How to Fill Out a USPS Money Order Correctly

Quick answer

• Always use a black or blue pen and write legibly.
• Fill in the “Pay to the Order Of” line carefully with the recipient’s full name.
• Double-check the amount in both numbers and words to ensure accuracy.
• Sign the money order in the designated “Purchaser’s Signature” line.
• Keep your receipt and a copy of the money order for your records.
• If you make a mistake, do not try to erase; you may need to void and repurchase.

Who this is for

• Individuals who need to send payments securely without using a personal check or cash.
• People who do not have a bank account or prefer not to share banking details for a transaction.
• Anyone needing to make a payment to an individual or business that doesn’t accept other forms of payment.

What to check first (before you act)

Your Payment Goal and Timeline

Before you even purchase a money order, be clear about who you are paying and when the payment is due. A USPS money order is a good option for situations where cash or a personal check might be risky or inconvenient. For example, if you’re paying a landlord who doesn’t accept online payments or sending funds to a family member who doesn’t have a bank account, a money order can be a reliable solution. Confirm that the recipient will accept a USPS money order, as some businesses or individuals may have specific payment preferences.

Current Cash Flow

Understand how much cash you have available to purchase the money order. USPS money orders have limits on the amount you can purchase at one time, and there are also fees associated with buying them. Make sure you have enough cash or a debit card to cover both the face value of the money order and the purchase fee. If you need to send a larger amount, you may need to purchase multiple money orders.

Emergency Fund or Safety Buffer

While not directly related to filling out the money order, having an emergency fund is crucial for overall financial health. If an unexpected issue arises with the money order (e.g., it gets lost or stolen), having a financial cushion can prevent further stress. Ensure you have funds readily available to cover the payment amount again if necessary, or to handle any associated fees if a replacement is needed.

Debt and Interest Rates

Consider if a money order is the most cost-effective payment method for your situation. While money orders are generally safe, they do incur a purchase fee. If you are paying a bill that has a late fee or interest accrual, ensure that the time it takes to purchase and deliver the money order will not result in additional charges. For recurring bills, explore more efficient payment methods if available. Check the official source or your provider for current fees.

Credit Impact

Using a USPS money order does not directly impact your credit score, as it is a cash-equivalent transaction. However, if you are using a money order to pay off debt, the timely payment will positively affect your credit history. Conversely, if the money order is not received or processed correctly, and a debt remains unpaid, it could negatively impact your credit.

Step-by-step (simple workflow)

1. Purchase the Money Order

What to do: Go to any USPS Post Office location and request a money order. You will need to pay the face value of the money order plus a small fee.
What “good” looks like: You have successfully paid for the money order and received both the money order and your receipt.
A common mistake and how to avoid it: Trying to pay with a credit card. USPS generally only accepts cash or debit cards for money order purchases. Avoid this by having cash or your debit card ready.

2. Gather Your Supplies

What to do: Find a pen with black or blue ink. Ensure the surface you are writing on is flat and stable.
What “good” looks like: You have a reliable pen and a clean, flat surface to write on.
A common mistake and how to avoid it: Using a pencil or a leaky pen. Pencil marks can be erased, making the money order invalid, and a leaky pen can smudge the ink. Use a ballpoint pen with black or blue ink only.

3. Fill in the “Pay to the Order Of” Line

What to do: Write the full legal name of the person or company you are paying. Be precise and spell names correctly.
What “good” looks like: The recipient’s name is clearly and accurately written on this line.
A common mistake and how to avoid it: Writing “Cash” or a nickname. This makes the money order easily transferable and could lead to it being cashed by the wrong person if lost or stolen. Always use the full, correct name.

4. Fill in the Amount in Numbers

What to do: Write the dollar amount of the money order in the box provided. Use clear numerals.
What “good” looks like: The numerical amount is easy to read and matches the intended payment.
A common mistake and how to avoid it: Leaving too much space, which could allow someone to alter the numbers. Write the numbers as close to the left edge of the box as possible.

5. Fill in the Amount in Words

What to do: Write out the dollar amount in words on the line provided, typically below the numerical amount. For cents, you can write “and XX/100.”
What “good” looks like: The written amount is clear, accurate, and matches the numerical amount.
A common mistake and how to avoid it: Inconsistent wording or miscounting. For example, writing “Twenty-five” instead of “Twenty-five dollars.” Ensure it precisely matches the numerical value.

6. Fill in the Purchaser’s Address (Optional but Recommended)

What to do: Some money orders have a line for the purchaser’s address. Fill this in with your current address.
What “good” looks like: Your address is clearly written, providing a point of contact if needed.
A common mistake and how to avoid it: Skipping this line entirely. While often optional, providing your address can be helpful for tracking or in case of any issues with the money order.

7. Sign the “Purchaser’s Signature” Line

What to do: Sign your name on the designated line. This confirms you are the purchaser.
What “good” looks like: Your signature is present and legible.
A common mistake and how to avoid it: Forgetting to sign or signing on the wrong line. The signature confirms your identity as the purchaser and is essential for the money order to be valid.

8. Complete the Remitter’s Section (If Applicable)

What to do: Some money orders have a section for the remitter (the purchaser) to fill out details like their address or phone number. Fill this in accurately.
What “good” looks like: All required fields in the remitter section are completed.
A common mistake and how to avoid it: Leaving these fields blank. This information can be crucial for the USPS if the money order needs to be traced or if there are any disputes.

9. Keep Your Receipt and a Copy

What to do: Store your money order receipt in a safe place. If possible, take a clear photo or photocopy of the completed money order before you send it.
What “good” looks like: You have a receipt and a record of the money order’s details.
A common mistake and how to avoid it: Discarding the receipt. The receipt is your proof of purchase and is essential if you need to inquire about the money order or file a claim for a lost or stolen one.

10. Deliver the Money Order

What to do: Send the completed money order to the intended recipient via mail or hand-delivery.
What “good” looks like: The money order is sent to the correct address.
A common mistake and how to avoid it: Mailing it to the wrong address. Double-check the recipient’s mailing address before sending.

Common mistakes (and what happens if you ignore them)

Mistake	What it causes	Fix
Using pencil or erasable ink	The money order may be deemed invalid by the recipient or the USPS.	Void the money order and repurchase.
Forgetting to sign	The money order may not be considered valid or cashed.	You may need to contact the USPS to see if it can be rectified, or void and repurchase.
Incorrectly filling out the “Pay to the Order Of” line	The wrong person could potentially cash it, or the recipient may refuse it.	Void the money order and repurchase with the correct payee.
Mismatch between numerical and written amounts	The recipient or bank may reject the money order, or it could be cashed for the lower amount.	Void the money order and repurchase, ensuring both amounts match perfectly.
Leaving blank spaces where alterations are possible	The money order could be altered to a higher value, leading to fraud.	Fill in all spaces completely and legibly. Avoid excessive white space.
Not keeping the receipt	You have no proof of purchase if the money order is lost, stolen, or if there’s a dispute.	You cannot easily track or claim a lost money order without the receipt.
Sending to the wrong address	The money order may be lost, stolen, or delayed indefinitely.	Double-check the recipient’s address before mailing. If lost, you may need to file a claim with the USPS (requires receipt).
Trying to cash it yourself (if not the payee)	This is illegal and can lead to serious consequences.	Only the payee named on the money order should attempt to cash it.
Making a mistake and trying to “fix” it with white-out or scribbling	The money order will likely be invalidated.	Do not attempt to correct errors. Void and repurchase.
Purchasing a money order for an amount exceeding USPS limits	The transaction will be denied.	Check USPS limits for money orders and purchase multiple smaller ones if necessary.

Decision rules (simple if/then)

• If you need to send a payment to someone who doesn’t accept checks or electronic transfers, then use a USPS money order because it’s a secure, cash-like alternative.
• If you are paying a large sum, then check the USPS money order purchase limits because you may need to buy multiple money orders.
• If you are paying a bill with a strict deadline, then factor in the time it takes to purchase and mail the money order because delays could result in late fees.
• If the recipient’s name is complex or has unusual spelling, then write it out very carefully and perhaps confirm it with them first because accuracy is crucial.
• If you make a mistake while filling out the money order, then do not try to erase or scribble it out because this will likely invalidate it.
• If you lose your money order, then immediately locate your receipt because you will need it to file a claim or inquire about its status.
• If you are purchasing a money order for more than a few hundred dollars, then consider if a cashier’s check or wire transfer might be more appropriate, as they may have higher limits and different security features.
• If you are unsure about the recipient’s ability to cash a money order, then ask them beforehand because some may prefer other payment methods.
• If you are paying for something online where you don’t have a direct relationship with the seller, then a money order is generally not recommended due to the risk of non-delivery or fraud.
• If you are purchasing a money order with cash, then be aware of potential reporting requirements for large cash transactions.

FAQ

Can I buy a USPS money order with a credit card?

No, USPS money orders can typically only be purchased with cash or a debit card. Check with your local Post Office for their specific payment policies.

What is the maximum amount for a USPS money order?

The maximum amount for a single USPS money order is generally set by the USPS. If you need to send a larger sum, you will need to purchase multiple money orders. Check the official USPS website or your local Post Office for current limits.

What happens if I make a mistake filling out a money order?

If you make a mistake, do not try to erase or use correction fluid. The money order may become invalid. It’s best to void the money order at the Post Office where you purchased it and buy a new one.

How do I cash a USPS money order?

The payee can cash a USPS money order at most Post Office locations, or at many banks and credit unions. The payee will need to present a valid photo ID.

Can I send a money order to myself?

Yes, you can send a money order to yourself, for example, if you need to cash it at a different location. Ensure you fill out the “Pay to the Order Of” line with your name.

What if the money order is lost or stolen?

If you have the receipt, you can contact the USPS to inquire about the money order or potentially file a claim for a lost or stolen one. Keep your receipt in a safe place.

Is it safe to use a USPS money order?

USPS money orders are generally considered a safe way to send money, especially compared to sending cash through the mail. However, it’s still important to fill them out correctly and keep your receipt.

Can I get a refund for an unused money order?

Generally, if a money order has not been cashed, you can return it to the Post Office where it was purchased for a refund, minus any applicable fees. You will need your original receipt.

What this page does NOT cover (and where to go next)

• Specific USPS fees and limits: For the most current information on purchase fees, individual money order limits, and daily purchase limits, visit the official USPS website or speak with a postal clerk.
• International money orders: This guide focuses on domestic USPS money orders. For international transactions, explore services like Western Union or MoneyGram, or inquire about international postal money order services if available through the USPS.
• Dispute resolution for uncashed money orders: While this page covers basic steps, complex disputes or issues with a money order that has already been cashed may require contacting the USPS consumer assistance or potentially seeking legal advice.
• Alternatives to money orders: Research other payment methods like cashier’s checks, money transfers, or prepaid debit cards to see which best suits your specific needs and cost considerations.