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 monthly money transfer benefit in select phone plans, marking the first time a U.S. carrier has offered such a feature. The benefit, available to customers with Total Wireless MAX 5G BYO, MAX 5G, and ALL ACCESS plans, covers the transaction fee for sending 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 offering a monthly money transfer as part of its plans. The benefit directly addresses the financial realities of communities that have historically been underserved, providing real value to customers who frequently send money abroad. According to the company, millions of people in the U.S. send money internationally each year, averaging more than 12 transactions annually. By including this benefit, Total Wireless aims to help families save on transfer fees so 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 (MAX 5G BYO for customers who bring their own device) to $60 per month (ALL ACCESS) with auto-pay, and include unlimited 5G data, unlimited hotspot, and unlimited international calling and texting to over 200 countries. All plans are backed by a five-year price guarantee that includes taxes and fees. The Western Union benefit offers one free money transfer per month with no transaction fee, accessible online at westernunion.com or through the Western Union app, with global reach to over 200 countries and territories. Recipients can receive funds through over 360,000 Western Union payout locations, as well as bank accounts, digital wallets, and cards.
“We know how much it means to send money home. We designed these plans to ensure that, at least once a month, it's on us,” said Kim.
The partnership extends beyond the plan benefit, uniting two brands that serve communities relying on affordable connectivity with loved ones across borders. Western Union will co-promote Total Wireless through its own customer communication channels, including the Western Union app, email communications, 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.”
