Western Union was founded in 1851 as the New York and Mississippi Valley Printing Telegraph Company in Rochester, New York. The company pioneered the telegraph industry in America and dominated telecommunications for over a century. In 1871, Western Union introduced the concept of wiring money, creating the foundation for what would become the world's largest money transfer network. By 2006, the company ceased all telegraph communications services, transforming fully into a financial services provider.

Today, Western Union is a publicly-traded company (NYSE: WU) with a global presence spanning 200+ countries and territories. With over 500,000 agent locations worldwide and digital platforms, Western Union processed over $93 billion in transfers in 2023. The company serves approximately 150 million customers annually, making it the largest money transfer service in the world. Western Union's network includes partnerships with banks, retailers, post offices, and online platforms to provide maximum accessibility.

Western Union offers multiple delivery methods including cash pickup at agent locations, direct bank deposits, and digital wallet transfers. While the company's exchange rate markups (0-1.5% typically, but sometimes much higher depending on the corridor) are higher than some fintech competitors, its unmatched agent network and decade-long brand reputation make it a trusted choice for individuals and businesses sending money internationally.