How Do You Track a Postal Money Order?
Master the process of tracking your postal money order, from gathering essential details to interpreting inquiry outcomes.
Postal money orders offer a secure and reliable method for sending funds, acting as a prepaid financial instrument akin to a cashier’s check. They are often utilized by individuals who require a safe alternative to cash or personal checks, particularly when conducting transactions through the mail. While generally dependable, confirming a money order’s status may become necessary, such as verifying receipt or investigating a potential loss.
Information Required for Tracking
To initiate an inquiry into a postal money order, you need specific details. The most important piece of information is the money order’s serial number, typically a 10 or 11-digit code. Additionally, the exact dollar amount and the post office number where it was originally purchased are necessary. All of this information is printed directly on the customer receipt provided at the time of purchase. Retaining this receipt is essential, as it serves as your proof of purchase and contains all data needed for any future inquiry.
Submitting a Tracking Request
To track a postal money order, complete PS Form 6401, the Money Order Inquiry form. This form can be obtained at any United States Postal Service (USPS) post office location or downloaded from the USPS website. To complete the form, transfer details from your original customer receipt, such as the money order’s serial number, purchase date, and amount, into the corresponding fields on Section A of PS Form 6401. Sign and date the form before submission.
Once the form is completed, you can submit it either in person at any post office, where you will need to present your money order customer receipt and valid photo identification, or by mailing it to the St. Louis Accounting Center. A fee of $5.20 applies per money order inquiry. This fee must be paid at the time of submission.
Understanding Your Inquiry Results
After submitting PS Form 6401, the USPS will process your inquiry. You can expect to receive information regarding its status within 15 days from the date of submission. The outcome will confirm whether the money order has been cashed, if it has not yet been presented for payment, or if the inquiry could not be confirmed. If the money order was cashed, you may also request a photocopy of the cashed money order, which is available for up to two years from the date it was processed. For updates on your inquiry, you can call the USPS Accounting Help Desk.