Sending Money from Washington DC to India
How NRIs in Washington DC, Virginia can send USD to INR. Zero fees, interbank rate, and fast delivery with Root.
Indian-Americans in Washington DC and Northern Virginia are part of a thriving NRI community, often working in tech, healthcare, and government sectors. Many send money regularly from the US to India to support family, invest in property, or manage expenses back home. This guide covers everything you need to know about sending USD to INR from Washington DC—rates, fees, rules like TCS, and how to send faster with Root.
Washington DC and nearby Virginia attract highly skilled Indian professionals due to opportunities at federal agencies, tech firms like Amazon and Microsoft, top universities, and research hospitals. Many NRIs here maintain deep financial responsibilities in India, including supporting parents, funding children’s education, and investing in real estate, making reliable, low-cost remittances essential.
Quick Facts
Transfer Fee
$0 — Root charges zero fees
Exchange Rate
CHECK_LIVE (interbank rate)
Transfer Time
1-4 business days
Minimum Amount
$10
How to Send — Step by Step
Sign Up on Root
Download the Root app or visit the website. Create your account using your US ID, address, and Social Security Number. Verify your identity in minutes.
Add Recipient in India
Enter the recipient’s name, Indian bank account number, and IFSC code. Make sure it’s an NRO or regular savings/current account—NRE support is coming soon.
Enter Amount in USD or INR
Choose how much you’d like to send. Root shows you the live exchange rate and exact INR amount the recipient will get.
Review & Confirm
Double-check the IFSC code and account details. Be aware: if your total remittances exceed ₹7,00,000 in a financial year, 5% TCS will apply.
Send with Bank Transfer
Fund your transfer via ACH or wire from your US bank account. Root does not charge fees—your bank might for outgoing wires.
Local Tips
Washington DC NRIs often send money during weekends after family calls—start transfers early Monday to avoid delays due to India's weekend (Saturday–Sunday) and time zone differences (10.5 hours ahead).
Use Root for recurring support like parents’ monthly expenses—set reminders to stay within IRS and FEMA-compliant limits and avoid last-minute rush.
Many Indian banks in India require recipient PAN for transfers above ₹50,000—ask your family to keep their PAN ready to avoid processing delays.
Send Money from Washington DC to India with Root
Zero fees, interbank rate. Built for NRIs in Washington DC.
Get StartedFrequently Asked Questions
Do I have to pay TCS when sending money from Washington DC to India?
Yes, if your total remittances under India’s Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) exceed ₹7,00,000 (~$8,400) in a financial year (April–March), 5% TCS is collected by the service provider. This applies regardless of where you send from, including Washington DC.
Can I send money to my parents’ bank account from Virginia using Root?
Yes. Just provide their full name, bank account number, and IFSC code. Ensure it’s an NRO or regular savings account. NRE accounts are not yet supported.
How long does it take for money to reach India from Washington DC?
Transfers typically arrive in 1–4 business days. Delays can happen if IFSC is incorrect or Indian banks are closed for holidays.
Is there a US tax or excise tax on sending money to India?
As of early 2026, there is no US excise tax on international transfers. A proposed 1% tax was not enacted. However, TCS (5%) may apply on amounts over ₹7,00,000 per year for Indian tax compliance.