How creators in Africa can get paid in USD with Accrue

When I used to write on Upwork, receiving dollar payments was usually a problem. Like me, if you’re earning in dollars from platforms like YouTube, Upwork, Contra, and other freelance gigs, or your Shopify store, when you click “Add payout method” and you’re asked for a US bank account or US billing address, it becomes a problem.

If you’ve ever gotten stuck at that stage, wondering whether you should use your brother or sister in the US or open a foreign company just to get paid, you’re not alone. Thousands of African creators face this exact issue.

Here’s the good news: you can receive USD payouts without living in the US and without a US address.

Now, ask me how?

How creators in Africa can get paid in USD with Accrue

Most global platforms don’t settle payments in naira, cedi, or rand. They expect a USD account. Without one, you may be blocked from payouts or forced to accept poor exchange rates.

Here’s why a USD account is essential:

1. Many platforms don’t support payouts in local currency

International platforms typically require USD, GBP, or EUR accounts. Adding a local bank often fails or isn’t even an option.

2. Poor exchange rates and hidden deductions

When local payouts are available, processors often convert at unfavorable rates, sometimes costing you 5%–10% of your earnings or even more. Add banking charges and delays, and you could be taking home less than you should. Do you want that?

3. Some platforms flag local bank accounts

Certain payout systems automatically flag or reject local bank accounts. Even when services like Payoneer or Deel work, payments are often routed through intermediary USD accounts anyway.

4. The ability to hold and spend in dollars

A USD account allows you to:

• Save in a stable currency
• Pay for international tools and subscriptions
• Avoid repeated conversion losses

Do you want to know: How to earn your first $100 as a freelancer

How To Earn Your First $100 as an African Freelancer

How to open a USD payout account with Accrue

Getting started with Accrue is straightforward:

1. Sign up

Visit Accrue’s website or download the app.
Register using your email, phone number, and personal details.

2. Verify your identity

Upload a valid ID (National ID, Passport, or Driver’s License).
Complete a quick selfie verification and accepts terms of our partners.

3. Receive your virtual USD account

Once approved, you’ll get:

• A US account number
• A US routing number (ACH)
• Partner bank details

4. Start receiving payments

Use these details to receive USD directly from global platforms. Everything is handled online, quickly and easily

Why creators are choosing Accrue for USD payouts

Here’s what makes Accrue stand out:

1. No US residency required

Open and manage your USD account from Lagos, Kigali, Accra, or anywhere else in Nigeria.

2. Competitive exchange rates

Convert USD to your local currency at rates that help you keep more of your income.

3. Fast withdrawals

Convert and send funds to your local bank account quickly.

FAQs: Tips to Receive USD Without Issues

1. Why must my name match exactly on both platforms?

Your payout platform name must match your Accrue account name exactly. Avoid using initials, nicknames, abbreviations, or name variations. Even small differences can cause payment delays or rejected transfers due to compliance checks.

2. What account details should I verify before submitting payout information?

Before adding your Accrue USD account to any platform, confirm the following details:

• Account number
• ACH routing number
• Bank name
• Bank address

To avoid errors, copy and paste the details directly from your Accrue dashboard instead of typing them manually.

3. Which payout method should I select on different platforms?

Each platform has slightly different payout options. Here’s what to choose:

• Payoneer: Use ACH receiving account details.
• Google AdSense: Select Wire Transfer and enter your USD account details accurately.
• Upwork/Fiverr/ Contra: Choose Direct to U.S. Bank (ACH).
• Meta (Facebook / Instagram): Add your USD account under Payout Settings.

Always follow the specific setup instructions provided by each platform.

4. Can I use someone else’s account to receive payments?

No. Always receive payments into your personal Accrue account. Using a third-party or shared account may trigger compliance reviews, delay your payouts, or even lead to account suspension.

5. Should I convert my earnings before payout?

It’s usually better not to. If a platform offers to convert your USD earnings before sending them, decline the option. Allow the funds to arrive in USD in your Accrue account first, then convert within Accrue to potentially get better exchange rates.

Accrue Is Helping You Earn Globally

The internet has removed borders for earning, hence, your banking shouldn’t hold you back.

With Accrue, Nigerian creators and freelancers can:

• Receive USD payments
• Hold funds in foreign currency
• Convert at competitive rates
• Withdraw seamlessly

If you’re ready to simplify your payout process, open your Accrue account today and take control of how you get paid.

You may want to read: Five Ghanaian freelancers talk about their biggest paychecks

Five Ghanaian Freelancers Talk About Their First Biggest Paycheck