Western Union's Advice: Don't Stress – Send Cash, The Perfect Gift!

ENGLEWOOD, Colo., December 16, 2008 - With under two weeks to go before the holidays, a full 75 percent of consumers still have not finished their shopping, according to a new survey by Western Union (NYSE: WU), a world leader in global money transfer services.

According to the Western Union December study, 23.1 percent of consumers have not started their shopping yet; 18.6 percent still have a ways to go; and 33.1 percent reported being almost finished.

"As the holidays draw closer each day, last-minute shoppers are certainly looking for convenient gift options, and we've learned that this year consumers want cash," said Diane Robertson, vice president of marketing, U.S., Western Union.

"Sending cash, the perfect gift, through Western Union is a fast, easy and convenient way to ensure that loved ones receive what they really want this holiday season."

A recent survey conducted by Western Union in November revealed that 65 percent of respondents would prefer to get $100 cash this year, rather than a similarly valued present or gift card. The survey revealed that with cash, recipients can spend the money however they like, whether on daily living expenses like food or gas or on a personal treat.

Western Union provides three simple options for sending cash, the perfect gift: by visiting any of the more than 44,500 combined Agent locations in the United States alone; calling 1-800-CALL-CASH^®; or logging onto westernunion.com.

About Western Union
The Western Union Company (NYSE:WU) is a leader in global money transfer services. Together with its Vigo and Orlandi Valuta branded money transfer services,
Western Union provides consumers with fast, reliable and convenient ways to send and receive money around the world, as well as send payments and purchase money orders. It operates through a combined network of more than 365,000 Agent locations in more than 200 countries and territories. Famous for its pioneering telegraph services, the original Western Union dates back to 1851. For more information, visit www.WesternUnion.com.

Survey Methodology
The surveys, commissioned by Western Union and conducted by GfK Roper Public Affairs & Media polled 1,004 people 18 years old and older between December 13 and December 14, 2008.A separate survey of 1,004 people 18 years old and older was conducted between November 7 and 9, 2008.

Media Contacts:
Daniel Díaz
+ 1 720 332 5564
[email protected]

David Liggett
+1 720 332 4119
[email protected]