Transferring large sums of money internationally in 2024
Compare low-cost and safe providers to send large sums of money abroad
Sending large transfers can mean paying large transfer fees. It's always a smart idea to research a few different providers when you send money abroad, but it’s especially worth it when you send high amounts. Whether you're buying property abroad, investing overseas, or transferring an international inheritance, our guide will help you find reliable, safe, and low cost options.
What to look for when sending large sums of money internationally
We’ll cover each of these points in detail throughout this guide - but let’s start with an overview of the key things to consider when sending a high value money transfer:
Price – including both transfer fees and the exchange rate used
Safety – how money transfer providers protect my money
Paperwork needed - documents required to process my payment safely and legally
Dedicated support - how responsive a provider is if I have questions or concerns
How much does it cost to send a large money transfer abroad?
Use our comparison data to see which service will be the cheapest option to send your high value money transfer. All you need to do is enter the amount you want to send, the currency you’re sending from, and the currency you’re sending to. Our calculator will instantly show you the cheapest provider for your specific needs based on our extensive research, plus the transfer fees you’ll pay, and the available exchange rate.
What is the US Dollar / Pound Sterling mid-market rate?
You’ll be able to find the US Dollar to Pound Sterling exchange rate using our price comparison, with a simple Google search, or with a reputable currency conversion app. Right now, the mid market rate for exchanging 1 US Dollar to Pound Sterling = 0.76162
The mid-market exchange rate is the rate used by banks and money transfer services trading on global markets. Some providers add a markup - a percentage fee - onto the rate used to convert your money from US Dollar to Pound Sterling. That pushes up the price, and is often the most expensive single fee you’ll pay when sending money.
To give an example of how this works, let's look at how a couple of different providers operate for large amount transfers. We’ll cover these services in more detail later - but here we’ve modeled a payment of 200,000 USD to GBP as a quick comparison. You can see the exchange rate used, the transfer fee - and, most important of all, how much the recipient gets in the end:
Provider | USD - GBP exchange rate | Transfer fee 200,000 USD to GBP | Recipient gets | Go to provider |
---|---|---|---|---|
Wise | 1 USD = 0.792424 GBP | 926.04 USD | 157,750.98 GBP | Go to Wise |
OFX | 1 USD = 0.785400 GBP | 0 USD | 157,080.00 GBP | Go to OFX |
*Fees and exchange rate correct at time of writing - 19th February 2024
This comparison illustrates why it’s important to look at both the fees and the exchange rates used for sending money overseas. On the face of it, Wise looks the most expensive, as you’ll need to pay a transfer fee. However, even taking this fee into account, your recipient would get more in the end with Wise. That’s all down to the exchange rate being used.
As you can see, Wise and OFX use different exchange rates. Wise uses the mid-market rate while OFX adds a margin to the rate used to convert your funds. OFX doesn’t have any transfer fee to pay - but the cost has been added in the form of an exchange rate markup instead. As an exchange rate markup is a percentage fee, it can quickly add up when sending a high value payment. Use our tools to compare providers on both exchange rates and fees, to avoid surprise costs and make sure you get the best deal out there for your specific situation.
Large transfer fee breakdown
As we saw in our example, the exchange rate being used is important when sending a high value payment overseas. However, an exchange rate markup is not the only fee you’re likely to pay. Depending on the provider you select, you may end up paying any of the following charges:
Transfer fees - many providers charge a transfer fee which is usually transparently displayed when you arrange your payment. Transfer fees may be a percentage of the transfer value or a flat fee, and may vary depending on factors like how you pay
Recipient fees - your recipient’s own bank might charge a fee when the transfer you send is deposited. This money goes to the recipient’s bank, and the transfer provider can’t know in advance what the cost will be - have your recipient check with their bank directly if you’re unsure of the charges that apply
SWIFT fee - when transfers are processed through the SWIFT network, it’s common for 1 to 3 intermediary banks to partner up to move the payment through the system. This is reliable and safe, but swift transfers can also be expensive and slow, as each intermediary bank can charge a fee which is deducted from the transfer amount as it’s processed
Exchange rate markup - the exchange rate used to convert your payment to the currency needed for deposit may include a percentage fee, commonly called a markup or margin. This fee is rolled up in the rate being offered, so to calculate the costs you’ll need to compare the provider’s exchange rate against the mid-market rate for your currency pair
The costs involved in a high value transfer can vary a lot depending on the value of the payment, the provider you pick, how you pay, and the currencies involved. Shopping around is essential to make sure you get the best available deal - in our comparison, we found that Wise was the cheapest provider for transferring 200,000 USD to GBP.
Safest way to transfer large amount of money internationally
The safest way to send a large amount of money is to use a reputable and regulated money transfer company or bank.
Money transfer companies often operate online or through apps, and are convenient and easy to use. If you have questions or concerns you can usually talk to a member of the support team by phone or in-app chat. Digital money transfer companies have been built with safety in mind, and have lots of security measures in place to keep customers and their money safe, including both manual and automatic anti-fraud measures, secure account access and encryption. Money transfer companies which specialize in high value transfers often allow uncapped payments, and may have lower fees for sending large amounts of money. Double check the provider you pick is properly licensed and regulated in the US. This is likely to be done at a state level, and through registering with FinCEN - all the information you need is likely to be displayed in a footer of the provider’s website for convenience.
Major US banks offer service in branches, by phone, online and through apps. It’s pretty common to find banks have maximum transfer limits for online and in-app payment, so depending on the bank you choose you might have to arrange your large value transfer in a branch or by phone. The fees for sending money overseas with a bank are often cheaper when you arrange the transfer online or through the bank’s mobile app - but being able to talk your payment through with a member of the bank’s staff can be reassuring. Banks are fully regulated, and use safe and reliable methods to process high value transfers.
How to send large amount transfers
Here's a rundown of the steps usually involved in sending a high value transfer overseas. The exact process you'll follow may vary a little depending on the specific bank or provider you choose to use.
1. Before you start your transfer
Before you start your transfer you'll need to check if any payment limits apply which may affect you. Double check with your bank or money transfer service if there are limits to the total amount you can send, or if there's a limit to the amount you can send online.
You'll also need to gather the documents needed by your bank or money transfer service. Usually you'll be asked to prove where the money has come from, to comply with international laws. Check what paperwork is needed for your specific situation, and ask your bank or money transfer service what their verification process looks like - usually you can just upload an image of the required documents online on in-app.
2. Check the fees and exchange rates
Do some research to find out which provider will be the cheapest and most convenient for your large value transfer. Use our handy tools to review the options, the exchange rates available, and the fees. Remember to check all the potential costs, and look for a service which offers the mid-market exchange rate or as close as possible to it.
3. Set up your transfer
Pick the provider or bank which offers the best deal for your specific transfer, and set up your transfer. Usually you'll be able to complete this process online or in the provider's app simply by entering the amount and currency you're sending, and the recipient's bank details. If you're required to upload any documents for verification you'll be prompted to do so at this stage. Once you've checked everything over you can choose how you want to pay, and confirm the transfer.
With digital money transfer services you can often choose to pay with a bank transfer, a card or even a mobile wallet like Apple Pay. Depending on your own bank's policies, you may have to physically visit a branch to initiate the transfer - but in many cases, the whole process can be done online without needing to leave home.
4. Double check all the information
Double check all details before you confirm a transfer.
5. Get support if you need it
If you have any questions or concerns, you'll be able to reach out to the bank or money transfer service you select. Some money transfer services - like Wise - offer dedicated support for high amount transfers so you can get all the information you need easily.
6. Track your transfer
Once your payment has been initiated, you can track it online or with the provider's app. Many services also offer you the option to receive push notifications, text messages or emails when the payment is on its way, as well as sending the recipient an email to let them know when the money has arrived.
→ Download a full guide on how to send a large amount of money
Methods to consider when transferring large amounts of money
You’ve got a few different choices available when sending a high value transfer or wire. Which works best for you will depend on where you’re sending money to, how quickly it needs to arrive and a range of other factors. Some common options include:
Automated clearing house (ACH) - ACH payments are usually only available within the US, but you can use an ACH to send money to a money transfer provider which will then pass on the payment to your recipient in their preferred currency. This is often one of the cheapest options
Wire transfer - international wire payments can be made through your bank, or you may prefer to wire USD to a money transfer provider to send on to the recipient. Wires sent with your bank may have fairly high fees
Bank-to-bank transfers - if your own bank offers international transfers you may be able to have them deposit your payment directly with the recipient. Often sending money to another account held in the same bank has a lower fee than sending to another institution
Cash - it’s possible to pass on the payment you’re making in cash, although this is not a very safe option when sending a high value payment
Foreign currency checks - you may be able to send a foreign currency check to your recipient by mail - this option isn’t always available, and does mean the recipient needs to wait for the check to arrive before they can cash it
International money transfer companies - send money all over the world with an international money transfer company. Different companies have their own features and fees but you can often pay from your own bank or with a card, and have the money deposited in the recipient’s bank account
Documents needed when wiring a large sum abroad
Money transfer services and banks usually need to ask customers to provide some documents when sending high value transfers. This is to comply with global financial regulations and anti-money laundering laws. Generally you’ll need to prove your identity and also the source of the money you’re sending, to show it’s come from legal sources. You’ll usually find that whenever you’re asked to prove the source of the money you’re sending you’ll need to provide bank statements showing the money arriving in your account and then being transferred on to the payment provider. Other documents are likely to be needed, which can vary depending on the situation.
Here’s a look at the documents you may need, based on the source of the money you’re sending:
Source of income | Documents needed |
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Sending money from a property sale |
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Sending money from an inheritance |
|
Sending money from your salary |
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Sending money from investments |
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Sending money from a loan |
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What qualifies as a large amount transfer in the US?
There aren’t any legal transfer limits in the US. This means that in theory, you can send as much money as you want overseas. However, the transfer provider you use may set a limit on how much you can send per day, month or year. For example, banks tend to have international transfer limits of around $50,000 - and far lower in some cases. If you’re sending a larger amount you may be able to do so by visiting a branch in person, or you might have to send the money in more than one transfer.
How long does a large amount transfer take?
Depending on the type of transfer and the specific provider or bank you pick, it could take anywhere from a few seconds to several days for the money to move. The bank or provider you pick will be able to let you know the transfer time based on your specific payment.
Wise:
Wise offers online and in-app money transfer services to United Kingdom and 80+ other destinations around the world. You'll get the mid-market exchange rate to convert your US Dollar, 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 Kingdom 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
XE:
You can send money online and in-app with XE from United States, to over 101 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 States
- 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 Kingdom 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
CurrencyFair:
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 US Dollar by bank transfer only, no card option
How much does it cost to send money to United Kingdom with CurrencyFair?
- Transfer fees: 3113.56 USD
- Exchange rates: Exchange rates include a markup
- Additional fees: Third party fees may apply depending on how you set up your transfer
Currencies Direct:
Currencies 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 Kingdom 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
OFX:
OFX 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 Kingdom with OFX?
- Transfer fees: No transfer fee from United States
- Exchange rates: Exchange rates include a markup
- Additional fees: Third party fees may apply
Western Union:
Western Union is one of the best known money transfer services globally, and offers some of the fastest ways to send money internationally, by paying in cash at an agent location, and having your money collected in cash at the other end. You can also send an international bank transfer online for deposit to a bank account.
- Large, trusted, and a safe way to send money
- Great range of pay out and pay in options
- Send more or less anywhere in the world
- Exchange rates include a markup
- Fees and rates online may vary from the costs you’ll pay if you set up your transfer in person
How much does it cost to send money to United Kingdom with Western Union?
- Transfer fees: Variable fees based on the destination, how you pay, and how you set up the international money transfer
- Exchange rates: Exchange rates include a markup
- Additional fees: Third party fees may apply, Western Union charges and rates vary depending on how you set up your payment
Money transfer limits
Before you send a high value transfer you’ll need to check the limits that apply to make sure your payment will be possible. Limits may apply to the amount you can send in a single transfer, per day, per month or in a 180 day period. Some providers have different limits depending on how you pay, or depending on whether you’re arranging your transfer online or by phone for example. Here’s a roundup of the usual limits for some major US banks and providers.
Company | Transfer limit |
---|---|
Wise | Varies by currency, usually around 1 million GBP or the equivalent |
OFX | Unlimited |
TorFX | Unlimited |
Bank of America | Varies depending on account - in some cases as low as 1,000 USD per payment |
Wells Fargo | Online payments subject to limits which vary depending on account - in branch payments have higher limits |
Tax guidelines for large money transfers
It’s important to understand if there are any tax implications when you send a large value wire payment. Whether or not you need to report the transfer or pay any tax will depend on the type of payment and where it’s going.
To give an example, in 2024, there’s a limit of 18,000 USD on the value of payments you can send to someone in the US as a gift. This applies to each recipient. Once you transfer more than that, you’re responsible for paying tax as the person sending the gift.
On the other hand if you’re sending money to an overseas account in your own name, you may need to report this to the IRS as part of the FATCA rules. The requirements here depend on whether you live in the US or abroad, and the value of your international holdings, among other things.
As with most tax matters, it’s complicated. Getting individual tax advice is important to make sure you don’t fall foul of the law.
Which countries are popular for large money transfers?
Banks and money transfer services can support large value transfers to most countries around the world. Often people use high value transfers to send money to loved ones, invest or buy property overseas. Some of the most popular currency routes include: The UK, Australia, Thailand, Canada
Dedicated customer support for large money transfers
When you send a high value payment overseas it’s crucial that you trust the provider you use, and know how to get help should you ever need it. Some providers, like Wise or OFX, have a dedicated team that deals with high value transfers and offer personalized support and guidance. You can call OFX 24 hours a day to talk through your payments, and you’ll be able to get support from Wise by phone, email or using the in-app chat function.
Conclusion - Large money transfers abroad
Sending a high value transfer can be nerve wracking, but it doesn’t have to be. Using our tools can help you pick the right provider for your specific needs, looking at the fees and exchange rates available, as well as other crucial factors such as safety and customer feedback. Use this guide to make the process of sending a large amount transfer seamless, and get your money moving in no time.
FAQ - Large amount transfers
How to send large sums of money overseas?
You can send large sums of money overseas with your bank or with a specialist digital provider. Specialist services can often provide lower overall costs compared to banks, as well as better exchange rates.
Is there a limit on bank transfers in the US?
Banks may impose their own limits on transfers, which can be as low as 1,000 USD per payment. It’s sometimes possible to send more in a branch, although that may come with higher fees.
Is my information secure when sending money?
Banks and money transfer services must follow data protection laws and keep all of your personal and financial information safe. You’ll be able to view your preferred provider’s data protection policy online if you have concerns about how your data is held and handled.
What are the costs to send a large amount of money?
The costs for a large value transfer can vary a lot depending on the bank or provider you pick. You’ll need to review both the transfer fee and the exchange rate available to see the full cost - it’s common to find that transfer fees are low or even waived entirely, but an extra cost is added into the exchange rate instead. Choose a provider which uses the mid-market rate or as close to it as possible to keep the costs down.
Why was my large amount money transfer declined?
High value transfers may be delayed or declined if they go over the bank’s transfer limits, or if there’s a problem with checking your documents for verification. Double check the bank’s rules and ask for advice if you’re struggling with your payment.