How to manage family remittances with multi-currency accounts

Adeolu Titus Adekunle

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Having to shuttle between sending GBP for your sibling's studies in the UK, paying for the family vacation to Europe in EUR, and buying household items in USD from a US digital marketplace can be stressful. When you add costly currency conversions, high transaction fees, and slow processing to the mix, it’s clear why you need a seamless platform to manage multiple currencies efficiently.

Multi-currency accounts can streamline family remittances by allowing you to receive, hold, and send money in various currencies within a single platform. They help to reduce money losses from exchange rate fluctuations and transaction fees. Accounts like these also help simplify financial management for family members living abroad, providing a more reliable, affordable, and convenient alternative to traditional banks.

This article explores how to manage family remittances using multi-currency accounts and provides guidance on getting started.

Also read: Using Grey to manage international family expenses

Understanding multi-currency accounts

Multiple currency accounts let you hold and manage various currencies simultaneously on one platform. You can receive funds in different currencies, choose to convert them at favourable exchange rates, or hold them for future use, like paying bills or sending to family members.

Unlike traditional bank accounts, they enable users to store funds in currencies like USD, EUR, GBP, and others, often within the same account. These accounts are offered by traditional banks, fintech platforms, and digital payment providers like Grey.

Why use multi-currency accounts for family remittances?

Managing remittances through traditional banking systems can be costly and inefficient. Here are the benefits of using multi-currency accounts for family remittances:

1. Cost savings on currency conversion

Multi-currency accounts typically offer competitive exchange rates, often close to the mid-market rate, lower fees and transparent charges.

2. Flexibility in holding multiple currencies

With a multi-currency account, you can hold funds in your foreign currencies without going through the stress of converting to local currency every time.

3. Simplified transactions

Multi-currency accounts streamline the process of sending money to multiple family members in different countries. Instead of managing separate accounts or dealing with multiple banks, you can handle all transactions from a single platform.

4. Protection against exchange rate volatility

Exchange rates can fluctuate significantly, impacting the value of remittances. By holding funds in the recipient’s currency or a stable currency like USD, GBP, or EUR, you can time conversions to avoid unfavourable rates.

5. Accessibility and digital convenience

Many fintech platforms offer multi-currency accounts with user-friendly apps, enabling you to manage transfers, track exchange rates, and monitor transactions in real-time from your smartphone.

6. Support for local banking needs

Many multi-currency account providers offer local bank account details in multiple countries. For instance, Grey provides users with local account details for USD, EUR and GBP, enabling recipients to receive funds as if they were local transfers at affordable rates.

Setting up a multi-currency account for remittances

Setting up a multi-currency account is a straightforward process. However, it is essential to carefully consider your options and choose the platform that best suits your needs. Here’s a step-by-step guide to setting up a multi-currency account.

Choose a provider

Research and compare different providers, such as Grey, with other international platforms offering multi-currency accounts.

  • Wise: Known for low fees and mid-market exchange rates, ideal for frequent remittances.
  • Revolut: Offers multi-currency accounts with additional features like budgeting tools and crypto support.
  • Payoneer: Great for freelancers and businesses sending remittances to family members.
  • PayPal: Convenient for smaller transfers, but may have higher fees.
  • Traditional banks: Some banks, such as HSBC and Citibank, offer multi-currency accounts, although fees may be higher.

Compare platforms based on the currencies you need to manage, transfer fees, conversion rates, transfer speed, availability, and ease of use, before making a decision.

Complete the application

Follow the provider’s instructions for opening an account, which may require providing identification and other documents, such as proof of address.

Manage remittances

Once your multi-currency account has been issued, deposit money in the currencies you'll need for sending remittances. If you plan to receive money, share the account details with the desired currency with the sender.

Also read: How Grey makes sending money home easier for migrants

Choosing the right multi-currency account provider

When selecting a provider, consider the following factors:

  • Fees: Look for low or no fees for transfers, conversions, and account maintenance.
  • Supported currencies: Ensure the provider supports the currencies you need.
  • Transfer speed: Check how quickly funds reach recipients, especially for urgent remittances.
  • User experience: Choose a platform with an intuitive app or website.
  • Customer support: Opt for reliable platforms with good support in case of issues.
  • Regulatory compliance: Ensure the provider is licensed and regulated in your country.

Managing family remittances with Grey

While several fintech platforms offer multi-currency accounts, Grey remains a top recommendation for managing remittances. Here’s why you should opt for Grey:

1. Offers multicurrency accounts

Grey offers free multi-currency accounts that support transactions in GBP, EUR, USD, and many other local currencies. This ensures you can fund your account with your local currency and withdraw money to your local account with ease.

2. Swift low-cost transfers with competitive exchange rates

Grey supports instant transfers at low and transparent fees with favourable exchange rates to help you reduce money losses.

3. User-friendly interface

Family members with minimal tech experience can easily navigate the Grey app or website. Setting up an account and managing transactions are straightforward and can be done within minutes.

4. Withdrawal and fund account in local currency

After receiving the remittance, Grey allows you to convert and withdraw funds to your local bank account.

5. Virtual USD debit card

Grey offers a dollar card that works well with global payment platforms, offering more financial flexibility. You can manage daily subscriptions and shop online with ease.

6. USDC support

Grey supports USDC transactions which makes it easier to send money across borders.

How to manage family remittances with Grey

You can set up an account on Grey by following these quick steps

Step 1: Sign up for a free Grey account:

Visit Grey’s website or download the mobile app to create a free account. You’ll be asked to verify your identity using:

  • A government-issued ID
  • A selfie
  • Proof of address (e.g, bank statement, utility bill)

Step 2: Get your international bank details

Once verified, request your USD, GBP, and EUR accounts depending on your needs. Grey will immediately provide you with the corresponding banking details, which you can share to receive remittances.

Step 3: Start receiving remittances

Your relatives abroad can send funds directly from their bank accounts abroad, and you can also send money to a foreign account in the corresponding currency.

Step 4: Convert and withdraw to your local bank account

If you are receiving remittances, once the funds arrive in your Grey account, you can hold them in that currency or convert what you need to your local currency and withdraw them to your local bank at competitive exchange rates.

Managing cross-border family finances doesn’t have to be stressful, expensive, or time-consuming. With a multi-currency account from Grey, you can receive money faster, hold it securely in foreign currencies, and convert whenever needed. You also get a versatile USD debit card to simplify your online needs.

Whether you are managing family remittances for monthly support, school fees, healthcare, or savings, Grey offers you financial flexibility and affordability.

Get started on Grey today to manage your family remittances without breaking a sweat.

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