Can You Cash a Postal Money Order at the Post Office?

You can cash a U.S. Postal Service (USPS) money order at any Post Office location, offering the service without any additional fees. This convenience allows individuals to readily convert their money orders into cash.

Preparing to Cash Your Money Order

You must present valid identification, such as a state-issued driver’s license, a state identification card, or a passport. The name displayed on this identification document must precisely match the payee’s name printed on the money order.

It is important that the money order remains unsigned until you are in the presence of a postal clerk. Endorsing the money order prematurely can create complications or invalidate the document for cashing. The money order itself should be in good condition, free from any damage, alterations, or illegible markings. Postal clerks will inspect the document for authenticity, looking for security features and ensuring that the dollar amount printed matches the written amount without any signs of tampering.

The Cashing Process at the Post Office

You will approach the service counter and present both the money order and your valid photo identification to the postal clerk. The clerk will then undertake a verification process, confirming the money order’s authenticity and validating your identity against the presented document.

After the clerk has verified the details, you will be instructed to sign the money order in their direct view. This endorsement, completed at the counter, finalizes the transfer of funds. Following your signature, the postal clerk will complete the transaction, and you will receive the cash value of the money order.

Important Details for Cashing

Domestic postal money orders are issued for amounts up to $1,000.00. While any Post Office location can cash a USPS money order, the availability of cash on hand can vary.

Smaller Post Office branches, or those in less trafficked areas, may not always have sufficient cash to disburse large money orders, especially early in the day. If a Post Office cannot immediately cash your money order due to limited funds, you might consider visiting a larger Post Office or returning later in the day when more cash may have accumulated from other transactions. Another option is to deposit the money order directly into a bank account. Cashing services at Post Offices generally align with their standard business hours.