Getting robbed while traveling is one of those nightmare scenarios that feels totally paralyzing. No cash, no cards, no way to pay for food or a place to sleep. But here’s something most people don’t know: the U.S. government has a system set up specifically for this.
If you’re a U.S. citizen stuck abroad and you need emergency money, the State Department can help facilitate a money transfer to you from a friend or family member back home. Your people at home would need to find a Western Union location (you can dial 1-800-325-6000 to find one), then request a Quick Collect form and fill out only fields #1 and #2. That’s it on their end.
Once that’s done, the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate can get the money to you. No one back home to help? The State Department may also be able to offer an emergency loan in some situations — check USAGov for details on eligibility.
Your first move should always be to contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate directly. If you can’t reach them, you can call 1-888-407-4747 — that’s the State Department’s line for Americans who need assistance outside the U.S.
Save that number in your phone before your next trip. Seriously. It takes five seconds and could save you from a very bad day in a foreign country.