Where you can cash a money order
You can cash a money order at a bank, credit union, grocery store, pharmacy, check-cashing service, or the U.S. Postal Service. The place that issued the money order will always cash it, but you do not have to go back there — most retailers and financial institutions will cash one from any issuer. Banks and credit unions typically cash money orders for free if you have an account with them; other locations may charge a small fee, usually between $1 and $5.
The fastest option is often a store where you shop regularly, since you may already be there and the transaction takes just a few minutes. The most reliable option is your own bank or credit union, because they have your account on file and can deposit the funds directly if you prefer not to receive cash.
Key Takeaways
- Banks, credit unions, grocery stores, pharmacies, and the Post Office will all cash money orders, though fees vary by location.
- You need the original money order document and a valid government-issued ID to cash it.
- The person or business whose name appears as the payee on the money order is the only one who can cash it unless they have signed the back to transfer it to someone else.
- If a money order is lost or damaged, the issuer can issue a replacement, but you will need proof of purchase and the original receipt.
What you need to bring
Bring the original money order document and a valid government-issued photo ID. The ID must match the name on the money order — the name of the person or business listed as the payee. If the money order is made out to a business, bring documentation showing you are authorized to cash it on behalf of that business, such as a letter from the owner or your employment verification.
Do not bring a photocopy or a picture of the money order on your phone. The institution cashing it needs to see and handle the original document. If the money order is damaged, torn, or faded to the point that key information is illegible, some places will refuse to cash it and direct you to the issuer for a replacement.
If the money order is made out to someone else
A money order made out to another person can only be cashed by that person, unless they have signed the back and written your name there. This is called a third-party endorsement. The original payee signs the back, writes "Pay to the order of [your name]," and signs again. You then sign below that. Not all banks and stores accept third-party endorsed money orders — call ahead to confirm before you attempt it.
If the original payee is not available and did not endorse it to you, you cannot cash the money order. The only option is for that person to cash it themselves and give you the cash, or to contact the issuer about having the money order reissued in your name.
How long it takes to get your money
Cashing a money order at the counter is when ready — you receive cash or a deposit to your account on the spot. If you ask the bank or store to deposit the funds into your account instead of giving you cash, the money is usually available the same day or the next business day, depending on the institution's policy and the time of day you deposit it.
If you mail a money order to someone or deposit it by mail, the recipient's bank or institution will process it within one to three business days after they receive it. The exact timeline depends on when the mail arrives and the institution's processing schedule.
What happens if a money order is lost or stolen
Contact the issuer when ready — the organization or store that sold you the money order. You will need the receipt from your purchase, which contains the money order number and the amount. The issuer can tell you whether the money order has been cashed and, if it has not been, can place a stop on it and issue a replacement.
If the money order has already been cashed by someone else, the issuer will investigate. Depending on the issuer's policy and the circumstances, you may be refunded, but this process can take weeks or months. Keep your receipt in a safe place until you confirm the money order has been cashed by the intended recipient.
Fees and costs
Most banks and credit unions cash money orders for free if you are a customer. Grocery stores, pharmacies, and check-cashing services typically charge $1 to $5 to cash a money order, though some waive the fee if you are a regular customer or if you cash it at a location where you have an account. The U.S. Postal Service does not charge a fee to cash money orders it issued.
Before you go to cash a money order, call or check the location's website to confirm their fee, if any. Some places have different fees depending on the issuer of the money order or the amount being cashed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cash a money order without an ID?
No. All banks, stores, and the Post Office require a valid government-issued photo ID that matches the name on the money order. This is a federal requirement to prevent fraud and money laundering. If you do not have an ID, you cannot cash the money order yourself.
What if the money order is damaged or the ink is faded?
If key information — the amount, the payee name, or the issuer — is illegible, most places will refuse to cash it. Contact the issuer with your receipt and ask for a replacement. The issuer will verify the original transaction and send you a new money order.
Can I cash a money order at any bank, or only my own bank?
You can cash a money order at any bank or credit union, not just your own. However, if you use a bank where you do not have an account, they may charge a fee. Your own bank will typically cash it for free and can deposit it directly into your account if you prefer.
How do I know if a money order has already been cashed?
Contact the issuer with your receipt and money order number. They can look up the transaction and tell you whether it has been cashed and, if so, when and where. If you suspect fraud, report it to the issuer and your local police department.
What if the payee name on the money order is spelled wrong?
Minor spelling variations are usually accepted, especially if the ID you present matches the name on the money order. However, if the name is significantly different or unclear, the institution may refuse to cash it. Contact the issuer to discuss your options — they may issue a replacement or provide guidance on how to proceed.