How to Send Money to the Dominican Republic From the US

Sending money from the United States to the Dominican Republic is common for supporting family, facilitating business, or managing personal finances. This guide outlines the steps for transferring money, from selecting a service to ensuring the recipient receives funds.

Selecting Your Transfer Service

Many services facilitate money transfers from the United States to the Dominican Republic, each offering distinct advantages in speed, cost, and convenience. Traditional banks provide wire transfers, which are reliable but can involve higher fees and slower processing, potentially taking 1 to 3 business days. These transfers typically require detailed recipient bank information.

Specialized money transfer operators, such as Western Union and MoneyGram, have extensive physical networks, allowing for cash pickups often within minutes. These services offer flexibility with online, mobile app, and in-person sending options. Online money transfer platforms like Remitly, Xoom (a PayPal service), WorldRemit, Paysend, and Ria Money Transfer are also popular. These digital platforms frequently offer competitive exchange rates and lower fees compared to traditional banks. Delivery methods range from direct bank deposits to cash pickups and mobile wallet transfers, often completed quickly.

Gathering Necessary Information

Before initiating any money transfer, collect all required information for both the sender and recipient. Senders must provide their full legal name, current address, and a valid government-issued identification (e.g., passport, national ID card, or driver’s license). Details for the chosen payment method, including bank account numbers or credit/debit card information, are also necessary.

For the recipient in the Dominican Republic, provide their full legal name exactly as it appears on their government-issued identification or bank statements. Their physical address and a contact phone number are also required. If sending to a bank account, additional details such as the recipient’s bank name, account number, and account type (checking or savings) are crucial. Some services may also request the reason for the transfer or the recipient’s national identification number (cedula).

Initiating the Money Transfer

With all necessary information prepared, initiate the money transfer through the selected service. For online platforms or mobile applications, log in or register a new account. Select the Dominican Republic as the destination country and input the transfer amount. Review the exchange rate and any associated fees before proceeding. After confirming the amount and fees, choose a payment method (e.g., bank account, debit card, or credit card) and finalize the transaction.

When sending money in person, visit an agent location and complete a “Send Money” form. Present your valid government-issued identification and provide payment for the transfer amount plus any service fees. Upon successful submission, the sender receives a confirmation receipt, which includes a unique transaction reference number. This number should be shared with the recipient. Most services allow senders to track the transfer’s progress online or through their mobile app using this reference number, often providing email or SMS notifications.

Recipient Access to Funds

Once the money transfer is initiated, the recipient in the Dominican Republic can access funds through various methods, depending on the service chosen. For direct bank deposits, funds are credited directly into the recipient’s checking or savings account. This can occur on the same business day, though it may take up to the next business day, especially if initiated late or on weekends. Major Dominican banks like Banreservas, Banco Popular, and Banco BHD Leon are common recipients.

Cash pickup is another prevalent method, allowing recipients to collect funds in person at designated agent locations. To claim the money, the recipient must present a valid government-issued identification (e.g., national ID card, passport, or driver’s license) along with the unique transaction reference number provided by the sender. Some services also offer home delivery of funds or direct deposits to mobile wallets.