According to its website, Western Union has more than 340,000 agents and locations that accept payments from individuals to pay bills, people, and transfer money all across the globe. Starting a Western Union business (and becoming an agent) makes sense for companies already offering other consumer services, but it is also a good solution for any company that wants to increase revenue and customers.

Becoming an Agent

Point your web browser to Western Union's agent portal website at http://agentportal.westernunion.com, and click on the "Become an Agent" section near the bottom of the page.

Download and fill out Western Union's prequalification form to initiate the process of starting a Western Union business. This form requests necessary information, such as your name, company name, address, and any tax identification numbers.

Send the agent prequalification form to the mailing address or fax number shown on the form. You will receive a notification of acceptance or rejection from Western Union in approximately 15 business days. If accepted, you will subsequently receive a Western Union agent number.

Upon acceptance, register online (through Western Union's agent portal) as a money transfer agent. The agent portal will help your Western Union business by giving you online access to training, tracking, and management tools for the services you offer.

Advertise your Western Union business. Place the Western Union logo and all advertisements that the company allows agents to use in prominent locations throughout your store or office. In addition, place advertisements elsewhere, such as in newspapers and local magazines. Don't forget to advertise which Western Union services you offer (bill payments, money transfers, etc).