Can You Cancel a Lost Money Order? Here’s How

Money orders are prepaid payment instruments, offering a secure alternative to sending cash or personal checks. They ensure funds are available at purchase. If a money order is lost, procedures often allow for cancellation and refund, provided it has not been cashed.

Eligibility for Cancellation

To cancel a lost money order, it must not have been processed or cashed by the recipient. The issuer will conduct a verification process to confirm its current status and ensure funds are available for recovery.

Cancellation requests are initiated by the original purchaser. Proof of purchase, such as the original receipt, is necessary to establish this connection and validate the claim.

Gathering Required Information

The purchaser must compile specific information and documentation. The original purchase receipt serves as the proof of the money order’s acquisition. This receipt contains details including the unique serial number, monetary value, date and location of purchase, and the issuer (e.g., postal service, wire transfer company, or financial institution).

Beyond the receipt, the purchaser’s full name and address, as recorded at the time of purchase, are also required. This personal information helps verify the purchaser’s identity and their right to request a cancellation. All these details must be accurate and complete to facilitate a smooth request.

Initiating the Cancellation Request

Request cancellation from the money order issuer, identified on your purchase receipt (e.g., postal service, money transfer company, or bank). Contact them directly through their established customer service channels.

You will need to request a specific form, often titled “Lost/Stolen Money Order Inquiry” or “Refund Request.” Carefully transfer all the previously gathered details onto this form, ensuring every required field is completed accurately. This includes the money order’s serial number, purchase date, amount, and your purchaser information. After completing the form, sign and date it as required.

Submission methods vary by issuer but generally include mailing the completed form, submitting it through an online portal, or delivering it in person. Retain copies of all submitted documents for your records and note any reference or tracking numbers provided by the issuer.

Receiving Your Refund

After submitting a cancellation request, the issuer will begin processing the inquiry, verifying the money order’s status. This investigative period can vary from a few weeks to several months, allowing the issuer to confirm the money order has not been cashed and funds are available for refund.

Money order issuers deduct a non-refundable processing fee from the refund amount. This charge covers the inquiry, verification, and refund process. Once the investigation is complete and the refund is approved, the money is issued as a check mailed to the purchaser’s address.

If the issuer’s investigation reveals the money order was cashed, no refund will be issued. The issuer may provide a copy of the cashed money order to confirm its disposition.