You can cash a money order at several types of locations, typically including:
- The place where the money order was purchased or another branch of the same company (e.g., if bought at Walmart, cash it at Walmart)
- Banks and credit unions , especially if you have an account there, as they often cash money orders for free or with lower fees
- Post offices for USPS money orders, which are generally cashed for free at any post office
- Money transfer services like Western Union or MoneyGram locations, which both sell and cash money orders, though not all branches may cash them so it’s good to call ahead
- Check-cashing stores, grocery stores, and some retail stores that have money transfer counters, though these may charge fees
Key points when cashing a money order:
- Bring a valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, military ID, etc.) to prove you are the intended recipient
- Endorse (sign) the money order only in front of the teller or cashier, not beforehand, to reduce risk of theft or fraud
- Be prepared to pay a fee unless you cash it at the original issuer or your own bank/credit union, where fees are often lower or waived
- Consider depositing the money order into your bank account via ATM or teller as an alternative to cashing it, which may avoid fees
- Cash the money order promptly to reduce risk of loss, damage, or cancellation by the sender
In summary, the best places to cash a money order are the issuing location, your bank or credit union, post office (for USPS money orders), or authorized money transfer agents like Western Union or MoneyGram. Fees and requirements vary, so checking in advance is advisable