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Ria Blog
Our guide to global living. Get practical finance tips, community stories, and simple ways to send money online, on the app or in person.
How to Get an ITIN Number: Step by Step
Applying for an ITIN is free and takes a few steps: Form W-7, your ID, and (usually) a tax return. Here's exactly how, plus how long it takes.
What Is an ITIN and Do You Need One?
An ITIN lets you file US taxes and open many bank accounts without a Social Security number. Here's who needs one, what it does, and what it costs.
The US Remittance Tax, Six Months In: What You're Actually Paying
The 1% US remittance tax has been in effect since January 2026. See real cost examples, what's exempt, and how to send money without paying it.
How Ria's Fees and Exchange Rates Work
Here's exactly how Ria's fees and exchange rates work, and what it means for the amount that lands in your loved one's hands.
Colombia Earthquake (2026): How to Help, Find Relief Resources, and Send Money
On the morning of August 10th, a 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia. Ria is waiving transfer fees to Colombia through August 16.
The Science of Homesickness: Why We Miss Home and How to Cope
Why homesickness happens, what it reveals about belonging, and simple ways to feel closer to home.
Living in Japan as a Foreigner: How to Read the Room and Feel at Home
Japan always leaves a strong impression on those who visit the country. Its cities are clean and efficient, public transport is known to be reliable, and everyday life often feels remarkably organized. These factors make it easy to understand why so many people choose moving to Japan as a foreigner: to live, work or study
The World We Share: Meet Diaby Massiga
Diaby Massiga was born in Mali. Like many, he later decided to look for a better future in France. Today, he is the manager of an African grocery store located in the 20th arrondissement of Paris, and a valued Ria agent, connecting with customers and helping families stay close no matter the distance. In this []
Venezuela Earthquakes: What Ria is Doing to Help
On the evening of June 24th, 2026, two magnitude 7 earthquakes shook Venezuela‘s coast near the capital Caracas. The tremors were the most powerful to hit the country in over a century. The extent of the fallout is still being assessed, with internal and international rescue efforts well underway. However, the damage is expected to []
Venezuela Earthquake (2026): How to Help, Find Relief Resources, and Send Money
Many of our customers have loved ones in Venezuela. If that's you, we're thinking of you. Here's what you need to know: Information is based on updates from USGS, UN OCHA, IFRC, and other humanitarian organizations. Details may change as emergency response efforts continue. On the evening of June 24, two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela.
The Currency of Caring: The Human Side of Remittances
Every year on June 16th, the world observes International Day of Family Remittances. On that date, we recognize the millions of migrants who send money back home to support their loved ones, helping build a better future for countless households across the globe. Although there is a lot of data about the financial impact and []
More Than a Game: How Global Events Change the Way We Spend and Send Money Abroad
Global events like the 2026 world football championship bring more than goals, rivalries and packed stadiums. They reshape how people move, spend and manage money while being abroad, often across multiple countries at once. With the next tournament taking place across the United States, Mexico and Canada, fans are navigating not just different cities, but []