The information on or through this site is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be relied on as a substitute for specific advice about laws, regulations, taxes, finances, immigration or travel. For specific advice, contact a licensed attorney, financial advisor or other professional. We disclaim all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on this site. We do not warrant the accuracy or usefulness of this information. This site may contain links to other sites and information provided by third parties for your convenience. We do not endorse nor make any guarantees with respect to these sites, their accessibility, the information they contain or the way they treat any information you provide to them.

How do international remittances, or cross-border money transfers, help promote financial inclusion? Improve your financial literacy by learning about budgeting and saving, personal finance.    

Learn how to send money using Ria Money Transfer, new services we offer, our omnichannel services, tips for sending money and the expansion of our network.    

Learn how international migration trends affect remittances and the impact remittances have on the individuals and communities around the world who receive them.     

Videos that feature Ria customers explaining in their own words how their experience of migration has impacted themselves, their families and their communities.     

Learn about different cultures around the world, how people celebrate, what it is like to live abroad and great travel destinations.     

What's new in cross-border payments, tech and finance? Learn about new payments methods like mobile wallets, the importance of the omnichannel experience and workplace trends.

What is Ria doing for the community? What does CSR, corporate social responsibility, mean? What's new in sponsorships at Ria?    

The Ria Blog

We use our own and third-party cookies to analyze our services and to show you advertising related to your preferences based on your browsing habits. Learn more by reading our 

We use first and third-party cookies to help us understand how you interact with the site by collecting and reporting information, such as the number of visitors or clicks. They do not allow us to collect your activity data beyond our site.

🍪 Cookies give you a personalized  experience

We use our own and third-party cookies to analyze our services and to show you advertising related to your preferences based on your browsing habits. Learn more by reading our

These cookies are essential to the basic functioning of our website. They turn on functions like page navigation, authentication, and access to secure areas.

Sending money internationally is easier than ever, but small mistakes can lead to big problems. A simple typo or a missing detail can cause delays, extra fees, or even a failed transaction. While these issues can be frustrating, there is good news: most money transfer mistakes are easy to avoid with a few simple checks.&nbsp; 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">1. Entering Incorrect Recipient Information&nbsp; </h2>



 One of the most frequent errors in <a href="https://www.riamoneytransfer.com/en-us/send-money-online/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">international money transfers</a> is entering the wrong recipient details. A misspelled name, an incorrect account number, or a wrong mobile wallet ID can cause the transfer to be rejected or significantly delayed. When your money is needed urgently, these simple mistakes matter.  



How to avoid this: &nbsp;



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Match the name exactly: Ensure the recipient’s name is identical to how it appears on their official ID or bank records.&nbsp; </li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Copy and paste: Instead of manually typing account or mobile wallet numbers, copy and paste them directly from a message or document to avoid typos.&nbsp; </li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Check country codes: When sending to a mobile wallet, always double-check that you have the correct country code and phone number.&nbsp; </li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Send a test transfer: Before sending a large amount, consider sending a small test payment to confirm all details are correct.   </li>
</ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1230" height="768" src="https://riablog.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/7_Money_Transfer_Mistakes-2.png" alt="A woman with long dark hair, wearing a floral dress, stands by a bright window smiling while looking at her smartphone—perhaps double-checking for money transfer mistakes. Sunlight streams in, and a green plant is visible in the background." class="wp-image-50563" srcset="https://riablog.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/7_Money_Transfer_Mistakes-2.png 1230w, https://riablog.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/7_Money_Transfer_Mistakes-2-768x480.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1230px) 100vw, 1230px" ></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"> 2. Overlooking Hidden Fees and Exchange Rates &nbsp;</h2>



Many people focus only on the upfront transfer fee, but the <a href="https://www.riamoneytransfer.com/en/blog/what-are-currency-exchange-rates-and-how-are-they-determined/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exchange rate</a> is where the real costs can hide. Some providers advertise low fees but offer unfavorable exchange rates, meaning less money arrives in your recipient&#8217;s pocket. &nbsp;



How to avoid this: &nbsp;



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Compare the total cost: Look beyond the initial fee and check the exchange rate. Calculate the total amount your recipient will get before you confirm the transaction.&nbsp; </li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Use transparent services: Providers like <a href="https://www.riamoneytransfer.com/en-us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ria Money Transfer</a> clearly display the fees, exchange rate, and the final payout amount before you send.&nbsp; </li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Time your transfer: Exchange rates can fluctuate daily. Use Ria’s app or website to check live rates and choose a time that works best for you.  </li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">3. Not Understanding Transfer Limits&nbsp;</h2>



 For security and regulatory reasons, every country and provider has <a href="https://www.riamoneytransfer.com/en/blog/what-are-the-international-money-transfer-limits-in-the-us/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">limits on how much money you can send</a>. If you try to send more than the allowed limit without proper identity verification, your transfer could be delayed or even canceled.&nbsp;



 How to avoid this:&nbsp; 



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Verify your identity early: Complete the Know Your Customer (KYC) process as soon as you sign up for a service. This often increases your sending limits.&nbsp; </li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Check limits before you send: Familiarize yourself with Ria’s sending and receiving limits for your chosen destination country.&nbsp; </li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Keep documents updated: Ensure your identification documents are current and readily available if needed for verification.  </li>
</ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1230" height="768" src="https://riablog.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/7_Money_Transfer_Mistakes-1.png" alt="A man sits on a couch in a sunlit living room, looking intently at his smartphone, perhaps double-checking for money transfer mistakes. A coffee mug and green plants are on the table, with large windows in the background." class="wp-image-50560" srcset="https://riablog.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/7_Money_Transfer_Mistakes-1.png 1230w, https://riablog.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/7_Money_Transfer_Mistakes-1-768x480.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1230px) 100vw, 1230px" ></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"> 4. Choosing the Wrong Delivery Method&nbsp;</h2>



 A common mistake is picking the payment and <a href="https://www.riamoneytransfer.com/en-us/receive-money-online/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">delivery method that is most convenient</a> for you, rather than what is best for your recipient. Your choice can impact speed, accessibility, and convenience on the other end.&nbsp;



 Compare your options: &nbsp;



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Cash pickup: This is a great option if your recipient does not have a bank account or needs the funds quickly.&nbsp; </li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Bank deposit: A reliable and traceable method, perfect for sending money for savings or bill payments.&nbsp; </li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Mobile wallet: A fast and convenient choice for recipients who are comfortable with digital payments.&nbsp; </li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Home delivery: In certain areas, this service can be a lifeline for recipients in rural or low-access locations.&nbsp; </li>
</ul>



Always confirm your recipient&#8217;s preferred method before you initiate the transfer.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"> 5. Falling for Scams and Fraud&nbsp;</h2>



 Scammers are always looking for ways to <a href="https://www.riamoneytransfer.com/en/blog/how-to-avoid-money-transfer-scams-2024/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">trick people into sending money</a>. They often create a sense of urgency, pretending to be relatives in an emergency, government agencies, or companies offering prizes.&nbsp;



 Stay safe with these tips:&nbsp; 



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Verify identities: If you receive an urgent request for money, take a moment to confirm the person’s identity through a separate, trusted channel.&nbsp; </li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Use official channels: Only send money through the official Ria app, website, or authorized agent locations.&nbsp; </li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Never share transaction details: Keep your PIN, verification codes, and other transaction details private.  </li>
</ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1230" height="768" src="https://riablog.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/7_Money_Transfer_Mistakes-3.png" alt="Split image of a smiling man indoors and a smiling woman outdoors, both looking at their smartphones, suggesting they are chatting, sharing tips, or avoiding money transfer mistakes together." class="wp-image-50566" srcset="https://riablog.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/7_Money_Transfer_Mistakes-3.png 1230w, https://riablog.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/7_Money_Transfer_Mistakes-3-768x480.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1230px) 100vw, 1230px" ></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"> 6. Misunderstanding Delivery Times&nbsp;</h2>



 Expecting an instant delivery for every transfer is a common misunderstanding. Several factors can influence how long a transfer takes.&nbsp;



 What affects transfer speed:&nbsp; 



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Payment and delivery methods: Cash pickup is often faster than a bank deposit, which can take a few business days.&nbsp; </li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Time zones and banking hours: Local business hours and time differences can affect when funds are processed and delivered.&nbsp; </li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Public holidays: National or local holidays in the receiving country can delay transactions. &nbsp;</li>
</ul>



 Ria provides <a href="https://www.riamoneytransfer.com/en-us/track-a-transfer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">real-time updates</a> so you can track your transfer and know exactly when it arrives.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"> 7. Forgetting to Track Your Transfer&nbsp;</h2>



 Once you’ve sent your money, failing to track it can cause unnecessary worry. Tracking your transfer gives you peace of mind and helps you resolve any potential issues quickly.&nbsp;



 Benefits of tracking:&nbsp; 



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Stay updated: See the progress of your transfer from start to finish.&nbsp; </li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Resolve issues fast: If there’s a delay, you’ll know right away and can contact customer support.&nbsp; </li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Keep your recipient informed: You can let them know exactly when to expect the funds.&nbsp; </li>
</ul>



 Use Ria’s <a href="https://www.riamoneytransfer.com/en-us/track-a-transfer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Track a Transfer</a> feature online or in the app. Just be sure to keep your PIN or transaction number in a safe place.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"> Your Pre-Send Checklist&nbsp;</h2>



 To ensure stress-free transfers every time, create a simple “pre-send” routine to catch errors before they happen. &nbsp;



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Is the recipient’s information 100% correct?&nbsp;</li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Have I reviewed the total fees and exchange rate?&nbsp;</li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Did I confirm the best delivery method with my recipient?&nbsp;</li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Do I understand the estimated delivery time?&nbsp;</li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Am I using an official and secure provider?&nbsp; </li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"> Send Money with Ria Today</h2>



 Avoiding common money transfer mistakes isn’t complicated. It simply requires slowing down, paying attention to the details, and choosing a provider you can trust. With a reliable partner like Ria Money Transfer, you can feel confident that your money will arrive safely, quickly, and without unnecessary stress.&nbsp; Ready to send money the right way? Avoid the common mistakes and enjoy a <a href="https://www.riamoneytransfer.com/en-us/mobile-app/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">smooth, secure transfer with Ria</a>.&nbsp;

A woman wearing glasses and a blue patterned blouse sits on a couch, looking intently at her smartphone, possibly checking for money transfer mistakes. Books and plants are visible on shelves in the softly lit background.

7 Money Transfer Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

About the author

Gabriela Solis

Related posts

What to know about the new 1% US remittance tax

Ria Money Transfer and Mexico Join Forces to Unite Passionate Football Fans

Which US States Send the Most Money Abroad?

Unveiling Ria’s New Brand Ambassador: Yaya Touré