Remitly or Wise 2026: Which Is Better for Filipinos?

Quick Comparison Table

Feature	Wise	Remitly
Fees	Low and transparent	Varies by speed and method
Payment to Philippines	Direct to bank, GCash, Maya	Bank, cash pickup, mobile wallets
Ease of Use	User-friendly interface	Simple setup, fast transactions
Best for	Frequent, cost-conscious freelancers	Quick remittances

When to Choose Wise

Wise is an excellent choice for Filipino freelancers who prioritize cost-efficiency and transparency. Here are some scenarios where Wise shines: - **Frequent International Transactions**: If you regularly receive payments from international clients, Wise's low fees and transparent exchange rates can save you a significant amount of money. In my freelancing journey, I found Wise particularly beneficial when I was earning $2,500 monthly from various clients on Upwork Upwork guide. - **Direct Payments to Banks and Wallets**: Wise supports transfers to Philippine banks like BDO, BPI, UnionBank, and mobile wallets such as GCash and Maya GCash guide. This flexibility was crucial when I needed to quickly pay for home utilities or send money to my family without incurring hefty fees. - **Transparent Costs**: Wise clearly displays fees before you make a transaction. This transparency helps you avoid unexpected charges, an issue I faced with other platforms early in my freelancing career. - **Multi-Currency Account**: If you work with clients from different countries, Wise's multi-currency account is a game-changer. It allows you to hold and convert multiple currencies easily, which I utilized when dealing with clients from the US and Europe simultaneously.

When to Choose Remitly

Remitly is ideal for freelancers who need speed and ease of use in their transactions. Here are situations where Remitly excels: - **Urgent Remittances**: When you need to send money to family quickly, Remitly's Express option can deliver funds within minutes. I've used this service in emergencies, such as when my family needed immediate financial support due to unexpected medical expenses. - **Cash Pickup Options**: For recipients without bank accounts, Remitly offers cash pickup at numerous locations across the Philippines, such as Cebuana Lhuillier and Palawan Pawnshop. This feature was a lifesaver when my relatives in rural areas needed cash. - **User-Friendly Interface**: Remitly's app is straightforward, making it easy for beginners to set up and send money. This simplicity was crucial when I first transitioned from being an OFW to freelancing, as I was still learning about online financial services OFW alternative guide. - **Promotional Rates for New Users**: Remitly often offers special rates for first-time users, which can be advantageous if you're just starting as a freelancer and want to stretch your earnings further.

Detailed Comparison

Fees and Costs

In the Philippines, where every peso counts, understanding the fee structure of each service is crucial. Wise typically charges lower fees than Remitly, making it more cost-effective for regular transactions. Wise's fee includes a small percentage of the transfer amount plus a fixed fee, offering competitive exchange rates. In contrast, Remitly's fees vary based on the selected speed and delivery method, which can sometimes result in higher costs.

Payment Methods

Both Wise and Remitly offer convenient payment options for Filipino freelancers. Wise allows direct transfers to major Philippine banks and supports mobile wallets like GCash and Maya GCash guide. Meanwhile, Remitly also caters to cash pickup needs, making it versatile for recipients who prefer or require cash.

User Experience

In my 6 years of freelancing, I've found Wise to have a more streamlined and user-friendly interface, particularly for managing multiple currencies. On the other hand, Remitly's interface is designed for simplicity and speed, ideal for users focused on quick remittances.

Client Quality

While both platforms serve as means to transfer earnings, the choice between them doesn't directly affect client quality. However, the ability to offer clients various payment options through Wise can enhance your professionalism and reliability, potentially leading to better client retention.

For Beginners vs Experienced

For beginners, Remitly's straightforward setup might be less daunting, especially if you're new to digital transactions. Its quick transfer feature can be reassuring. For experienced freelancers like myself, Wise provides more flexibility and cost savings, which are crucial for long-term financial strategies.

My Personal Experience

In my freelancing journey, I initially struggled with high transfer fees that ate into my earnings. I stumbled upon Wise while looking for a more economical solution. I started using Wise in 2020 and was impressed by their low fees and transparent exchange rates. For instance, during a high-volume project, I managed to save nearly PHP 10,000 in transfer fees over three months, which equated to three months of minimum wage in Manila. Remitly, on the other hand, was my go-to for quick family remittances. In 2021, my family faced an unexpected emergency, and I needed to send money quickly. Remitly's Express service delivered the funds in under an hour, providing much-needed relief.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

- **Ignoring Exchange Rates**: Always compare the offered exchange rates with the market rates. This oversight can lead to significant losses over time. - **Choosing the Wrong Transfer Speed**: While Remitly's Express service is fast, it's also more expensive. Choose the slower option if time isn't a critical factor to save on fees. - **Not Verifying Recipient Details**: Double-check recipient information to avoid delays and additional correction fees, a mistake I made early on. - **Overlooking Platform Fees**: Some platforms may have hidden fees. Always review the fee breakdown before confirming a transaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is cheaper, Wise or Remitly?

Wise generally offers lower and more transparent fees compared to Remitly, especially for frequent transactions.

Can I use Wise for receiving payments from Upwork?

Yes, Wise can be used to receive payments from Upwork, offering favorable exchange rates and low fees Upwork guide.

How fast is Remitly's Express service?

Remitly's Express service can deliver funds in minutes, making it ideal for urgent remittances.

What payment methods does Wise support?

Wise supports transfers to Philippine banks and mobile wallets such as GCash and Maya, offering great flexibility.

Is Remitly suitable for freelancers?

Remitly is suitable for freelancers who prioritize quick transactions and cash pickup options for their families.

Final Verdict

Choosing between Wise and Remitly ultimately depends on your specific needs as a Filipino freelancer. If you prioritize cost savings and manage frequent international transactions, Wise is the better option. However, if you need a quick and straightforward remittance solution, especially for cash pickups, Remitly is more suitable. As of January 2026, I personally rely on Wise for my freelancing payments due to its transparency and cost-effectiveness. For more insights on managing freelance payments, check this Payoneer guide.