WorldRemit Mobile Money: How It Works
With WorldRemit mobile money, you send money to a recipient's mobile wallet, an electronic account linked to their phone number. Your recipient must already have a mobile money account, and WorldRemit says to confirm the correct wallet number with them before you send, because it is not always the same as the phone number.
What mobile money is
WorldRemit describes mobile money as an electronic wallet service available in many countries. It lets people store, send and receive money using a phone, and it works on smartphones and basic feature phones. It is popular where fewer people have bank accounts.
What the recipient can do with it
WorldRemit says most mobile money services let users:
- buy things in shops or online,
- pay bills and school fees,
- top up mobile airtime,
- withdraw cash at authorised agents.
What you need before you send
- Check that your recipient has a mobile money account. They register with a local mobile money agent, usually with ID such as a passport, driving licence or government ID.
- Ask for the wallet number. WorldRemit says it can differ from the phone number.
- Log in to WorldRemit and choose mobile money as the service.
How to use WorldRemit goes through the full process.
Mobile money or airtime top up?
WorldRemit separates the two:
- Mobile money is an account for storing and managing money, similar to a bank account.
- Airtime (also called mobile recharge) is for calls, SMS and data. It cannot be used as money to buy other items or pay bills.
How safe is it?
WorldRemit says mobile money funds are protected by local financial regulations, and providers and partners must check users' identity. It also says every transaction needs a secret PIN and a record is kept, so the money stays safe if a phone or SIM is lost. For your side of safety, read Is WorldRemit safe?.
Fees on withdrawal
WorldRemit says that if your recipient visits a third party to withdraw mobile money, that third party may charge a fee. It is charged by them, not WorldRemit. Compare with the cash pickup guide before choosing.
Is it available?
WorldRemit says to select the region your recipient lives in to see if mobile money is an option there. Cost and speed depend on country, receive method and payment method, see WorldRemit fees.
New customers can use the referral link with REFERNNF57P9SAA1L at sign-up. This is an independent site, not WorldRemit.
FAQ
What is WorldRemit mobile money?
A way to send money to an electronic wallet linked to your recipient's phone, where available.
Does my recipient need an account first?
Yes. WorldRemit says they must create a mobile money account with a local agent before you send.
Is the wallet number the same as the phone number?
Not always. Check the correct number with your recipient.
What is the difference from airtime?
Mobile money stores and moves money. Airtime is only for calls, SMS and data.
Can the recipient be charged?
A third party where they withdraw the money may charge a fee. WorldRemit does not.