Kokua Line: Since when is there a remittance tax?

Question: I was surprised to be hit with a new 1% federal remittance tax of an additional $25 when sending $2,500 cash via Western Union (at Walmart), on top of the usual Western Union transfer fee. I was told this tax would not apply if I use a debit card to send the money. I thought your readers should be aware of this recent change if they are sending money to another country, as they might also be caught off guard.

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