The real cost of sending money to the Philippines is more than just the transfer fee. It includes the exchange rate too. Understanding both — and how to compare them — helps you know exactly how many pesos your family receives before you confirm a transfer.
The two costs every sender should understand
Every international money transfer involves two potential costs: the transfer fee and the exchange rate margin. Looking at only one of them gives you an incomplete picture.
Transfer fee is the flat or percentage-based charge to process your transfer. MoneyGram offers a $0 transfer fee on your first online transfer if you're a new customer.
Exchange rate margin is built into the currency conversion. The provider converts your USD into PHP using a rate that includes a margin — the difference between the mid-market rate and the rate offered to you. Even when a fee is $0, the exchange rate margin can still affect how many pesos arrive on the other end.
The only way to understand the true cost is to look at both: what you pay, and how many pesos your recipient receives. MoneyGram shows you both before you confirm, so you can make an informed decision before your money moves.
What affects how much a transfer costs
Payment method. Paying by debit card or bank account typically costs less than paying by credit card. Credit card payments may trigger cash advance fees from your card issuer — separate from MoneyGram's charges.
Delivery method. Sending to a bank account, GCash wallet, or debit card may be priced differently from cash pickup. Rates and fees can vary by delivery method.
Send amount. Some providers charge a flat fee regardless of the amount sent. Others apply a percentage-based fee. For larger transfers, flat fees are usually more cost-effective.
Timing. Exchange rates move throughout the day. The rate shown at the start of a transfer is confirmed at the moment of submission — not before. Always review the rate and the pesos your recipient will receive before you click confirm.
How to see the full cost before you send
Transparent pricing means you see both the fee and the exchange rate before your money moves. Here's what to expect with MoneyGram:
Log in or sign up for a profile with MoneyGram
Enter the amount you want to send in USD
Select the Philippines as the destination and choose your delivery method
Review the exchange rate, the fee, and the exact pesos your recipient will receive
Confirm only when you're satisfied with the total
New customers sending online for the first time are eligible for a $0 transfer fee on their first online transfer.
Common questions
Is a $0 fee transfer actually free?
A $0 fee means no flat transfer charge, but the exchange rate still includes a margin — the difference between the rate you receive and the mid-market rate. To understand the full cost, review both the fee and the exchange rate before confirming.
What is the cheapest way to send money to the Philippines?
The cheapest option depends on the combination of transfer fee and exchange rate for your send amount and delivery method. No single method is always cheapest — the best approach is to check both the fee and the pesos your recipient receives at the time you send. MoneyGram shows you this transparently before you confirm. We have nothing to hide, so please check the rates before you send.
How does the exchange rate margin affect how many pesos my recipient gets?
The exchange rate margin is the difference between the mid-market rate and the rate offered at the time of your transfer. A wider margin means fewer pesos for your recipient even when the fee is $0. A narrower margin means more pesos. Both matter — always compare the pesos received, not just the fee, when evaluating total cost.
Find more helpful articles for sending money from the US to the Philippines
How to send money to the Philippines from the US. A full walkthrough of every delivery method — bank account, GCash, cash pickup, and debit card.
GCash vs. bank deposit: which is the fastest way to receive money in the Philippines? Speed and convenience compared — so you can choose the right option for your recipient.
Send money for pickup at M Lhuillier. If your recipient prefers cash in hand, thousands of M Lhuillier branches are ready across the Philippines.
Send money for pickup at LBC. Nationwide reach, a trusted name, and no bank account required for your recipient.
Send money for pickup at USSC Pera Padala. A dedicated remittance network for recipients who prefer to collect in person.
Is it safe to send money to the Philippines online? What to look for in a provider before your first transfer.
Sending money home for Filipino holidays and occasions. Timing tips for Pasko, school enrollment, fiestas, and more.
See the exchange rate before you send
Transparent pricing, upfront. Check the rate and pesos your recipient receives before you confirm.
This publication is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, financial, or other professional advice from MoneyGram or its affiliates. Services may vary by location and are subject to applicable laws and regulations.
Delivery times may vary and are not guaranteed. Actual transfer speed depends on the delivery method selected, the recipient's bank or service provider, send amount, transaction verification requirements, and other factors. Always confirm the estimated delivery time shown before you submit your transfer.