What Bank of America Charges for Money Orders
Bank of America Money Order Costs
Bank of America charges $5 for a money order if you have a Bank of America checking or savings account. If you do not have an account with them, the cost is higher — typically $10, though this can vary by location and branch.
The price covers the money order itself and the teller's time to issue it. You pay at the time you request the money order, and the fee is separate from the amount you are sending. So if you want to send $200, you pay $200 plus the $5 fee.
These prices are current but can change. Call your local Bank of America branch or check their website to confirm the exact fee before you go in, since some branches may charge slightly different amounts.
Key Takeaways
- Bank of America charges $5 for a money order if you hold a checking or savings account with them.
- Non-customers pay a higher fee, usually around $10, though this varies by branch location.
- You pay the fee at the time you request the money order, in addition to the amount you are sending.
- Money orders from Bank of America can be issued same-day at any branch during business hours.
- You will need a valid ID and the recipient's name and address to get a money order.
How to Get a Money Order at Bank of America
Walk into any Bank of America branch during business hours with your valid ID. Tell the teller you want a money order and provide the name and address of the person or business you are sending it to. The teller will ask you how much the money order should be for.
You then pay the amount of the money order plus the $5 fee (or $10 if you are not a customer). The teller will issue the money order on the spot — you do not have to wait or come back later. You receive the money order and a receipt.
If you are a Bank of America customer, you can also request a money order at the drive-through window at many branches, though not all locations offer this service. Call ahead if you want to use the drive-through.
What Information You Need to Bring
Bring a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Bank of America will not issue a money order without it.
You also need to know the recipient's name and mailing address. The money order will have this information printed on it, so the recipient knows who sent it and where to cash it. If you do not have the exact address, you can write what you know, but the more complete the address, the better.
Have the cash or debit card ready to pay the amount plus the fee. Bank of America tellers can issue money orders for amounts up to $1,000 per order. If you need to send more than that, you will need to get multiple money orders.
Money Order Limits and Restrictions
Bank of America will issue a single money order for up to $1,000. If you need to send more than $1,000, you can get multiple money orders — there is no limit on how many you can get in one visit, but you will pay the $5 fee for each one.
You cannot use a credit card to pay for a money order at Bank of America. You must use cash, a debit card, or a check drawn on your Bank of America account. This is a standard rule across most banks and is designed to prevent fraud.
How Money Orders Compare to Other Payment Methods
A money order is safer than sending cash through the mail because it has a tracking number and the recipient's name printed on it. Unlike a personal check, a money order is may provide by the bank — the recipient knows the funds are real and available.
A wire transfer is faster but usually costs more and requires the recipient's bank account details. A cashier's check is similar to a money order but is drawn on a bank account and typically costs less at some banks. A regular check is free but takes longer to clear and is not may provide the way a money order is.
If you are sending a small amount locally, you might also consider a bank transfer or payment app like Zelle, which is often free for Bank of America customers. For larger amounts or when you need a paper trail, a money order is a solid choice.
Tracking and Replacing a Lost Money Order
When the teller issues your money order, you receive a receipt with a tracking number on it. Keep this receipt. If the money order is lost or stolen before the recipient cashes it, you can use the tracking number to file a claim with Bank of America.
To replace a lost money order, contact Bank of America with your receipt and the tracking number. The bank will research whether the money order has been cashed. If it has not been cashed, they can issue a replacement. This process can take several weeks, so it is not when ready, but it protects you from losing the money.
If the money order has already been cashed by someone else, Bank of America cannot reverse it. This is why keeping the receipt in a safe place is important.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a money order without a Bank of America account?
Yes. Non-customers can get a money order at any Bank of America branch, but you will pay a higher fee — usually around $10 instead of $5. You still need a valid ID. Some branches may have different pricing, so call ahead to confirm.
How long does it take to get a money order at Bank of America?
A money order is issued same-day while you wait. The teller will complete it in a few minutes. You walk in, provide the information, pay the fee, and leave with the money order in hand.
What if I need a money order for more than $1,000?
You can get multiple money orders. Each one can be for up to $1,000, and you will pay the $5 fee for each. So a $2,500 payment would require three money orders and three $5 fees.
Can I cancel a money order after I buy it?
Yes, but only if the money order has not been cashed. Bring your receipt and the money order itself to a Bank of America branch. The teller can void it and refund your money, though some branches may charge a small fee for this service.
Do I need to go to my home branch or can I go to any Bank of America location?
You can go to any Bank of America branch. You do not need to use the branch where you opened your account. Just bring your ID and you can get a money order at any location during business hours.
This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.