Poker Sites Taking MoneyGram Transfers
MoneyGram is a money transferring service. You give them your money and they'll transfer it to where or whomever you want -- friends, family and, yes, even poker sites. They have locations all over the world, too. So it doesn't matter if you live in the US, UK or Canada, you should be able to find a location near you so that you can make a deposit to your favorite poker site.
If you're already familiar with the service, then you might be interested in the best MoneyGram poker sites for Americans. We've listed our top recommendations below.
Moneygram Poker Guide for US Players
What I've written up below is a mini-guide to MoneyGram. The following information should help you out if you've never used their service before. This poker deposit option is similar to making a deposit with WesternUnion.
How to Make a Transfer (Deposit) with MoneyGram
The process to making a MoneyGram transfer is simple. It just takes more steps compared to using a credit card or bank wire.
The first thing you need to do is ask the poker site for their information. This will include things like their email, address and phone number.
Then you need to go to your nearest MoneyGram location. There are over 10,000 locations in the US, so with a quick Google search you should be able to find the closest MoneyGram store near you.
Once there you will need to fill out a senders form. This will include your information along with the details you wrote down from the poker site. You'll give the form, your ID and the deposit you want to make to the clerk. They'll then complete the transfer for you. That's all there is to it.
Another option is to use MoneyGram's online service. That might be more convenient for you, especially if the nearest physical location is further away than you'd like.
And when you're ready to make a withdrawal, all you need to do is visit MoneyGram with a reference number and your ID. You'll need to fill out a form. After that you'll be given your withdrawal.
Benefits to Using Moneygram
There are several benefits to using MoneyGram.
The one that sticks out to me the most is that it has nothing to do with your bank. They won't see that you made a deposit to a poker site. So there's no risk to any disciplinary action, such as having your bank account closed.
You're less likely to have a MoneyGram deposit declined.
And unlike credit or debit cards, you can receive withdrawals using this method. It's one of the few banking methods that US players can use for both deposits and withdrawal.
Is Moneygram Safe for American Poker Players?
Yes. MoneyGram is a reputable company. You shouldn't have any problems with them.
That said, if you're sending your money to a sketchy or rouge poker site, then safety goes right out the window. To avoid that from happening I recommend sticking to the poker sites we list on our website.
Are There Any Fees to Use MoneyGram?
Yes. MoneyGram charges a flat fee plus a percentage of the money you're sending. You should figure about $1 to $5 per every $100 you send.
That said, many (if not most) poker sites are willing to cover your fees. Some may have minimums though. The fees will be covered when you make your withdrawal.