Becoming a Western Union Agent

Starting your own business. Prospective Western Union agents must own an independent retail business, which then qualifies as a potential Western Union location. Common types of retail businesses that transition into Western Union agents include, but are not limited to:

• convenience stores
• drug stores
• financial service providers
• liquor stores
• newsagents
• pawnbrokers
• supermarkets
• travel agencies

Obtain the required equipment. Every Western Union agent must possess essential office equipment and internet service to facilitate financial transactions. The typical equipment necessary for Western Union transactions comprises:

• a functional computer
• a dependable internet connection
• a working printer (although not all locations mandate a printer at the business site - consult with a Western Union representative to ascertain whether your location necessitates a printer)

Submit an application. If you satisfy all the business prerequisites, you might qualify to become a Western Union agent. To verify your eligibility, you'll need to submit an online application, which will then undergo review by Western Union. Alternatively, you can reach out to Western Union's customer service line at 1-800-325-6000 if you have any inquiries regarding the application process. The application requests the following information:

• confirmation of business ownership
• confirmation of possessing a functional computer with a reliable internet connection
• your name and personal contact details (phone number and email address)
• the name, address, and work number of your business
• the nature (by type/category) of your business
• the number of locations your business operates
• how you discovered the opportunity to become a Western Union agent

Undergo training and obtain software. Upon approval of your application to become a Western Union agent, you will receive a complimentary starter pack from Western Union. This starter pack contains all the necessary training materials required to commence transactions, along with marketing/promotional materials to promote your new services to the public. Additionally, you will receive the requisite software to install on your computer, enabling you to initiate transactions at your business.

• Western Union agents also benefit from 24-hour customer support provided by the agency. A customer support representative will be available to address any queries and assist you with any complications that may arise.

Participate in anti-money laundering (AML) training. All money transfer services are mandated to offer Anti-Money Laundering (AML) training, in adherence to financial regulations. This training aims to educate you as a new agent and safeguard your business against potential money laundering allegations in the future.

• Western Union's AML training is recognized as one of the industry's leading programs for agent training and support.

Obtain your license. Proper licensing is mandatory for all money transfer services, although the specific requirements may vary by location. As Western Union boasts a global network of money transfer agents, there isn't a universal process applicable to all agents. Nevertheless, Western Union facilitates the acquisition of all necessary licenses for its agents. You'll liaise with a Western Union representative, who will outline the specific license required and assist you in obtaining it promptly.

Explore enrollment in Western Union's Agent Portal. The Agent Portal serves as Western Union's online hub for agents worldwide. Enrollment in the Agent Portal is free and provides convenient access to supply ordering, training materials, fraud-prevention resources, transaction reporting, and customer support.

• To enroll, visit the Western Union AgentPortal website at https://agentportal.westernunion.com/ap/custregister.do. Complete the registration form with your name, contact details, agent account number, and operator ID number.

Generate income through Western Union. Western Union charges customers a transfer fee for each money transfer. These fees contribute to Western Union's revenue, and the company compensates you with a commission for every processed transfer fee from transactions conducted at your business. The more revenue your business generates for Western Union, the higher your commission earnings.

Recognize the advantages. Operating as a Western Union agent within your existing business offers numerous benefits. In addition to earning regular commissions, your business may experience increased foot traffic. Serving as a Western Union agent attracts potential customers in need of money transfer services, potentially leading to additional purchases from your store. Moreover, your status as a WU agent provides a competitive edge over similar businesses, positioning your store as a comprehensive service provider.

Experience the benefits of a global network. Western Union operates across more than 200 countries and territories worldwide. As a part of this expansive network, you'll have the opportunity to facilitate money transfers for customers from and to various corners of the globe. Moreover, with Western Union's global presence, you'll have access to round-the-clock training and customer service support.

• If you have queries about joining the Western Union agent network, seek guidance from an agent at a non-competing branch who can elucidate the benefits and potential drawbacks of offering money transfer services.
• If you aspire to become a Western Union agent outside the United States, conduct an online search for Western Union in your country of interest. Locate the 'Become an Agent' section or reach out to the sales department in that country. They will arrange a meeting with a local business development manager or provide guidance on the agent enrollment process.

• Personal computer
• Reliable internet connection
• Printer
• Telephone
• Business particulars
• Western Union pre-qualification form