USPS money order prices depend on the amount you're sending

A USPS money order costs between $1.45 and $2.00, depending on how much money you're putting on it. The price is the same whether you buy it in person at a post office or online through the USPS website. You pay the fee on top of the amount you're sending — so if you send a $100 money order, you pay $100 plus the fee.

The fee structure is simple: money orders up to $500 cost $1.45, and money orders from $500.01 to $1,000 cost $2.00. USPS does not issue money orders larger than $1,000. If you need to send more than that, you would need to buy multiple money orders or use a different payment method.

Key Takeaways

  • USPS money orders cost $1.45 for amounts up to $500 and $2.00 for amounts between $500.01 and $1,000.
  • You pay the fee in addition to the amount you're sending, so budget for both when calculating your total cost.
  • You can buy money orders at any post office location during business hours or online through USPS.com.
  • Money orders can be sent through the mail or picked up in person, and they include a tracking number for security.

Where to buy USPS money orders

You can buy a USPS money order at any post office branch during regular business hours. Bring cash, a debit card, or a credit card — most post offices accept all three. You'll need to tell the clerk the amount, and they'll issue the money order on the spot. The whole process usually takes less than five minutes.

If you prefer not to go to a post office, you can order money orders online through USPS.com. You'll pay for them with a credit or debit card, and they'll be mailed to your address. This method takes longer — typically five to seven business days — so it's better for planned payments rather than urgent ones.

How to fill out and send a USPS money order

When you receive your money order, you'll see blank lines for the recipient's name, your name and address, and a memo line. Fill in the recipient's name on the "Pay to the Order of" line. Write your name and address in the "From" section so the recipient knows who sent it. The memo line is optional and can hold a note like "rent" or "invoice #12345."

Once filled out, you can mail the money order or deliver it in person. If you mail it, you can send it as regular mail or pay extra for tracking and insurance. Regular mail is cheaper but offers no proof of delivery. Tracking costs vary but typically runs $2 to $3 extra and gives you a record that the money order arrived.

Why USPS money order fees are competitive

USPS money order fees are generally lower than what you'll pay at check-cashing services or convenience stores. A check-cashing service might charge $3 to $10 for a money order, depending on the amount and location. Walmart and other retailers sometimes offer money orders for around $0.88 to $1.25, but availability varies by store and location.

Banks sometimes issue money orders for free or at a lower cost if you have an account with them, so it's worth asking your bank before you go to the post office. Credit unions often have similar policies. If you're sending money regularly, comparing these options can add up to real savings over time.

What happens if you lose a money order

If a money order is lost or stolen before it reaches the recipient, you can file a claim with USPS to get your money back. You'll need the money order number, which is printed on your receipt. The claim process takes time — typically 30 to 60 days — and you may need to provide proof that you purchased it and that it was never cashed.

This is why buying tracking and insurance when you mail a money order is worth the extra cost. It gives you a record of when it was sent and when it was delivered, which makes a claim much easier to prove. Without tracking, you have only your receipt and the money order number.

Limits and restrictions on USPS money orders

The maximum amount for a single USPS money order is $1,000. If you need to send more than that, you'll have to buy multiple money orders. There's no limit on how many you can buy at once, but some post offices may ask questions if you're purchasing a very large number in a single transaction.

Money orders are intended for personal use, not for business transactions. If you're running a business and regularly sending large sums, a business checking account or wire transfer may be more practical. Money orders also cannot be sent to certain countries, so check with USPS if you're sending one internationally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy a USPS money order with a personal check?

No, USPS does not accept personal checks as payment for money orders. You must pay with cash, a debit card, or a credit card. This policy exists because money orders are meant to provide security — accepting checks would defeat that purpose.

Is there a fee if I want to cancel a money order?

USPS charges a fee to cancel or replace a money order, though the exact amount varies. You'll need to bring your receipt and the money order itself (if you still have it) to the post office. It's usually cheaper to just buy a new one than to cancel and replace.

How long does a USPS money order stay valid?

USPS money orders do not expire, but after a certain period (typically one year), you may need to contact USPS to cash it if it hasn't been deposited. The recipient can still cash it at any time, but the longer it sits, the harder it may be to track down if there's a problem.

Can I buy a money order online and pick it up at the post office?

No, online orders are mailed to your address. If you need a money order right away, you must go to a post office in person. Online ordering is only useful if you're willing to wait five to seven business days for delivery.