to 7 business days Banks generally take longer than specialist providers and cut off times and manual checks can delay payments further
For the best way to send money from the UK to the US consider specialist providers instead of high street banks For example Wise offers the best FX rates XE is useful for fast transfers and exotic currencies Remitly focuses on fast and low cost transfers CurrencyFair is best for large transfers and Western Union is best for cash pickup
HSBC UK
HSBC as a global bank is convenient for customers with existing accounts but convenience comes at a price when you transfer money to the US from the UK. HSBC typically charges an outbound fee for international payments and applies a margin on the GBP to the USD conversion The bank may route payments through correspondent banks which adds further costs and delays. HSBC can be a sensible option for very large corporate flows where relationship pricing applies but for personal transfers it is rarely the cheapest option.
Average fees £20 to £30 outbound for personal online transfers higher at branches
FX markup Typically around 2.5% to 4% on the mid market GBP to the USD rate
Hidden fees Correspondent bank charges and receiving bank fees deducted in transit
Slow transfer time Typically 3 to 5 business days
Barclays
Barclays offers a fully fledged international payments service and useful online tools but the pricing model is unfavourable for small to mid value personal transfers. Barclays applies a fixed sending fee and adds an FX margin that can significantly inflate the effective cost of a money transfer from the UK to the US. Barclays may also apply additional checks for larger amounts which further slow processing times.
Average fees £20 to £35 per transfer for personal customers
FX markup Commonly 3% to 4% on GBP to the USD conversions
Hidden fees Intermediary bank charges and potential receiving bank deductions
Slow transfer time Typically 2 to 5 business days
Lloyds Bank
Lloyds Bank provides international payments as part of its personal banking suite but the service tends to be expensive for cross border payments to the US. Lloyds charges fixed fees and uses marked up exchange rates for converting the GBP to the USD The bank network routing via SWIFT means additional correspondent fees can appear leaving the recipient with less than quoted.
Average fees £15 to £30 depending on channel and branch use
FX markup Typically 2.5% to 4% on the GBP to the USD exchange
Hidden fees Correspondent bank fees and receiving bank charges not always disclosed
Slow transfer time Typically 3 to 5 business days
NatWest
NatWest makes it easy to send money from the UK to the US from online banking or a branch but the total cost is often high compared with specialist services. NatWest applies outbound fees and an FX margin on GBP to USD conversions The bank can also route payments through third party banks which can add unpredictable charges and delay arrival.
Average fees £15 to £35 for personal international payments
FX markup Generally 2.5% to 4% above the mid market rate
Hidden fees Intermediary correspondent charges and possible receiving bank fees
Slow transfer time Typically 3 to 7 business days
Beware of “Fee-Free” Transfers: The Hidden Costs Banks Don’t Show You
Banks often advertise zero transfer fees, but that does not mean the transfer is free. When sending money from the UK to the US banks commonly add hefty exchange rate markups and may pass on intermediary or correspondent bank fees, which reduces the final amount the recipient receives. Anyone planning a money transfer from the UK to the US should check the total cost not just the headline fee.
Because of these hidden charges banks are rarely the cheapest way to send money from the UK to the US and may not be the best way to send money from the UK to the US either. If you want to know how to send money to the US from the UK compare providers and mid market rates and ask about correspondent fees before you transfer money to the US from the UK.
Cash Pickup Services
Cash pickup is a fast and practical way to send money from the UK to the US, allowing recipients to collect funds in cash from local pickup locations often shortly after the transfer is processed. This option suits many cases of a money transfer from the UK to the US where immediate access to cash matters, and it is commonly used when sending money from the UK to the US for urgent needs.
When cash pickup is useful
Cash pickup is best suited for emergencies and for recipients who are unbanked or who prefer cash. If you need to transfer money to the US from the UK quickly or the recipient does not have a bank account, cash pickup makes the transfer simple and immediate.
Speed
Cash pickup is one of the fastest ways to transfer money from the UK to the US, often available within minutes after the transfer is processed, making it ideal in emergencies or for urgent transfers.
Accessibility
Cash pickup is ideal for recipients in the US who do not have access to a bank account. Funds can be collected from local stores supermarkets or dedicated money transfer outlets that are widely available across the US.
Flexibility
Multiple providers offer cash pickup services each with different fees exchange rates and delivery speeds allowing users to choose the option that best suits their needs. Providers to consider include Western Union which is widely regarded as the best for cash pickup Remitly XE Wise and CurrencyFair depending on the route and service.
Cost considerations
Cash pickup typically carries higher fees and weaker exchange rates than bank deposit options so it is rarely the cheapest way to send money from the UK to the US. If you are unsure how to send money to the US from the UK compare fees and exchange rates across providers to decide the best way to send money from the UK to the US for your situation.
What You Need to Know About Money Transfers to the US from the UK
Sending money from the UK to the US involves choosing between banks and specialist money transfer providers, each offering different fees, exchange rates, and transfer speeds. Comparing options is essential to find the most cost effective and efficient solution when you need to send money from the UK to the US.
Key Factors to Consider When Sending Money to the US from the UK
Transfer Cost
Transfer time
Trust and credibility
Transfer Cost: Fees and Exchange Rates
Fixed transfer fees and exchange rate markups both affect the final amount the recipient receives in the US. The GBP to USD exchange rate can significantly change how much arrives in the US even if the upfront fee seems low. Banks in the UK sometimes promote free international transfers while applying hidden FX markups that make a money transfer from the UK to the US more expensive overall. To find the cheapest way to send money from the UK to the US compare total costs including both fees and the exchange rate and consider specialist money transfer providers.
Transfer Time: How Fast Will Your Money Arrive?
Transfer times vary by provider and by payment method. Traditional banks in the UK often take several business days to complete transfers while online money transfer services can be much faster sometimes completing transfers within the same day on certain routes. When speed matters check expected delivery times for your chosen method and provider to decide the best way to send money from the UK to the US and to understand how to send money to the US from the UK most quickly.
Trust and Credibility: Choosing a Safe Provider
Credibility and regulation matter when sending money from the UK to the US. The cheapest or fastest option is not always the safest. Choose well established regulated providers with a strong track record and clear customer support so you can be confident your transfer will reach the recipient. Checking licences customer reviews and protection policies helps you transfer money to the US from the UK securely.
By weighing cost speed and credibility you can make an informed decision when transferring money to the US from the UK. Always double check and enter accurate recipient details to avoid delays failed transfers or additional costs.
Why Compare Money Transfer Services from the UK to the US?
Comparing providers is essential because fees, exchange rates and hidden charges can differ greatly even for the same transfer, and what looks like a low fee can be wiped out by an unfavourable rate when you send money from the UK to the US. Small FX markups of one or two per cent can noticeably reduce the amount received by the beneficiary especially on larger transfers, so checking rates matters for any money transfer from the UK to the US.
Shopping around helps you find the best way to send money from the UK to the US for your needs whether you prioritise speed cost or reliability. By comparing services you can identify the cheapest way to send money from the UK to the US spot faster delivery options and pick a transparent provider so transferring money from the UK to the US or learning how to send money to the US from the UK becomes simpler and more cost effective.
The Hidden Fee in International Transfers
FX markups are one of the main ways banks profit from international transfers. When you send money from the UK to the US banks often apply an exchange rate that is worse than the mid market rate and pocket the difference.
This hidden fee can turn a seemingly cheap money transfer from the UK to the US into an expensive one even if the advertised flat fees look low. Always compare the mid market rate when you transfer money to the US from the UK to spot the cheapest way to send money from the UK to the US.
Check providers like Wise, XE, Remitly, CurrencyFair, and Western Union for both fees and FX rates to pick the best way to send money from the UK to the US.
Exchange Rate Explained: GBP to USD
Understanding the GBP to USD exchange rate is essential when you send money from the UK to the US because the rate determines how many US dollars the recipient actually receives for each pound you send. Even small percentage differences in the exchange rate can have a bigger impact on the total cost than the explicit transfer fees, so comparing rates is a key part of choosing the best way to send money from the UK to the US.
What Does the GBP to USD Exchange Rate Mean?
The GBP to USD exchange rate shows how much one pound is worth in US dollars at a given moment. When you transfer money from the UK to the US the provider converts your pounds into dollars using a rate that may differ from the mid market rate you see on financial news sites or currency converters. Knowing the live rate helps you decide when to transfer money to the US from the UK for a better outcome.
GBP to USD Mid Market Rate vs Provider Rate
The mid market rate is the midpoint between buy and sell prices on global currency markets and represents the fairest rate you can see. Providers add a margin to this rate to cover costs and profit, so the provider rate you get when sending money from the UK to the US will normally be less favourable than the mid market rate. Specialist services like Wise and CurrencyFair are known for rates closer to the mid market while banks often offer larger markups.
How GBP to USD Exchange Rate Markups Affect Your Transfer
A markup of even 0.5% on the exchange rate can cost you more than a fixed transfer fee, especially on larger transfers. For example when you transfer money from the UK to the US for a house deposit or tuition fees a small percentage difference in the rate becomes a significant absolute amount. Always compare the effective rate a provider offers rather than focusing only on headline fees when choosing how to send money to the US from the UK.
Why the GBP to USD Exchange Rate Matters More Than Fees
Providers may advertise low or zero transfer fees but offset that by offering poor exchange rates. For many transfers the cheapest way to send money from the UK to the US is the service that combines low fees with a tight exchange rate margin. Checking both the rate and any fees gives you the true cost per dollar received.
Transfer Fees When Sending Money from the UK to the US
There are several different fee types you may encounter when you transfer money from the UK to the US. Understanding each helps you pick the best provider for your needs.
Fixed transfer fees
These are flat fees charged per transfer regardless of the amount. They can make small transfers expensive on a percentage basis while being negligible for larger sums. Some specialist providers waive fixed fees for certain transfer methods or thresholds.
Percentage based fees
Some providers charge a percentage of the transfer amount instead of or in addition to a fixed fee. This model scales with the size of your transfer and is common with card funded or instant payments.
Fees charged by intermediary or correspondent banks
When transfers route through correspondent banks these banks may deduct fees along the way, reducing the final amount received. This is more common with traditional bank transfers and can be unpredictable.
Specialist money transfer providers such as Wise, XE, Remitly and CurrencyFair usually charge lower and more transparent fees and offer better exchange rates than traditional banks. Western Union can be useful for cash pickup but may be costlier for some routes. Traditional banks often apply higher charges and add intermediary fees which makes them less competitive for most people who need to send money from the UK to the US.
For the cheapest way to send money from the UK to the US check both the exchange rate margin and all applicable fees before you confirm the transfer. This ensures you pick the best way to send money from the UK to the US for your exact amount and timing.
How Long Does It Take to Send Money from the UK to the US?
Transfer times for a money transfer from the UK to the US vary depending on the provider, the payment method, the payout method and compliance checks. Speed can range from instant and same day transfers to several business days depending on those factors.
Provider type matters. Specialist online money transfer services often offer instant or same day transfers for card funded payments, while traditional banks tend to take two to five business days or longer.
Payment method matters. Card payments are usually faster than bank transfers because cards are cleared faster, although they can attract higher fees.
Payout method matters. Sending to a bank account can take longer than a transfer that is available for cash pickup or to a mobile wallet.
Compliance and verification. New recipients, large amounts or additional identity checks can add extra processing time.
Fastest Way to Send Money from the UK to the US
The fastest way to send money from the UK to the US is usually to use a specialist online money transfer service. Providers such as Wise, XE and Remitly often deliver instant or same day transfers when you pay by card and the recipient accepts a fast payout method. Western Union can also be very fast when the recipient collects cash.
Banks are super slow compared with specialist services because they use older payment rails and have longer internal processing and cut off times. For speed when sending money from the UK to the US choose a specialist provider and the fastest payment and payout options available.
Cheapest Way to Send Money from the UK to the US
The cheapest way to send money from the UK to the US depends on the total cost to the sender and the net amount the recipient gets, not just the headline transfer fee. Traditional banks are usually more expensive because they add hidden foreign exchange markups to the rate as well as charging fees.
Why Specialist Money Transfer Services Are Usually Cheaper
Specialist services are usually cheaper because they offer more competitive FX rates, lower transparent fees and lower operating costs. Wise is known for the best FX rates and transparent fees. CurrencyFair can be the best choice for large transfers because of its competitive rates for higher amounts. XE is strong for exotic currencies and fast transfers. Remitly focuses on speed and low cost for many corridors. Western Union remains useful for cash pickup but may not always be the cheapest.
How to Find the Cheapest Option
Compare providers side by side and check the exact amount the recipient will receive in the US. Look at the exchange rate offered, the transfer fee, any receiving fees and the payment and payout methods. Use comparison sites and run sample quotes for the specific amount you want to transfer. Consider promotions and volume discounts for larger transfers. For a balance of cost and speed when you need to transfer money to the US from the UK try Wise for low cost and transparency, CurrencyFair for large sums, and Remitly or XE when speed or exotic currency support is important.
How to Send Money from the UK to the US: Step-by-Step
Choose a money transfer provider
Enter the transfer details
Check the total cost
Provide recipient information
Pay for the transfer
Track the transfer
When choosing a money transfer provider compare fees exchange rates transfer speed and payout options. Our partners can help depending on your needs Wise offers the best FX rates XE is strong for fast transfers and exotic currencies Remitly specialises in fast and low cost transfers CurrencyFair is best for large transfers and Western Union is ideal for cash pickup
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Way to Send Money from the UK to the US
Key factors to consider are cost including fees and the exchange rate transfer speed and reliability. Also consider the payout method bank transfer or cash pickup and any limits on transfer amounts and regulatory requirements
Cost and exchange rate
Transfer speed and tracking
Reliability and customer support
Payout method and recipient convenience
Transfer limits and regulatory requirements
The best way to send money from the UK to the US depends on the transfer amount the urgency and your preferred payout method. For small to medium bank transfers and the cheapest way to send money from the UK to the US Wise often offers the most competitive FX rates For urgent transfers or when you need cash pickup Remitly and Western Union are useful choices For very large transfers CurrencyFair can offer better pricing For exotic currencies or niche routes XE may be the right option
If you are wondering how to send money to the US from the UK or looking for the fastest way to transfer money to the US from the UK compare providers on cost speed and reliability to find the best fit for your needs
FAQs: Send Money from the UK to the US
What is the cheapest way to send money from the UK to the US?
The cheapest way to send money from the UK to the US depends on the size of the transfer, how quickly the recipient needs the funds, and whether you prioritise a low fixed fee or a favourable exchange rate. For smaller transfers many online specialist providers such as Wise offer low, transparent fees and close to mid market GBP to USD exchange rates which often makes them the cheapest way to send money from the UK to the US. For larger transfers services such as CurrencyFair can be cost effective because they allow peer to peer matching or tiered pricing that reduces the effective markup on the exchange rate. Banks can be convenient but they typically charge higher margins on the exchange rate and additional sending or receiving fees which usually makes bank transfers more expensive.
When comparing costs consider these factors together rather than a single fee alone.
Compare the total cost which includes the fee and the exchange rate margin for the whole transfer amount
Check whether the provider applies fixed fees, a percentage fee or both
Look at delivery method fees for example instant transfer or cash pickup can add extra cost
Review any intermediary or receiving bank charges for transfers to bank accounts in the US
Specific providers in context include Wise for the best FX rates in many cases XE for fast transfers and a wider range of exotic currencies Remitly for fast and low cost transfers CurrencyFair when sending large sums and Western Union for cash pickup needs. Choosing the cheapest option means matching the provider to your priorities and comparing the full cost rather than the headline fee.
How long does it take to send money from the UK to the US?
Transfer speed varies by provider payment method and the time you initiate the transfer. Typical ranges are from a few minutes to several business days. Fast services such as Remitly and Western Union can deliver money within minutes for certain payout options but faster services usually cost more. Online providers like XE and Wise often deliver within hours for standard bank account transfers though some transfers can take 1 to 2 business days depending on banking cut off times and whether additional identity checks are required.
Factors that affect speed include bank processing times and whether you pay by debit card credit card or bank transfer.
Card funded transfers are usually faster but often carry higher fees
Bank to bank transfers may take longer due to interbank clearing systems and weekends or bank holidays can add delay
Large transfers or transfers flagged by compliance systems can require additional documentation and verification which delays processing
If speed is the priority Remitly and Western Union are best known for very fast delivery options. For a balance of speed and cost XE and Wise are good choices as they combine competitive timing with transparent pricing.
Is it safe to send money from the UK to the US?
Yes sending money from the UK to the US is generally safe when you use reputable regulated providers and follow security best practice. Most established providers including Wise XE Remitly CurrencyFair and Western Union are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK or by equivalent regulators and use strong encryption and multi factor security to protect customer funds and data.
To keep your transfer safe follow these precautions.
Use regulated and well reviewed providers with clear contact details and customer support
Confirm recipient details carefully especially account numbers and routing codes as mistakes can be hard to reverse
Avoid public Wi Fi and use secure devices and networks when initiating transfers
Keep records of transaction receipts and confirmation numbers should you need to report an issue
If you suspect fraud contact your provider immediately and report the incident to your bank and to the appropriate regulator. For very large amounts consider speaking directly to the provider by phone or using a business account that includes added verification options.
Can I send money online from the UK to the US?
Yes you can easily send money online from the UK to the US using bank online services or specialist money transfer providers. Online transfer platforms such as Wise XE Remitly and CurrencyFair offer web and mobile apps that guide you through the process allow you to lock exchange rates and track transfers in real time. Western Union also offers online transfer options with the added flexibility of cash pickup locations in the US.
The typical online process is straightforward.
Create an account with the provider and complete identity verification which is required for compliance
Enter the recipient bank details or choose a cash pickup option
Select the amount and confirm the GBP to USD exchange rate and fees
Pay for the transfer using a bank transfer debit card or other supported payment method
Track the transfer until it reaches the recipient
Online transfers are convenient and often cheaper than in branch or over the counter options. Always check limits verification requirements and estimated delivery times before confirming a transfer.
What is the best money transfer service from the UK to the US?
The best money transfer service from the UK to the US depends on your priorities such as cost speed convenience or cash pickup options. Different providers excel in different areas so the best choice is the one that matches your needs. Wise is widely regarded for offering the best FX rates and transparent pricing which makes it ideal if cost and fair conversion are your main concerns. XE offers fast transfers and supports many exotic currencies which is helpful if you send to other countries as well. Remitly specialises in fast and low cost transfers with options for instant delivery or economy transfers. CurrencyFair performs well for large transfers because of its competitive rates and peer to peer features. Western Union is the best option if your recipient needs cash pickup or if they do not have a bank account.
To decide which is best for you consider these points.
Compare the total cost including fees and the GBP to USD exchange rate
Check transfer speed and available payout methods for bank deposit cash pickup or mobile wallet
Review customer service availability and user reviews in the UK market
Look at limits and verification requirements for the transfer size you need
In practice many customers use a combination of providers depending on the situation for example Wise for routine bank transfers Remitly or Western Union for urgent cash needs and CurrencyFair for very large transfers.
How can I get the best GBP to USD exchange rate?
To get the best GBP to USD exchange rate you should compare providers at the time you plan to send money and consider locking a rate if you expect rates to move unfavourably. Specialist providers such as Wise and CurrencyFair typically offer rates much closer to the mid market rate than high street banks because they apply lower or no hidden margins on the exchange rate. CurrencyFair also allows you to set limit orders or match with other customers which can produce exceptionally favourable rates for large transfers.
Practical steps to improve the rate you receive include these.
Monitor rates using rate alerts or compare tools provided by Wise XE and other platforms
Consider splitting transfers or using limit orders if your provider supports them to avoid moving markets
Time transfers outside weekends and major market moving events when spreads may widen
Send larger single transfers when possible because percentage based fees are diluted over a bigger amount and some providers reduce the margin for large sums
Remember that the advertised fee alone does not determine the best rate you get. Always compare the effective exchange rate after fees for the full amount you are sending.
Are there limits on how much money I can send from the UK to the US?
Yes there are limits though the exact thresholds depend on the provider the payment method and regulatory requirements. Many providers impose daily or monthly limits on new accounts until identity verification is completed. Once fully verified you can often send much larger sums though individual providers may have maximum single transfer limits or require additional documentation for very large transfers to comply with anti money laundering rules.
Typical limit considerations are.
New or unverified accounts often have low limits for example a few thousand pounds until KYC checks are complete
Banks and specialist providers may set single transfer caps which can vary widely by provider and by whether you are a personal or business customer
Very large transfers commonly require extra verification such as proof of funds source and purpose of funds
Cross border regulatory controls and US receiving bank limits may also influence how much can be received in a single transaction
If you need to send a very large amount contact the provider ahead of time. CurrencyFair and many banks offer tailored services for large transfers and business clients that include higher limits and personalised support.
Can I transfer money from the UK to a bank account in the US?
Yes you can transfer money from the UK to a bank account in the US. Most banks and specialist money transfer providers support transfers to US bank accounts using the recipient account number and a routing number such as an ABA routing transit number. Providers like Wise XE and CurrencyFair specialise in transfers to bank accounts and often provide better exchange rates and lower fees than traditional banks. Remitly and Western Union also support bank deposits alongside their cash pickup options.
When initiating a transfer check these details.
Ensure you have the correct recipient account number and the US routing number where required
Confirm whether the recipient bank requires an IBAN for international transfers or a domestic routing number which is more common in the US
Verify any additional details such as account name and address to avoid delays
Be aware of potential intermediary bank charges when using correspondent banking routes
Using a specialist provider often reduces the chance of intermediary fees and offers clearer estimates of delivery time and total cost compared with some traditional bank transfers.
What fees are charged when sending money from the UK to the US?
Fees vary between providers and include a combination of the following elements which together determine the total cost of a money transfer from the UK to the US.
Upfront transfer fee which may be fixed or a percentage of the transfer amount
Exchange rate margin which is the difference between the mid market GBP to USD rate and the rate offered by the provider
Payment method fees for example card payments are often more expensive than bank transfers
Intermediary or correspondent bank fees which may be charged if the transfer routes through other banks before reaching the recipient
Receiving bank fees in the US which some banks charge for incoming international payments
Specialist providers such as Wise emphasise transparent low fees and close to mid market exchange rates which reduces overall cost XE and Remitly also publish their fees and delivery estimates. CurrencyFair can offer lower effective costs for large transfers and Western Union may add higher fees for speed or cash pickup. Always compare the total cost rather than focusing on a single fee and check whether the provider displays the exchange rate used so you can calculate the full cost.
Can I send large amounts of money from the UK to the US?
Yes you can send large amounts of money from the UK to the US but you should plan ahead because large transfers often require additional checks documentation and may take longer to process. Regulatory requirements such as anti money laundering and know your customer rules mean providers must verify the source of funds and the purpose of large transfers. Many providers including CurrencyFair offer specialised services or account tiers for high value transfers which can reduce fees and improve service for business or private clients.
To send large amounts smoothly consider these steps.
Contact your chosen provider in advance to understand their maximum limits and documentation requirements
Prepare proof of funds such as bank statements sale contracts or corporate documents
Choose a provider that handles large transfers often for example CurrencyFair or a bank with a dedicated international payments team
Be aware of tax reporting obligations in both the UK and the US and seek professional advice if necessary
Planning and transparent communication with your provider will reduce surprises and speed up processing for large transfers.
What documents are required to send money from the UK to the US?
Required documents vary by provider transfer amount and whether you are a personal or business sender. Basic identity verification for most providers usually requires proof of identity and proof of address. For larger transfers or for certain payment types additional documents proving the source of funds or the reason for the transfer are commonly requested to comply with anti money laundering rules.
Commonly requested documents include the following.
Proof of identity such as a passport driving licence or national identity card
Proof of address such as a recent utility bill bank statement or council tax bill dated within a specified period
For high value transfers proof of source of funds which could be payslips sale agreements inheritance letters or business financial statements
For businesses incorporation documents proof of authority to operate the account and potentially invoices or contracts relating to the transfer
Providers such as Wise XE Remitly CurrencyFair and Western Union publish their KYC requirements and will prompt you during account setup. Uploading clear scans or photos and responding promptly to any verification queries will speed up the process.
Can businesses send money from the UK to the US?
Yes businesses can send money from the UK to the US and there are specific services and account types tailored to business needs. Business accounts with providers such as Wise XE and CurrencyFair support multi currency invoicing batch payments and integrations with accounting software which simplifies recurring or high volume transfers. Banks also offer business international payment services often with dedicated relationship managers and higher single transfer limits.
Business considerations include these points.
Look for providers that offer batch payments API access and payment scheduling if you have multiple recipients
Verify cut off times and same day processing options to match payroll or supplier deadlines
Understand commercial documentation requirements for large or cross border corporate transfers
Assess foreign exchange risk management tools such as forward contracts limit orders or hedging options which some providers and banks provide
For fast business needs Remitly and Western Union may offer rapid payout options but for cost efficiency and automation Wise and CurrencyFair are commonly used by businesses that require frequent international transfers.
What is the fastest way to send money from the UK to the US?
The fastest way to send money from the UK to the US is to use a service that supports instant or near instant delivery and to fund the transfer with a card or an instant debit payment where supported. Providers such as Remitly and Western Union are best known for very fast delivery options including near instant cash pickup or instant bank credit in many cases. XE and Wise also offer fast transfer options that can deliver within minutes to hours depending on the route and payment method.
To achieve the fastest delivery follow these tips.
Choose a provider that advertises instant or express delivery and confirm the estimated time for the specific payout method
Fund the transfer with a payment method that is processed instantly such as a debit or credit card rather than a slower bank transfer
Ensure you provide accurate recipient details to avoid delays and complete verification steps in advance
Check the provider's cut off times and start the transfer during business hours to avoid weekend or bank holiday delays
Fast services often carry higher fees or wider exchange rate margins so weigh speed against the total cost when choosing the best way to send money from the UK to the US.
How to send money from the UK to the US?
Sending money from the UK to the US follows a few clear steps and can be completed via banks online specialist money transfer services or cash transfer networks depending on your needs. First choose a provider based on cost speed convenience and payout method for example Wise for competitive exchange rates XE for fast transfers and exotic currency coverage Remitly for fast and low cost transfers CurrencyFair for large sums and Western Union for cash pickup. Next create an account and complete identity verification which is required by law in most cases.
The usual process is as follows.
Select the provider and open an account providing identity documents
Enter recipient details such as bank account number and routing number or choose a cash pickup location
Specify the amount you wish to send and review the GBP to USD exchange rate fees and estimated delivery time
Fund the transfer using your preferred payment method such as bank transfer debit card or other accepted options
Confirm the transfer and keep the reference or receipt to track the payment and for your records
Always compare the total cost including fees and exchange rate margins and check for any limits or documentation requirements. If you regularly transfer money consider setting up rate alerts or using business features such as batch payments or forward contracts to manage currency risk and cost.
