How to Send Money to Cuba From the US

Sending money to Cuba from the United States involves a distinct regulatory landscape. It differs considerably from typical international money transfers due to specific U.S. government policies. Understanding authorized channels and procedural requirements ensures funds reach recipients compliantly. This guide clarifies necessary steps for individuals supporting loved ones or other authorized recipients on the island.

Understanding Authorized Channels

Remittances from the U.S. to Cuba are permitted under general licenses issued by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). These authorizations are part of the Cuban Assets Control Regulations (CACR), which govern financial transactions involving Cuba. OFAC’s regulations aim to support the Cuban people by facilitating remittances, while restricting transactions with Cuban government or military entities.

These general licenses permit individuals subject to U.S. jurisdiction to send family remittances, donative remittances, and remittances to support private businesses or civil society groups in Cuba. A person relying on a general license does not need further OFAC permission; however, they must ensure their transaction fully complies with all stated conditions. Authorized entities typically include U.S.-registered money transmitters and qualifying banking institutions meeting OFAC’s definitions.

Not all U.S. financial institutions are authorized to process these transactions; even those that are must adhere to strict compliance policies. Service providers conduct due diligence to ensure transactions are authorized under the CACR, such as 31 CFR § 515.570. This regulatory framework means sending money must be done through specific, legally permitted avenues.

Selecting a Remittance Service

Choosing a remittance service requires careful consideration of options operating within authorized channels. Several types of providers facilitate money transfers to Cuba, each with distinct service models.

Online money transfer platforms offer convenience, allowing senders to initiate transactions from a computer or mobile device. They often provide digital tools for checking fees and exchange rates instantly.

Traditional brick-and-mortar money transfer agents also remain an option, providing in-person assistance for sending funds. These physical locations can be beneficial for those who prefer face-to-face service or need assistance with documentation. Some services, like Western Union, have reinstated operations, allowing customers to send money from U.S. retail locations, online, or via their mobile app. They typically partner with Cuban financial institutions like Banco Popular de Ahorro, Banco Metropolitano S.A., and Banco de Credito y Comercio (Bandec) to facilitate receipt.

Specific banks or credit unions may also offer remittance services to Cuba, though direct bank-to-bank transfers from the U.S. to Cuban banks can be limited due to U.S. sanctions. Some services facilitate transfers to Cuban bank accounts, specifically those denominated in Moneda Libremente Convertible (MLC). Some providers offer the option to send money for cash pickup or even home delivery in certain areas of Cuba, offering flexibility for recipients.

Alternative methods include sending funds to reload prepaid cards, such as AIS or MLC cards, which recipients can use for purchases or cash withdrawals in Cuba. Some services also allow direct payment of bills in Cuba or mobile phone top-ups, which recipients can use or convert to cash. Verify any chosen service complies with U.S. regulations and can legally transfer funds to Cuba.

Preparing Your Transfer Details

Before initiating any money transfer to Cuba, gathering all necessary information and documentation is important for a smooth and compliant transaction. Senders must provide their full legal name, current address, and contact details, including a phone number and email address. A valid government-issued identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, is required for verification purposes. For larger transactions, some providers may request proof of address (e.g., utility bill) and documentation verifying the source of funds (e.g., bank statements) to comply with anti-money laundering regulations.

Accurate recipient information is equally important. The recipient’s full legal name must exactly match the name on their Cuban identification document, typically their Carnet de Identidad. Their physical address in Cuba, including street, municipality, and province, is also required. Providing a contact phone number for the recipient is often necessary for communication regarding the transfer, especially for cash pickup or home delivery services. The recipient’s Cuban identification number is mandatory for processing the transfer and ensuring proper identification upon receipt.

The specific details for how the recipient will access the funds are also crucial. If sending to a bank account, the sender needs the recipient’s bank name, account number, and any specific routing details like SWIFT/BIC codes, if applicable. In Cuba, common banks that receive transfers include Banco Metropolitano, Banco Popular de Ahorro (BPA), and Banco de Credito y Comercio (BANDEC), often specifically for MLC accounts. For cash pickup, the sender typically needs to specify the preferred pickup location or agent in Cuba, or provide the recipient’s address for home delivery, ensuring the recipient knows where to retrieve the funds.

Initiating and Completing the Transfer

Once all necessary details are prepared, the process of initiating and completing the transfer can begin. For online platforms, this typically involves logging into an account, entering the gathered sender and recipient information into the designated fields, and selecting the desired payout method in Cuba. Physical agent locations require presenting the documentation and information to a service representative who will input the data and guide the sender through the submission process. Regardless of the method, senders often need to complete an Electronic Remittance Affidavit, a legal declaration confirming compliance with regulations.

Payment for the transfer can be made through various methods, depending on the service provider. Common options include using a debit card, a credit card, or directly linking a bank account for an Automated Clearing House (ACH) transfer or bank transfer. Some services may also accept cash payments at their physical agent locations. Credit card payments might incur additional fees from the card issuer, separate from the remittance service’s charges.

Upon successful submission, the sender will receive a confirmation of the transfer, usually including a unique tracking number. This number allows the sender to monitor the status of the transfer online or by contacting customer service. Fees for sending money to Cuba typically vary based on the amount sent, the payment method, and the service provider, often ranging from approximately 5% to 10% of the principal amount. Exchange rates are applied to convert the sent currency (usually USD) into MLC or Cuban Pesos (CUP) for the recipient, impacting the final amount received. Senders should compare these rates and fees among providers to optimize the amount the recipient receives.

Processing times for funds to become available in Cuba can vary. Transfers to MLC accounts or prepaid cards often become available within 1-3 business days, with some express services offering availability in a matter of hours. Cash pickups or home deliveries might take longer, ranging from 2-4 business days, or potentially up to two weeks, as these often involve physical logistics. Recipients in Cuba typically access funds deposited into MLC bank accounts or cards by using them at points of sale or withdrawing CUP at ATMs or banks. For cash pickup, recipients must present their identification at the designated agent location, while home delivery means the funds are brought directly to their specified address.