Sending Money to India for Christmas
How to send money to family in India for Christmas. Timing tips, best rates, and how Root gets your transfer there on time.
Christmas is a joyful time for families across India, especially for Indian Christians celebrating with loved ones. For NRIs in the USA, sending money home this season helps bring holiday cheer — whether it's for gifts, festive meals, or supporting family in need. This guide walks you through how to send money to India safely and quickly for Christmas, with tips on timing, costs, and compliance to ensure your funds arrive on time and stress-free.
Christmas is celebrated on December 25 each year, with midnight masses, family gatherings, and festive meals across Indian Christian communities in states like Kerala, Goa, and Tamil Nadu. NRIs often send money to help loved ones buy gifts, prepare special meals, or cover travel costs for reunions. It's a meaningful way to stay connected and share in the joy even when miles apart.
Tips for Sending on Time
Send Early
Start your transfer by mid-December to ensure funds arrive before Christmas Day, accounting for weekends and bank processing times in both the USA and India.
Check IFSC Code
An incorrect IFSC code is a leading cause of failed transfers. Verify it with your recipient using their bank’s website or passbook.
Factor in TCS for Large Transfers
If you've remitted over ₹7,00,000 (approx. $8,400) under LRS this financial year, 5% TCS will apply. Let your family know so they aren’t surprised by deductions.
Confirm Account Type
Root currently supports NRO and regular savings/current accounts in India. NRE account support is coming soon — avoid sending to NRE for now.
How to Send — Step by Step
Log in to Root
Access your Root account via the app or website. Ensure your personal and verification details are up to date.
Pro tip: Complete KYC early to avoid delays during high-volume holiday periods.
Enter Transfer Amount in USD
Choose how much you want to send in USD. The app will show the equivalent INR amount using the live exchange rate.
Pro tip: Check live rate trends — consider locking in a favorable rate early.
Add Recipient in India
Input beneficiary name, Indian bank account number, and correct IFSC code. Double-check all details for accuracy.
Pro tip: Ask your family to share a recent bank statement to confirm IFSC and account number.
Review Exchange Rate & Fees
Root offers zero-fees transfers with no hidden markups. Confirm the final amount in INR that your family will receive.
Pro tip: CHECK_LIVE
Confirm & Send
Confirm your transfer. Most remittances arrive in 1-4 business days, well before Christmas Eve.
Pro tip: You’ll get real-time tracking updates via email and SMS.
Make Christmas Special for Your Family in India
Send money with Root — zero fees, delivered in 1-4 business days.
Send for ChristmasFrequently Asked Questions
Can I send money to India for Christmas gifts?
Yes, you can send money for gifting purposes. Just ensure the recipient’s bank details are correct and send by mid-December for on-time delivery.
Will my family pay tax on the money I send for Christmas?
No, money sent as a gift from an NRI to immediate family is tax-free in India. However, if the total remittance exceeds ₹7,00,000 in a financial year, 5% TCS applies at the sender level.
How long does it take to send money to India before Christmas?
Most transfers via Root arrive within 1-4 business days. To be safe, initiate your transfer by December 18 to ensure funds arrive by December 24.
Is there a maximum limit on how much I can send?
NRIs are not restricted by India’s LRS limit when sending to India. However, large transfers may require purpose codes and documentation under FEMA regulations. CHECK_LIVE
What happens if I enter the wrong IFSC code?
An incorrect IFSC code can delay or reject the transfer. Root will notify you, and funds will be refunded to your account — but this may take 5–7 business days. Always verify the code before submitting.