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Finance & money

Smart money starts with understanding it. Explore guides, tips, and practical insights to help you manage your finances with confidence, wherever you are in the world. From budgeting basics to navigating life abroad, we break down the topics that matter most to your financial wellbeing.

Finance & money

SWIFT vs IBAN: what's the difference?

A SWIFT code and an IBAN both help move money across borders, but they do different jobs. A SWIFT code identifies the bank, while an IBAN identifies the specific account at that bank. Many international transfers use both. Here is how each one works and when you need them.

Finance & money

US passport: how much it costs and how long it takes

A first-time adult US passport book costs 165 US dollars in government fees, while an eligible adult renewal is 130 US dollars. Routine processing usually takes about 4 to 6 weeks, and expedited service takes about 2 to 3 weeks, not counting mailing. Here is a full breakdown of costs and timing.

August 13, 2026

Finance & money

How long does it take to build credit as a US newcomer?

Building credit in the United States usually takes at least three to six months of activity before a score appears, and often a year or more to reach a strong score. Credit history does not transfer between countries, so newcomers typically start fresh. Here is what to expect and how to begin.

Finance & money

How much money can you gift tax-free?

In 2026, you can give up to 19,000 US dollars per person, per year, without triggering the federal gift tax or a filing requirement. Married couples can give up to 38,000 US dollars per person by combining their limits. Most people never owe gift tax. Here is how the rules work.

Finance & money

How much (and how often) should you send money home?

If you’ve ever looked at the amount on your screen before tapping “Send” and wondered, Is this enough?, you’re not alone. It’s a question many people ask, whether they’re helping family every month or sending support only when it’s needed.

Finance & money

Can you send money internationally without a bank account?

Yes, you can send money internationally without a bank account. Learn how to send cash at a MoneyGram location and what your recipient needs to collect it.

Finance & money

How exchange rates affect international money transfers

Once you understand exchange rates and the mid-market rate, the next step is knowing how to use that information before sending money.

Finance & money

How to pay bills with MoneyGram: Online and in-person bill payment guide

MoneyGram lets US customers pay bills online or in person. Learn how MoneyGram bill pay works, what information you’ll need, and how to make a payment.

Finance & money

What Is the mid-market exchange rate?

Once you understand what the mid-market rate means, it becomes easier to compare providers and understand what you are seeing before you send money internationally. 

Finance & money

How to send money to India from the US: Bank account, UPI, and cash pickup options

The United States to India remittance corridor is one of the largest in the world by value. Families, students, and professionals in the US send billions of dollars to India every year for parents, property, tuition, everyday support, and important life moments.

Finance & money

What is an exchange rate?

You’re ready to send money to someone you care about when you notice a number on the screen labeled “exchange rate.” If you’ve never sent money internationally before, it can feel confusing fast. Is it part of the fee? Does it affect the transfer? Are you supposed to know what it means before you continue?

Finance & money

How to send money to a Banamex account from the US

Banamex, formally Citibanamex, is one of Mexico’s oldest and most widely used banking institutions. Because so many families in Mexico bank with Banamex, many US-to-Mexico money transfers eventually need to land in a Banamex account.

Finance & money

How to send money to GCash from the US: A step-by-step guide

If you’re sending money to family in the Philippines, there’s a good chance they already use GCash. It’s one of the country’s most popular mobile wallets, used for everything from paying bills and buying groceries to sending money, topping up mobile data, and managing everyday expenses.

Finance & money

How to send money to an Indian bank account from the US

If your recipient in India has a bank account, sending directly to that account can be one of the simplest ways to get money there.

Finance & money

How much money can you send internationally? Transfer limits explained

MoneyGram has per-transfer and daily send limits for international money transfers. Here’s what the limits are, why they exist, and what to do if you need to send more.

Finance & money

How to fill out a money order: A step-by-step guide

Filling out a money order only takes a few minutes once you know what goes in each field. Here’s a step-by-step guide to completing a MoneyGram money order correctly.

Finance & money

What ID do you need to send money internationally?

To send money internationally, you need a valid government-issued ID. Learn which IDs MoneyGram accepts and what to expect during verification.

Finance & money

Can you send money internationally with a credit card?

You can send money internationally with a debit card. Credit cards are also accepted, but your card issuer may charge a cash advance fee.

Finance & money

How you can save on your summer abroad

Whether your summer destination consists of sunny skies, calm countrysides, bustling cityscapes, or beautiful mountain ranges – traveling internationally can be tricky.

Finance & money

Add finances to your spring-cleaning list

Spring is the time of year when we tidy our homes. This season, you can also take simple steps to manage your finances, streamline your spending and polish your budget for a year of success.

Finance & money

Tax tips and resources for immigrants & expats

Throughout this blog, we’ll answer some questions you may have about US federal income taxes and what may or may not apply to you.

The information provided is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as personal financial, legal, or tax advice.