Changes to international transfers have been the big news of 2026! Governments and regulators are introducing new rules that try to make the sector more transparent, taxable and accountable as regards payment method. These changes impact the way senders are to pay for transactions.
And if you send money abroad, whether as an individual or a business, it’s important to be up to date on these changes. In addition to international transfers, many of our customers continue using check cashing services to get their money fast, so clarity on fees and compliance is even more critical. Providers like Cheque Express help customers adapt by offering clear guidance and straightforward payment options.
The Global Shift in Money Transfer Regulations
Remittances are being regulated more and more, around the world. There is an increased focus by governments on monitoring cross border payments to combat fraud, increase compliance and make certain income tax reporting is transparent. It’s to make things better for everyone involved.
For that ordinary population of senders, this translates to increased responsibility to learn about how transfers are processed and what is being charged for. Customers who use check cashing services as well may see additional documentation needs however, these are more about making the environment safer and about being accountable and less about limited access. Cheque Express helps customers with compliance by removing complexity and explaining changes in legislation plainly.
New US Remittance Tax Explained
A 1% federal tax on international money transfers paid with cash will begin to be levied in the US in 2026. This principle promotes transparency and gives the choice of payment method a role to play in managing transfer costs.
1. How the 1% Tax Is Applied
The U.S. will apply a 1% tax on overseas remittances where the sender pays by cash, from 1 January, 2026 It’s a tax calculated with the amount you’re transferring, and it is only on the Sender end. It also does apply for domestic transfers and non-cash international payments.
This change mostly impacts those customers who are transacting in cash. These taxpayers are also likely to use check cashing services to handle their money, so being mindful of this tax is crucial. Knowing when the tax is due is also crucial to prevent surprise costs at transfer.
2. Why Who You Pay Through Still Matters in 2026
The decision to use cash or other payment modalities will directly affect transfer costs in 2026. Cash payments are the only ones that trigger the extra 1% tax; noncash alternatives do not. This has never made the choice of payment more critical for a sender who is cost conscious.
For a customer that uses check cashing services, opting for cash is intuitive still, the switch to other forms of payment reduces the cost of many transactions. Cheque Express serves as a tool to enable customers to compare these choices and determine the best fit based on convenience and cost.
What Does Not Change for Recipients
The United States will start imposing a 1% federal tax on foreign remittances paid in cash, beginning from 2026. This rule enhances transparency and increases the importance of choosing the method of payment in order to control remittance transfer costs.
1. No Impact on the Amount Received
There is one key reassurance: remittance recipients are not impacted by the new tax. The other 1% does to you, and only if the payor actually paid with cash. The quantity given to the lucky one does not change.
This stability is particularly useful for families and individuals who receive monthly international transfers. Payout is the same even when beneficiaries go to check cashing facility to receive the money.
2. Consistency in Payout Experience
There will be no changes to how people are paid in 2026. Recipients are still receiving money through regular channels such as cash pick-up locations and other transfer methods. There are no cuts or delays associated with the new tax.
For recipients who use check cashing, this stability means continuous access to the money. Cheque Express has well-established delivery networks, so recipients are not affected by any regulation changes.