Can I Get a Money Order From the Post Office?
Discover how to easily obtain, use, and manage money orders from the Post Office. Your complete guide to this secure payment method.
Yes, you can obtain money orders at United States Post Office (USPS) locations. A money order functions as a secure and reliable alternative to sending cash or personal checks, providing a prepaid payment method often used when personal checks are not accepted or cash presents a security risk.
Preparing to Purchase a Money Order
Before visiting a Post Office to purchase a money order, gather the necessary information and payment. You will need the full name of the individual or organization designated as the recipient, known as the payee. You will also need to provide your name and address for the purchaser section of the form.
For payment, the USPS accepts cash or debit cards. Domestic USPS money orders can be purchased for any amount up to a maximum of $1,000 per single order.
Fees for domestic money orders depend on the amount. For money orders from $0.01 to $500, the fee is $1.05, and for amounts from $500.01 up to $1,000, the fee is $1.50. It is advisable to carry a valid photo ID, particularly for larger amounts or if requested by the postal clerk.
The Purchase Process
Once you have prepared all the necessary details and payment, proceed to a USPS retail counter. Inform the postal clerk that you wish to purchase a money order and state the exact amount required.
You will then provide the payee’s full name and tender your payment, either with cash or a debit card. After processing, the clerk will issue the completed money order. Receive and safeguard the detachable receipt or stub provided with the money order, as this document contains the money order number and other tracking information.
Using and Cashing Money Orders
After purchasing, you can securely send the money order to the payee. Money orders can be delivered by hand or sent through the mail, offering a safer alternative to sending cash. The recipient can cash a USPS money order at any U.S. Post Office location, or at most banks and credit unions.
When cashing the money order, the recipient will need to present valid identification. The purchaser should retain their original receipt. This receipt is for checking the money order’s status, initiating an inquiry if it is lost or stolen, or requesting a refund if the money order is never cashed. Domestic USPS money orders do not expire and do not accrue fees over time, preserving their full value until cashed.