How To Get A Money Transmitter License (MTL) in the U.S.

To get a Money Transmitter License (MTL), businesses must undergo a rigorous application process that involves dual compliance with federal (like FinCEN's AML/KYC protocols) and varying state-level regulations. Key requirements across states include demonstrating financial viability, often requiring a surety bond and capital reserves, passing comprehensive background checks for key personnel, and establishing a robust internal compliance program. The process is complex, time-consuming, and mandates extensive documentation and financial disclosures to ensure the applicant is law-abiding and financially sound. 

Operating a money transfer service in the U.S. involves tackling a myriad of federal and state laws, making how to get a money transmitter license both time-consuming and expensive. Compliance with agencies like FinCEN is non-negotiable to prevent illegal activities. 

Companies can either secure their own MSB license or partner with a licensed entity, but legal adherence is vital in both scenarios. It's essential to understand what a money transmitter license is and who needs it.

What is a Money Transmitter License? 

A Money Transmitter License is an official authorization or money service business license that empowers a firm or individual to facilitate the movement of capital. This license enables MSBs to handle financial transactions, ranging from digital payments to wire transfers.

Possessing a Money Transmitter License brings forth substantial regulatory oversight. Organizations must prove they have the governance structure and internal controls to manage and safeguard client funds. States will continually scrutinize applicants, denying licensure to those who fail to meet the stringent criteria. 

In the United States, the need for a Money Transmitter License is not a choice; it's a requirement for virtually any business involved in the handling or transferring of funds. Money transmitter license requirements by state can vary, so it's crucial to be aware of the respective state money transmitter regulations.

How to Get a Money Transmitter License? 

The license application process is designed to be rigorous, ensuring that approved businesses are law-abiding and financially sound. Federal and state-level regulations diverge, with each state setting its own financial criteria and often requiring a minimum capital commitment. 

Applicants typically need a surety bond of at least $500,000 per state, with costs influenced by credit history. The duration to obtain the license varies, contingent on the business type and the state of operation.

Money Transmitter License Requirements 

Acquiring a money transmitter license involves compliance with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) protocols. While these regulations are federal, individual states often impose additional requirements, thereby necessitating dual compliance.

Subsequent to application submission, state authorities undertake an investigative review, focusing on financial sustainability and the applicant's background. 

Standardized Requirements Across States 

• Registration: Initial registration typically occurs with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network or a similar state-level body.
• Financial Criteria: Applicants must demonstrate financial viability through audited financial records and capital reserves. A surety bond or similar financial security is often mandated.
• Background Verification: Comprehensive background checks for key personnel within the organization are standard. This often involves fingerprinting and criminal record assessments.
• Compliance Programs: Applicants must illustrate a robust internal compliance framework, focusing on AML and KYC guidelines. This includes staff training and transaction monitoring systems.
• Ongoing Obligations: Maintenance of detailed transaction records and regular reporting are generally required for ongoing compliance.

What do You Need to Apply for a Money Transmitter License?

A host of documents is required, and the entire process can stretch over several months. Here's what you'll generally need:

• Documentation and Financials
• A multi-year business strategy, meticulously laid out.
• Audited financial statements for your company.
• Personal financial documents of key stakeholder – this includes anyone who owns 10% or more of the company.
• Background checks, both criminal and civil, for all control persons. 
• Records of any litigation or criminal complaints against key individuals over the last fifteen years.

Who Needs a Money Transmitter License 

The core function that triggers this requirement is the act of facilitating monetary transactions on behalf of other individuals or entities. If your business is involved in this, acquiring the relevant license is a legal requirement.

No minimum transaction size exempts you from needing a Money Transmitter License. Even if your transfers are small, the law mandates that you obtain and renew this license.

Types of Money Service Businesses that Need the License

The term Money Service Business (MSB) is an umbrella label that encompasses a variety of business models dealing with money transactions. 

• Currency Exchangers: Those who buy and sell foreign currencies.
• Check-Cashing Services: Entities that cash checks for consumers.
• Traveler's Check Issuers: Companies that offer traveler's checks as a secure way to carry money.
• Money Order Services: Businesses offering money orders as a method of payment.
• Wire Transfer Services: Companies that send money electronically from one location to another.
• Payment Processors: Businesses that facilitate electronic payments for online transactions.
• Mobile Money Services: Firms offering money transfer services through mobile platforms.
• Digital Currency Platforms: Companies dealing in digital or cryptocurrencies.
• Peer-to-Peer Transfer Services: Platforms allowing individuals to send money to each other directly.

The Regulatory Landscape & KYC Compliance 

In the U.S., breaking into the money services business involves more than just securing a license. Long-term success hinges on rigorous adherence to Anti-Money Laundering and Know Your Customer regulations. That’s why using consulting for money transmitter licenses offered by partners like Fenergo is a smart choice.

A strong AML program should integrate seamlessly with thorough KYC policies, as dictated by federal and applicable state laws. This usually includes customer verification systems that may use a payment instrument, risk assessment methods, and alert mechanisms for unusual activities.

How MSBs Can Streamline Compliance  

Compliance is a complex undertaking for money service businesses. Fenergo's cloud-based software can be a game-changer in this context, offering an integrated solution for AML and KYC requirements.

When applying to register money transmitter licenses, having solid AML and KYC practices is a prerequisite. Fenergo's SaaS platform automates these critical compliance elements, saving you time and reducing the risk of human error. Its built-in features are tailored to meet both federal and state regulatory standards.

How Much Does a Transmitter License Cost? 

The cost of acquiring money transmitter licenses can differ, notably based on jurisdiction. Understanding the general components of the cost structure aids prospective money transmitter businesses in budgetary planning.
 

Initial Application Expense: Every state mandates its own application fee, oscillating between several hundred and several thousand dollars for each operation location. Certain states have minimum net worth requirements that also contribute to initial costs.

Yearly Maintenance Charges: The upkeep of a transmitter business license is generally less expensive than obtaining it initially. Annual license renewal fees typically fall between $250 and $1,000, depending on the state's regulations.

Examination and Investigation Costs: In states where an applicant is subject to inquiry or periodic reviews post-licensing, additional fees may apply. These investigation and examination costs usually range from a modest $50 to a more substantial $1,000.

Money Transmitter Business Licenses FAQs 

How much does it cost to apply for a money transmitter license in NY?

The cost of a money transmitter license application in New York can vary, but it typically involves fees that can range into the thousands of dollars.

What do you need for a money transmitter license in Florida?

For a money transmitter license in Florida, you'll need to meet state-specific requirements which usually include an application fee, background checks, and financial audits.

What is a Money Transmitter Business (or MSB)?

A Money Transmitter Business (MTB), or Money Service Business (MSB), is an entity that facilitates the transfer of funds or value on behalf of a customer to a third party. This broad definition encompasses many financial services, including wire transfers, online payment processing, issuing money orders, and operating digital currency or cryptocurrency exchanges.

What is an MTL (Money Transmitter License) and why is it needed?

An MTL or money transfer business license is the mandatory legal authorization required for a company to engage in money transfer activities. In the U.S., money transmission is regulated primarily at the state level, meaning a company must secure a specific MTL in every state where it operates, in addition to federal registration as an MSB with FinCEN.

How to open a money transfer business (in brief)?

To open a money transfer business, you must first register as an MSB with the federal FinCEN, then apply for individual MTLs in each state you plan to serve. This process necessitates developing a robust AML and KYC compliance program, meeting state-specific financial requirements, securing a money transmitter bond, and undergoing extensive background and financial checks.

What is the process for an MTL application?

The MTL application process is a rigorous, multi-step procedure that often utilizes the Nationwide Multistate Licensing System (NMLS). Applicants are required to submit detailed business plans, financial statements, proof of capital reserves, and comprehensive documentation for key personnel to undergo background checks. The application must also demonstrate the establishment of a compliant AML/KYC framework and include proof of a mandatory money transmitter bond.

 What are money transmitter bonds?

Money transmitter bonds are a crucial type of surety bond mandated by most state regulators as a condition for receiving an MTL. This bond serves as a financial guarantee that the licensed money transmitter will operate in compliance with all state laws and protects consumers from potential financial loss resulting from the company's misuse of funds, fraud, or negligence. The required bond amount is set by each state and varies based on the company's volume and operational scope.

What is the MSB license cost?

The total MSB license cost is highly variable due to its state-by-state nature, comprising several major components: application fees (ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars per state), meeting state-mandated minimum net worth or capital requirements, the annual premium for the money transmitter bonds, and significant legal and consulting fees associated with developing and implementing a compliant AML/KYC program.