Freelancing offers flexibility. You choose your projects, your hours, and your workspace. Working with international clients, however, can introduce additional administrative steps — especially when it comes to getting paid.
Different currencies, banking systems, and transfer processes can create uncertainty around timing and final amounts received.
If a client suggests using Remitly or Remitly Business to pay you, you may have questions. Do you need a new account? How does the process work? What happens after payment is sent?
This guide outlines what freelancers should understand when using Remitly to receive payments.
Understanding Remitly for Freelancers
Remitly for Freelancers is a payment transfer tool intended for freelancers, contractors, and remote workers who receive payments from international clients.
Instead of sharing full banking details directly over email, users can generate a payment request through the platform. The service supports receiving funds directly to your local bank account or mobile wallet, or into a Remitly USD wallet where funds can be held before being transferred or converted — whichever works best for you.
It is not a bank account and does not replace a traditional financial institution. It is designed specifically to support the receipt and management of client payments.
Common Challenges with International Payments
| Challenge | Reason |
| Limited Payment Visibility | After sending an invoice, it can be difficult to know when a client has initiated payment or when funds will arrive. Limited visibility may create uncertainty in cash flow planning. |
| Currency Conversion Timing | Exchange rates change over time. When payments are received in one currency and converted into another, the final amount depends on the rate applied at the time of conversion. |
| Sharing Banking Information | Providing full bank routing details over standard email may not be ideal for every freelancer. Some professionals prefer alternatives that reduce direct sharing of sensitive information. |
How the Payment Process Works With Remitly
Freelancers can create a payment request using the Remitly app or website and share it with their client.
Clients complete the payment using the link provided. In many cases, clients can follow the instructions in the link without navigating a complex onboarding process.
Once the payment is completed, funds are sent to your chosen destination — directly to your local bank account or mobile wallet (such as GCash, Maya, or Nequi), or into your Remitly USD wallet if you prefer to hold in USD.
From there, users can review available options for holding or transferring funds, subject to platform availability and applicable terms.
The USD Wallet: Managing Received Funds
Payments received through the platform are sent to your chosen destination — your local bank account, mobile wallet, or Remitly USD wallet.
If you choose the USD wallet option, you can decide when to initiate a transfer or conversion. Or, skip this step entirely by having funds paid directly to your local bank account or mobile wallet.
Before confirming a transfer or currency conversion, applicable fees and exchange rate information are displayed within the transaction flow. Users can review these details prior to proceeding.
Payment Tracking
The platform provides status updates on payment requests and completed transactions within the user interface.
Users can view when a request has been sent and when a payment has been received in their wallet. This visibility may reduce the need for repeated manual follow-ups with clients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How are fees shown?
During the transfer or conversion process, applicable fees and exchange rate information are presented before a transaction is finalized.
Do clients need to download the app?
Clients typically complete payment using the link shared with them in the app or online. Requirements may vary depending on payment method and location.
Is my information secure?
The platform incorporates security features designed to help safeguard user accounts. Using a payment request link may reduce the need to share full bank account details directly over email.
Managing International Client Payments
Freelancers often manage multiple responsibilities beyond their core work. Having a structured process for requesting and receiving international payments can help organize the financial side of freelancing.
If your client uses Remitly, the platform provides a way to request payment, monitor its status, and receive funds directly to your local bank account or mobile wallet — or into your Remitly USD wallet if you’d like to hold in USD first.
Using tools designed for cross-border payments may help streamline administrative steps associated with international work.
Legal Disclaimer
Product availability may vary by jurisdiction and is subject to change. Not an offer or solicitation where Remitly or its affiliates are not licensed or otherwise authorized. Availability and use of the products and services is subject to compliance with applicable law.