How to Save on Fees When
Sending Money Home for Christmas
22 September 2025
Learn how to save on fees when you send money home for Christmas. Discover tips to cut costs, get better rates, and make every peso count for your family.
Christmas is one of the most meaningful times of the year for Filipinos. Families gather, Noche Buena tables are filled, and loved ones reconnect — even if some are only present through video calls. For many Overseas Filipino Works (OFWs), it’s also the busiest season to send money home. Those remittances help cover Christmas food, gifts, and year-end expenses like tuition or bills.
The numbers show just how important this is. According to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), personal remittances hit $36.14 billion in 2022, with December consistently the highest month for inflows. Simply put, OFWs make Christmas brighter back home.
But here’s the challenge: fees and poor exchange rates can take a big bite out of your hard-earned money. If you’re not careful, a good portion of your support might never reach your family.
Why So Many OFWs Send Money at Christmas
The Philippines is known for having the longest Christmas season in the world — it starts as early as September! By December, families are preparing for Noche Buena, buying gifts, or fixing up their homes for the holidays.
For OFWs, sending money home during this season isn’t just about covering costs. It’s about keeping traditions alive, making sure loved ones are cared for, and staying connected despite the distance. That’s why December remittances are always the highest of the year.
The Hidden Costs of Remittances
While sending money is essential, the cost of doing so can sometimes be surprising. Common issues include:
- Higher transfer fees — Some providers take a cut per transaction.
- Unfair exchange rates — Your family may receive less due to marked-up conversion rates.
- Hidden charges — Unexpected deductions on the receiving side.
For example, sending $500 with a 7% fee means your family instantly loses $35. Multiple that over several transfers, and it’s a significant loss.
Smart Ways to Save on Fees
The good news is, you don’t have to spend more than you need to. Here are some simple ways to save on remittance fees this Christmas:
1. Compare Providers
Banks, remittance centers, and digital apps all charge differently. Apps like OTT Remit often offer better rates and lower fees compared to traditional channels.
2. Plan Ahead
Last-minute transfers can cost more. Send early to avoid peak charges and ensure your family gets the money on time.
3. Send Larger Amounts, Less Often
Instead of multiple small transfers, combine them into one bigger transaction to save on repeated fees.
4. Use Digital Remittance Apps
Trusted apps are fast, secure, and transparent. Many also offer rewards or points, giving you extra value.
5. Watch Out for Holiday Promos
Christmas is peak season, and many providers roll out special deals. Taking advantage of these promotions can stretch your money further.
Final Thoughts
For OFWs, sending money home during Christmas is more than financial support — it’s love, care, and connection. And while fees and charges can’t always be avoided, you can minimize them by planning ahead and choosing the right service.
This Christmas, make sure your remittance go where they matter the most: to your family. Send money to the Philippines wisely, save on fees, and give the gift of a brighter holiday season.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the authors in this publication are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of OTT Remit, OTT Financial Inc., and the OTT Group of Companies. This publication is provided for general information purposes only and should not be considered as exhaustive or comprehensive in covering all aspects of the discussed topics. It is not intended to replace seeking advice from a specialist or professional.
How To Send Money with OTT Remit
Follow three simple steps to send money quickly and securely to loved ones anywhere in the world.
Sign up for an account
Enter your name and phone number to create an account with OTT Remit.
Enter money transfer details
Choose your destination country and select one of three remittance methods: Cash Pickup, Mobile Wallet, or Bank Deposit. Enter your recipient's information.
Pay for your transfer
Complete your remittance by making an INTERAC e-Transfer. It's that easy!
