How to Fill Out a Money Order for Child Support

Money orders offer a reliable method for making payments, particularly for child support. They function as a prepaid financial instrument, similar to a check, but with guaranteed funds, eliminating the risk of a bounced payment. This makes them a useful option for ensuring payment delivery and traceability, especially when a paper trail is desired.

Gathering Necessary Information

Before filling out a money order for child support, gather all required information to ensure accuracy. The exact name of the payee is essential, typically a State Disbursement Unit (SDU) or a Child Support Enforcement Agency. Obtain this payee name from official documents, such as court orders or child support agency statements.

Confirm the precise mailing address for the designated payee from official sources. The specific child support case number or account identifier is necessary. This unique identifier ensures the payment is correctly credited to the intended recipient and case, and it can be found on court orders, agency statements, or other official correspondence.

The exact payment amount due, as specified in the court order or agency notice, must be known. Finally, the payer’s full legal name and current address are required, as this information identifies the sender on the money order itself. Relying on official documents for all these details helps prevent errors that could delay the processing of the child support payment.

Completing the Money Order

With all necessary information, complete the money order. Use a pen with dark ink and write legibly. If a mistake occurs, purchase a new one rather than attempting corrections, as alterations can invalidate the payment.

Locate the “Pay To” or “Pay To the Order Of” line. Print the exact payee name obtained from official documents, such as “State Disbursement Unit.” Filling this section immediately after purchase helps prevent misuse if the money order is lost before completion.

Next, the payment amount must be entered in two places. First, write the exact dollar amount numerically in the designated box. Then, on the line marked “Dollars” or “Amount,” write out the amount in words, ensuring it precisely matches the numerical entry, including the cents as a fraction (e.g., “One Hundred Twenty-Five and 00/100”). Locate the section labeled “Purchaser,” “Sender,” or “From” and fill in your full legal name and current address, as this identifies you as the payer.

Find the “Memo” line or “Account Number” field. Write the child support case number or account identifier in this space. This ensures the payment is properly applied to your specific child support obligation by the receiving agency. Lastly, sign your name on the “Purchaser’s Signature” line, which validates the money order; an unsigned money order may be returned or rejected.

Sending and Record Keeping

After filling out the money order, ensure proper delivery and maintain accurate records. Before mailing, make a photocopy of the filled-out money order, both front and back. This copy serves as personal proof of payment, containing all transaction details.

Detach and retain the money order stub or receipt provided at purchase. This stub contains the money order’s serial number, amount, and purchase date, serving as your primary proof of purchase and a key reference for tracking the payment. This documentation is useful for reconciling your financial records and for addressing any disputes or inquiries.

For mailing, consider using certified mail with return receipt requested through the United States Postal Service. This service provides legal proof that the item was mailed and confirmation that it was delivered and signed for by the recipient. The return receipt is mailed back to you after delivery, providing tangible proof of receipt. This method also provides a tracking number, allowing you to monitor the money order’s delivery status. Retain these records, including the money order copy, stub, and return receipt, for an extended period, such as seven years. Child support agencies also maintain payment histories, but your personal records serve as a safeguard.