Send money to United States. Cheap and fast ways to make an international money transfer
Compare the best global money transfer fees and rates to send money to United States
We want to find the best deal for you. So although we may receive a referral fee if you choose one of these providers. It won't affect the ranking of the provider, the exchange rates or any fees you are charged. Our results are sorted in order of cheapest to most expensive cost to you. Learn more.
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Best ways to send money to United States
- Cheapest: Wise
- Best exchange rate: Wise
- Fastest provider: Wise
- The best rated: Currencies Direct
Compare money transfer services to United States
To help you find the best provider for your international money transfer to United States, we've compared 7 services, ranking them from least to most expensive, taking into account transfer fees and exchange rates.
- Money transfer services compared: 7 services
- Currently the cheapest: Wise
- Cheapest cost: £8.08 GBP
- Currently the fastest: Wise
- Fastest time: Instant-2 Days
- Currently best rated: Currencies Direct
- Money transfer companies included: Wise, CurrencyFair, XE, OFX, TorFX, Currencies Direct, WorldRemit
What is the cheapest way to send money to United States?
- Wise: 8.08 GBP
- CurrencyFair: 11.07 GBP
- XE: 11.75 GBP
- OFX: 14.8 GBP
- TorFX: 19.88 GBP
Wise, the cheapest option, has a Pound Sterling/US Dollar exchange rate of 1.2522 and a fee of 8.08 GBP.
This would save you 20.58 GBP compared to WorldRemit, who has a fee of 28.66 GBP.
You'll want to pay attention to both the upfront fee the provider shows you as well as the Pound Sterling/US Dollar exchange rate.
Often providers will claim to be a cheap global money transfer provider, with low, or even no fees, but in reality they're hidden within the exchange rate. Right now, Pound Sterling/US Dollar interbank rate is 1.2522. Whenever you compare fees for transferring money to United States, it can pay off to look at the exchange rate they offer.
Finding alternative ways to transfer money to United States shouldn't be hard, we've put together a list of cheap ways to send money to United States to help you with your search.
For example, most traditional banks add a hidden markup to the exchange rate they offer you. If 1 GBP is 1.2522 USD, your bank can add a 3% exchange rate markup and give you a rate of £ 1 = 1.28977 $
Wise is the cheapest option, with a GBP/USD exchange rate of 1.2522. Their fees to transfer money to United States is 8.08 GBP
CurrencyFair offers a GBP/USD exchange rate of 1.2473. Their fees to transfer money to United States is 11.07 GBP
XE offers a GBP/USD exchange rate of 1.2449. Their fees to transfer money to United States is 11.75 GBP
OFX offers a GBP/USD exchange rate of 1.2430. Their fees to transfer money to United States is 14.8 GBP
What is the fastest way to send money to United States?
- Wise: Instant-2 Days
- WorldRemit: 1-2 Days
- OFX: 1-3 Days
- CurrencyFair: 1-3 Days
- XE: 2-3 Days
Typically sending money to United States will be much faster using a money transfer company compared to a bank that can take 3-5 working days. That’s because banks usually process international money transfers through the SWIFT network. This system involves passing a payment through several intermediaries, which slows the process down. Money transfer companies have often built their own networks to process payments faster - which can even mean your money is deposited instantly into your recipient’s account.
The fastest provider in our table to transfer money to United States is Wise - Instant-2 Days.
Learn more about instant ways to transfer money overseas here.
What is the best rated provider to transfer money to United States from United Kingdom?
Of the 7 providers we found for transferring money to United States, here's how they stack up in terms of number of reviews and average score:
- Currencies Direct - Trustpilot rating: 4.9, Excellent
- TorFX - Trustpilot rating: 4.9, Excellent
- OFX - Trustpilot rating: 4.3, Excellent
- XE - Trustpilot rating: 4.3, Excellent
- Wise - Trustpilot rating: 4.3, Excellent
How to transfer money to United States?
You've got a few key options if you need to send money to United States:
Bank transfer to United States - most banks will let you send money internationally online, by visiting a branch or by phone. Payments to USD will be sent directly from your bank account to your recipient's local bank account in your chosen currency.
Walk into a branch - several specialist money transmitter services operate through large branch and agent networks, so you can visit a physical store and make your USD payment in cash if you want to.
Send money online to United States - if you'd rather make your GBP/USD payment online or using your smartphone, you can choose your own bank's online banking service, or an international payment specialist. Specialist services can often offer better exchange rates and lower fees than banks.
Cash pickup - sending a payment for cash pickup can often be the fastest way to get your money into your recipient's hands. It's also usually one of the most expensive because it's being prioritized and can even be instant.
How to send money to another bank account in United States
Sending money to another bank account to United States is often the most convenient option - both for you, and your recipient. Your recipient doesn't need to take any action to receive the money, it just lands in the nominated account in the currency you choose, and can be spent or withdrawn easily.
If you're sending money from a bank account in United Kingdom to a bank account in United States, choosing a specialist provider can be the cheapest and fastest way to make your payment. Different providers have their own processes for arranging payments - but the steps you'll take are usually roughly the same:
- 1Create an account
Register a new account with your preferred service, by entering your contact details and some basic information. You may even be able to do this using Facebook or Google for convenience. - 2Verify
Depending on the type of payment you're making, you may need to verify your account by uploading an image of your ID documents. This step helps keep your money safe, and is often a legal requirement. - 3Top up
Add money to your account in dollars, using a bank transfer or card payment. - 4Add recipient details and send
Once you're ready to send a payment, add your recipient's personal and bank account details, check the exchange rate and fee applied to your payment, and confirm. That's it - your money will now be sent, and you can track its progress online or in your provider's app.
Ways to pay for your money transfer to United States
Different money transfer services offer different options to fund your international money transfer. Luckily, you have plenty to choose from.
Typically bank transfer is the cheapest payment method, which is why it’s the method we use to compare providers on Exiap. Let's take a look at a few payment options for sending money from United Kingdom to United States with these providers:
Bank transfer, card (debit or credit), SWIFT, Google Pay or Apple Pay
Online
Online
Bank transfer or direct debit
Bank transfer, SWIFT, debit card or cheque
Bank transfer or debit card
Bank transfer, card (debit, credit, and prepaid) or Apple Pay
Best app to send money to United States
| Provider | Website |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wise | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| XE | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| WorldRemit | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| OFX | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| TorFX | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Currencies Direct | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| CurrencyFair | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Wise: from United Kingdom to United States
Safeguarded with leading banks
Audited
Secure transactions
Dedicated support and anti-fraud teamWise offers online and in-app money transfer services to United States and 80+ other destinations around the world. You'll get the mid-market exchange rate to convert your Pound Sterling, with fast transfer times. In fact, 50% of Wise transfers are instant*, and 90% get there in under 24 hours.
- Mid-market exchange rates and low fees from 0.41%
- Send money abroad quickly - transfers can even be instant
- Send in 50 currencies to 70 countries
- No cash payment options
- No branch network
How much does it cost to send money to United States with Wise?
- Transfer fees: Send money from 0.41%
- Exchange rates: Mid-market exchange rate
- Additional fees: Transfer fees vary based on destination and how you choose to pay
CurrencyFair: from United Kingdom to United States
CurrencyFair can be a cheap international money transfer service with quick delivery times on many currency routes. There’s a low, flat fee per transfer, and you could also find you get a better exchange rate compared to your regular bank.
- Send in 15 currencies
- Low transfer fees
- Many currencies can be delivered on the same day, or within 1 working day
- Exchange rates include a markup
- Pay in Pound Sterling by bank transfer only, no card option
How much does it cost to send money to United States with CurrencyFair?
- Transfer fees: 11.07 GBP
- Exchange rates: Exchange rates include a markup
- Additional fees: Third party fees may apply depending on how you set up your transfer
XE: from United Kingdom to United States
Safeguarded with leading banksAuditedSecure transactionsDedicated support and anti-fraud teamYou can send money online and in-app with XE from United Kingdom, to over 104 countries. Transfer times vary based on how you choose to pay and the country you’re sending to, and XE exchange rates can include a lower markup compared to a regular bank.
- Send to a broad range of countries from United Kingdom
- Pay for transfers with a bank transfer or card
- XE is a trusted way to send money safely overseas
- Exchange rates include a small markup
- Fees and delivery times vary based on destination and payment type
How much does it cost to send money to United States with XE?
- Transfer fees: Fees vary based on how you choose to pay, and the currencies involved
- Exchange rates: Exchange rates include a small markup
- Additional fees: Fees vary based on how you choose to pay, and the currencies involved
OFX: from United Kingdom to United States
Safeguarded with leading banksAudited24/7 phone support availableSecure transactionsOFX is a currency specialist which offers quick international transfers and currency risk management solutions for individuals and businesses. You can send payments with OFX online and in-app, or access a 24/7 phone service if you’d rather talk your transfer through.
- Arrange your payment online, in app or by phone
- Access other currency services including currency risk management solutions
- Broad range of supported countries and currencies
- Exchange rates include a markup
- Minimum transfer amount 1000 USD
How much does it cost to send money to United States with OFX?
- Transfer fees: No transfer fee from United Kingdom
- Exchange rates: Exchange rates include a markup
- Additional fees: Third party fees may apply
TorFX: from United Kingdom to United States
Safeguarded with leading banksAuditedSecure transactionsTorFX can help you make a safe bank transfer overseas in 25 currencies. Services are available online, in app, and by phone. TorFX offers instant transfers, regular payments and currency risk management products.
- Send in 25 currencies
- Pay by card or bank transfer
- Talk your transfer through by phone if you’d like to
- Exchange rates include a markup
- No cash pay in or pay out options
How much does it cost to send money to United States with TorFX?
- Transfer fees: No transfer fee
- Exchange rates: Exchange rates include a markup
- Additional fees: Third party fees may apply
Currencies Direct: from United Kingdom to United States
Safeguarded with leading banksAuditedSecure transactionsCurrencies Direct can be a good way to send money internationally online, and also offers a phone support service for people who prefer to talk through their options in advance. Currencies Direct has a few extra services, too, including rate alerts that can help you check the rate before you transfer money.
- No transfer fee for most services
- Set rate alerts so you can send when the time is right
- Talk your payment through by phone if you need to
- Exchange rates include a markup
- No cash payout options
How much does it cost to send money to United States with Currencies Direct?
- Transfer fees: No transfer fee for most services
- Exchange rates: Exchange rates include a markup
- Additional fees: Third party fees may apply
WorldRemit: from United Kingdom to United States
Safeguarded with leading banksAuditedSecure transactionsDedicated support and anti-fraud teamWorldRemit offers a selection of ways to transfer money abroad to 45 countries, online or in the WorldRemit app. There’s a good range of payout options available, which varies by destination but which can include cash collection services.
- Send money overseas to 45
- Pay out options can include cash collection services
- Set up your payment online or in app, pay by bank transfer or with a card
- You can’t pay for your transfer in cash
- Exchange rates may include a markup
How much does it cost to send money to United States with WorldRemit?
- Transfer fees: Fees vary by transaction type, new customer promotions are available
- Exchange rates: Exchange rates may include a small markup
- Additional fees: Fees vary based on how you choose to pay, and the currencies involved
Details needed to send money to United States
The details you'll need to send money internationally from United Kingdom to United States may vary by provider, and based on the value of the transfer. At a minimum, whenever you make an international bank transfer you will typically be asked for:
- Routing number
- Account number
- Address
Best way to send large amounts of money to United States from United Kingdom
When you’re sending a high value payment it’s especially important to do your research and find a provider which is safe and which offers low fees and great exchange rates. It’s also well worth comparing some providers based on transfer times, as the delivery time can also vary pretty widely.
Some international money transfer services offer discounts for high value transfers, either through lower fees or a better exchange rate. Use the Exiap cost comparison calculator to make sure you’re getting the very best deal available for your specific transfer.
How to send large amounts of money to United States
While sending a high value payment works very similarly to sending any other transfer overseas, the provider may require additional information to verify the payment. You might be asked to prove the source of the funds, for example, to comply with local and international financial services legislation. If you’re sending a large amount of money you’ll also need to make sure the provider you’ve picked can support the amount, as maximum payment limits may apply.
Here’s how to send a large sum of money internationally with a specialist international money transfer service:
- 1Create an account
Register a new account with your preferred service - 2Verify
Verify your account by uploading an image of your ID documents - 3Add the transfer information
Including the value and currency - 4Add recipient details
Add your recipient's personal and bank account details - 5Fund your payment
Make a local bank transfer, use your card or pick another supported payment method. Your money will be on the move as soon as it's been received by the provider.
Safest way to send money from United Kingdom to United States
Choosing an international money transfer service can feel like a risk. However, our comparison tool will only ever recommend secure providers which operate within the law in any part of the world they’re in.
When you’re looking for the safest ways to send money to United States from United Kingdom you’ll usually want to look out for providers which are registered with and operate under the FCA. In some cases operators may also be regulated by the PRA. And if you’re sending money with your bank, you may also read about the FSCS. Too many acronyms? Let’s look at what they mean.
FCA - Financial Conduct Authority - almost all financial activities have to be authorised by the FCA. The FCA's job is to regulate and oversee financial activities to make sure standards are upheld and financial businesses are trading safely and legally.
PRA - Prudential Regulation Authority - the PRA exists to make sure banks, building societies, insurance companies and other similar financial institutions are being managed safely, to control risk and keep customer money safe.
FSCS - Financial Services Compensation Scheme - the FSCS protects customers when their bank, insurer or other eligible financial service company fails. You may be able to get compensation through the FSCS to make sure you don't lose out if your bank goes bankrupt or runs into other financial difficulties.
International money transfer limits to United States
There is no legal limit on how much money can be sent to or from United Kingdom, although banks and other payment providers may impose their own limits. Money transfer limits can vary quite widely between providers, and may also change depending on how you want to fund your transfer. You could find different limits in place when you pay by card compared to paying using a bank transfer, for example.
GBP/USD exchange rate trends
As with many currencies, the GBP/USD exchange rate moves over time, due to changes in supply and demand. Exchange rate fluctuations can be caused by underlying shifts in how well the economy in United Kingdom or United States is doing, changes in political stability, or even simple speculation, where traders buy or sell currencies based on how they think trends are going to change.
Right now, 1 Pound Sterling buys 1.2522 US Dollar.
International bank transfer fee to United States
To send money to United States using one of the international money transfer providers in our tables, the fees range from 8.08 GBP with Wise to 28.66 GBP with WorldRemit (but the fee could be even higher with a bank). The exact cost depends a lot on where you’re sending money, how much you’re sending, how you want to pay, and how you want the payment to be received.
Typically sending money directly to a recipient’s bank account using a specialist service can be done with fairly low costs, while traditional bank transfer fees can be higher. Paying for your transfer with either a credit card or cash can often mean the fees crank up, too.
When you’re sending money internationally, don’t forget that the overall fee you pay can include the transfer fee, an extra charge wrapped up in the exchange rate used, and third party charges like a cash advance fee from your credit card issuer.
Best money transfer rate to United States
The best rate available to send money to United States will usually be the mid-market exchange rate. The mid-market exchange rate is the rate used when banks buy and sell currencies on global markets.
However, this rate isn’t always available to individual customers sending money abroad. Instead, providers often add a markup - an extra fee - to the exchange rate they offer customers. This pushes up the costs and makes it harder to see exactly what you’re paying for your international bank transfer.
A provider which uses the mid-market rate for international transfers from United Kingdom to United States is Wise. Right now, the mid-market rate for a Pound Sterling to US Dollar is 1.2522.
How long does a bank transfer to United States take?
The length of time it takes to transfer money to United States depends on a variety of factors including the provider you use, how you’re paying, and how you want your recipient to get the money in the end.
From the providers that we display, the fastest international money transfer provider to United States is Wise, which can deliver the money to your recipient in United States in Instant-2 Days. The slowest provider to send GBP - USD is TorFX, which takes 2-3 Days to send money to United States.
Send money online with a credit card or debit card
Some specialist international money transfer providers do offer the option to fund transfers with a credit card or debit card. Paying for your transfer with a card can mean your funds are received quickly, so the provider can deposit the payment into the recipient’s account faster. However, this often comes with additional fees which might make it more expensive than paying by bank transfer.
Here’s a handy list of providers that support card payments:
- Wise: Bank transfer, card (debit or credit), SWIFT, Google Pay or Apple Pay
- CurrencyFair: Online
- XE: Online
- TorFX: Bank transfer, SWIFT, debit card or cheque
- Currencies Direct: Bank transfer or debit card
- WorldRemit: Bank transfer, card (debit, credit, and prepaid) or Apple Pay
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the best provider for sending money to United States from United Kingdom, it really depends on what your needs are.
The cheapest provider shown in our comparison table is Wise and the fastest is Wise. If the transfer time is what you're interested in, then Wise is the fastest to transfer money to United States. Wise can get your money to your recipient to United States in Instant-2 Days.
If safety is what interests you the most when it comes to picking the best international money transfer provider to United States, then all the providers we listed above are regulated by different financial institutions and should be safe to send money to United States with.
Frequently asked questions when sending money from United Kingdom to United States
There's no single best way to transfer money to United States. It all depends on your priorities. Different providers offer a different balance of cost, speed and convenience. Using our comparison tool to check out a range of providers is a good way to find the best option for you.
You can send money from United Kingdom to United States using your bank, a specialist money transfer service, an e-wallet, or by visiting a physical money remittance store. Each option has different pros and cons, so the best for you will depend on your specific transfer and personal requirements.
You can't send money to United States from United Kingdom for free. International transfers cost providers money to arrange, so there's always a fee somewhere to make sure that the business covers its costs and generates profit. However, many providers choose to make the fees you pay trickier to spot by adding them into the exchange rates used for transfers.
There is no official best time to send money from United Kingdom to United States and that depends on a variety of factors such as when you need to send money or when you want the funds to be received. It’s also going to depend on a variety of other factors such as, the time when you send money or the fees you are offered by providers or banks.
All of the providers on our site are financially regulated in the countries they operate and hold the necessary licences. They have the highest security measures in place for fraud prevention and identity protection. However, it’s still better to be safe than sorry.