How to cash a money order

If you're receiving a payment from someone you don't know — especially through the mail — you might want to consider a money order instead of a personal check or cash payment.

You can purchase a money order at a bank, a credit union, a grocery store, or the post office.

There are also various places where you can cash a money order quickly and securely.

Preparing to cash a money order

The first thing to do when you receive a money order is to review the document and make sure the money order was filled out correctly. Double-check its value to make sure the amount is correct. Money orders are prepaid, so you should know in advance how much you're receiving. Also, make sure the name on the money order matches the name on your ID.

Verify that the money order is legitimate. If you know the sender, this might not be a concern, but if you aren't familiar with the person sending it — maybe you sold an item on Facebook Marketplace, for example — you'll want to confirm the amount is what it's supposed to be.

Where to cash a money order

Banks and credit unions

Going directly to the issuer is also a way to verify the money order. If you cash with a bank or credit union where you have an account, you should be able to avoid fees.

Western Union

You can also cash a money order at any participating Western Union locations. Not all Western Unions that issue money orders allow you to cash them, so give the store a call beforehand to confirm.

Grocery stores and check-cashing businesses

Many retail locations have a money-transfer outlet like Moneygram or Western Union counter to make the process convenient.

If you go directly to the place that issued your money order — that could be a place like Western Union, Moneygram, or Walmart — you might be able to minimize your fees.

Postal services for postal money orders

Many consumers send money orders from the United States Post Office, and a local post office will cash USPS money orders. If you receive a USPS money order, you can cash it for free.

Steps to cash a money order

Plan to cash your money order in a timely fashion

The longer you hold on to the money order, there's a chance it can be lost, damaged, or misplaced.

Plus, cashing a money order quickly is a way to protect yourself against possible fraud, since the sender can cancel their money order. If you've already cashed it with the issuer, the sender won't be able to cancel.

Present valid identification

You will need to provide a photo ID, such as a driver's license, passport, or other government-issued ID, to cash a money order.

Endorse the money order

Don't sign the money order in advance; add a signature to the back of the money order when you are at the counter in front of a bank teller or other customer service representative.

Pay associated fees

Fees vary by financial institution or retailer. If you're worried about overpaying, call and ask about fees before you go. Some banks also have a Schedule of Fees online, which is a document with all common bank fees.

Receive your cash

Count the money that you receive, and make sure to save your receipt. Put the cash away securely before leaving the location.

Tips for safely cashing a money order

Avoiding scams and fraudulent money orders

The easiest way to avoid a money order scam is to call the money order issuer, or visit its website, to verify the funds. Every money order includes a serial number for verification.

For Postal Service money orders, visit this webpage to learn more about how to spot a fake.

What to do if a money order is lost or stolen

If you need to cancel a money order because it was lost or stolen, contact the issuer immediately. You will likely be asked to fill out a request form and pay a cancellation fee.

Postal money orders cannot be canceled, but they can be replaced for a fee of $18. It may take up to 60 days.

Cashing a money order FAQs