Best Money Transfer Methods: Online Apps vs Traditional Services

Introduction

Supporting their loved ones through thick and thin has always been the trademark of Filipinos. We are known for our familial bonds that encourage us to support our families no matter the circumstances. This part of our culture is clearly shown by how OFWs continue to send money to their families regardless of how hard life abroad is.

One of the roadblocks that OFWs encountered in the past when it comes to sending money back home is the lack of options. During the early stage of international money transfers, our Filipino compatriots could only rely on remittance centers and couriers. Now, in the digital age, OFWs can send money internationally online without the long waits, exorbitant fees, and inconvenience of going out of their homes or workplaces.

Today at Cebuana Lhuillier, we will cover the different money transfer options you have to help you pick a remittance service that caters to your preferences. Discover the pros and cons of each money transfer option as you continue reading below:

Traditional Money Transfer Methods

Cash takes the lead as the most preferred method of payment in the Philippines, especially in underdeveloped areas. It is due to this fact that OFWs still prefer to send money through traditional methods. This way, their families can receive money through pick-up locations like banks, pawnshops, and remittance centers.

Explore the different traditional options on how to send money overseas below:

Remittance Centers

Remittance centers are financial service providers that let you send and receive money wherever you are in the world. With hundreds if not thousands of branches nationwide, remittance centers like Cebuana Lhuillier can offer you a traditional way to remit money without going online or opening a bank account.

Cebuana Lhuillier has over 3,000 branches across the Philippines. Some are even in remote barangays where bank services and ATMs are scarce. Through our remittance centers, we make it possible for unbanked Filipinos to process instant international money transfers. What’s amazing about remittance centers is that you can get your money fast and in cash!

Bank Transfers

A bank transfer is a method that allows you to directly send funds from one account to another. This method of remittance can be between two accounts from the same bank or from two different banks. Additionally, you have the option to process your remittance online or onsite.

For international bank transfers, you need an intermediary who would facilitate the transfer of your funds. The intermediaries in a transfer are usually your bank and the bank of your intended receiver. Every intermediary in this process will charge a fee, so you can expect a higher price. Moreover, since there are multiple third parties involved, a single bank transfer can take 3 to 5 business days to be completed.

The good thing about bank transfers is that it is secure. Third-party banks ensure the safety of your funds by implementing multi-level security checks and verifications.

Online Money Transfer Methods

As technology continues to evolve, your option to send money also expands. In the digital platform, you now have a website, app, and blockchain option that offers affordable, safe, and instant ways to send money internationally online. These methods are convenient if you have limited access to traditional remittance institutions or if you simply want to save time.

Join us as we expound on the different methods of how to transfer money online:

Mobile App

Money transfer apps are platforms that provide a convenient and completely online option for you to send money internationally. They can be connected to your bank or your e-wallet, so you can send or receive cash directly to another account.

Apps like eCebuana are ideal for OFWs sending money back to the Philippines. When you transfer funds through our international remittance partners, your loved ones in the Philippines can receive the money conveniently through the app. They even have the option to deposit the funds directly to their Micro Savings account!

Website

From the name itself, money transfers through websites are those that are processed through the official website of your remittance provider. This method works perfectly for people who want to experience the convenience of sending money internationally online without the hassle of downloading and setting up an app.

You can send money from any country to the Philippines through the websites of our remittance partners here at Cebuana Lhuillier. Your loved ones can claim the money either over the counter or using the eCebuana app.

Blockchain

Blockchain is a decentralized public ledger that has recently entered mainstream finance. This technology boasts record-speed transaction processing, low fees, and an untouchable security system. Every record in the blockchain is uniquely encrypted and maintained across computers linked in a peer-to-peer network, which protects data from getting hacked or tampered with.

Cebuana Lhuillier recently adopted the Stellar blockchain to provide its users with fast and reliable cross-border remittances. Through this venture, we seek to eliminate the challenges of international money transfers and provide users with speed and security when sending money internationally online.

Is Online Your Best Money Transfer Option?

The best option is the one that fits your preference! With that said, you need to carefully analyze the advantages and disadvantages of your remittance options.

Start by listing down your non-negotiables. For example, if speed and convenience are something you want to focus on, then online remittance will work best for you. If you are more comfortable sending or receiving money in cash, then traditional remittance will work splendidly.

Both options have their benefits. You need to decide on the best option for you based on what aligns with your preference and situation.

Safely Send Money From Abroad Today!

Having a hard time choosing between traditional and online? Why choose when you can have it all right here at Cebuana Lhuillier? We offer traditional remittance services through over-the-counter transactions at any of our 3,000 branches. For the tech-savvy Pinoys, we also have eCebuana and Stellar that you can use to receive money from your loved ones abroad.

Whichever you choose for your transaction, Cebuana Lhuillier is here to provide you with a quality service you can count on!

Conclusion

Not all remittance options are created equal. Both traditional and online money transfer methods boast their own set of advantages that could benefit users when it comes to cross-border exchange. To experience the benefits of both traditional and online, you need a remittance provider that can allow both options.

Cebuana Lhuillier is your one-stop shop for all your remittance needs. We offer traditional money transfer options through our branches, as well as convenient online methods through the eCebuana app and the Stellar blockchain.