Feeling a little nervous about sending money with an app for the first time? It’s normal to feel hesitant when your hard-earned money is on the line. However, mobile transfer apps (also called mobile remittance apps) have become the global standard, with over two billion people now using them to send funds safely and with ease.
These apps make moving money, especially internationally, cheaper and more transparent than traditional banks or transfer offices. That’s why we’ve created this simple, step-by-step guide at Remitly to help you make your first mobile money transfer with confidence.
You’ll learn how to choose the right app, set up your transfer, understand fees and exchange rates, and ensure your money arrives safely.
Why choose a mobile money transfer app?
Before mobile apps came along, sending money meant going to a bank or a transfer office like Western Union or MoneyGram. Those traditional options still work, but they can be slow, expensive, and inconvenient. International transfers can take several days and come with high fees, while cash pickups mean waiting in line and dealing with paperwork.
Mobile money transfer apps streamline the process, allowing you to send money anytime, anywhere, directly from your phone. Most apps offer competitive exchange rates and clearly show their fees upfront, so you know exactly how much your recipient will receive.
What to look for in a money transfer app
When choosing a money transfer app, look for these essential features:
- Regulatory compliance: Make sure the app is licensed and regulated by recognized financial authorities. This means it follows strict rules to protect your money and personal information.
- Strong security: Check for encryption, two-factor authentication (2FA), and other security measures that keep your account safe from fraud and unauthorized access.
- Flexible delivery options: Check the type of transfer methods the app offers, such as bank deposits, mobile wallets, or cash pickups, and make sure they fit your needs.
- Reliable customer support: Look for apps with accessible and responsive support via chat, email, or phone in case anything goes wrong.
Also, confirm that the international money transfer app you’ve chosen works in your recipient’s country. Some apps have geographic restrictions or high fees in certain locations. Verify coverage to prevent delays or failed transfers.
Check user reviews, app store ratings, and official regulatory listings. Taking these steps gives you confidence that the app is a trustworthy choice for your first mobile money transfer.
Setting up your account safely
Getting your account ready is the first step to sending money securely. Most apps follow a similar process:
- Email verification: Confirms your email is valid and lets the app send important alerts and notifications.
- Phone number confirmation: Adds an extra layer of security and helps with account recovery if needed.
- Identity verification: Usually involves uploading documents like a government ID or passport.
Apps need personal information and documents to meet legal requirements and secure your transfers.
Keeping your account secure
To keep your account secure, follow these best practices:
- Use strong passwords: Combine letters (uppercase and lowercase), numbers, and symbols to create a unique password that’s hard to guess.
- Avoid reusing passwords: Don’t use the same password across multiple accounts. This reduces the risks if one account is compromised.
- Enable two-factor authentication: 2FA adds an additional verification step, usually via SMS or an authentication app, for extra security.
- Use secure Wi-Fi: Stick to private networks and avoid public Wi-Fi when accessing your transfer app. This helps to prevent hackers from intercepting your information.
- Log out after use: Always sign out once you’ve completed your transfers to prevent unauthorized access.
- Keep your app updated: App updates often include security improvements, so updating regularly will ensure you’re using the safest version of the app.
How to make your first mobile money transfer
Sending money with an app for the first time is easier than you may think. Just follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Link your app to a bank account
Connect your money transfer app to your bank account. This allows you to move money between the app and your bank easily. Then, deposit an initial amount into the app, so you’re ready to make the transfer.
Step 2: Enter recipient details
Fill in the recipient’s full name, contact information, and bank or wallet account details carefully. Double-check all details, as small mistakes can delay or cancel your transfer.
Step 3: Choose a delivery method
Decide how the recipient will get the money. Choose a delivery option based on convenience and speed. Consider any limits or requirements that may be associated with your desired method.
Step 4: Review exchange rates and fees
Check the rates and service fees of your delivery method so you know the total cost upfront. Keep in mind that some fees or margins may not be immediately visible, so double-check to be sure.
Step 5: Select payment method
- Bank account: Usually the lowest fees. Transfers can take one to three business days.
- Debit card: Faster than a bank account. Payments via debit are often processed within hours, but they may include a small fee.
- Credit card: Instant processing, but typically comes with higher fees.
Step 6: Confirm and send
After selecting a payment method, review the summary before you press “Send” or “Confirm.” The app will provide a confirmation and tracking number.
Understanding fees and exchange rates
Before using money transfer apps, get to know how fees and exchange rates work:
- Transfer fees: This is the upfront cost of sending money. Fees vary by app, destination, and payment method. Some apps even offer free transfers for first-time money senders or specific routes.
- Receiving fees: In certain countries, the recipient’s bank or mobile wallet may charge a fee to receive the funds. Checking this ahead of time helps prevent unexpected costs for your recipient.
- Exchange rate margins: Apps often include a small markup on the exchange rate to cover costs and make a small profit. Understanding this margin ensures you know exactly how much your recipient will receive.
Why exchange rates fluctuate
Exchange rates change constantly based on global market conditions. Factors like inflation, interest rates, demand for certain currencies, and major world events can cause rates to rise or fall. Even small shifts can impact how much your recipient gets, especially with larger transfers.
For example, let’s say you’re sending $500 from the US to the Philippines:
- Transfer fee: $3.99
- Exchange rate: $1 = 57.80 PHP (vs. market rate of 58.00 PHP)
- Total money received: 28,900 PHP
If the market rate were applied, your recipient would get 29,000 PHP, meaning the exchange rate margin cost you about 100 PHP ($1.73).
To get the best value:
- Compare exchange rates across different international money transfer apps before sending.
- Send money on weekdays when currency markets are open and rates tend to be more stable.
- Be cautious of “zero-fee” offers; some apps make up for the lack of fees with higher exchange rates.
Tracking your transfer and next steps
Keeping an eye on your transfer helps you react quickly if anything doesn’t go as planned.
Use tracking features
Most digital money transfer apps offer real-time updates so you can see whether your digital money transfer is pending, in progress, or completed. Setting up push notifications allows you to get instant alerts without having to open the app every time.
Handling delays or issues
If your money transfer takes longer than expected, start by checking the app for notifications or instructions. Delays can be due to extra verification steps, bank processing times, or public holidays. Follow the app’s guidance to fix small issues, and plan ahead, especially for international transfers, to avoid last-minute stress.
Contacting customer support
If the issue persists, contact customer support right away. Have your transfer reference number, recipient details, amount, and payment method ready. This helps the team resolve issues faster. Be sure to note the app’s support hours and preferred contact methods to save time.
Keeping records
Always save your transfer receipts and confirmation emails, and take screenshots. These records help with budgeting, tracking spending, and even tax reporting, if needed. Keep records organized by month or by recipient in a folder or spreadsheet for quick access later.
Mobile money transfer scams to watch out for
Staying alert to scams is one of the best ways to protect your money and personal information when sending funds online.
Phishing scams
Be wary of emails or texts claiming to be from your money transfer app, especially if they ask you to verify your account or click a link. Always check the sender’s address and log in directly via the official app or website.
Impersonation scams
Scammers sometimes pretend to be friends, family, or family representatives and pressure you to send money quickly. Always take a moment to verify the request by calling or messaging the person through another trusted channel.
Fake investment or prize offers
If someone promises you a huge return or says you’ve won a prize that requires sending money first, that’s a red flag. Legitimate companies never ask for upfront payments to claim a prize or receive a reward.
Tech support or refund scams
Watch out for people pretending to be customer support agents. They may demand confidential information while offering to fix a transfer issue or process a refund. Real representatives will never ask for your PIN, one-time password (OTP), or login details.
Social media and marketplace scams
Scammers often post fake listings or pretend to sell items on online marketplaces or social media. Confirm the seller’s legitimacy and use secure, traceable payment methods.
If you spot suspicious activity, freeze your account, contact customer support with proof, and change your password immediately. Most mobile money services have built-in protections against fraud or unauthorized transfers. Understand your rights, including how long you have to report a dispute or request a refund.
Start your first mobile money transfer with confidence
Mobile money transfer apps make it easy to send funds across borders quickly and securely. With transparent fees, real-time tracking features, and strong security, you can manage transfers confidently.
Start by setting up your account, verifying your identity, and choosing the right payment method to keep the process smooth. If you’re a first-time money sender, send a small test transfer first to get familiar with the process.
Customer support is there if you need help. Once you’re ready, download a trusted app like Remitly and start sending money the smart and simple way.
FAQs
How long does sending money for the first time take?
Your first mobile money transfer might take a bit longer due to account verification and security checks. Time usually ranges from a few minutes to a couple of hours. Once you’re verified, future transfers are often instant or completed within one business day. Timing can vary depending on the app, payment method, and destination country.
Is it safe to send money with an app?
Yes. Trusted money apps use encryption, fraud monitoring, and strict regulatory safeguards to keep your data and funds secure. Always choose licensed apps that follow your country’s financial regulations.
What information do I need to make my first transfer?
You’ll need your personal details, a valid ID, and your recipient’s full name and account or wallet information. The app will also ask how you want to pay, whether via bank account, credit card, or debit card.
How much does it cost to send money for the first time?
Most apps charge a small transfer fee that depends on the amount, destination, and delivery method. Some even offer your first transfer for free or at a discount. Always review the total cost, including exchange rate markups, before confirming your transfer.
What happens if my first transfer fails or is delayed?
If your transfer is delayed, check the app’s tracking feature for real-time updates or any verification requests. Most apps will notify you by email or in-app message if there’s an issue with your payment or recipient details. You can also contact customer support to resolve the problem quickly.
Can I cancel a transfer after sending it?
Usually, you can only cancel a transfer only if it hasn’t been processed or collected by the recipient. Check your app’s cancellation policy and act fast if you spot a mistake. If the transfer is already complete, contact customer support to see what refund options are available.