I would like to share my experience using xoom.com in sending money to the Philippines. It’s my first time to use their service. First, their dollar rate is lower than LBC (around $.75- I don’t know about western union or others) but LBC is higher than xoom’s and their fees are higher too. Ok, to be able to avail the lower fees at Xoom’s you have to use a u.s. bank account when you remit money, like an auto debit or use your debit card. If you use your credit card, you get the standard fees.
The service was ok, you do everything online, no need to drive, no gas to burn. After few hours, to confirm your padala Xoom rep will call you and ask some security questions like how much did you send, what card did you use, etc? I don’t mind that but you have to have the exact answers otherwise they will not release your money.
For the recipient, they can get the money from any bank xoom is affiliated, which is a lot, like metrobank, allied, bdo, Citibank, chinabank, bpi to name a few (just check the list on their website) or they have pick up locations all over Philippines like cebuana lhuillier, sm forex and many more. They need 2 id’s (see their list) to claim or just 1 id plus your secret word that you will them. They also have door to door deliveries.
So, I think that’s it. I’m just telling, you know . No moolah involve here. LOL.
