Where To Get Money Order Near Me

Money Order Sensitivity

Money orders are one of the best ways to pay individuals or providers for a service. Though thought of as ancient, they're still a legit form of payment.

If you would like to learn more on what a money order is as well as the best place to get one, continue reading this guide.

What is a Money Order?

A money order is essentially a document similar to a check, which is used for making payments (although there are some key differences).

Money orders are prepaid documents and will only be issued after the buyer pays for the money order. That can be done in cash, by debit card, traveler's checks, or by using another form of guaranteed funds.

Why Use a Money Order?

Now if you haven't used money orders, and are wondering why someone would want to use them – here's why:

Privacy. Imagine you're paying a person or company you don't entirely trust and don't want to share your personal information. How would you make sure the payment reaches them without you sharing any personal info? While checks will include that kind of information, money orders don't – so your privacy is protected.
Guaranteed Funds. Since money orders are prepaid, you won't have to worry about bouncing a check – sufficient funds are guaranteed.
Theft Protection. Money orders are also an excellent and safe way to send money to your friends or family. It is even safe to mail a money order! Since you will be specifying the name of the recipient on the money order, it would be nearly impossible to steal your money.
Safety. Finally, what if you don't have a checking account yet but want to pay for a larger purchase? Carrying a suitcase stuffed with cash isn't a smart idea. Using a money order, on the other hand,is.

Where to Buy a Money Order?

You can buy a money order from one of the following institutions or their authorized agents:

Western Union
MoneyGram
USPS

The fees are usually similarly priced, so you may want to choose a location based on convenience. Keep reading to learn more.

If you do an internet search for 'where to get money orders near me', you will receive dozens of options. Many of those locations are good, but there are some you want to avoid, such as those from check cashing services.

The first place to consider buying money orders is from your local bank. Most banks offer a variety of services, including money orders.

If you're asking yourself 'where can I get free money orders near me?', check with your bank. Your bank may sell money orders at no charge to account holders. If this is the case at your bank, this is your best option.

If you need to purchase a money order and don't have a bank account, a grocery store may be the best option. Below are several stores that sell money orders, and what to expect for cost:

Kroger– Western Union, $1,000 limit, $.70 per money order
Meijer– Western Union, $1,000 limit, $.65 per money order
Publix– Western Union, $500 limit, $.85 per money order
Vons– MoneyGram, $500 limit, $.89 per money order

Your local grocery store may vary on what they offer or charge. Visit the customer service area of the store to ask what they sell and charge for money orders.

Can you Buy a Money Order Online?

You can't buy a money order online since the risk is too great for the seller. There are other options to send money online, including:

Online money transfers
Online bill pay
Use a peer-to-peer payment service like Venmo
Wire funds

How to Track a Money Order?

To track a money order, you must go through the issuer. Call Western Union or MoneyGram and give yourtracking number to get the status. If you bought a USPS money order, you can track its status online on the USPS website.

Tracking a Stolen Money Order
If you are concerned about a stolen money order, follow these steps to get detailed tracking information:

Contact Western Union, MoneyGram, or the USPS.
Complete the appropriate form with information about the money order including the amount, date, and location purchased.
If you have the receipt, provide the tracking number and attach it.
Pay the appropriate fee. Western Union charges $15–$30 (with no receipt); MoneyGram charges $18, and the USPS charges $6.15.

After 30–45 days, the issuer may be able to issue a refund once they determine the status of the money order.

Where to Cash a Money Order?

Your local bank or credit union typically offers the cheapest option to cash a money order. If you already have an account, you may be able to cash it for free or at a minimal cost.

Other options include:

Issuer
Walmart, Kroger, Western Union, MoneyGram, and the USPS cash money orders that they issued.

Retail Locations
Some grocery stores, check cashing stores, and convenience stores cash money orders for a fee.

Money orders offer an alternative to cash payments. They provide proof of payment and a safety net should the money order become lost or stolen. Since they do cost money, explore all of your options, including using a personal check or a cashier's check from your own bank.

In addition, we have a list of bank promotions to get some extra cash in your pockets today. You may also want to check out savings accounts if you want to get started on saving up money.

Disclosure: These responses are not provided or commissioned by the bank advertiser. Responses have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the bank advertiser. It is not the bank advertiser's responsibility to ensure all posts and/or questions are answered.