How to Get a Remittance in Jamaica (2025 Guide)

If you have family overseas sending money home, you’ll likely receive it through a remittance service. In Jamaica, you can collect money sent from abroad at local agents, banks, and even on your phone. This guide shows how to collect remittances in Jamaica in 2025, step-by-step.

—

💸 What Is a Remittance?

A remittance is money sent from someone in another country to you in Jamaica. Most Jamaicans receive funds from relatives in the US, Canada, or the UK through companies like:

• Western Union
• MoneyGram
• JN Money
• Victoria Mutual Money Transfer
• Ria

—

📋 What You Need to Collect Money

When someone sends you money, you’ll receive a reference number and the amount being sent. To collect it, bring:

• A valid government-issued ID (Passport, National ID, Driver’s License)
• The transfer number (MTCN or reference #)
• The sender’s full name and country

—

🏦 Where to Collect Remittances in Jamaica

1. Western Union

• Over 100 locations islandwide — including at Bill Express, NCB, and FX Traders
• You can also use the WU app or website to check if funds are ready

2. MoneyGram

• Available at Lasco locations, Digicel stores, and other agents
• Must show ID and reference number

3. JN Money

• Pick up at JN Bank, JN Money shops, and some supermarkets
• Also offers direct-to-bank and mobile wallet options

—

📲 Can You Get Remittances on Your Phone?

Yes — several services now allow direct-to-mobile or bank transfers:

• GK MPay – Collect Western Union or Bill Express funds directly
• JN Money Online – Send funds straight to your JN Bank account
• NCB Pay or Scotia App – Some remittances go directly to bank accounts

✅ Be sure your name on the account matches your ID exactly to avoid delays.

—

⏱️ When Can You Collect?

Most services offer same-day pick-up. Hours depend on the agent:

• Bill Express and Western Union: Usually 8am–5pm Mon–Sat
• JN Money: 9am–4pm
• Some supermarket agents open on Sundays

—

💡 Tips to Avoid Problems

• Check spelling of your name — it must match your ID
• Bring a second ID just in case
• If asked security questions, answer exactly how the sender entered them
• Never pay anyone to collect your remittance — it should be free

—

🙋 Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I send someone else to collect the money?

No — only the person whose name is on the transfer can collect, with ID.

2. Is there a fee to receive money?

Not usually. The sender pays the fee. However, if you convert to USD or deposit to a bank, your bank may charge a small fee.

3. How long do I have to collect it?

Most remittances stay available for 30–90 days. After that, they’re returned to the sender.

—

📌 Conclusion

Collecting a remittance in Jamaica is fast and simple — just bring your ID, know your transfer details, and choose the nearest pick-up location. With mobile wallet options and bank transfers now available, you can get your money quick