Sending Money from New Jersey to India
How NRIs in New Jersey can send USD to INR. Bank options, fees, limits, regulatory notes, and the easiest way to transfer with Root.
Indian-Americans in New Jersey represent one of the largest and most active NRI communities in the U.S., frequently sending money to family and investments in India. This guide covers everything you need to know about transferring USD to INR securely and efficiently using Root. We address key considerations like exchange rates, compliance, and India-specific rules like TCS and IFSC codes. Whether you're in Edison, Jersey City, or Fort Lee, this guide is tailored for NRIs navigating the USD to INR corridor.
New Jersey hosts one of the highest concentrations of Indian-Americans in the U.S., particularly in Middlesex County and the NYC metro area. Cities like Edison and Iselin are hubs for Indian professionals working in pharmaceuticals, IT, and financial services, drawn by proximity to major employers and a strong cultural ecosystem that supports frequent remittances to India.
Quick Facts
Transfer Fee
$0 — Root charges zero fees
Exchange Rate
CHECK_LIVE (interbank rate)
Transfer Time
1-4 business days
State Regulation
Root is licensed as a Money Transmitter in New Jersey
How to Send — Step by Step
Download Root and Verify Your Identity
Sign up on the Root app or website. Complete identity verification using your U.S. driver's license or passport and SSN. This one-time step ensures compliance with U.S. and Indian financial regulations.
Pro tip: New Jersey residents can verify quickly using their NJ driver’s license.
Link Your U.S. Bank Account
Connect your checking account via instant verification or ACH. Root supports most major banks including Chase, Bank of America, and Citibank, commonly used by NRIs in New Jersey.
Pro tip: Instant verification is faster and available through select banks.
Enter Transfer Details
Input the amount in USD, recipient's full name, Indian bank account number, IFSC code, and address. Ensure IFSC code accuracy to prevent delays — common banks include SBI, HDFC, and ICICI.
Pro tip: Double-check the IFSC code using your recipient’s bank website or the Reserve Bank of India’s directory.
Review Exchange Rate and Confirm Transfer
Root displays the live interbank rate and total INR expected. Confirm the transaction. No fees are added by Root, so the full USD amount (minus CHECK_LIVE bank processing costs) is converted.
Pro tip: Schedule transfers during weekdays to avoid weekend processing delays.
Track and Notify Recipient
Monitor your transfer status in the app. Once completed, notify your recipient in India to check their account. NRO and savings accounts are supported — NRE coming soon.
Pro tip: Keep your recipient’s mobile number handy for delivery updates.
Rules & Regulations
TCS on Large Remittances
Under Indian tax rules effective October 2023, 5% Tax Collected at Source (TCS) applies to cumulative remittances exceeding ₹7,00,000 (~$8,400) in a financial year under LRS. This applies to the recipient side; TCS is typically collected by the Indian bank if funds are credited under LRS. Root does not deduct TCS, but recipients should be prepared for possible tax compliance with their bank.
Permitted Remittance Purposes
Under FEMA, remittances to India must not support prohibited activities like gambling, lottery, or real estate purchase by non-residents unless compliant with RBI rules. Personal transfers, education, medical expenses, and family support are allowed. Root requires purpose declaration during large transactions.
PAN and Bank Requirements
Indian banks may require the recipient’s PAN for transfers above ₹50,000 per transaction or cumulative credits. While not always enforced, providing PAN helps prevent delays. Root does not collect PAN but recommends recipients have it on file with their bank.
Send Money from New Jersey to India with Root
Zero fees, interbank rate, and fast delivery. Built for NRIs in New Jersey.
Get StartedFrequently Asked Questions
Can I send money from New Jersey to India using Root without fees?
Yes. Root charges $0 in fees for sending money from New Jersey to India. You only pay the live interbank exchange rate with no markup, so more INR reaches your recipient.
Is Root available for NRIs living in cities like Edison or Jersey City?
Absolutely. Root is licensed in New Jersey and widely used by NRIs in high-density Indian communities like Edison, Iselin, and Fort Lee for fast, reliable USD to INR transfers.
How does TCS affect my remittance if I send over $8,400 in a year?
If your total remittances to India exceed ₹7,00,000 (~$8,400) in a financial year, the Indian bank may apply 5% TCS under the LRS. This is separate from U.S. taxes and applies on the recipient side. Root does not collect TCS but recommends consulting your Indian bank.
What’s the fastest way to send money from New Jersey to an Indian bank?
Using Root, transfers typically arrive in 1-4 business days. For quickest delivery, send during weekdays, confirm IFSC code accuracy, and avoid month-end when Indian banks may face volume delays.
Does the proposed U.S. Excise Tax apply to my international transfers?
As of early 2026, a 1% U.S. Excise Tax on international wire transfers has been proposed but not enacted. Root will update compliance in real time if new federal rules take effect — currently, no such tax applies.