Walmart money order fees and limits
Walmart charges $0.88 for a money order up to $1,000 and $1.88 for a money order from $1,000.01 to $5,000. These are the standard fees at most Walmart locations, though a small number of stores in certain states may charge slightly different amounts. You can purchase money orders at the customer service desk during store hours.
The $5,000 limit is the maximum amount Walmart will issue on a single money order. If you need to send more than that, you would need to purchase multiple money orders or use a different payment method.
Money orders are useful when you need to send money to someone but don't want to give out your bank account number, or when the recipient needs a may provide form of payment. Walmart's fees are competitive compared to other retailers and banks, though the exact cost depends on the amount you're sending.
Key Takeaways
- Walmart charges $0.88 for money orders up to $1,000 and $1.88 for amounts between $1,000.01 and $5,000.
- The maximum single money order at Walmart is $5,000; amounts above that require multiple orders.
- You purchase money orders at the customer service desk, not at checkout lanes.
- Walmart's money order fees are generally lower than banks and other retailers charge for the same service.
What information you need to bring
To purchase a money order at Walmart, you'll need to know the recipient's name and address. Have this information ready before you go to the customer service desk. You'll also need to bring cash or a debit card to pay for the money order and the fee.
The person receiving the money order will need to sign the back and present it to their bank or a check-cashing service to deposit or cash it. Make sure you write down the money order number and keep your receipt — this is your proof of purchase and protects you if the money order is lost or stolen.
How Walmart money orders compare to other options
Banks typically charge between $5 and $10 per money order, making Walmart significantly cheaper. Other retailers like grocery stores or check-cashing services may charge $1 to $3 per order. Western Union, which offers money transfer services at Walmart locations, charges more but allows you to send money to someone who doesn't have a bank account.
If you're sending money to pay a bill, many companies now accept online payments directly from your bank account at no cost. If you're sending money to someone you trust, a bank transfer or payment app like Venmo or PayPal may be faster and cheaper. Money orders make sense when you need a paper trail, the recipient can't receive electronic payments, or you're paying someone who requires a may provide form of payment.
Processing time and delivery
A Walmart money order is issued immediately when you purchase it. You then mail it or deliver it in person to the recipient. The recipient can deposit or cash it at their bank or a check-cashing location, which typically takes one to three business days to clear.
Unlike wire transfers or online payment services, there's no tracking system that tells you when the recipient has cashed the money order. This is why keeping your receipt and the money order number is important — if the money order is lost in the mail, you can contact Walmart to request a replacement.
When to use a money order instead of other payment methods
Money orders work well for paying rent, security deposits, or bills when the landlord or business requires a may provide payment method. They're also useful for sending money to someone who doesn't have a bank account or when you want to avoid sharing your banking information. If you're paying a contractor or service provider you've never worked with before, a money order creates a paper record without exposing your account details.
Money orders are less useful for everyday purchases or payments between friends — a bank transfer, payment app, or check is usually simpler. They're also slower than electronic transfers if the recipient needs the money quickly. If you're sending money internationally, a money order won't work; you'd need a wire transfer or a service like Western Union.
Replacing a lost or stolen money order
If your money order is lost or stolen before the recipient cashes it, contact Walmart customer service with your receipt and the money order number. Walmart can issue a replacement, though the process typically takes 30 to 60 days and may require you to sign an affidavit stating the money order was not received.
This is why keeping your receipt in a safe place is critical. Without the receipt and money order number, you have no way to prove you purchased it or to request a replacement. If the money order has already been cashed by someone else, you generally cannot recover the funds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy a money order online at Walmart?
No, Walmart does not sell money orders online. You must visit a physical store and go to the customer service desk. Money orders must be purchased in person.
Do I need an ID to buy a money order at Walmart?
Walmart does not always require an ID for money orders under $1,000, but policies vary by location. It's a good idea to bring your ID just in case. For larger amounts, an ID may be required.
What if I make a mistake filling out the money order?
If you make an error before the money order is issued, tell the Walmart employee immediately and they can void it and issue a new one. Once it's been issued and you've left the store, you cannot change it. The recipient would need to contact the issuer to correct information.
Can I use a credit card to pay for a money order at Walmart?
Walmart typically requires cash or a debit card for money orders. Credit cards are usually not accepted for this purchase. Check with your local store if you're unsure about payment methods.
How long is a money order good for?
Money orders don't expire, but after a certain period (usually one to three years depending on the state), Walmart may charge a fee to cash an old money order or require you to file a claim. It's best to cash or deposit a money order within a few months of purchase.