If you need a safe way to send money especially if you don’t want to use cash or a personal check a money order can be a smart choice. It’s widely accepted and considered more secure than a regular check.
But where do you actually get one? And how much will it cost?
Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What Is a Money Order, and Why Use One?
A money order is a prepaid payment. You pay the full amount upfront (plus a small fee), and the company issuing it guarantees the funds. That means the person receiving it doesn’t have to worry about the payment bouncing.
For example, if you’re paying a landlord who doesn’t accept personal checks, or sending money through the mail, a money order offers extra peace of mind.
The Most Common Places to Get a Money Order
You can buy money orders in several types of locations. The best option for you depends on convenience, fees, and customer service.
1. Retail Stores (Often the Cheapest Option)
Many grocery stores, pharmacies, convenience stores, and big-box retailers sell money orders. Look for services like Western Union or MoneyGram inside the store.
Common places that offer money orders include:
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Walmart
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CVS
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7-Eleven
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Regional grocery chains
Fees at retail stores are usually low often around $1 to $2 per money order. Some locations may charge slightly more.
Best for: People who want the lowest fee and quick access while running errands.
2. Banks and Credit Unions (Higher Fees, Better Service)
If you already have a bank account, your bank likely offers money orders.
Banks typically charge more than retail stores often between $5 and $10 per money order. However, some banks waive the fee for premium account holders.
The advantage? Customer support.
If something goes wrong like the money order gets lost your bank can usually help you track or cancel it more easily than a retail store.
Important: Some banks may offer a cashier’s check instead of a money order. In many cases, the person you’re paying won’t mind which one you use but it’s always smart to confirm first.
Best for: Occasional users who value customer service over saving a few dollars.
3. The Post Office
You can also buy money orders from the United States Postal Service (USPS).
USPS money orders are widely trusted and commonly accepted. Fees depend on the amount:
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Lower fee for amounts up to $500
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Slightly higher fee for $500–$1,000
One downside? Not every post office counter sells them, and you may need to wait in line.
Best for: People who want a highly trusted, government-issued money order.
4. Money Service Businesses
Standalone money service providers including payday loan stores and check-cashing locations often sell money orders.
They’re usually easy to find, but fees can vary. Always ask about the cost before purchasing.
Can You Buy a Money Order Online?
Be careful here.
Some websites claim to sell money orders online, but this can be risky. Money orders are designed to be purchased in person with guaranteed funds. If you’re not dealing with a trusted and well-known company, you could be exposed to scams.
If you need to pay someone electronically, there may be better options (we’ll discuss those below).
How Much Does a Money Order Cost?
The cost depends on:
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Where you buy it
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The amount you’re sending
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The maximum limit per money order
Many money orders have a maximum limit of $1,000.
For example:
If you need to send $3,000 and the maximum per money order is $1,000, you’ll need three separate money orders and you’ll pay three separate fees.
Retail stores usually cost less. Banks usually cost more.
How to Buy a Money Order (Step-by-Step)
Buying one is simple, but you’ll need the right payment method.
1. Bring Guaranteed Funds
Most places require:
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Cash
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Debit card
You generally cannot use:
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A personal check
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A credit card
Why? Because money orders must be prepaid with guaranteed funds. Credit cards are sometimes processed as cash advances and those come with high fees and immediate interest charges.
2. Fill It Out Carefully
You’ll need to:
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Write the exact name of the person or company you’re paying
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Sign it
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Keep your receipt
Avoid leaving the “Pay to” line blank. If the money order is lost and made payable to “cash,” anyone could potentially use it.
Keep Your Receipt — It’s Important
Your receipt includes the tracking number.
If the money order is:
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Lost
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Stolen
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Never received
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Or needs to be canceled
You’ll need that receipt to request a refund or investigation. Without it, recovering your money can be difficult and expensive.
How to Track or Cancel a Money Order
If you need to check whether it’s been cashed, contact the company that issued it. You’ll need:
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The money order number
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The amount
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Your receipt
Most issuers charge a tracking or cancellation fee.
Are There Better Alternatives?
Money orders are useful but they’re not always the most convenient solution.
1. Checking Accounts
If you regularly buy money orders because you don’t have a bank account, consider opening a basic checking account. Many banks and credit unions offer low-fee or even free options.
Over time, this can save you money and eliminate the need to stand in line for money orders.
2. Prepaid Debit Cards
If you prefer not to use a traditional bank, prepaid debit cards can offer similar features:
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Direct deposit
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Bill pay
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Online payments
This can reduce how often you need to purchase money orders.
Please take a look at this as well:
How to Read a Check: A Simple Guide for Beginners
