How to Change the Payee Name on a Money Order

Money orders serve as a reliable and secure payment method. Directly altering a money order’s payee name after issuance is generally not permissible. The proper procedure for correcting an incorrect payee name involves canceling the original money order and then obtaining a new one.

Understanding Payee Name Changes on Money Orders

Once a money order has been issued, the payee name printed on it cannot be directly changed or altered. Any attempt to modify the payee name, such as crossing out or writing over the original entry, will render the money order invalid and ineligible for cashing. This immutability is a fundamental security feature of money orders, helping prevent fraud and ensure payment integrity. Therefore, if an incorrect payee name has been entered, the required procedure is to cancel the original money order and purchase a new one with the correct information.

Information Required for Money Order Cancellation

Initiating a money order cancellation requires specific documents and details. You will need the original money order, if it is still in your possession. The original purchase receipt is also necessary, as it contains critical information for tracking the money order and proving your purchase, including the serial number, amount, and date and location of purchase. Valid photo identification of the purchaser is generally required to verify your identity.

You should also have contact information for the money order issuer, such as USPS, Western Union, or MoneyGram, as specific forms are often required. These forms, such as a “Money Order Inquiry Form” (like PS Form 6401) or a “Refund Request Form,” can be found on the issuer’s website or at their physical locations. When completing these forms, ensure all gathered details are accurately transcribed.

The Money Order Cancellation Process

After gathering all necessary information and completing required forms, submit your cancellation request to the issuer. You can contact the issuer directly, either by visiting a physical location where money orders are sold or by submitting forms online or via mail. For instance, USPS requires you to take the original money order and customer receipt to a Post Office to start an inquiry using PS Form 6401. Western Union and MoneyGram also offer specific forms for refund requests.

Once submitted, the issuer will research the money order to confirm it has not been cashed. If uncashed, a refund or a replacement money order will be issued, minus any applicable processing fees. Processing times for refunds can vary, often within 30 to 60 days.

Cancellation fees can range from a few dollars to around $15-$20, and may be higher if the original receipt is not provided. If the payment is still required, you will need to purchase a new money order once the refund or replacement is processed.

Handling Lost or Stolen Money Orders

When a money order is lost or stolen, immediate action is necessary. Contact the money order issuer without delay to report the situation. Issuers will require you to complete a formal inquiry or affidavit, such as a “Lost/Stolen Money Order Inquiry” form. For example, USPS requires filling out PS Form 6401 at a Post Office. Proof of purchase, specifically the original receipt, is crucial for initiating this process.

There is a waiting period, often 30 to 60 days, before a refund can be processed. This allows the issuer to confirm the money order has not been cashed. A processing fee is usually associated with inquiries for lost or stolen money orders, which can range from $15 to $21. If the money order has been cashed, obtaining a refund becomes difficult.