Sending gift money from India to the USA is more than just a financial transaction. It is an emotional connection between families and friends living far apart. Whether it’s helping your child abroad, surprising a friend, or supporting relatives, these transfers bring people closer. With trusted platforms like moneyHOP, the process is simple, safe, and cost-effective.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best ways of sending gift money to the USA from India, documents you’ll need, TCS rules, transfer charges, and how to ensure your money reaches safely and quickly.
Best Ways of Sending Gift Money to the USA from India
1. Cash: The Old-School Option
Sending cash by courier or postal service is risky. Theft, loss, or damage during transit are common concerns. While insurance and tracking provide some security, this method is outdated and discouraged.
Use when: No digital options are available and you’re fully aware of the risks.
2. Gift Cards: Simple and Thoughtful
Electronic gift cards are a modern and personal way to send money. You can choose from a range of international retailers and deliver the gift directly to the recipient’s email.
Pro Tip: Ensure the gift card is redeemable in the USA.
3. Certificates of Deposit (CDs): Ideal for Long-Term Gifts
CDs are fixed-term investments offered by banks and NBFCs in India. You can purchase one in the recipient’s name, and they can encash it at maturity.
Best for: Long-term financial planning and gifts meant for the future.
4. Wire Transfers: Secure and Reliable
Wire transfers via banks are safe and usually completed within 1–2 business days. However, fees and exchange rate margins vary significantly between providers.
Expert Tip: Always calculate total cost, including hidden fees, before initiating a transfer.
5. Money Transfer Companies: Modern and Efficient
Specialized platforms like HOP Remit by moneyHOP offer a seamless remittance experience. With competitive exchange rates, low fees, and fast delivery, they are quickly becoming the preferred method for international gift remittances.
Why Choose This? Fast, secure, transparent, and built for the digital age.
Save big on your every international money transfer!
Send money at the lowest exchange rates & ZERO convenience fees with moneyHOP.
Comparison: Methods to Send Gift Money to the USA from India
| Parameter | Bank Transfers | HOP Remit by moneyHOP | Debit/Credit Cards | Forex Card | Demand Draft |
| Transfer Speed | 3-5 days | 24-48 hours | 1-3 days | 1-3 days | 5-10 days |
| Exchange Rate | Moderate | Low | High | High | Moderate |
| Convenience | Moderate | High | High | High | Low |
| Fees | High | Low | Moderate to High | Moderate | Low |
| Security | High | High | Moderate | High | High |
| Transaction Limits | High | Flexible | Moderate to High | High | Low |
| Customer Support | Moderate | High | High | Moderate | Low |
Documents Needed for Sending Gift Money to the USA
The documents required for remitting gift money to the USA from India may vary depending on the money transfer service you use. However, some of the common documents required include:
- Passport: Passport number and details
- Government-Issued ID: PAN card or driver’s license
- Gift Letter: A declaration stating the money is a gift
- Recipient’s Details: Full name, address, and bank information
Depending on your relationship with the recipient, you may also need a birth certificate, marriage certificate, or other proof of relationship.
TCS on Sending Gift Money to the USA from India
| Type of Remittance Abroad | Present TCS Rate |
| Education or Medical Treatment | 5% of the amount above Rs. 7 lakh |
| Education via Loan | 0.5% of the amount above Rs. 7 lakh |
| Overseas Tour Packages | 20% on total amount (no threshold) |
| Any Other Purpose (including gifts) | 20% on total amount (no threshold) |
As per RBI’s Liberalized Remittance Scheme (LRS), Indian residents can send up to USD 250,000 per financial year for permitted purposes. This limit applies to gifts as well.
Note: TCS is applicable even if you’re sending money to a close family member.
Charges and Fees: What to Expect
The charges and fees for sending gifts from India to the USA will vary based on the following factors:
- The specific amount of money being sent
- The chosen method of sending
- The bank or money transfer service being utilized
| Method | Flat Fee | Exchange Rate Margin |
| Banks | Rs. 750-1,000 | Variable |
| Money Transfer Companies | Rs. 300-500 | Variable |
| HOP Remit by moneyHOP | Rs. 250* | Variable |
Why Use HOP Remit for Sending Gift Money to the USA?
HOP Remit by moneyHOP is an instantaneous, cost-effective, user-intuitive, and contactless international remittance service that is tailor-made to serve Indians. It provides customers with complete transparency and significantly reduces the total transaction costs of sending money abroad. The HOP Remit platform represents the perfect concoction of a fintech’s agility and the security observed in a bank.
Here are some features that make HOP Remit different:
1. Best Exchange Rates, Always!
At HOP Remit, we don’t just match market rates—we strive to beat them! Our constantly updated exchange rates ensure you always get the most for your money. After all, every rupee counts!
2. No Hidden Charges—What You See Is What You Pay!
We believe in full transparency. With HOP Remit, you’ll never encounter hidden fees or unexpected costs. When we say zero hidden charges, we mean it. No surprises—just honest, upfront pricing.
3. Lightning-Fast Transfers in Just 48 Hours!
Transfers usually don’t take long. In most cases, the money gets where it needs to go in about two days. It’s a pretty smooth process, and you won’t be left wondering where things stand.
4. 24/7 Availability—Because Life Doesn’t Stop
Need to send money at midnight or on a holiday? No problem! Our services are available round-the-clock, 365 days a year. Whenever you need us, we’re here for you.
5. Lock in Exchange Rates for Up to 24 Hours!
Sometimes rates go up or down while you’re still deciding. To make things easier, we give you a full day to hold the rate you see. That way, you can take your time and finish the transfer when you’re ready.
How to Send Gift Money to the USA from India in 5 Simple Steps?
- Open Your HOP Remit Account: It is as simple as pie to get started. Just register with your email address and phone number. It is quick, and you will be up to send money in minutes.
- Enter the amount you intend to send: Once you’re inside, go ahead and input the amount you’re looking to transfer. Choose the currency, select the transfer purpose, and you’re halfway there.
- Double Check Your Details (Super Simple!): We’re security focused, so we just ask for a quick KYC (Know Your Customer) check. Just give us your basic details—name, birth date, and address—and share a valid identity document (Aadhaar or PAN card). Piece of cake, and you’ll be live with the full capabilities of the platform in no time.
- Finally, complete the details of your beneficiary including his or her name, address, and banking information. Depending on the purpose, we might require one or two other documents, for instance, a proof of relationship or a bank statement.
- Pay up and you’re done: Choose your payment mode—net banking, credit/debit card, or UPI—and go ahead with the payment. The money will be in the process of being transferred, typically in hours, depending on the payment gateway and the country.
Who Are All Considered As Close Relatives?
The following are considered to be close relatives:
- Members of HUF (Hindu Undivided Family)
- Husband and Wife
- Father (Provided that the term “Father” includes step-father)
- Mother (Provided that the term “Mother” includes the step-mother)
- Son (Provided that the term “Son” includes the step-son)
- Son’s wife
- Daughter
- Daughter’s husband
- Brother (Provided that the term “Brother” includes the step-brother)
- Sister (Provided that the term “Sister” includes the step-sister)
Who All Do We Serve?
| Customer | Description |
| Overseas university students | Send your university fees and living expenses with no hassle |
| International Travelers | Pay for your accommodation and itinerary in advance |
| Overseas family/guardians | Send gifts/maintenance money to your family in another country |
| Medical tourists | Pay for your treatments in another country in advance |
| Business travellers | Facilitate business travels like a pro with fully planned and paid advanced bookings |
Why pay more for international money transfers when moneyHOP is here?
- NO hidden fees
- ZERO convenience fees
- Real-time updates
- Lowest exchange rates
Need to pay your university fees and living expenses abroad?
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In Conclusion
Sending money as a gift to your loved ones in the USA from India is more than a transaction. It is a gesture of bridging the distance and giving a little bit of home. With so many transfer options, the choice can be the difference between a good experience and a great one. HOP Remit by moneyHOP makes it easy, with competitive exchange rates, low fees, and quick transfers. But it’s more than convenience; it’s letting your loved ones know you care. By choosing HOP Remit, you’re giving more than money. You’re giving love, care, and a message that no matter how much distance separates you, your heart is always close.
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