Most money order sellers will not take credit cards directly
You cannot buy a money order with a credit card at most places that sell them. Post offices, Walmart, Western Union, and check-cashing stores typically accept cash, debit cards, and sometimes traveler's checks — but not credit cards. A few money order sellers have begun accepting credit cards in limited situations, but this is rare and often comes with extra fees.
The reason is straightforward: money orders are meant to be a may provide payment method, and sellers want to avoid the risk that comes with credit card chargebacks. If you pay with a credit card and then dispute the charge with your card issuer, the money order seller loses the money they already sent out. This is why sellers require cash or debit cards — both are final transactions with no chargeback risk.
Key Takeaways
- Post offices, Walmart, Western Union, and most check-cashing stores do not accept credit cards for money orders.
- You can use a credit card to withdraw cash from an ATM, then use that cash to buy a money order, though ATM cash advances usually carry high fees and interest rates.
- Some online money order services and a small number of physical locations now accept credit cards, but fees are typically higher than cash purchases.
- Debit cards work at nearly all money order sellers and avoid the fees and interest that come with credit card cash advances.
Using a cash advance to buy a money order
If you have a credit card but no cash or debit card, you can take a cash advance from an ATM or bank, then use that cash to buy a money order. However, this approach is expensive. Credit card cash advances typically charge a fee (often 3 to 5 percent of the amount withdrawn) plus a higher interest rate than regular purchases — sometimes 25 percent or more, depending on your card and issuer.
For example, if you need $500 for a money order, a cash advance might cost you $15 to $25 in fees alone, plus daily interest starting immediately (most cards do not offer a grace period on cash advances). By the time you pay off the advance, the total cost could be $50 or more. A debit card or bank transfer would accomplish the same thing for little or no cost.
Online money order services that accept credit cards
A small number of online platforms now allow you to purchase money orders with a credit card. MoneyGram and Western Union both offer online ordering in some states, and both accept credit cards for these purchases. However, fees are higher than buying in person with cash — typically $5 to $10 per money order, compared to $1 to $3 at a physical location.
Online money orders also take longer to arrive. You usually order online, pay by credit card, and then the money order is mailed to you or held for pickup. This process can take several business days, which does not work if you need the money order immediately. Check the website of MoneyGram or Western Union to see whether this service is available in your state and what the exact fees are, since both vary by location.
What to do if you only have a credit card
If a money order is urgent and you only have a credit card available, your best options are to find a debit card, use a bank transfer instead, or ask the person or organization you are paying whether they accept other payment methods. Many landlords, utility companies, and government agencies now accept bank transfers, ACH payments, or credit cards directly — you may not need a money order at all.
If you must have a money order and have no other payment method, a credit card cash advance is your only path forward, despite the cost. Withdraw the minimum amount you need, buy the money order immediately with that cash, and pay off the cash advance as quickly as possible to minimize interest charges.
Comparing your payment options
The table below shows how different payment methods stack up for buying a money order. Cash and debit cards are the cheapest and fastest options. Credit card cash advances work but carry significant costs. Online money orders with credit cards avoid the cash advance fees but take several days and are only available in some states.
| Payment Method | Works for Money Orders? | Typical Cost | Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cash | Yes | $1–$3 | Immediate |
| Debit card | Yes, at most sellers | $1–$3 | Immediate |
| Credit card (direct) | No, at most sellers | N/A | N/A |
| Credit card cash advance | Yes (via cash) | $15–$50+ total | Immediate |
| Online money order with credit card | Yes (limited availability) | $5–$10 | 3–5 business days |
| Bank transfer or ACH | No, but often accepted directly | $0–$3 | 1–3 business days |
If you have time and the recipient will accept it, a bank transfer or ACH payment is usually the cheapest option and requires no cash advance or money order fee at all.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a credit card at Walmart or the post office for a money order?
No. Walmart and the U.S. Postal Service both require cash or a debit card for money orders. Some Walmart locations may accept prepaid cards if they are set up like debit cards, but standard credit cards are not accepted.
Will my credit card company let me take a cash advance?
Most credit card issuers allow cash advances, but you should check your card's terms or call the number on the back of your card to confirm. Not all cards offer cash advances, and some have limits on how much you can withdraw.
Is there a way to avoid the cash advance fee?
Not if you use a credit card cash advance — fees are built into how cash advances work. Your best option is to use a debit card, borrow cash from someone, or ask whether the recipient will accept a different payment method like a bank transfer or credit card payment.
How long does an online money order take to arrive?
Online money orders typically take 3 to 5 business days to arrive by mail, or they may be available for pickup at a Western Union or MoneyGram location within 24 hours. Check the website when you order to see which options are available in your area.
What if I need the money order today?
You will need to buy it in person with cash or a debit card at a location like Walmart, the post office, or Western Union. If you only have a credit card, a cash advance is your only option, though it will cost you extra in fees and interest.