Western Union vs. TrueMoney: Which Is Better for Burmese Workers in Thailan

For Burmese workers in Thailand, sending money home to support family is a top priority. When choosing a service, two of the most popular options are Western Union and TrueMoney. Both are safe, legal, and reliable, but they offer different advantages.

This guide will compare Western Union and TrueMoney to help you decide which service is the best fit for your needs.

A Quick Comparison Table

Feature

Western Union

TrueMoney

Ease of Use

Traditional form filling at an agent

App-based, fast, and modern

Fees & Exchange Rate

Can be higher, less competitive

Generally lower fees and better rates

Network in Thailand

Bank branches, post offices, and other agents

7-Eleven, TrueMoney kiosks, and the app

Network in Myanmar

Wide network of agents at banks and partners

Strong and growing network of TrueMoney agents

Speed

Money is available for pickup in minutes

Money is available for pickup in minutes

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Western Union: The Global Powerhouse

Western Union is one of the most trusted and oldest names in international money transfers. It is a global service that operates in more than 200 countries, including a strong presence in Myanmar.

• Why it's a strong choice:

  • Reliability and Trust: With a long history, Western Union is a well-known and reliable service that many people trust.

  • Wide Network: Your family can pick up money from a large number of agents in Myanmar, including many banks and exchange offices.

  • No Bank Account Needed: Both the sender in Thailand and the recipient in Myanmar do not need a bank account. It is a simple "cash-to-cash" service.

• Things to consider:

  • Higher Fees: The convenience and wide network sometimes come with a higher fee compared to newer digital services.

  • Exchange Rates: The exchange rate offered by Western Union may not always be the most competitive on the market.

TrueMoney: The Modern and Convenient Choice

TrueMoney is a modern financial service that is very popular in Thailand. It has a powerful mobile app and a massive network of agents, especially at 7-Eleven stores. TrueMoney has also built a strong presence in Myanmar.

• Why it's a strong choice:

  • Highly Convenient: You can send money quickly and easily from your smartphone using the TrueMoney app. You can also visit a nearby 7-Eleven to send money with cash.

  • Competitive Fees: TrueMoney is known for offering very low fees and good exchange rates, which means more money for your family.

  • Direct Service to Myanmar: TrueMoney has a dedicated service for transfers to Myanmar, making the process fast and seamless. Your family can receive money instantly at any TrueMoney agent location.

• Things to consider:

  • Requires a Smartphone: To use the app, you need a smartphone and a Thai phone number.

  • Network in Myanmar: While TrueMoney has a strong and growing network in Myanmar, it may not be as widespread as Western Union's global agent network in some very remote areas.

The Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

Both Western Union and TrueMoney are safe and legal ways to send money home, and the best choice depends on your personal needs.

• Choose Western Union if:

  • You prefer a traditional service that is a well-known and trusted name.

  • You do not have a smartphone.

  • Your family lives in a location where a Western Union agent is more easily accessible.

• Choose TrueMoney if:

  • You have a smartphone and prefer to use an app for quick and easy transactions.

  • You want to get the lowest fees and the best exchange rates.

  • You frequently visit 7-Eleven and want the convenience of sending money from a nearby location.

No matter which you choose, always remember to use your passport for the transaction and keep your receipt safe.