Sending Money to Kerala, India
How to send USD to Kerala. Transfer times, bank tips, regulatory notes, and how Root delivers INR to any bank in Kerala.
This guide is for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) in the USA sending money from the United States to family, property, or business interests in Kerala, India. Kerala, known for its strong NRI ties and high cost of living relative to income levels, relies heavily on remittances for household expenses, education, healthcare, and real estate. We’ll cover how to send USD to INR transfers efficiently, key state-specific considerations, regulatory rules like TCS, and what to expect when sending money to banks in Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Kozhikode, and beyond.
Kerala has a service-based economy with strong healthcare, education, and tourism sectors, alongside a significant expatriate workforce in the Gulf and Western countries. Many NRIs maintain family homes, invest in property, or support aging parents, making regular remittances essential. The state's high literacy and banking penetration make digital transfers practical, but strict compliance checks mean accurate documentation is crucial.
Quick Facts
Transfer Fee
$0 — Root charges zero fees
Exchange Rate
CHECK_LIVE (interbank rate)
Transfer Time
1-4 business days to Kerala
Major Banks
SBI, HDFC, ICICI, Axis — all supported in Kerala
How to Send — Step by Step
Log in to Your Root Account
Access your Root app or website using your NRI credentials. Ensure your profile is verified and up to date.
Pro tip: Use two-factor authentication for added security.
Start a New Transfer to India
Select 'Send Money to India' and enter the amount in USD. The platform will show the live INR equivalent using the interbank rate.
Enter Recipient Details in Kerala
Provide the recipient’s full name, verified phone number, and bank account number. Confirm they have an NRO or regular savings account (NRE support coming soon).
Pro tip: Double-check the IFSC code of their Kerala-based branch — errors here delay transfers.
Choose Beneficiary Bank and Confirm IFSC
Search for the bank and branch in cities like Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, or Kozhikode. Ensure the IFSC matches exactly what the bank provides.
Review TCS and Confirm Transfer
If this year’s total remittances exceed ₹7,00,000 (~$8,400), 5% TCS will be deducted at source. Confirm understanding of this tax implication before proceeding.
Track and Confirm Delivery
Once sent, track the transfer status in real time. Funds typically arrive in 1–4 business days. Notify your family to confirm receipt.
Local Tips
In Kerala, SBI and Federal Bank have extensive branch networks in rural and urban areas — use IFSC codes carefully, especially in districts like Alappuzha or Idukki.
Many families in Kerala use remittances for home construction, medical expenses, or wedding costs — sending larger amounts during festival seasons requires early initiation due to TCS processing.
Recipients in Thiruvananthapuram or Kochi may be asked for PAN for transactions above ₹50,000 by their bank — having it ready avoids delays.
Send Money to Kerala with Root
Zero fees, interbank rate. INR credited directly to any bank in Kerala.
Send NowFrequently Asked Questions
Why do I need to pay 5% TCS when sending money to Kerala?
TCS (Tax Collected at Source) of 5% applies on cumulative remittances exceeding ₹7,00,000 in a financial year under India’s LRS rules. This is collected by the sending entity and remitted to Indian tax authorities. It applies regardless of whether the recipient is in Kerala or another state.
Can I send money from the USA to a family member’s bank account in Kochi, Kerala?
Yes, you can send money to any bank branch in Kochi, including branches of SBI, HDFC, ICICI, and Federal Bank. Just ensure you enter the correct account number and IFSC code for the specific branch.
Are there restrictions on how my family in Kerala uses the money I send?
Under FEMA guidelines, remittances cannot be used for prohibited purposes like gambling, lottery, or real estate speculation. However, normal expenses like living costs, education, medical care, and home construction are fully permitted.
Does Root support NRE accounts in Kerala?
Currently, Root supports NRO and regular savings or current accounts in Kerala. NRE account support is in development and will be available soon.
Is there a US Excise Tax on my transfer to Kerala?
As of early 2026, the proposed 1% US Excise Tax on international wire transfers has not been enacted. Your transfer is subject only to the TCS rules imposed by Indian regulations, not US federal excise tax.