Money orders are a reliable and secure method for sending payments, especially when you need a paper trail or don’t want to use cash or personal checks. Western Union money orders are widely accepted and can be purchased from various locations. If you’re new to using them, filling out a money order might seem a bit confusing at first. This guide will walk you through each step of How To Fill Out A Western Union Money Order correctly, ensuring your payment reaches its destination without any issues.
Understanding Western Union Money Orders and Their Uses
Before diving into the steps, let’s briefly understand what a Western Union money order is and when you might use one. A money order is essentially a prepaid certificate that guarantees payment to a specific recipient. It’s a secure alternative to cash and personal checks, often used for:
- Paying bills: Especially when the recipient doesn’t accept personal checks or online payments.
- Rent payments: Providing a verifiable payment method for landlords.
- Government fees: Like application fees for immigration or other official processes.
- Sending money to individuals: Particularly useful when you need a secure, trackable method.
For international students in the U.S., money orders are commonly used for important payments such as:
- Form I-765 Filing Fee for Optional Practical Training (OPT) and STEM OPT Extension applications.
- SEVIS Maintenance Fees.
This guide will specifically address how to fill out a Western Union money order for these types of payments, but the general steps apply to any situation.
Step-by-Step Guide: Filling Out Your Western Union Money Order
Let’s break down each section of a typical Western Union money order to ensure you fill it out accurately. Keep in mind that money order layouts can slightly vary, but the core information required remains consistent.
Step 1: Purchasing Your Money Order
First, you’ll need to purchase a Western Union money order. You can find them at various locations, including:
- Retail Stores: Grocery stores, drug stores (like CVS or Walgreens), and big box stores (like Walmart or Target) often sell Western Union money orders.
- Western Union Agent Locations: Check the Western Union website to find agent locations near you.
When purchasing, you’ll need to:
- Specify the amount: Know the exact amount you need to pay.
- Pay the amount plus a fee: Money orders have a small service fee, usually between $1 and $2. You can typically pay with cash or a debit card.
- Present Photo ID: You’ll likely need to show a valid photo ID, such as your passport or driver’s license, to purchase a money order.
Once you have your money order, you’re ready to fill it out.
Step 2: “Pay To” Section – Recipient Information
This is arguably the most crucial part. The “Pay To” section is where you write the name of the person or organization you are paying.
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For I-765 Filing Fee: Write “U.S. Department of Homeland Security”. It’s essential to spell out the full name and avoid abbreviations like “USDHS” or “DHS”. If the money order includes an “Address” line in the “Pay To” section, you should write the address where you are mailing your application. You can find the correct address on the USCIS website (https://www.uscis.gov/i-765-addresses).
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For OISA SEVIS Maintenance Fees (Example from original article): Write “Office of International Student Affairs”. If an address is required, use their office address, for example, “262 High Street, Middletown, CT 06459”. Always verify the exact recipient name and address for your specific payment.
Alt Text: A close-up view of the “Pay To” section on a sample Western Union Money Order, with a pen pointing to the blank space where the recipient’s name should be written. This image emphasizes the importance of accurately filling out the recipient information when completing a money order.
Key Point: Double-check the exact name of the payee. Mistakes in this section can cause delays or rejection of your payment.
Step 3: “Memo/Payment For” Section – Purpose of Payment
The “Memo” or “Payment For” section is for adding a note about what the payment is for. This helps the recipient identify your payment, especially if they receive many money orders.
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For I-765 Filing Fee: Write your SEVIS ID number. This is a 9-digit number starting with “N” and is located on your I-20 form. Including your SEVIS ID ensures your payment is correctly associated with your student record.
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For other payments: Include relevant information like your account number, invoice number, or the purpose of the payment (e.g., “Rent for October”, “Invoice #12345”).
Step 4: “Purchaser” Section – Your Details
This section requires your information as the person purchasing the money order.
- Purchaser/Purchaser’s Signature: Sign your name in the “Purchaser’s Signature” line. This confirms that you are authorizing the payment.
- Purchaser’s Address: If requested, write your current mailing address. For OPT applications, use the address you listed on question #5 of Form I-765.
Alt Text: A detailed image focusing on the “Purchaser” section of a sample Western Union Money Order, clearly showing the “Purchaser’s Signature” line with a signature and the “Purchaser’s Address” field filled with address information, illustrating where the sender needs to provide their details on the money order.
Important Note: Always use your legal name and current address.
Important Tips for Using Money Orders
To ensure your payment process goes smoothly, keep these important tips in mind:
- Detach and Keep the Receipt: Money orders come with a receipt portion. Detach it and keep it in a safe place. This receipt is crucial for tracking your payment or canceling the money order if it gets lost or stolen. It’s your proof of purchase and payment.
- Do Not Sign the Back: The back of the money order is for the recipient to endorse when they cash or deposit it. Leave the back of the money order completely blank. Signing it yourself can invalidate the money order.
- Include Money Order with Application: If you’re using the money order for an application (like OPT), include it with your application documents when you mail them. Do not send the money order separately.
Where to Buy Western Union Money Orders
As mentioned earlier, Western Union money orders are widely available. Here’s a quick recap of common locations:
- Walmart
- CVS
- Walgreens
- Kroger
- Safeway
- Many other grocery stores, drug stores, and convenience stores.
- Western Union Agent Locations.
You can use the Western Union website’s “Find a location” tool to locate the nearest agent that sells money orders.
Conclusion
Knowing how to fill out a Western Union money order correctly is essential for secure and successful payments. By following these step-by-step instructions and tips, you can confidently use money orders for various financial transactions, including important fees like OPT application costs. Always double-check the recipient information and keep your receipt for peace of mind. Using money orders properly can simplify your payment process and provide a reliable way to send funds when needed.
