Western Union is a global provider of money transfer services. They provide money transfers to individuals all over the world. Their service allows customers to send money anywhere in the world within minutes.
In order to ensure that funds reach their destination quickly and securely, Western Union uses a tracking number called the Money Transfer Control Number (MTCN), a 10-digit tracking number also known as the WU Code which is automatically generated by Western Union when a transfer is created.
So how can you find the Western Union tracking number? The MTCN can be found in the upper right corner of the transaction confirmation email you receive after sending funds. You can also find the tracking number on the back of your deposit receipt. It’s also in your transfer history online. The number will be valid after the payment of the remittance is completed.
The recipient (the person who will receive the money) can also track the status of the transfer through the Western Union website with the sender’s name and MTCN. If the receiver is collecting the transfer from a Western Union agent location, it’s essential that the sender passes the MTCN on to them. When picking up cash, the MTCN must be provided by the recipient at Western Union’s store. As proof of identity, they must also show their ID.
The MTCNs identify transactions when they arrive at the receiving end. Without the MTCN, the receiver may not receive the funds.
How to use MTCN to track your funds:
Western Union transfers can be tracked online, by phone, or at an agent’s location. Tracking a Western Union transfer online should be simple if you have the right information.
- Click on Track transfer on Western Union’s website.
- Choose whether you’re the sender or the receiver.
- Enter the MTCN and click Continue.
- Make sure you complete any additional steps that the website requests, such as verifying your identity if necessary.
When you’ve done all that, Western Union will tell you where your transfer stands right now – whether it’s still in progress, ready for collection or already collected. You can follow the same process if you’re using the Western Union app.
Western Union fraud – What to be aware of
It is always advisable to be cautious when dealing with money issues, especially if you are dealing with them online. Don’t give out details, including MTCNs, to anyone you don’t trust. It is best to keep MTCNs between the sender and receiver only.
A good way to ensure you’ve got a real MTCN is to track it online if you’re the receiver. However, make sure you’re tracking through WU’s official website.