Total Wireless, a no-contract wireless service provider powered by Verizon's 5G network, has announced a partnership with Western Union to offer free monthly money transfers as part of its select phone plans. Starting June 25, 2026, customers on Total Wireless MAX 5G BYO, MAX 5G, and ALL ACCESS plans will receive one free money transfer per month, with the transaction fee covered by the plan. This move makes Total Wireless the first U.S. carrier to include a money transfer benefit in its offerings.
The partnership addresses a significant need: millions of people in the United States send money abroad each year, averaging more than 12 transactions annually. By integrating Western Union's global network, which reaches over 200 countries and territories, Total Wireless aims to provide real value to its customers, particularly those in historically underserved communities. The benefit allows customers to send funds to family and friends through Western Union's online platform, app, or its network of over 360,000 payout locations, with delivery options including bank accounts, digital wallets, and cards.
“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, unlimited international calling and texting to over 200 countries, and a five-year price guarantee that covers taxes and fees. The Western Union benefit adds a free monthly money transfer with no transaction fee, seamlessly integrated into the plan.
“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,” Kim added.
The partnership extends beyond the plan benefit, with Western Union co-promoting Total Wireless through its customer communication channels, including the Western Union app, email, social media, and in-store digital displays. This collaboration unites two brands that serve communities relying on affordable connectivity and cross-border financial support.
“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.”
Total Wireless, backed by Verizon's 5G network, operates 2,000 exclusive stores nationwide. The company is part of the Verizon Value prepaid brand portfolio, which includes Straight Talk, Visible, Tracfone, Simple Mobile, SafeLink, Walmart Family Mobile, and Verizon Prepaid. Western Union, a global leader in cross-border money transfers, serves over 200 countries and territories and nearly 130 currencies.
This industry-first integration of money transfer services into a wireless plan highlights a growing trend of telecom companies expanding into financial services to meet customer needs. For business leaders, this move signals potential new revenue streams and deeper customer loyalty through bundled services that address real-world financial challenges.
