You can cash a money order for free at several places, especially if you go to the issuer or your own financial institution:

• USPS Post Office : If you have a USPS money order, you can cash it for free at any Post Office by presenting a valid photo ID and signing the money order in front of the clerk

• Banks and Credit Unions : Most banks and credit unions will cash money orders for free if you are their customer. They often waive fees for account holders

• Issuer Locations : Cashing a money order at the place where it was purchased (e.g., Walmart, Western Union, MoneyGram) may reduce or eliminate fees. For example, Western Union locations cash money orders, but it's best to call ahead to confirm

• Some Retail Stores : Certain grocery stores and check-cashing stores cash money orders, but fees may apply unless they are the issuer or you have an account with them

If you do not have a bank account, check-cashing stores, issuer locations, and the post office are your best free or low-fee options

. To avoid fees, your best bet is to cash the money order at the original issuer or your own bank or credit union. USPS money orders are a common example where cashing at the Post Office is free

. Summary: Where to cash a money order for free

• USPS money orders at any Post Office
• Your bank or credit union (if you are a customer)
• Issuer location (e.g., Walmart, Western Union) - call ahead to confirm no fees

Make sure to bring a valid photo ID and do not sign the money order until you are at the counter to endorse it in front of the cashier