Sending Money to India for Eid
How to send money to family in India for Eid. Timing tips, best rates, and how Root gets your transfer there on time.
Eid al-Fitr is a joyous occasion for families across India, marking the end of Ramadan with prayers, feasts, and the giving of gifts. For NRIs in the USA, sending money home is a heartfelt way to support loved ones and stay connected during this special time. This guide covers everything you need to know to send funds smoothly, avoid delays, and factor in key regulations like TCS so your family receives what they need in time for Eid.
Eid al-Fitr typically occurs in March or April, depending on the Islamic lunar calendar. It is celebrated with morning prayers, family gatherings, and the exchange of gifts and money, especially with children and elders. NRIs often send money to help cover expenses for clothes, sweets, charity (zakat al-fitr), and travel, ensuring their loved ones can celebrate fully even from afar.
Tips for Sending on Time
Send Early
Start your transfer at least 5–7 business days before Eid to account for processing and banking delays, especially during high-volume periods.
Check IFSC Code
Ensure the recipient's IFSC code is correct — a single error can delay or bounce your transfer, potentially missing the Eid deadline.
Factor in TCS for Large Transfers
If you’ve remitted over ₹7,00,000 (approx. $8,400) this financial year, 5% TCS will apply. Plan your transfer amount accordingly to avoid surprises.
Confirm Account Type
Root supports NRO and regular savings/current accounts in India. NRE account support is coming soon, so verify your recipient’s account type before sending.
How to Send — Step by Step
Log in to Root
Access your Root account via the app or website. Make sure your identity is verified and your US bank account is linked.
Pro tip: Complete verification early — it can take up to 2 business days.
Enter Transfer Amount
Choose how much to send in USD. The app will show the live conversion rate and estimated INR amount your recipient will get.
Pro tip: For Eid gifts, consider rounding up to a symbolic amount, like $200 or $500, for good fortune.
Add Recipient Details
Provide your family member’s full name, Indian bank name, account number, and IFSC code. Double-check for accuracy.
Pro tip: Ask your recipient to confirm their IFSC using their bank's website or app to avoid errors.
Review TCS and Fees
If this year’s total remittances exceed ₹7,00,000, 5% TCS will be applied. Root shows all deductions upfront — no hidden fees.
Pro tip: TCS is not a fee — it’s a tax collected at source and may be adjustable during your Indian tax filing.
Confirm and Send
Review all details, confirm the transfer, and track it in real time through the app. Most transfers arrive in 1–4 business days.
Pro tip: Send before April 1st for Eid al-Fitr 2026 to ensure delivery by the celebration date.
Make Eid Special for Your Family in India
Send money with Root — zero fees, delivered in 1-4 business days.
Send for EidFrequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to send money for Eid al-Fitr?
To ensure your money arrives on time, send at least 5–7 business days before Eid. In 2026, Eid is expected in early April, so initiate transfers by late March.
How much can I send for Eid without tax issues?
You can send any amount, but if your total outward remittances exceed ₹7,00,000 in the financial year (April-March), 5% TCS applies. This is not a limit, but a tax collected at source.
Can I send money for Eid gifts and family expenses?
Yes — under FEMA guidelines, remittances for gifts, maintenance of relatives, or personal celebrations like Eid are fully permitted. Prohibited uses include gambling, lottery, or real estate in restricted sectors.
Does the recipient need a PAN card to receive money for Eid?
Banks in India may require the recipient’s PAN for large transfers (typically above ₹50,000) for compliance. It’s best to have it ready, though smaller gifts may not require it.
Are there extra fees during Eid season?
Root charges zero service fees regardless of season. The exchange rate and TCS (if applicable) are the only factors affecting the final amount — CHECK_LIVE