What you need to know before you start

Chase sells money orders at most branch locations, and the form itself is straightforward — you fill in the payee name, the amount, and your information, then pay the teller. The money order is printed on the spot. The main things that trip people up are writing the amount in both numbers and words (they have to match), and knowing that you cannot change the payee once it's printed.

Money orders from Chase cost a small fee — the amount varies by branch and account type, so ask when you buy one. You'll need cash or a debit card to pay; you cannot charge it to a credit card. The teller will hand you the completed money order plus a receipt. Keep the receipt until the payee confirms they received and cashed it.

Key Takeaways

  • Write the payee name, amount in numbers, amount in words, and your name and address on the form before handing it to the teller.
  • The amount in numbers and the amount in words must match exactly, or the money order will not be accepted.
  • You cannot change the payee name after the money order is printed, so double-check the spelling before you hand the form to the teller.
  • Keep your receipt until the payee confirms they have cashed the money order, in case there is a problem.

Step-by-step: filling out the form at the branch

When you arrive at a Chase branch, tell the teller you want to buy a money order. They will give you a blank form and a pen. Start with the payee line — this is the person or business who will receive and cash the money order. Write the name exactly as it appears on their account or business registration. Misspellings or nicknames can cause the payee to reject it or have trouble cashing it.

Next, fill in the amount in numbers in the box marked for numerals — for example, $150.00. Then write out the same amount in words on the line below it — "One hundred fifty dollars and 00/100" or "One hundred fifty dollars." The two must match exactly. If they don't, the money order will be rejected. Many people write the numbers correctly but make a mistake on the words line, so read both back to yourself before handing it to the teller.

Fill in your name and address in the sender section. This is how the payee can contact you if there is a problem, and it's also how Chase tracks the money order if it's lost. Use your current address. Finally, sign the form where indicated — usually at the bottom. Do not sign it before you hand it to the teller; some branches require the teller to watch you sign.

What happens after you hand it to the teller

The teller will review your form to make sure the payee name, amount in numbers, and amount in words all match. If they spot an error, they will ask you to fill out a new form — they cannot cross out and correct a money order form. Once they approve it, they will print the money order on the spot and charge you the fee (usually between $5 and $10, depending on your account and branch).

The teller will tear off your receipt and hand you both the receipt and the completed money order. The receipt shows the amount, the date, and a tracking number. Keep this receipt in a safe place until the payee tells you they have received and cashed the money order. If the money order is lost in the mail or the payee never receives it, you will need the receipt and tracking number to file a claim with Chase.

Common mistakes to avoid

The most common error is mismatching the amount in numbers and the amount in words. If you write $100 in numbers but "Fifty dollars" in words, the money order will be rejected and the payee will have to return it. You'll then have to buy a new one and pay the fee again.

Another frequent mistake is misspelling the payee name. If you write "Jon Smith" but the payee's account is under "John Smith," they may not be able to cash it, or they may have to go through extra steps to prove their identity. Ask the payee to spell their name if you are unsure.

Do not sign the money order before you hand the form to the teller. Some branches require you to sign in front of them, and signing early can cause delays or require you to start over with a new form.

If you need to cancel or replace a money order

If you realize you made a mistake before you hand the form to the teller, simply ask for a new blank form and start over. There is no penalty for unused forms.

If you already bought the money order and then realized there was an error, or if the payee never received it, contact the Chase branch where you bought it. Bring your receipt and the tracking number. Chase can issue a replacement or refund, but this process usually takes several weeks. You will likely have to pay a replacement fee as well.

Money order vs. other payment methods

Money orders are useful when the payee needs a may provide payment but you do not have a checking account or do not want to share your account number. They are also accepted in situations where personal checks are not — for example, some landlords or utility companies require a money order or cashier's check.

If you have a Chase checking account, a personal check is usually faster and free. If you need the payment to arrive quickly and you want to track it, a wire transfer or ACH transfer through your Chase account may be better. Ask the payee which method they prefer before you buy a money order.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy a money order without a Chase account?

Yes. You do not need to be a Chase customer to buy a money order at a Chase branch. You will need to pay the fee in cash or with a debit card. Some branches may ask for an ID to verify your identity.

What if I write the wrong amount and already handed it to the teller?

Tell the teller immediately before they print it. They will void the form and give you a new blank one. If the money order was already printed, you will need to contact the branch later with your receipt to request a replacement or refund, which can take several weeks.

How long does it take for the payee to receive a money order I mailed?

Mail delivery typically takes three to seven business days, depending on distance. Money orders do not clear instantly like electronic transfers. If the payee does not receive it within two weeks, contact the branch with your receipt and tracking number to file a claim.

Can I make a money order payable to two people?

Most money orders have space for only one payee name. If you need to pay two people, ask the teller whether your branch can print a money order with both names on the payee line, or you may need to buy two separate money orders.

What if I lose the money order before I mail it?

Contact the Chase branch where you bought it with your receipt and tracking number. They can issue a replacement, though this usually takes several weeks and may involve a fee. This is why keeping your receipt is important.