Do Post Offices Do Money Orders? How to Get One
Navigate the Post Office's reliable money order service. This guide covers purchasing, using, and managing postal money orders for secure transactions.
The United States Postal Service (USPS) offers money orders as a secure payment method. They serve as a prepaid and guaranteed alternative to cash or personal checks, widely accessible for various financial needs.
Understanding Postal Money Orders
A postal money order is a prepaid financial instrument issued by the USPS, guaranteeing payment to the named recipient. These orders are useful for sending money securely through the mail, settling bills with entities that do not accept personal checks, or for individuals without a traditional bank account. They offer enhanced security compared to cash, as they are trackable and can be replaced if lost or stolen.
Preparing to Purchase a Money Order
Before purchasing a money order, gather specific information and payment. Determine the exact amount and the full name of the intended recipient (payee). Domestic money orders have a maximum value of $1,000 per order.
Transactions totaling $3,000 or more in a single day require PS Form 8105-A, Funds Transaction Report, and identification.
Payment can be made using U.S. currency, coins, or a debit card with a PIN. Credit cards and checks are not accepted for money order purchases.
Fees for domestic money orders are $2.35 for amounts up to $500, and $3.40 for amounts between $500.01 and $1,000.
Accurately complete the money order form. Write the payee’s name in the “pay to” field. Enter your name and address in the “from” section. An optional memo line can include an account number or payment purpose. Print all information clearly in ink to prevent issues with cashing or depositing.
The Money Order Purchase Process
Once you have all the necessary information and payment ready, the purchase at the Post Office counter is a straightforward process. You will present your completed money order form, or provide details to the retail associate.
After verifying the information, you will submit your payment, which will include the face value of the money order plus the applicable issuing fee.
Upon successful payment, the Post Office will issue the printed money order. Retain the customer’s receipt, often a small stub, as it contains the money order number and other details essential for tracking or initiating an inquiry if needed. Before leaving the counter, it is advisable to double-check the money order for any errors in the payee’s name or the amount to ensure accuracy.
Cashing or Depositing a Money Order
For the recipient, cashing or depositing a postal money order is generally a simple procedure. To cash a money order, you will need to properly endorse it by signing the back. However, if cashing at a Post Office, it is recommended to sign the money order in front of the USPS employee.
Postal money orders can be cashed at any Post Office location, though availability of funds may vary. Many banks and credit unions also accept postal money orders for cashing or deposit, often without a fee for their account holders.
When cashing a money order, particularly at a Post Office, you will be required to present a valid form of photo identification. Money orders can also be deposited directly into a bank account, similar to depositing a personal check, with funds typically becoming available within a few business days.
Dealing with Lost or Stolen Money Orders
If a postal money order is lost or stolen, initiating an inquiry with the USPS is the recommended course of action. This process requires the original purchase receipt, which contains the money order’s serial number and other vital details. To begin, you must visit any Post Office facility and complete PS Form 6401, a Money Order Inquiry form. There is a processing fee associated with filing this inquiry.
Key information needed for the inquiry includes the money order number, the date of purchase, the amount, and the names of both the sender and the payee. The USPS will then investigate the status of the money order.
While there are no stop payments on postal money orders, a replacement may be issued if the money order has not been cashed. The confirmation of a lost or stolen money order can take up to 30 days, and the investigation process may extend up to 60 days before a replacement is issued.