Money orders might seem like a relic from your grandparents’ era, but they’re actually a common way to send payments that some consider more secure than cash and more reliable than personal checks.
Whether you’re paying rent, sending cash to family, or handling transactions where checks aren’t accepted, knowing how to fill out a money order is a skill that’ll save you time, money, and headaches.
Let’s break down everything you need to know about how to write a money order, from where to get one to avoiding those rookie mistakes that could cost you.
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Table of contents
What is a money order and how does it work?
A money order is a prepaid payment method that works like a guaranteed check. You pay the full amount upfront (plus a small fee), and the issuing institution, whether it’s the post office or a bank, guarantees the funds to whoever receives it.
Unlike personal checks that can bounce, money orders are backed by real money you’ve already paid, making them a secure way to send payments when cash isn’t practical and personal checks aren’t accepted or trusted.
👉 What is a Money Order? How a Money Order Works
How to fill out a money order like a pro: step-by-step
Ready to fill out money order paperwork? Here’s your foolproof process:
Step 1: Write the recipient’s name in the “pay to the order of” field
Write the full name of whoever should receive the money. If it’s going to a business, use their official business name exactly as it appears on their invoices or signage. For individuals, use their full legal name. Make sure to double-check the spelling – banks and businesses are picky about this stuff.
Step 2: Add your information in the “purchaser” section
Write your full name and address in the designated area. This identifies you as the person who bought the money order. Think of it as your financial signature on the transaction.
Step 3: Include the recipient’s address (if required)
Some money orders ask for the recipient’s address. Fill this out completely if the field exists – it helps ensure the payment gets to the right place.
Step 4: How to sign a money order correctly
Here’s the crucial part: find the line that says “Purchaser’s Signature” or just “Signature.” Sign your name exactly as you wrote it in the purchaser section. Don’t sign it until you’re ready to send it; a signed money order is as good as cash to whoever has it.
Important: Only sign in the designated signature area. Never sign on the back unless specifically instructed; that’s usually reserved for the recipient.
Step 6: Keep that receipt
Don’t toss the receipt stub; it’s your proof of purchase and your only way to track the money order if something goes wrong. Store it somewhere safe until you confirm the recipient has received and cashed the money order.
Where to get a money order (spoiler: they’re everywhere)
Before you can fill out a money order, you need to get your hands on one. The good news? They’re easier to find than a good parking spot at the mall. Take a look at some common money order service providers.
- Post offices: The classic choice, available at most USPS locations
- Banks and credit unions: Usually offer them to customers
- Grocery stores: Check the customer service desk
- Walmart: One of the most convenient options around, depending on your area
Pro tip: Call ahead to make sure they have money orders available and ask about fees. Nobody likes surprise charges.
How to send a money order safely
Now that you know how to fill one out, let’s talk delivery:
- In person: Hand it directly to the recipient
- By mail: Use certified mail or a tracking service for valuable amounts
- Never email or fax: Money orders are physical documents that need physical delivery
Keep your receipt until you confirm the money order has been received and processed. That little slip of paper is your proof of purchase and also a tracking tool.
Common mistakes when filling out a money order
Even smart people make dumb mistakes sometimes. Here are some ones that can be all too common.
Writing in pen that bleeds or fades: Use a black or blue ballpoint pen. Skip the gel pens and markers.
Making corrections: Money orders don’t have an “undo” button. One mistake usually means starting over with a new money order.
Losing your receipt: That receipt is your lifeline if something goes wrong. Treat it like cash.
Filling it out at home: Complete the money order at the point of purchase or in a secure location. Blank money orders are at risk of being forged or stolen.
Money order fees: What you’ll typically pay
Let’s talk numbers because transparency is everything:
- USPS: Around $0.79 to $3.40, depending on the amount
- Walmart: Typically, a max $1 fee
- Banks: Can be around $5 or even more (ouch, but convenient if you’re already there)
- Grocery stores: Can be around $5 or more, depending on the grocery chain
The money order service fee varies by location, so shop around if you’re buying multiple money orders or large amounts.
When money orders make perfect sense
Money orders aren’t just for people without bank accounts. They’re actually the smart choice for:
- Rent payments when landlords don’t accept personal checks
- Online purchases where you want payment security
- Sending money to family members without bank accounts
- Official payments where guaranteed funds are required
- International transactions (though wire transfers might be better for large amounts)
Alternatives to money orders
Money orders aren’t your only option for secure payments. Depending on your situation, these alternatives might work better, and sometimes cost less too.
Cashier’s checks: Bank-issued guaranteed checks that work like money orders but handle larger amounts (often over $1,000). Great for big purchases like cars or security deposits.
Wire transfers: Fast money transfers that arrive same-day or within hours. Perfect for urgent payments or international transactions, but they can come with premium feeds and often require detailed recipient banking info.
Digital payment apps: Apps like Venmo, PayPal, or Zelle offer instant transfers for free or minimal fees. Ideal for everyday transactions and splitting bills, but both parties will need the required apps and bank accounts.
FAQs
How to fill out the money order form?
Fill in the recipient’s name in “Pay to,” add your information in the purchaser section, include a memo if desired, and sign only in the designated signature area.
Whose address should be on a money order?
Both your address (as the purchaser) and the recipient’s address should be included if there are fields for them on the money order form.
How to fix a mistake on a money order?
You can’t fix mistakes on money orders; any errors usually require purchasing a new money order, so double-check everything before writing.
Who signs the back of a money order?
The recipient signs the back of the money order when they deposit or cash it, similar to endorsing a check.
