Western Union announces resumption of service from US to Cuba

[El Presidente]

https://fxnewsgroup.com/forex-news/payments/western-union-announces-resumption-of-service-from-us-to-cuba/

Western Union announces resumption of service from US to Cuba

Western Union, in coordination with its processing partner Orbit S.A., today announced the resumption of its service from the United States to Cuba, effective immediately.

With service reinstated, Western Union customers are now once again able to send money from any U.S. retail location, WesternUnion.com or the Western mobile app to close family in Cuba with bank and debit card accounts at the following banks in Cuba: Banco Popular de Ahorro, Banco Metropolitano S.A. and Banco de Credito y Comercio (Bandec).

Funds can be received into bank accounts and debit cards only. Service is limited to consumer money transfers only. United States customers can remit up to USD 2,000.00 per transaction by presenting valid government-issued identification.

Money will be available for receipt the same day, including weekends and holidays.

Service is available to receivers with Carnet de Identidad IDs and bank and/or debit card accounts at the following banks in Cuba: Banco Popular de Ahorro, Banco Metropolitano S.A. and Banco de Credito y Comercio (Bandec).

Deposits to Freely Convertible Currency (MLC) accounts are available in U.S. dollars only.

[VeguerosMAN]

Is Western Union still a thing? I remember sending money through Western Union when I lost a bet in sports among friends back in 2010. I believe Cubans use Zelle now (at least in Miami) to send money to Cuba. 

[JohnnyO]

From what I see, only goods sold by the Cuban government will allow you to use these funds. You can't withdraw cash from the banks. The only option is to sell your MLC to a third party for USD/Euros. John

[SUP8333]

Interesting but not much use for tourist?

[JohnnyO]

On 5/10/2024 at 4:46 PM, SUP8333 said:

Interesting but not much use for tourist?

You must have an bank account established in MLC and that is only for Cubans. Some time ago the US Consulate/Embassy in Cuba had an ATM in dollars for US passport holders to use. Also they could arrange bank wire transfers for much higher amounts. I would imagine most Embassies would have similar services. John