Send Money to Brazil: The Complete Guide

Send money to Brazil from the United States has never been easier, faster, or more affordable.

Whether you’re supporting family members, paying for services, or managing business transactions, understanding your options for international money transfers to Brazil can save you hundreds of dollars and ensure your money arrives safely and quickly.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover the best ways to send money to Brazil from the USA, compare fees and exchange rates from top providers, learn about Pix transfers, and understand everything you need to make smart decisions about your Brazilian remittances.

From Western Union and Wise to Remitly and bank transfers, we’ll cover all your options to help you choose the best method for your specific needs.

Why Americans Send Money to Brazil

Brazil is home to a large Brazilian-American community, with millions of Americans maintaining strong connections to family, friends, and business interests in South America’s largest economy. Common reasons to send money to Brazil include:

• Supporting family members and loved ones financially
• Paying for property, rent, or real estate investments
• Sending money for education expenses and tuition
• Business payments and vendor transactions
• Emergency financial assistance
• Retirement income transfers
• Buying goods and services from Brazilian suppliers

Understanding the best way to send money to Brazil can make a significant difference in how much your recipient actually receives after fees and exchange rate markups.

Best Ways to Send Money to Brazil from the USA

1. Wise (Formerly TransferWise) – Best for Low Fees

Wise is consistently rated as one of the most affordable and transparent options to send money to Brazil. 70% of Wise transfers arrive in under 20 seconds, and 95% arrive in less than a day.

Pros:

• Uses the real mid-market exchange rate with no markup
• Transparent fee structure shown upfront
• Fast transfers (often within minutes to 1 day)
• Mobile app for iOS and Android
• No hidden fees

Cons:

• Requires bank account setup
• Not available for cash pickup
• May take longer for first-time users due to verification

Best for: Regular senders who want the best exchange rates and lowest fees

2. Remitly – Best for Speed and Convenience

Remitly offers both express and economy transfer options, giving you flexibility based on your urgency and budget.

Pros:

• Multiple delivery options (bank deposit, Pix, cash pickup)
• Express option for urgent transfers
• User-friendly mobile app
• First transfer often comes with promotional rates
• Guaranteed delivery time or fee refund

Cons:

• Express transfers have higher fees
• Exchange rate markup on some transfers
• Premium charged for speed

Best for: First-time senders or those needing guaranteed fast delivery

3. Western Union – Best for Cash Pickup

Western Union remains a trusted name with an extensive network throughout Brazil, moving money from the US to more than 200 countries and territories.

Pros:

• Largest cash pickup network in Brazil
• Multiple payment options (online, app, in-person)
• Track transfers online and with app using the tracking number (MTCN)
• Available at major Brazilian banks including Caixa Economica Federal
• Can send up to $5,000 per transaction

Cons:

• Higher fees compared to digital-only services
• Exchange rate markup
• Slower than digital competitors
• In-person locations required for some services

Best for: Recipients who need cash pickup or don’t have bank accounts

4. Xoom (by PayPal) – Best for PayPal Users

Xoom, a PayPal service, offers seamless integration for the millions of Americans already using PayPal.

Pros:

• Integrated with PayPal accounts
• Multiple delivery options including Pix and bank deposit
• 24/7 fraud monitoring and data encryption security
• Can send to major Brazilian banks like Banco Itaú and Banco do Brasil
• Good customer support in multiple languages

Cons:

• Fees can be higher than specialist services
• Exchange rate includes markup
• Requires PayPal account for best rates

Best for: PayPal users seeking convenience and security

5. Revolut – Best for Multi-Currency Accounts

Revolut is ideal if you frequently send money internationally or need to hold multiple currencies.

Pros:

• Revolut-to-Revolut transfers arrive in 20 seconds or less
• No transfer fees for Revolut-to-Revolut payments
• No additional exchange fees on weekdays between 6pm EST Sunday and 5pm EST Friday
• Support for 25+ currencies
• Modern mobile app

Cons:

• Both sender and recipient benefit most with Revolut accounts
• Small fees for bank transfers
• Premium features require paid plans

Best for: Frequent international senders with multi-currency needs

6. Traditional Bank Wire Transfer

Your US bank can send international wire transfers to Brazil, but this is typically the most expensive option.

Pros:

• Familiar and trusted
• Suitable for very large amounts
• Direct bank-to-bank security

Cons:

• Highest fees ($25-$50+ per transfer)
• Poor exchange rates with hidden markups
• Slow (3-5 business days typical)
• Requires extensive recipient bank information

Best for: Large business transfers or when other options aren’t available

How to Send Money to Brazil Using Pix

Pix has revolutionized money transfers in Brazil since its launch by the Brazilian Central Bank. Many US-based services now support Pix transfers.

What is Pix?

Pix is Brazil’s instant payment system that allows 24/7 transfers using a unique key instead of complex bank account numbers. Your recipient’s Pix key can be:

• CPF (Brazilian tax ID number)
• Email address
• Phone number
• Random 32-character code

How to Send Money via Pix from the USA:

Step 1: Choose a provider that supports Pix (Remitly, Xoom, Wise)

Step 2: Ask your recipient for their Pix key and CPF number

Step 3: Enter the transfer amount in USD

Step 4: Provide recipient’s Pix key and CPF

Step 5: Pay with debit card, credit card, or bank transfer

Step 6: Money typically arrives within minutes to hours

Advantages of Pix:

• Instant or near-instant transfers
• Available 24/7, including weekends and holidays
• Simple recipient information needed
• Lower fees than traditional methods
• Becoming the standard in Brazil

Comparing Costs: Fees and Exchange Rates

When you send money to Brazil, the total cost includes two components:

1. Transfer Fees

Transfer fees vary by provider, with some charging fixed fees and others using percentage-based fees. Here’s a typical breakdown for sending $500 to Brazil:

• Wise: $6-8 (transparent, upfront)
• Remitly: $3.99-9.99 (economy vs express)
• Western Union: $10-25 (varies by payment method)
• Xoom: $4.99-$9.99 (varies by delivery method)
• Bank Wire: $25-50+ (highest fees)

2. Exchange Rate Markup

Many providers add a hidden markup to the exchange rate, which can be more costly than the visible transfer fee.

Example:

• Real mid-market rate: 1 USD = 5.54 BRL
• Provider’s rate with 3% markup: 1 USD = 5.37 BRL
• On $500: You lose approximately $15 in hidden costs

Pro Tip: Always check the USD to BRL exchange rate. The current USD/BRL interbank rate is 5.543. Compare this to what providers offer to spot hidden markups.

How Long Does It Take to Send Money to Brazil?

Transfer speed varies significantly by provider and payment method:

Fastest Options (Minutes to Hours):

• Wise with existing balance: Instant to 20 seconds
• Revolut-to-Revolut: 20 seconds or less
• Remitly Express: Within minutes
• Pix transfers: Usually under 1 hour
• Credit/Debit card payments: 1-2 hours

Standard Options (1-3 Days):

• Bank transfers (ACH): 1-3 business days
• Wise from bank account: 1-2 days
• Xoom bank deposit: 1-2 days

Slower Options (3-5 Days):

• Traditional bank wires: 3-5 business days
• Western Union bank deposit: 2-5 days

Factors affecting transfer speed include payment method, verification requirements, transfer amount, and whether it’s sent during banking hours.

What You Need to Send Money to Brazil

Information Required:

Your Information:

• Full legal name
• US address
• Phone number
• Email address
• Government-issued ID (driver’s license or passport)
• Social Security Number (for some providers)

Recipient’s Information:

• Full legal name (exactly as appears on their ID)
• CPF (Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas) – Brazilian tax ID number
• Address in Brazil
• Phone number
• Bank account details (if doing bank deposit):
  • Bank name
  • Branch number (Agência)
  • Account number (Conta)
  • Account type (Checking or Savings)
• OR Pix key (for Pix transfers)

Payment Methods Accepted:

Most providers accept debit cards, credit cards, bank transfers, and some accept cash at physical locations. Payment options vary by provider and location.

Safety and Security When Sending Money to Brazil

Choose Regulated Providers

The safest way to send money is to use a provider registered with the United States’s Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). All major providers mentioned in this guide are properly regulated.

Security Features to Look For:

Encryption: All reputable services use bank-level encryption Two-factor authentication: Adds extra security layer Fraud monitoring: 24/7 monitoring for suspicious activity Money-back guarantees: Protection if transfers fail Customer support: Available help when needed

Avoid Common Scams:

⚠️ Red Flags:

• Requests to send money to unknown recipients
• Promises of unrealistic returns on investments
• Urgent requests for emergency money
• Recipients asking you to use untraceable methods
• Deals that seem too good to be true

Always verify:

• The recipient’s identity
• The purpose of the transfer
• The legitimacy of any business transactions
• Pix keys match the recipient you know

Tax Implications and Legal Considerations

US Tax Reporting

Gift Tax: Sending money to family members in Brazil may be considered a gift. The IRS allows you to give up to $18,000 per person per year (2024) without filing a gift tax return.

FBAR Requirements: If you have financial accounts in Brazil totaling over $10,000, you must file FinCEN Form 114.

Large Transfer Reporting: Banks must report transactions over $10,000 to the IRS.

Brazilian Regulations

IOF Tax: Brazil charges an IOF (Imposto sobre Operações Financeiras) tax on foreign exchange transactions. This is typically built into the exchange rate you receive.

CPF Required: All recipients need a valid CPF number for transfers.

Documentation: Recipients may need to provide proof of the transfer’s purpose for large amounts.

Consult a tax professional for specific advice on your situation.

Sending Large Amounts to Brazil

When sending over $10,000 to Brazil, consider these specialized services:

Benefits of Large Transfer Specialists:

Better Rates: Negotiate better exchange rates for large amounts Personal Account Manager: Dedicated support for your transfer Forward Contracts: Lock in exchange rates for future transfers Limit Orders: Automatically execute when your target rate is reached Tax Guidance: Help understanding tax implications Phone Support: Speak with specialists about your needs

Providers like Remitly specialize in handling larger transfer amounts with additional features and support.

State-by-State Considerations

Different US states have varying Brazilian-American populations and community needs:

States with Large Brazilian Communities:

Florida: Miami, Orlando

• High volume of transfers
• Many local money transfer locations
• Large Brazilian diaspora

Massachusetts: Boston area (Framingham)

• Significant Brazilian community
• Multiple service provider options

New York: New York City, Newark

• Business and family transfers common
• Access to all major providers

California: Los Angeles, San Diego

• Growing Brazilian population
• Tech-savvy users prefer digital options

Georgia: Atlanta area

• Emerging Brazilian community
• Increasing transfer volumes

Best Practices for Sending Money to Brazil

1. Compare Before You Send

Use comparison tools to check rates and fees across multiple providers. The total cost includes both the fee and the exchange rate, so evaluate both.

2. Send During Weekdays

Exchange rates are typically better during business hours (Monday-Friday). Some providers charge additional fees for weekend transfers.

3. Use Bank Transfers for Larger Amounts

Bank transfers are typically the cheapest way to get money to Brazil, though they may be slower than card payments.

4. Verify Recipient Details

Double-check all information before sending. Incorrect details can cause delays or failed transfers that are difficult to reverse.

5. Keep Transfer Records

Save confirmation emails, tracking numbers, and receipts for tax purposes and in case of issues.

6. Sign Up for Accounts in Advance

Complete verification before you urgently need to send money. First-time users often face additional verification steps.

7. Set Up Recurring Transfers

If you send money regularly, set up scheduled transfers to save time and often get better rates.

8. Track Exchange Rates

Use rate alert tools to send when the USD to BRL rate is favorable.

Common Questions About Sending Money to Brazil

Can I Use Zelle to Send Money to Brazil?

No, you cannot use Zelle to send money to Brazil. Zelle requires both sender and recipient to have US bank accounts and US phone numbers.

What’s the Maximum I Can Send?

Limits vary by provider:

• Western Union: Up to $5,000 per transaction
• Wise: Varies by verification level (up to $1M+)
• Remitly: Varies by delivery method
• Bank wire: Typically no limit for large verified amounts

Do I Need a Brazilian Bank Account?

No, you don’t need a Brazilian bank account to send money. Your recipient needs a Brazilian bank account or Pix key to receive the funds.

What if the Transfer Fails?

Reputable providers offer money-back guarantees. Contact customer support immediately if issues arise. Keep your tracking number handy.

Are There Transfer Limits?

Yes, providers have daily, weekly, and monthly limits. These often increase after account verification and transfer history.

Alternatives to International Money Transfers

Cryptocurrency

Some people use Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies to transfer value internationally. However, this involves:

• Volatility risk
• Complexity for non-technical users
• Tax reporting requirements
• Limited acceptance in Brazil for cashing out

PayPal to Brazilian PayPal

PayPal-to-PayPal transfers are possible but come with high fees and poor exchange rates compared to specialized money transfer services.

Cash Courier

Physically carrying cash is risky, often illegal for large amounts, and not recommended due to safety and legal concerns.

The Future of US to Brazil Money Transfers

Emerging Trends:

Blockchain Technology: More providers exploring blockchain for faster, cheaper transfers

Real-Time Payments: Pix has set a new standard; expect more instant options

Lower Costs: Increased competition driving down fees and improving rates

Better Mobile Apps: Enhanced user experience with AI-powered features

Cryptocurrency Integration: Some services beginning to offer crypto-to-fiat options

Open Banking: May enable even faster and cheaper transfers

Conclusion

Send money to Brazil from the United States is more affordable and convenient than ever in 2025. By understanding your options, comparing fees and exchange rates, and choosing the right provider for your needs, you can save significant money on every transfer while ensuring your funds arrive safely and quickly.

For most Americans, digital services like Wise, Remitly, and Xoom offer the best combination of low costs, speed, and reliability. Traditional services like Western Union remain valuable for cash pickup needs, while Pix transfers represent the future of instant payments to Brazil.

Before you send your next transfer, take a few minutes to compare providers, check exchange rates, and verify all recipient information. These simple steps can save you hundreds of dollars annually and give you peace of mind that your money will reach your loved ones in Brazil exactly when they need it.

Start comparing providers today and discover how much you can save on your Brazilian remittances!