Imagine your friend across the border suddenly needs help paying an urgent bill. Instead of rushing to a bank or waiting days for a transfer, you open an instant cash transfer app, tap a few buttons, and instantly and securely send the money. Popular ways to send money now include digital wallets, bank apps, and peer-to-peer platforms, making the process effortless and near-instant.
Whether you’re supporting a loved one, splitting a dinner bill, or sending a birthday gift, transferring money has become faster, easier, and more flexible than ever before.
In this blog, we explore the most popular and reliable ways to send money to family and friends—locally and internationally—so you can choose the best method.
Key Factors People Consider When Sending Money
Evaluating a few critical aspects to prevent fraud and make a transaction affordable is important, especially when sending money to friends and family.
Below are the key factors they typically consider:
1. Speed of Transfer
Less time, better the experience. Who doesn’t like financial transfers settling in seconds. That’s because of the satisfaction that the money went fast and into the desired account.
Medical emergencies, last-minute bill payments, or helping someone in a financial crunch are major time spots when you need speed transfer. Many users look for instant or same-day transfers to ensure their loved ones get money when needed and not hours after the hassle is solved.
2. Transfer Fees
Some find selecting a money transfer service taxing. High fees can add up, especially for regular transactions or international transfers.
This is why you must consider people who seek platforms that offer low-cost or zero-fee options while maintaining reliability and security.
3. Convenience and Accessibility
Ease of use is essential, especially for those who aren’t tech-savvy. Users prefer platforms with a simple, intuitive interface that can easily be accessed through mobile apps or websites.
Check whether the platform service is available 24/7 and whether the transfer process has minimum steps to enhance convenience.
4. Recipient Access
Another critical access factor is checking how the recipient can receive the money. Establish whether the receivers can access the money directly in their bank account or must pick up cash from a nearby location.
Some services also allow transfers to digital wallets, mobile money accounts, or even gift cards, giving more flexibility based on the recipient’s needs.
See Also: How to Send Money Overseas Without Paying Fees
1. Mobile Payment Apps
Mobile payment apps have made sending money to family and friends convenient. That happens in the blink of an eye.
These platforms are popular for their user-friendly features and are especially useful for domestic transfers.
Venmo (U.S.)
Venmo is a go-to choice for casual, everyday transfers among friends and family in the United States. The emojis, payment captions, and not to miss the social-media-style interface make it appealing to younger users. The app makes splitting a dinner bill or paying rent to the roommate easy. If you are looking for an effortless transaction, Venmo can be a good choice.
Cash App (U.S. & UK)
Another widely used app is Cash App, available in the U.S. and the UK. If you are looking for instant money transfer, Cash App allows you to send and receive money instantly.
It also includes the option for instant withdrawals to your bank account for a small fee. Beyond payments, Cash App offers features like stock investing and Bitcoin transactions, making it popular among tech-savvy users.
Zelle (U.S.)
Zelle’s complete free-of-charge money transfer service is known for its ability to transfer money directly between U.S. bank accounts in minutes. It’s ideal for people who prefer a straightforward, bank-integrated solution. However, both the sender and receiver must have Zelle-compatible bank accounts, which can limit its flexibility.
PayPal
If you need one of the trusted names in digital payment worldwide, PayPal is the right choice. The best part is that you can make both domestic and international money transfers with PayPal.
The app offers strong security measures, including buyer and seller protection. It’s a versatile option for sending money to friends and family, shopping online, or handling small business transactions.
2. Money Transfer Services
Money Transfer Services offer reliable options for both domestic and international transactions.
Revolut, Wise, and Remitly
Platforms like Revolut, Wise, and Remitly are preferred for sending money abroad. They offer transparent fees, competitive exchange rates, and support for multiple currencies, perfect for users who frequently transfer funds across borders.
Google Pay
Conversely, Google Pay and Apple Pay simplify local transfers, especially between phone contacts. They are flawlessly integrated within their respective ecosystems. The apps work seamlessly for quick payments, though availability may vary by region. Each service caters to specific needs—global reach or local convenience.
3. Bank Transfers
Bank Transfers are a traditional and secure way to send money, especially for large amounts. While ideal for those who trust banking systems, they can be slow, take several days for international transfers, and often involve high fees and unfavorable exchange rates. They are best suited for domestic transfers or formal transactions.
4. Cash Pickup and Money Transfer Operators
Cash Pickup and Money Transfer Operators are ideal for sending money to recipients who prefer or require physical cash, especially in regions with limited banking access.
Western Union and MoneyGram
They are widely trusted for their extensive global networks, allowing recipients to collect cash from thousands of agent locations. These apps are supportive of international transfers, where you see that digital access is limited.
Xoom
A PayPal service, Xoom offers flexible delivery options, including cash pickup, direct bank deposits, and mobile wallet credits. Known for its speed and convenience, Xoom operates in several countries, making it a versatile choice for global money transfers.
5. Cryptocurrency Transfers
Popular among tech-savvy users and for cross-border payments
Crypto is widely used by those familiar with digital finance, especially for sending money internationally without traditional banking hurdles. It appeals to users seeking fast, decentralized alternatives.
Fast and often low-fee using stablecoins like USDT or USDC
Transfers using stablecoins such as USDT or USDC are completed within minutes. They also have the lowest possible fees, making them ideal for quick, cost-effective global payments.
Requires knowledge of wallets and crypto exchanges
Users must understand how to use digital wallets and navigate crypto exchanges to manage their funds securely, which can be a barrier for beginners.
6. Gift Cards as Money Alternatives
Instant and fee-free options to support spending on essentials
Gift cards are an innovative way for recipients to buy precisely what they need. They offer a quick, no-fee way to provide financial help.
Some common gift cards include Amazon, Flipkart, and prepaid Visa/MasterCard gift cards. These popular options are widely accepted and can be used online or in-store, adding flexibility to the recipient’s spending.
Great for unbanked recipients or gifting with purpose
Ideal for people without bank accounts or when you want to give a thoughtful, purpose-driven gift.
See Also: What Are the Cheapest Ways to Send Money Internationally?
7. Checks or Money Orders (Traditional Methods)
- Checks or Money Orders are traditional money transfer methods still preferred by some older individuals or in areas lacking digital access.
- Even though the method is slower and less secure, it offers a sense of familiarity and trust.
- A money order is a traditional paper-based method often used for formal or official payments.
Comparison Table: Best Use Cases
| Method | Best For | Speed | Fees | Bank Required |
| Venmo / Zelle | Domestic, everyday payments | Instant | Low/None | Yes (Zelle) |
| Wise / Remitly | International remittances | 1–2 days | Low | Yes |
| Gift Cards | Gifting, essentials | Instant | None | No |
| Crypto (USDT) | Fast, global transfers | Minutes | Very Low | No |
| Western Union | Cash pickups abroad | Minutes–days | Medium | No |
| PayPal | Global, flexible use | Minutes–days | Medium | Optional |
Tips for Choosing the Right Transfer Method
- Consider the recipient’s access: After finalizing the app with which you will send money, check if they have a bank account, internet, or mobile phone to receive funds conveniently.
- Choose based on urgency: Use instant transfer options for emergencies; opt for low-fee methods if time allows.
- Evaluate transfer costs: Always compare fees across platforms because saving a penny saves money. Also, keep a factor in exchange rates for international transfers.
- Ensure platform security: Only use verified, regulated services to avoid fraud or scams.
- Avoid third-party resellers: Stick to official apps or websites to ensure transaction safety and transparency.
Conclusion: Most Popular Ways to Send Money to Family and Friends
There’s no one-size-fits-all method, especially when sending money to family and friends. Different options exist, such as mobile apps, bank transfers, or cash pickup. Each has its own advantages and limitations.
The right choice depends on your priorities: speed, cost, convenience, or international reach. So, next time, before the money transfer, take a moment and evaluate what works best for your situation.
Beem makes supporting your loved ones across borders easier than ever with instant transfers and zero hidden fees. With its unique “Send Now, Pay Later™” feature, you can send money instantly—even if you’re short on cash—and settle the payment later, adding flexibility when it matters most.
