Total Wireless, a no-contract wireless service provider powered by Verizon's 5G network, has announced an official partnership with Western Union to include a free monthly money transfer in select phone plans, marking a first in the U.S. wireless industry. Starting today, customers with Total Wireless MAX 5G BYO, MAX 5G, and ALL ACCESS plans will receive a monthly money transfer at no additional cost, allowing them to send funds to over 200 countries and territories through Western Union's global network.
This partnership sets a milestone in the telecommunications industry, as Total Wireless becomes the only wireless provider in the United States to offer a monthly money transfer as part of its plans. The benefit covers the transaction fee, providing real value to customers who frequently send money abroad. According to the company, millions of people in the United States send money abroad each year, averaging more than 12 transactions annually. With this integration, families can save on transfer fees, ensuring every dollar goes further.
“Total Wireless was built on the belief that a good wireless plan should do more for its customers,” said David Kim, president of Verizon Value. “Incorporating a Western Union money transfer into our plans reflects something we deeply believe: no one should have to choose between staying connected and caring for their loved ones. We are proud to be the first to build with that in mind.”
The eligible plans range from $25 per month for MAX 5G BYO (for customers who bring their own device) to $60 per month for ALL ACCESS with auto-pay. Each plan includes unlimited 5G data, unlimited hotspot, and unlimited international calling and texting to over 200 countries, backed by a five-year price guarantee that includes taxes and fees. The Western Union benefit is seamlessly integrated, allowing customers to send money online at westernunion.com or through the Western Union app, with access to over 360,000 payout locations worldwide.
The partnership also includes co-promotion efforts, with Western Union promoting Total Wireless through its customer communication channels, including the Western Union app, email, social media, and in-store digital displays. “For generations, Western Union has helped people move money across borders because we understand what each transfer represents: not just dollars, but our mission to make financial services accessible to everyone,” said Jesse Mory, senior vice president of Strategic Partnerships at Western Union. “By partnering with Total Wireless, we make it easier for customers to support those who depend on them, turning an everyday wireless plan into a more meaningful way to stay connected, care for loved ones, and move money with confidence.”
The implications of this announcement are significant for the telecommunications and financial services industries. By integrating money transfers into wireless plans, Total Wireless is addressing the financial realities of communities that have historically been underserved. This move could prompt other carriers to consider similar partnerships, potentially reshaping how consumers view the value of their mobile plans. For customers, particularly immigrant families who regularly send remittances, this benefit reduces financial burdens and simplifies the process of supporting loved ones abroad. The partnership also strengthens the loyalty of Total Wireless customers, offering a unique value proposition that goes beyond typical wireless features.
