The use of formal methods by individual immigrants and workers in the U.S. has been increasing over the last decade, this can be attributed partially to a sharp decline in the average cost of formal money transfer systems, brought about by increased competition as more and more companies now offer their own international money transfer services. Another factor that has increased the use of formal methods has been the scrutiny which informal money transfers have come under. Since the September 11th terrorist attacks, Informal money transfer systems are believed the primary methods that terrorist organizations, or drug cartels receive funding from supporters in wealthier countries. New regulations included in the Dodd-Frank act, have also played a key role in maintaining a higher standard of accountability and reliability of service for licensed MTOs which has further increased their popularity.