Sending Money from Massachusetts to India
How NRIs in Massachusetts can send USD to INR. Bank options, fees, limits, regulatory notes, and the easiest way to transfer with Root.
Indian-Americans in Massachusetts are part of a growing NRI community, many working in tech, education, and healthcare sectors across the state. This guide helps NRIs in MA navigate the process of sending USD to INR securely and cost-effectively using Root. We cover the essentials—from exchange rates and transfer times to India-specific rules like TCS and IFSC codes. Whether you're supporting family or managing financial obligations back home, this guide ensures you make informed remittance decisions.
Massachusetts, particularly the Greater Boston area, attracts Indian professionals due to its world-class universities, biotech hubs, and technology firms like MITRE, Raytheon, and numerous startups around Kendall Square. The state's strong academic and innovation ecosystem supports a steady influx of skilled Indian immigrants, many of whom regularly send remittances to family in India.
Quick Facts
Transfer Fee
$0 — Root charges zero fees
Exchange Rate
CHECK_LIVE (interbank rate)
Transfer Time
1-4 business days
State Regulation
Root is licensed as a Money Transmitter in Massachusetts
How to Send — Step by Step
Download Root and Verify Your Identity
Sign up on the Root app and complete identity verification using your U.S. passport or green card. Massachusetts residents may also link a local bank account via Plaid or manual entry.
Pro tip: Verification typically takes under 10 minutes and is required only once.
Enter Recipient’s India Bank Details
Provide the recipient’s full name, Indian bank name, account number, and correct 11-digit IFSC code. Root currently supports NRO and regular savings accounts.
Pro tip: Double-check the IFSC code using your bank’s website or the RBI portal to prevent failed transfers.
Input Transfer Amount in USD or INR
Choose how much you’d like to send. Root shows the live exchange rate and estimated INR delivery. Note: TCS may apply if the recipient’s total LRS remittances exceed ₹7,00,000 in a financial year.
Pro tip: Send larger amounts in a single transfer to reduce processing time, but be mindful of TCS implications.
Review and Confirm Transfer
Confirm all details, including fees (zero) and delivery timeline. Authorized transfers are processed within one business day.
Pro tip: Set up notifications in the app to track transfer progress.
Track Delivery to India
Root provides real-time updates. Most transfers reach Indian banks within 1–4 business days, depending on the bank and verification procedures.
Pro tip: Delays may occur if Indian banks flag large transfers for PAN verification.
Rules & Regulations
TCS on Large Remittances
India collects 5% Tax Collected at Source (TCS) on outward remittances exceeding ₹7,00,000 (~$8,400) in a financial year under the LRS. While this applies to the recipient’s cumulative inflows, senders should inform recipients so they can plan for potential tax implications. TCS is refundable or adjustable during income tax filing in India if the funds are not taxable.
FEMA and Permissible Purposes
Under FEMA regulations, remittances to India must not be used for restricted activities such as gambling, lottery, or real estate speculation by non-residents. Personal gifts, family support, and education expenses are permitted. Root complies with all U.S. and Indian anti-money laundering laws.
NRO vs NRE Account Support
Root currently supports transfers to NRO and regular savings or current accounts in India. NRE account transfers are not yet supported but are expected soon. NRO accounts are suitable for remittances involving income earned in India, while NRE accounts are for foreign-sourced funds and offer tax-free status.
Send Money from Massachusetts to India with Root
Zero fees, interbank rate, and fast delivery. Built for NRIs in Massachusetts.
Get StartedFrequently Asked Questions
Can I send money from my Bank of America account in Boston to India using Root?
Yes, residents of Massachusetts can link any U.S. bank account, including Bank of America, Chase, or local credit unions, to Root. Transfers from Boston-based accounts are processed the same as any other U.S. bank, with no additional fees or delays.
Does Root work with Indian banks in tier-2 and tier-3 cities?
Yes, Root supports transfers to over 20 major Indian banks, including SBI, HDFC, ICICI, Axis, and Union Bank, even for branches in smaller cities like Coimbatore, Indore, or Vadodara. Just ensure the correct IFSC code is entered.
What is the impact of TCS if I send more than $8,400 in a year?
If the total remittance to a recipient in India exceeds ₹7,00,000 (~$8,400) in a financial year, Indian banks may apply 5% TCS on the excess amount. This is collected at source but can be adjusted during the recipient’s tax filing in India. Root does not deduct TCS but provides transaction records for compliance.
Is my transfer from Massachusetts to India taxed by the U.S. government?
No, as of early 2026, there is no U.S. Excise Tax on international wire transfers. A proposed 1% tax on transfers over $200 was not enacted. You are not required to pay U.S. tax on sending money abroad, though large transfers may need to be reported if over $100,000 to the IRS.
How long does it take for my family in India to receive money from Cambridge, MA?
Transfers initiated from Cambridge or anywhere in Massachusetts typically take 1–4 business days to appear in Indian bank accounts. Processing speed depends on the recipient’s bank—metropolitan banks like HDFC or ICICI in Mumbai or Delhi often credit faster than rural cooperative banks.