Does Post Office Do Money Orders? Your Guide to Cashing Money Orders at USPS

Money orders are a reliable way to send money, especially for those who prefer not to use checks or credit cards. If you’ve received a money order, you might be wondering, “Does Post Office Do Money Orders?”. The answer is yes! The United States Postal Service (USPS) not only issues money orders but also provides convenient services for cashing them. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about cashing money orders at the Post Office and other locations.

Cashing a Money Order at the Post Office: A Step-by-Step Guide

The Post Office is one of the most straightforward places to cash a USPS money order, and often, it’s free. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Wait to Sign: This is crucial. Do not endorse or sign the back of your money order until you are at the Post Office counter and instructed to do so by the retail associate. Signing it beforehand could complicate the cashing process.

2. Gather Your Essentials: Before heading to your local Post Office location, ensure you have two key items:

   • The Original Money Order: Make sure it’s the original money order you intend to cash, and it’s in good condition.
   • Valid Photo ID: You’ll need to present a primary photo ID for verification. Acceptable forms of ID typically include:
     • Driver’s license or non-driver ID card
     • U.S. passport or passport card
     • Military ID card
     • Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
     • Employment Authorization Document (EAD card)

3. Visit Any Post Office: You can cash your money order at any Post Office location. You can easily find the nearest one by using the USPS Post Office locator tool.

4. Present and Sign at the Counter: Once at the counter, inform the retail associate that you want to cash a money order. Present your money order and your valid photo ID. The associate will verify the money order and your ID. Only when instructed, sign the money order on the endorsement line in front of the postal worker.

5. Receive Your Cash: USPS will cash your money order for the exact amount printed on it. You will receive the full face value in cash, as Post Offices do not charge a fee for cashing USPS-issued money orders.

Important Considerations for Cashing Money Orders at USPS:

• Money orders are cashed for their exact value. You cannot cash a money order for a partial amount.
• For money orders made out to organizations, multiple people, or minors, there might be additional requirements. It’s best to inquire at your local Post Office or refer to the official USPS guidelines for detailed information.

Other Options for Cashing Money Orders

While the Post Office is a reliable and often free option, you have other places where you might be able to cash a money order:

• Banks and Credit Unions: Most banks and credit unions cash money orders, especially if you are a customer. However, policies vary. Some banks may charge a fee for non-customers, or they might only cash money orders up to a certain amount or of specific types. Check with your bank or local branches for their specific money order cashing policies.

• Retail Stores: Many retail stores, particularly supermarkets, convenience stores, and check-cashing stores, also cash money orders. Walmart, for instance, is a well-known retailer that cashes money orders. These locations typically charge a fee for this service, and the fee can vary. It’s advisable to check their fee structure before you decide to cash your money order there.

• Rural Carriers: In some rural areas, if you have a good relationship with your USPS rural carrier, they might be able to cash a money order for you if they have sufficient cash on hand. This is less common but can be a convenient option in certain circumstances.

Checking the Status of a Money Order

Whether you are cashing a money order or have sent one, it’s useful to be able to check its status. USPS provides an online tool to track your money order. To check the status, visit the Money Orders Application and have the following information ready:

• Money Order Serial Number: This is a unique number printed on the money order.
• Post Office Number: This number identifies the Post Office where the money order was purchased.
• Dollar Amount: The exact value of the money order.

With these details, you can track if a money order has been cashed, which can be particularly helpful if you are waiting for payment or need to confirm if a money order you sent has been received and cashed.

What to Do if a Money Order is Lost, Stolen, or Damaged

Life happens, and money orders can sometimes be misplaced, stolen, or damaged. Here’s what you need to know about replacing them:

Lost or Stolen Money Orders

Unfortunately, you cannot stop payment on a USPS money order. However, if your money order is lost or stolen, you can request a replacement. Keep in mind:

• Confirmation Timeline: It can take up to 30 days to confirm a money order is lost or stolen.
• Investigation Period: Investigating the status of a lost or stolen money order might take up to 60 days.
• Replacement Fee: There is a processing fee of $20.15 to replace a lost or stolen money order.

How to Request a Refund for a Lost or Stolen Money Order:

1. Visit a Post Office: Take your money order receipt to any Post Office location. The receipt is crucial for starting the replacement process.
2. Initiate a Money Order Inquiry: Speak to a retail associate at the counter and request to start a Money Order Inquiry. They will guide you through the necessary steps.
3. Track Your Inquiry: After starting the inquiry, you can monitor its progress and check the status of your money order online using the Money Orders Application.
4. Replacement Money Order: Once your money order is confirmed as lost or stolen, USPS will issue you a replacement money order for the original value, minus the processing fee.

Damaged Money Orders

If your money order is defective or damaged but you still have it, USPS will replace it.

How to Replace a Damaged Money Order:

1. Go to Your Local Post Office: Take the damaged money order and your original purchase receipt to your local Post Office.
2. Request a Replacement: Present the damaged money order and receipt to a postal worker. They will typically replace the damaged money order with a new one, provided you have the receipt and the damaged money order is still recognizable.

By understanding these processes, you can confidently handle cashing, tracking, and replacing USPS money orders. Whether you choose to cash your money order at the Post Office, a bank, or another location, knowing your options makes managing your finances easier.