Chase sells money orders at most branches, but they are not the cheapest option and come with limits on the amount you can buy in a single order.
If you have a Chase checking or savings account, you can walk into a branch and buy a money order the same day. Chase charges a flat fee per money order — the exact amount varies by state and branch, but typically ranges from $5 to $10. You can buy money orders for amounts up to $1,000 per order, though you can purchase multiple orders in one visit if you need more.
The main reason to use Chase is convenience: if you already bank there and have a branch nearby, you avoid a separate trip. The main reason not to use Chase is cost. Grocery stores, Walmart, and Western Union often charge $0.50 to $2 per money order, making them significantly cheaper for the same service.
Key Takeaways
- Chase money orders cost $5 to $10 each depending on your state, which is higher than most other sources.
- You can buy up to $1,000 per money order at Chase, and you can purchase multiple orders in one transaction.
- You must visit a Chase branch in person with a valid ID; you cannot order money orders online or by phone.
- Grocery stores and Walmart typically charge under $2 per money order, making them cheaper alternatives if you do not need the convenience of your bank branch.
What you need to bring to a Chase branch
Bring a valid photo ID and your debit card or checkbook to prove you are a Chase customer. You do not need to have the money order recipient's name in advance — you can fill that in at the counter. Bring cash or be prepared to pay from your account; most branches accept both.
If you are not a Chase customer, you cannot buy a money order at Chase. The bank restricts this service to account holders only.
How the transaction works at the counter
Tell the teller you want to buy a money order and provide the amount. The teller will ask for the recipient's name (the person or business the money order is made out to) and your name as the sender. You will pay the amount of the money order plus the fee. The teller prints the money order, you sign it, and you receive it immediately.
The entire process usually takes 5 to 10 minutes. You will receive a receipt showing the money order number, amount, and fee paid. Keep this receipt until the money order is cashed, in case you need to trace it later.
Limits on how much you can buy
Chase allows up to $1,000 per individual money order. If you need more than $1,000, you can buy multiple money orders in the same visit — there is no daily limit on the total amount across multiple orders. However, if you are buying a very large amount (typically $3,000 or more in a single day), the teller may ask questions or require additional documentation for compliance reasons.
If you need a money order larger than $1,000, you have two options: buy multiple money orders, or use a cashier's check instead. A cashier's check is a bank-issued check that works similarly to a money order but can be written for any amount and is often preferred for large transactions.
When Chase money orders make sense
Use Chase if you are already at a branch for another reason, or if you value the security of buying from your own bank. Chase money orders are legitimate and widely accepted, so there is no quality difference from other sources — only cost.
If you are buying just one money order and have a Chase branch within walking distance, the convenience may outweigh the higher fee. If you are buying multiple money orders or do not have a nearby Chase branch, Walmart or a grocery store will save you money and time.
How to track a Chase money order if it goes missing
Keep your receipt. If the money order is lost or not cashed within a reasonable time, contact Chase with your receipt number and the money order number. Chase can research whether it has been cashed and, if not, can issue a replacement or refund.
This process typically takes 30 to 60 days because Chase must wait to confirm the original money order was not cashed before issuing a replacement. This is why keeping your receipt is critical — without it, tracing a lost money order is much harder.
Comparing Chase to other money order sources
| Source | Cost per money order | Maximum per order | Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chase Bank | $5–$10 | $1,000 | Same day (in branch) |
| Walmart | $0.88–$1.25 | $1,000 | Same day (in store) |
| Grocery stores | $0.50–$2 | $1,000 | Same day (in store) |
| Western Union | $1–$5 | $1,000 | Same day (in store or online) |
| USPS | $1.45–$2.20 | $1,000 | Same day (at post office) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy a Chase money order online?
No. Chase does not sell money orders online or by phone. You must visit a branch in person with a valid ID. If you need a money order and cannot visit a branch, Walmart and Western Union both offer online ordering with in-store pickup.
What if I do not have a Chase account?
You cannot buy a money order at Chase without an account. Use Walmart, a grocery store, Western Union, or your post office instead. All of these accept customers without accounts and charge less than Chase.
Can I cancel a Chase money order after I buy it?
Yes, but only if it has not been cashed. Return to the branch with your receipt and the money order itself. Chase will refund the amount minus the fee. If the money order has already been cashed, you cannot cancel it.
How long does a Chase money order stay valid?
Money orders do not expire, but Chase may stop honoring them after a certain period (typically five to seven years). If you are holding a money order for a long time, cash it or deposit it sooner rather than later to avoid issues.
Is a Chase money order safer than cash?
Yes. A money order is traceable and can be replaced if lost or stolen, whereas cash cannot. This makes money orders useful for sending payment by mail or paying someone you do not fully trust with cash.