How to verify an Intermex money order
To verify an Intermex money order, you need to contact Intermex directly using the reference number printed on the money order itself. Intermex operates a verification line where you can confirm whether the money order is genuine, whether it has been cashed, and who issued it. The fastest way is to call their customer service number, which appears on the back of the money order, or visit an Intermex agent location in person with the money order.
Verification matters because counterfeit money orders exist, and if you deposit or cash a fake one, you become responsible for the full amount — your bank will reverse the deposit once the fraud is discovered, and you may face overdraft fees or legal consequences. Intermex money orders are issued through their network of agents, typically at check-cashing stores, grocery stores, and other retail locations, so the agent location and reference number are your proof of authenticity.
Key Takeaways
- Call Intermex customer service with the reference number on the money order to confirm it is genuine and whether it has been cashed.
- The money order itself lists Intermex's phone number on the back; this is the official verification line, not a third-party service.
- Verification confirms the issuing agent, the amount, and the payment status, which protects you from depositing a counterfeit money order.
- If you receive a money order from someone you do not know, verify it before depositing it, because you are liable for any fraud.
What information you need to verify
The reference number is the primary piece of information Intermex needs. This is a unique identifier printed on the money order, usually in the upper right corner or along the top edge. When you call or visit an agent, have this number ready.
You should also have the amount of the money order and the name of the person or business who issued it. Intermex will ask you to confirm these details to match them against their records. If the amount or issuer name does not match what Intermex has on file, the money order may be counterfeit or altered.
Calling Intermex to verify
The phone number for Intermex verification is printed on the back of the money order. Call this number and provide the reference number when prompted. An Intermex representative will look up the money order in their system and tell you whether it is valid, the amount, who issued it, and whether it has already been cashed.
Verification by phone usually takes a few minutes. Have the money order in front of you so you can read the reference number accurately. If the representative tells you the money order has already been cashed, do not deposit it — it is no longer valid, and attempting to cash it a second time is fraud.
Verifying in person at an Intermex agent
You can also bring the money order to any Intermex agent location and ask them to verify it. Agents have access to the same verification system as the phone line and can confirm authenticity on the spot. This method is useful if you want to see the verification happen in real time or if you have questions an agent can answer in person.
Bring a photo ID and the money order itself. The agent will scan or enter the reference number and confirm the details with you. If the money order is valid and has not been cashed, you can cash it or deposit it immediately at that location or take it to your bank.
Red flags that suggest a money order may be fake
Before you even call to verify, look at the money order itself. The Intermex logo should be clear and professional, not blurry or pixelated. The reference number should be printed in a consistent font, and the paper should feel substantial — not thin or flimsy. If the money order looks like it was printed at home or has obvious spelling errors, it is likely counterfeit.
Check the issuing agent name and location. Intermex money orders are issued only through authorized agents. If the agent name is unfamiliar or does not match any real business in the area where the money order was supposedly issued, that is a warning sign. You can ask Intermex during verification whether the agent location is legitimate.
Be suspicious if someone you do not know sends you a money order unexpectedly, especially if they ask you to cash it and send part of the money back to them. This is a common scam: the money order is counterfeit, you deposit it, and by the time your bank discovers the fraud, you have already sent your own money to the scammer.
What happens after you verify the money order
If Intermex confirms the money order is genuine and has not been cashed, you can deposit it at your bank or cash it at an Intermex agent location. Your bank will process it like any other money order, though it may take a few business days to clear. Once the money order clears, the funds are yours.
If Intermex tells you the money order has already been cashed, do not attempt to deposit it. Contact the person who gave it to you and ask for a replacement or refund. If you received the money order as payment for something and it turns out to be counterfeit or already cashed, you have a dispute with the person who issued it, not with Intermex or your bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I verify a money order online instead of calling?
Intermex does not offer online verification through their website. You must call the number on the back of the money order or visit an agent in person. This protects against fraud by ensuring verification comes through official channels only.
What if the reference number is smudged or hard to read?
Take the money order to an Intermex agent location. They can scan it or examine it closely to read the reference number. If the number is genuinely illegible, the money order may be damaged or counterfeit, and an agent can advise you on next steps.
How long does it take to verify a money order?
Verification by phone takes a few minutes. In person at an agent location, it is usually immediate. Intermex has instant access to their records, so there is no waiting period.
What if I already deposited the money order and it bounced?
Contact your bank immediately and report it as fraud. Your bank will reverse the deposit and may charge you an overdraft fee if your account went negative. Then contact Intermex with the reference number to report the counterfeit money order.
Can I verify someone else's money order?
Intermex may not release details to someone other than the person named on the money order or the issuer. If you received a money order made out to you, you can verify it. If it is made out to someone else, ask that person to verify it themselves.