Where to get a money order: 5 places

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When you need to send a secure payment but don't want to use cash or a personal check, a money order can be a good alternative. Money orders function similarly to checks and can be used to pay bills or send money to someone.

Purchasing a money order is a fairly simple process — here’s where you can get one. 

How money orders work

A money order is a paper document that serves as a form of payment. When you purchase a money order, you pay the issuer the amount you want to send, plus a small fee. The issuer then provides you with a printed money order for the specified amount, which you can give or send to the recipient.

Money orders are a secure form of payment because they are prepaid and aren’t tied to a bank account. They also have some advantages over checks, as they are less likely to bounce and can be canceled or reissued if lost or stolen. 

"Money orders are prepaid, so payment is guaranteed," says Brittany Pederson, director of deposits and payments for Georgia’s Own Credit Union. 

Money orders offer several key features that make them an attractive payment option:

• Money orders are more secure than cash because they require the recipient to provide identification to cash them. This reduces the risk of theft or loss.
• Since money orders are prepaid, the recipient is guaranteed to receive the funds. Personal checks, on the other hand, can bounce due to insufficient funds.
• Money orders don't require a bank account, making them a good option for those who want to keep their financial information private.

Where can you get a money order? 

You can purchase a money order at retail stores, banks, credit unions, post offices, and other financial services businesses. Here are some of the most common places you can get a money order.

1. United States Postal Service (USPS)

The USPS is one of the most common and convenient places to purchase a money order. You can buy USPS money orders at any post office during regular business hours. You can purchase USPS money orders up to $1,000 in value. For larger amounts, you may need to purchase multiple money orders.

As of 2024, a USPS money order fee is $2.10 for amounts up to $500 and $3.00 for amounts between $500.01 and $1,000. 

Money orders from the post office include specific marks to help prevent fraud. Each money order has a watermark of Benjamin Franklin and a colored, vertical thread with the letters "USPS."  
One benefit of using USPS money orders is the widespread availability of post office locations. Whether you live in a big city or a small town, chances are there's a post office nearby where you can buy a money order.

2. Banks and credit unions 

Many banks offer money order services to their customers, often with lower fees and higher limits.  
Bank and credit union money order fees can vary widely. Some institutions offer free money orders to account holders, while others charge a fee ranging from $1 to $10 or more. Large national banks like Wells Fargo, U.S. Bank, and Chase Bank charge $5 for a money order. Some banks may waive the fee depending on your account type or relationship with the bank.

You typically need an account with that institution to purchase a money order at a bank or credit union. Some banks may also require additional identification or verification. Most banks have a $1,000 limit on money orders. 

The advantage of getting a money order from your bank is that the funds can be deducted directly from your bank account rather than you having to bring cash for the purchase. You may also be able to take advantage of higher money order limits compared to other options.

3. Retail stores and supermarkets 

Many retail stores and supermarkets also offer money order services. Here are some popular retailers that sell money orders:

• Walmart: You can purchase money orders at most Walmart locations for a fee of $1 or less, with a maximum amount of $1,000 per money order.
• 7-Eleven: Many 7-Eleven stores offer money orders through Western Union, with fees varying by location and amount. Most locations have a $500 limit. 
• CVS: Some CVS pharmacy locations sell money orders, typically through MoneyGram, with fees starting at around $1.25 for amounts up to $500.

Other retailers that may offer money order services include grocery stores and gas stations. The availability and fees vary widely, so it's a good idea to check with your local store for more details. 
The main advantage of purchasing a money order at a retail store or supermarket is convenience. If you're already out shopping or running errands, you can pick up a money order without making an extra trip to the bank or post office.

4. Check-cashing and payday loan stores 

Check-cashing stores and payday loan providers often offer money order services. These locations may be a convenient option if you don't have access to a bank account or traditional financial services. However, be aware that fees at these locations may be higher than those charged by USPS, banks, or retail stores.

Check-cashing stores may also help you conduct other financial transactions, like paying a bill or getting a loan. 

5. Western Union and MoneyGram 

Money transfer companies like Western Union and MoneyGram offer money orders at their physical locations and inside some supermarkets and pharmacies.  
You can purchase a money order for up to $1,000 at Western Union. Fees vary depending on the location. 

Money transfer companies often have extended hours, making them a good option for those who need to purchase a money order outside of traditional banking hours.

When to use a money order

Sometimes, a money order can be a safer option than a personal check or cash. Some of the instances in which it might make sense to use money include:

• You’re sending money by mail: If you need to pay via mail and want to ensure the funds are secure, a money order is a safer option than cash or a personal check. Since money orders are prepaid and require identification to cash, they offer added protection against theft or loss in transit.
• You don’t have a bank account: Without a bank account, you can't write a check. Money orders, on the other hand, do not require a bank account. They’re purchased with cash and can be used for the same things as checks, including paying bills or mailing money to someone.
• You’re making purchases from a small business or individual: Some landlords or small business owners may prefer money orders over personal checks for rent or bill payments. Money orders guarantee the availability of funds and can be tracked, making them a reliable payment method.
• You’re concerned about privacy: Personal checks list your address and bank account number. Money orders do not include this type of information, making them a better choice if you’re looking for privacy. 

Alternatives to money orders 

While money orders are useful, there may be situations where other options are better 
"Cashier’s checks and electronic transfers, including wires, are good alternatives to money orders. These forms of payment can be used for large purchases, such as buying a car or paying closing costs on a home," says Pederson.

Here are some alternatives to consider:

• Cashier's checks are similar to money orders but are issued by banks and drawn on the bank's funds. They are typically used for larger amounts and may offer additional security features. However, cashier’s checks often come with higher fees — between $10-$15 — and may require you to have an account with the issuing bank.
• If you have a checking account, personal checks can be a convenient way to make payments without the fees associated with money orders. However, personal checks do include your personal and financial information, and they may not be accepted everywhere. 
• Services like PayPal, Venmo, and Zelle allow you to send money electronically to individuals or businesses. These transfers are often fast and convenient, but they require both parties to have an account with the service and may come with fees for certain transactions.
• Prepaid debit cards can be used to make purchases or withdraw cash at ATMs, similar to a traditional debit card. Some prepaid cards allow you to send money to other cardholders or transfer funds to a bank account. However, prepaid cards may come with fees for activation, loading funds, or monthly maintenance.
• In some situations, cash may still be the simplest and most direct payment method. However, sending cash by mail is not recommended, as it can be lost or stolen and is impossible to trace or recover. 
   

Tips for purchasing and using money orders 

To make sure your money order transactions are secure and hassle-free, keep these tips in mind:

• Fill out the money order accurately: When you purchase a money order, you'll need to fill in the recipient's name, address, and your own information. Write clearly and double-check all details before finalizing the money order.
• Keep the receipt for tracking and proof of payment: After purchasing a money order, you'll typically receive a receipt that includes a tracking number and other important information. Keep this receipt safe, as it can help you track the money order and serve as proof of payment if needed.
• Be cautious of money order scams: "Unfortunately, no matter which type of payment you choose, you need to be on the lookout for fraudulent activity," says Pederson. "People can give you a fake money order." Be wary of any situation where someone asks you to deposit a money order and send a portion of the funds back to them, as this is likely a scam. Only use money orders with trusted individuals or businesses.

Frequently asked questions about money orders

The bottom line

Money orders offer a secure, reliable, and accessible way to send payments and transfer funds. By understanding what money orders are, how they work, and where to get them, you decide if this payment option is right for you.

Money orders can be purchased at various locations, including post offices, banks, credit unions, and many retail stores. When using a money order, fill it out carefully, keep the receipt for tracking and proof of payment, and be cautious of potential scams.

Editorial disclosure: Opinions expressed are author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.