What Stores Sell Money Orders & What You’ll Need

A money order offers a secure alternative to cash or a personal check for making payments. As prepaid financial instruments, they offer a reliable way to send money or pay bills, particularly when a bank account is unavailable or enhanced security is desired. Unlike personal checks that can “bounce,” money orders are prepaid, guaranteeing funds to the recipient. This makes them a reliable method for various transactions.

Where to Purchase Money Orders

Money orders are widely accessible at numerous locations across the United States, including the United States Postal Service (USPS). USPS is a common issuer, with money orders available at any Post Office. They have low fees and a $1,000 domestic cap.

Many retail chains, such as Walmart, offer money order services, often through MoneyGram or Western Union. Walmart’s fees are typically low, often less than $1. Convenience and grocery stores also provide these services, offering extended hours and easy access.

While banks and credit unions issue money orders, they may primarily do so for account holders, and fees can vary, sometimes being higher than at other locations. Most providers set a maximum of $1,000 for a single domestic money order. For larger amounts, multiple money orders must be purchased. Fees apply to each money order and vary by vendor and amount.

Information Needed to Buy a Money Order

Before purchasing a money order, certain details and forms of payment are typically required. The exact amount and the precise name of the intended recipient (individual or business) must be known.

Payment is generally accepted in cash or with a debit card. Credit cards are typically not accepted; if they are, the transaction may incur cash advance fees. For transactions over $1,000, a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, may be required to verify identity. Transactions totaling $3,000 or more in a single day may also require completing a Funds Transaction Report.

How to Complete and Use a Money Order

Once a money order has been purchased, it must be properly completed to ensure the funds reach the intended recipient. First, write the payee’s full name in the “Pay to the Order of” or “Payee” field. Then, write your name and address in the “Purchaser,” “Sender,” or “From” field.

Sign the money order in the “Purchaser’s signature” section. An optional memo line is available for notes, such as an account or invoice number, useful for tracking the payment’s purpose. After filling out the money order, detach and keep the receipt or stub. This receipt contains a serial number and is crucial for tracking the money order’s status or requesting a replacement. The completed money order can then be sent to the recipient by mail or delivered in person.