Chase offers money orders at most branches, but not all locations carry them, and you'll need to go in person with cash or a debit card

Chase Bank sells money orders at many of its branches, though availability varies by location. You cannot order a money order online or by phone — you must visit a branch in person. Bring cash or a debit card, a valid ID, and the amount you want to send plus the money order fee. Chase typically charges between $5 and $10 per money order depending on the amount, though fees can differ by region and branch.

Not every Chase branch stocks money orders. Before you go, call ahead to confirm your local branch has them in stock. Some smaller branches or those in rural areas may not carry them regularly. If your nearest Chase doesn't have money orders available, you can get them at most grocery stores, pharmacies, or post offices instead.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Chase branch in person during business hours to buy a money order; online and phone orders are not available.
  • Chase charges a fee between $5 and $10 per money order, depending on the amount and your location.
  • Call your branch before visiting to confirm they have money orders in stock, since not all locations carry them.
  • You'll need a valid ID and either cash or a debit card to complete the purchase.
  • If Chase is inconvenient, grocery stores, pharmacies, and the post office also sell money orders, often with lower fees.

What you need to bring to a Chase branch

Bring a valid government-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Chase will not issue a money order without it. You'll also need the cash or debit card to pay for both the money order amount and the fee.

Have the recipient's name and address ready, along with any account number or reference information they've asked you to include. You don't need to have a Chase account to buy a money order there, but the teller will ask for your name and address for their records.

How much Chase charges for a money order

Chase's money order fee typically ranges from $5 to $10. The exact amount depends on how much money you're sending and which region your branch is in. A $500 money order might cost $5, while a $1,000 order could cost $10. Call your branch to ask about their specific fee before you go.

This is often more expensive than other options. The U.S. Postal Service usually charges $1.45 to $2.00 per money order regardless of amount. Walmart and many grocery stores charge $0.70 to $1.50. If you're sending a large amount or multiple money orders, the fee difference can add up quickly.

When to use a Chase money order instead of alternatives

A Chase money order makes sense if you're already at a Chase branch for another reason and need one immediately. It's also useful if you have a Chase account and want to keep all your banking in one place, though that convenience comes at a higher cost.

If you don't have a Chase account or don't visit branches often, you'll usually save money buying a money order at the post office, Walmart, or a grocery store. Those locations have longer hours, lower fees, and don't require you to call ahead to confirm availability. The post office is the most widely available option if you need a money order in a rural area.

How to fill out a Chase money order

The teller will hand you a blank money order form. Write the recipient's name on the "Pay to the Order of" line. On the "Memo" line, write what the payment is for — rent, utilities, a bill payment, or whatever applies. Sign the money order in the "Purchaser" or "From" section.

Do not sign the back of the money order. That's where the recipient signs when they cash or deposit it. Keep your receipt and the money order number in case you need to track it or report it lost. Money orders can take several business days to clear, so don't expect the recipient to have the funds immediately.

What to do if your local Chase doesn't have money orders

Call the branch and ask when they expect to have money orders in stock. Some branches restock weekly or on specific days. If waiting doesn't work for you, ask if another nearby Chase location carries them.

If no Chase branch near you has money orders available, the post office is usually the fastest alternative. Post offices are open six days a week in most areas, accept cash or debit cards, and charge $1.45 to $2.00 per money order. Walmart, grocery stores, and pharmacies also sell them during their regular hours, often with fees under $1.50.

Tracking and replacing a lost Chase money order

Keep your receipt and the money order number. If the money order is lost or stolen before the recipient cashes it, contact Chase with your receipt and the money order number. Chase can place a stop on it and issue a replacement, though this process typically takes several business days.

You may be charged a replacement fee, usually $15 to $30, depending on the branch. This is another reason to consider alternatives: the post office and most retailers offer similar protections at lower cost. Always photograph or write down the money order number before you hand it over or mail it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy a Chase money order without a bank account?

Yes. You don't need to be a Chase customer. Bring a valid ID, cash or a debit card, and the amount you want to send plus the fee. The teller will ask for your name and address for their records but won't require an account.

How long does a Chase money order take to clear?

Money orders typically clear within one to three business days after the recipient deposits or cashes them. The time depends on the recipient's bank and how quickly they deposit it. Chase cannot speed up this process.

What if I make a mistake filling out the money order?

Ask the teller for a replacement before you leave the branch. Most branches will issue a new one at no extra charge if you catch the error immediately. If you discover a mistake after you've left, contact Chase with your receipt and they can help you stop payment and reissue it, though a fee may apply.

Is a Chase money order safer than a personal check?

Yes. A money order is may provide by the bank, so the recipient knows the funds are real. A personal check can bounce if there's not enough money in the account. This is why landlords, utilities, and government agencies often require money orders instead of checks.

Can I send a money order by mail?

Yes, but it's not recommended. Money orders sent through the mail can be lost or stolen. If you must mail one, send it through certified mail with a signature requirement so you have proof of delivery. Keep your receipt and the money order number in case you need to file a claim.