This article explains fees, exchange rates, and how to compare providers.
How to compare providers
The most important number is what your recipient will actually get in their local currency. This includes our exchange rate and fees.
Tips for fair comparisons:
- Check the "recipient receives" amount
- Enter your exact transfer amount (fees change by size)
- Compare at the same time (rates move quickly)
- Be aware that "No fee" may not mean "no cost" as cost may be built into the exchange rate margin
- Faster transfers may cost more, whilst cheaper options may take longer. Think about how quickly your recipient needs the money.
Also consider:
- Speed
- Security
- Payment options
- Delivery method
- Customer service
How our fees work
Fees are part of your total transfer cost. They depend on:
- Amount you send
- Country you send to
- Payment method (card, bank, cash)
- Delivery method (bank, cash pickup, mobile wallet)
How to check fees
Use our online calculator to see your total cost before you send.
Online or app:
- Go to riamoneytransfer.com or open the Ria app
- Enter the amount you want to send
- Choose the destination country
- Pick payment method (card, bank, cash)
- Check "recipient gets" amount
In a store:
- Visit any Ria location
- Tell the agent your amount and destination
- Ask to see today's fee and exchange rate
- Confirm "recipient gets" amount
What you'll always see:
- Fee amount
- Exchange rate
- Total you pay
- What recipient gets (most important number)
Pro tip: Always enter your exact amount. Fees change by size, country, and payment method.
Do payment methods have different fees?
Yes. Cards are fastest but card fees apply. Bank transfers are cheaper but may take longer as the funds must clear our account before we can pay your transfer.
Is store pricing the same as online?
No, store and online pricing are different.
Why prices differ:
- Stores have higher costs (rent, staff)
- Online has different payment processing costs
- Cards cost more than cash everywhere
- Some promotions only work in store or online
How to check each channel:
- Online/app: Use the online calculator before you send
-
Store: Ask your local Ria agent for today's price
Why doesn't your rate match Google?
Google shows the market rate. We add a small markup to cover our costs. Always use our online calculator for your real rate.
Can fees and rates change?
Yes. Both can change anytime. Our online calculator shows current rates.
What do I see in the price calculator?
- Your fee
- Exchange rate
- What the recipient gets
- Total cost
Why did my recipient receive less than I sent?
Sometimes the recipient’s bank, or an intermediary bank, takes a fee. This fee is deducted before the money reaches your recipient.
Unfortunately, they don’t tell us when they do this, so we can’t show these fees in advance.
Other common questions
- Why was my fee higher this time? Different amount, payment method, or rates changed.
- Today's exchange rate? Changes hourly. Use our online calculator to check the rate for your transfer.
- Cash advance fees? We don't charge, but your card issuer might. Contact them for more information.