Converting a check to a money order means cashing the check first, then using that cash to buy a money order at a bank, post office, or retailer

You cannot turn a check directly into a money order. A money order is a separate financial instrument that you purchase with your own cash or funds. If you have a check and need a money order instead, you must first cash the check at a bank, credit union, or check-cashing service, then take that cash to a money order issuer and purchase one.

The reason this matters: some people receive checks but need to send money in the form of a money order — perhaps because the recipient won't accept a personal check, or because a money order provides a receipt and tracking number. Understanding the two-step process saves you time and helps you avoid fees.

Key Takeaways

  • You must cash your check first; no business will convert a check directly into a money order.
  • Banks, credit unions, and check-cashing services can cash your check, though fees and requirements vary by institution.
  • Once you have cash, you can purchase a money order at the U.S. Postal Service, most banks, Walmart, grocery stores, or other retailers.
  • The total cost includes both the check-cashing fee (if any) and the money order fee, which typically ranges from $1 to $5 depending on the amount and issuer.
  • Money orders have limits — the U.S. Postal Service caps them at $1,000 per order, so large amounts require multiple orders.

Step 1: Cash your check

Take your check to a bank or credit union where you have an account. If you have a checking or savings account, most banks will cash your check for free. You do not need to deposit it; you can ask the teller to cash it and give you the money in cash or as a cashier's check.

If you do not have a bank account, or your bank is closed, you can use a check-cashing service. These are retail businesses that cash checks for a fee — typically 1% to 3% of the check amount, though some charge a flat fee instead. Walmart, grocery stores, and dedicated check-cashing shops all offer this service. Ask about the fee before you hand over the check.

Credit unions often cash checks for non-members at a lower fee than commercial check-cashing services. If you belong to a credit union, that is usually your cheapest option outside your own bank.

Step 2: Purchase a money order with your cash

Once you have cash, you can buy a money order at several types of locations. The U.S. Postal Service is the most common choice — post offices sell money orders to anyone, and the fee is typically $1.45 for orders up to $500 and $1.95 for orders from $500.01 to $1,000. These fees can vary slightly by location.

Banks and credit unions also sell money orders, usually to account holders but sometimes to the public. The fee is often lower than the post office — sometimes $0.50 to $2 depending on the institution. Call ahead to confirm they sell them and what the fee is.

Retailers like Walmart, grocery stores, and pharmacies sell money orders through their customer service desks. Walmart's fee is typically around $0.70 for orders up to $1,000. These are often the cheapest option and require no account.

Understanding money order limits and fees

The U.S. Postal Service limits each money order to $1,000. If you need to send more than $1,000, you must purchase multiple money orders. For example, to send $2,500, you would buy two $1,000 orders and one $500 order, paying three separate fees.

Other issuers may have different limits. Walmart money orders, for instance, are capped at $1,000 as well, but some banks set lower limits. Check with your issuer before you cash your check, so you know how many orders you will need.

The total cost of converting a check to a money order is the sum of the check-cashing fee (if any) plus the money order fee. If you cash a $500 check at Walmart for $0.88 and then buy a $500 money order for $0.70, your total cost is $1.58. At a check-cashing service charging 2%, plus a post office money order, the cost could be $10 to $15 for the same amount.

When to use this method instead of other options

Converting a check to a money order makes sense when the recipient specifically requests a money order, or when you need a receipt and tracking number for proof of payment. Money orders are also useful when you do not want to give out your bank account number, which a personal check requires.

If the recipient will accept a personal check, sending the check directly is simpler and costs nothing. If you need to send money electronically and both parties have bank accounts, a wire transfer or ACH transfer is often faster and cheaper than a money order, though fees vary by bank.

If you need a money order but do not have a check to cash, you can purchase one directly with cash or a debit card at any of the locations listed above.

Common mistakes to avoid

Do not assume your bank will cash a check from another bank for free. Some banks charge non-customers a fee of $5 to $10 to cash a check. Call ahead or use your own bank if you have one.

Do not buy a money order for more than the issuer's limit. If you need $1,500 and buy a single $1,500 money order at a bank that caps them at $1,000, the transaction will be rejected. Buy multiple smaller orders instead.

Do not lose the receipt. Money order receipts include a tracking number that lets you confirm the money order was cashed. If it goes missing in the mail, you will need this number to file a claim with the issuer.

Do not assume all money order issuers charge the same fee. A $0.70 difference per order adds up if you are buying multiple orders. Compare fees at the post office, your bank, and nearby retailers before you decide where to buy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cash a check at a bank where I don't have an account?

Yes, but most banks charge a fee to non-customers — typically $5 to $10. Your best option is to use a check-cashing service, a credit union (which often has lower fees), or open a basic checking account at a bank that offers free checking.

What if the check is made out to someone else?

You cannot cash a check made out to another person unless they sign the back and you are listed as a co-payee. If the check is only in their name, they must cash it themselves or sign it over to you in writing (called a third-party endorsement), though many banks no longer accept third-party checks.

Do I need an ID to buy a money order?

Yes. The U.S. Postal Service, banks, and most retailers require a valid government-issued ID to purchase a money order. Bring your driver's license or passport.

What happens if I lose the money order before I send it?

Contact the issuer with your receipt and tracking number. They can tell you whether the money order has been cashed. If it has not, you can request a replacement or refund, though this process takes several weeks and may involve a fee.

Is it cheaper to wire money than to use a money order?

It depends on the amount and your bank. Wire transfers typically cost $15 to $30, making them expensive for small amounts. Money orders cost $1 to $5, so for amounts under $500, a money order is usually cheaper. For large amounts, a wire transfer may be faster and more find despite the higher fee.