How to track and keep your money transfer safe

Learn how to track Money Gram, Western Union, Ria and other money transfers in Australia.

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Some money transfers can take more than five days to reach your recipient, and that's a long time to be stressing about your money. Most money transfer companies and banks in Australia offer end-to-end tracking so you can monitor the progress of your payments. However, each company has a different procedure for tracking transfers. To help you understand the differences, here's a look at how the major transfer services track your money transfer.

How can I track my money transfer?

With most companies, you can track your transfer using the confirmation number on your receipt. You should be able to view the steps of your progress, from sending to receiving, either online or by contacting them over the telephone. A few transfer services also offer the option of text or email notification at each stage of your transaction.

In general, to track a money transfer:

  1. Complete your transfer. After sending a transfer, you can start tracking it.
  2. Check your receipt. Look for a reference, confirmation, order, transaction or similarly-named number.
  3. Contact the sending company. Call, go online or visit a physical location of the company you sent your transfer through and provide your tracking number.
  4. Sign up for notifications. When possible, opt in for notifications on each step of your transfer.

Sample tracking page for Western Union.

Sample tracking page for online provider.

Track a Western Union transfer

Tracking a Western Union transfer requires an MTCN, which is Western Union's tracking number. If you don't know the MTCN, you still have options, but you'll need to know:

  • Sender's phone number OR both the sender and receiver names
  • Receiver's country
  • Send amount OR receive amount
  • Date of transfer

Learn more about how Western Union tracking works in Australia or contact Western Union directly for further help.

Track a MoneyGram transfer

MoneyGram tracking is fairly straightforward. It requires your last name and the authorization or reference number.

  • Authorization number - This number is found in your confirmation email.
  • Reference number - This number is found in your email only after the money is ready for cash pickup.

Learn more about how MoneyGram tracking works or contact MoneyGram directly for further help.

Track a Ria money transfer

Ria tracking can be done through the mobile app, online or by contacting customer service on the phone. You'll need to provide one of the following to track your money transfer:

  • Order number
  • PIN
  • Reference number

Learn more about how Ria tracking works or contact Ria directly for further help.
Sample tracking page for RIA.

Sample tracking page for Ria.

How do I find my tracking number?

Depending on the service you choose to transfer your money overseas — whether a bank or independent money transfer specialist — your transaction should come with a confirmation number or a record of your transaction.

Money tracking numbers come in many different names:

  • Authorization number
  • Reference number
  • MTCN (Money Transfer Control Number)
  • Order number
  • PIN
  • RTRN (Remittance Transaction Reference Number)
  • Confirmation number
  • ...and more

Finder survey: Which service do Australians use to transfer money overseas?

ResponseMaleFemale
Money transfer specialist (eg. TorFX or Western Union)5.57%2.28%
Bank3.15%3.34%
Other0.93%0.7%
Source: Finder survey by Pure Profile of 1110 Australians, December 2023

What to do if I don't have a tracking number?

Transfers come in all shapes and sizes, and depending on what type of provider you use to send your money, you may or may not have a tracking number. Don't worry — chances are you can still track your transfer even if you don't have a tracking number. Here's how:

Track bank wire transfers

Sending money internationally through your bank typically won't generate a tracking number, as wire transfers are a bit different from money transfer services.

  • You'll typically use a SWIFT code to track this transfer.
  • Call your bank's customer service or contact your bank online.

Track using a tracking number

Check your receipt for a highlighted number that may be called a:

  • reference number
  • tracking number
  • confirmation number

Input this website on the transfer company's website, give it to a customer service representative on the phone or provide it at an agent location to track your transfer.

Track without a tracking number

Some services in Australia, typically those that operate entirely online, require you to track through your order history instead of through a tracking number. To do so:

  1. Log in to your account
  2. Navigate to your order history
  3. Look for order details, including specific details on arrival time and any occurring delays.

How can I keep my international money transfer safe?

Sending money abroad can be risky if you don't take the right precautions. Keep your international money transfers safe by only transferring money through licensed money transfer services. Ensure you have the correct details on hand before sending a transfer — and never send transfers to people you do not trust. This way, you're less likely to fall prey to money transfer scams. Lastly, always remember to keep your transfer reference number on hand so that you can track the progress of your transfers. If you notice anything suspicious, contact your provider immediately.

Compare and choose the best money transfer service

1 - 25 of 27
Product AUFMT Filter Values Fastest Transfer Speed Fees (Pay by Bank Transfer)
Within minutes
From $0
Get Western Union's best exchange rate and $0 fee on your first online transfer.
Western Union sends money online to 200+ countries, with competitive rates for new customers.
Within minutes
$0-$4
Get a $0 fee and special promotional rate on your first transfer with OrbitRemit.
OrbitRemit sends to over 45 countries for a flat fee and transparent exchange rate.
24 hours
$0
TorFX sends money overseas in 40+ currencies, with competitive rates for transfer amounts over $2,000. Same-day transfers between AUD and NZD (under $100,000).
Within minutes
$0
Sign up and get a AUD$15 top-up. For new customers only. T&Cs apply.
Send money with great rates and low fees in 30+ currencies. Plan fees apply.
Within minutes
$0
Xe has fast transfers, low fees and a range of foreign currency tools. Send money to 200 countries in 100 currencies.
24 hours
$0
TorFX sends money overseas in 40+ currencies, with competitive rates for transfer amounts over $2,000. Same-day transfers between AUD and NZD (under $100,000).
24 hours
$0
OFX has no maximum limit transfers, with competitive exchange rates for 50+ currencies.
Within minutes
$0
Earn 10% cashback on your first $1,000 USD equivalent in eligible international card spend with Airwallex.
Streamline global payments across 150+ countries with fast settlements and competitive rates in over 60 currencies.
Within minutes
$0

Xe has fast transfers, low fees and a range of foreign currency tools. Send money to 200 countries in 100 currencies.
24 hours
$0
TorFX guarantees to match any competitor's exchange rate. Conditions apply.
TorFX sends money overseas in 30+ currencies, with competitive rates for transfer amounts over $2,000.
24 hours
$0
New customers registering in 31 December 2024 can receive lower pricing on exchange rates. T&Cs apply.
Xe has fast transfers, low fees and a range of foreign currency tools. Send money to 200 countries in 100 currencies.
24 hours
$0
OFX has no maximum limit transfers, with competitive exchange rates for 50+ currencies.
24 hours
$0
Send provides no Send payments fee transfers via its 24/7 multi-currency payments platform with real-time quotes.
Wise (TransferWise)
Best Rated Brand
Wise logo
Within minutes
From 0.43%
Wise uses the mid-market rate and transparent fees to help you send money in 50+ currencies.
Remitly
Best Rated Brand
Remitly logo
Within minutes
From $0
Remitly has quick, affordable transfers around the world, with both express and economy options.
Within minutes
From $0 to $5
Send money instantly to friends and family in over 45 countries using just your mobile number.
Within minutes
From $1.99
MoneyGram has fast cash pick-up transfers to more than 350,000 agent locations worldwide.
Within minutes
From 0.5%
SingX offers the real exchange rate every time you make a transfer and can help you send money across the world.
Send Payments
Send Payments logo
24 hours
$0
Send provides no Send payments fee transfers via its 24/7 multi-currency payments platform with real-time quotes.
Within minutes
$0
Earn 1 Qantas Point on every $1AUD equivalent converted in foreign currency. T&Cs apply.
Set up accounts in 11 different currencies and get rewarded for global business payments by earning Qantas Points.
24 hours
$0
OFX has no maximum limit transfers, with competitive exchange rates for 45+ currencies.
24 hours
From $0
Open bank accounts in Australia, the UK, US, Canada, Japan and Europe. Send and receive funds with zero fees for large sums, including same-currency supplier payments.
Within minutes
$0
Revolut allows your business to move money around the world quickly and cheaply with 25+ currencies and no maximum limit transfers. Plan fees apply.
24 hours
$0
Send provides no Send payments fee transfers via its 24/7 multi-currency payments platform with real-time quotes.
Within minutes
From $0
Send money in minutes at competitive exchange rates to the Middle East, Africa and South Asia.
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What happens if I entered the incorrect information for my transaction?

If you enter incorrect information for your money transfer, you typically have two options to consider: change the recipient's information or cancel the money transfer.

Can I change my recipient's information if I entered it incorrectly?

Unfortunately, you'll find that changing your recipient's name or address is trickier after you've initiated a transfer. But if you haven't entered your recipient's details correctly, they may not be able to receive their funds at all. If you've found an error with your recipient's information, call, visit or live chat with your provider immediately.

Keep any confirmation number or receipt handy to help in pulling up your transfer. Your provider should be able to correct or modify your recipient's details for you, even if it means adding a few more days to your delivery window as the system updates. If you've discovered the error outside business hours, try logging in to your account — you may be able to make the changes yourself if your transfer isn't yet complete.

Can I cancel a money transfer?

Nearly all banks and money transfer providers offer some way of cancelling your transaction after you've set it in motion — especially if your money hasn't yet been delivered. Simply call or visit — in person or online — the provider you used to send your transfer.

If you're able to cancel your money transfer, you should see a refund for the total you paid for it. In the rare case, a provider may deduct a cancellation fee from your refund — which might be another factor to weigh when choosing the company you ultimately go with.

If your transfer is not yet picked up or deposited into your recipient's account, you may be able to log in to your account to cancel the transfer yourself. Otherwise, call, visit or live chat with your provider to discuss its refund process and how much you can expect to get back.

Frequently asked questions

What is an MTCN?

Every brand wants points for originality — and money transfer providers are no exception. An MTCN is what Western Union calls its transfer confirmation number. It stands for Money Transfer Control Number, a unique reference number assigned to your specific transfer. If you've ordered a cash pickup, your recipient will need to submit the MTCN for Western Union to release your funds.

Similarly, an RTRN is a specific code used for Remit2India transactions. It stands for Remittance Transaction Reference Number, and you'll only receive it when sending money through Remit2India.

Can I track a money transfer using a SWIFT code?

Yes. If your transfer isn't delivered within the window you were promised, you can request a trace on your transaction using the bank's SWIFT code. A SWIFT code is an ID that banks use when sending wire transfers. With this number, your bank can determine whether the deposit is on hold or in progress.

How can "on hold" be an option? One drawback of SWIFT transfers is that banks can hold on to your money until they're able to get an exchange rate that better favours their bottom line. If your money needs to reach your recipient by a specific deadline, be sure to specify that exact date or time to avoid any bank delay.

Sometimes you'll need to know your IBAN — International Bank Account Number — for international money transfer tracking. This number identifies your bank account, your bank and your country to make international transfers faster. Transfers to and from the European Union often use an IBAN, so be prepared to use it when transferring money to and from the EU.

What happens if I lose my tracking number?

If you lose your money transfer tracking number, you should contact your provider immediately. In most cases, they will be able to provide you with a new tracking number if they verify that you are indeed the sender.
Jacob Joseph's headshot
To make sure you get accurate and helpful information, this guide has been edited by Jacob Joseph as part of our fact-checking process.
Adrienne Fuller's headshot
Head of publishing and editorial

Adrienne Fuller is the head of publishing at Finder US. With a decade of experience creating guides in finance and education, she aims to deliver the accurate and transparent information she wishes she had when she made some of life's important financial decisions. For the past 3 years she has been the publisher of money transfers, helping readers save when they send money all over the globe. She has a BA from Colorado College and loves to hike with her two Catahoula dogs around her home in San Diego. See full bio

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4 Responses

    Default Gravatar
    KnvApril 3, 2019

    I sent money to UK 15 days before and the money also gone from my account but the receiver didn’t get the money and there was no problem as all the details for the receiver are correct now I am confused. What’s the problem?

      AvatarFinder
      JoshuaApril 9, 2019Finder

      Hi Knv,

      Thanks for getting in touch with Finder. I’m sorry to hear the problem you are having.

      If you have confirmed that you have used the correct details and the money hasn’t arrived yet, it would be a good idea to notify your provider and get in touch with them. They should be able to assist you in tracking your money.

      I hope this helps. Should you have further questions, please don’t hesitate to reach us out again.

      Have a wonderful day!

      Cheers,
      Joshua

    Default Gravatar
    ArunApril 19, 2018

    Sir my father send around 1 crore for my admission procedures that has to be send in dollors for NRI seat.But niw its 4 days I didn’t get the money which send from Dubai to kerala..I have to take my admission within 3 more days,but I have no idea about my money where is it now I can I enquire that or can speed up the procedure.While asking in the Kerala branch manager is telling that he don’t know where will be it now.pls advice me

      AvatarFinder
      JoshuaApril 19, 2018Finder

      Hi Arun,

      Thanks for getting in touch with finder.

      I know that this situation can really be a source of confusion and even frustration.

      If you have the payment confirmation and tracking number of your money transfer, you need to visit a branch of your chosen international money transfer. By doing so, you can check whether your money is already there or not.

      If the money isn’t there yet, check with your father and confirm whether the money was really sent or not. If it is, reach out to the customer service team of your chosen money transfer company to investigate the issue.

      I hope this helps. Should you have further questions, please don’t hesitate to reach us out again.

      Have a wonderful day!

      Cheers,
      Joshua

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