Walmart money order fees are $0.88 for amounts up to $1,000

Walmart charges a flat fee of $0.88 per money order when you buy one at the customer service desk. This price applies whether you're sending $50 or $1,000. You cannot buy a money order for more than $1,000 at Walmart, so if you need to send a larger amount, you would have to purchase multiple money orders.

The $0.88 fee is one of the lowest available. For comparison, many banks charge $5 to $10 per money order, and the U.S. Postal Service charges around $1.45 to $2.00 depending on the amount. This makes Walmart a practical choice if you need money orders regularly or are watching your costs.

You pay the fee at the time of purchase. The customer service associate will add it to your total when you hand over the cash or debit card for the money order amount plus the fee.

Key Takeaways

  • Walmart's money order fee is $0.88 for any amount up to $1,000, making it cheaper than most banks and the post office.
  • You must pay the fee in cash or by debit card at the time you purchase the money order.
  • Walmart does not issue money orders for amounts over $1,000, so larger payments require multiple money orders.
  • Money orders are available at Walmart customer service desks during store hours, typically until 8 or 9 p.m.

How to buy a money order at Walmart

Go to the customer service desk with cash or a debit card. Bring the name and address of the person or business you're sending the money to — you'll need to write this on the money order itself. Tell the associate you want to buy a money order and give them the amount.

The associate will ask for the recipient's name and address, your name and address, and the amount. They'll print the money order, you'll sign it, and you'll pay the total: the money order amount plus $0.88. Keep your receipt. The money order is then ready to mail or deliver.

Walmart does not hold money orders for you or issue them in advance. You buy it when you need it, and you're responsible for getting it to the recipient.

Payment methods accepted

Walmart accepts cash and debit cards for money order purchases. You cannot use a credit card, check, or electronic payment. If you don't have cash or a debit card on hand, you'll need to go to an ATM first or use a different payment method at another location.

The debit card must be valid and have sufficient funds to cover both the money order amount and the $0.88 fee. Prepaid debit cards work as long as they have a balance.

When Walmart money order services are available

Money orders are sold at the customer service desk during store hours. Most Walmart locations keep the customer service desk open until 8 or 9 p.m., but hours vary by store. Some Walmart locations close earlier or have different schedules on Sundays.

Call your local Walmart customer service desk before you go, or check the store hours online. If you need a money order outside regular hours, the U.S. Postal Service and some 24-hour convenience stores also sell them, though the fees will be higher.

Limits and restrictions

The maximum amount for a single Walmart money order is $1,000. If you need to send more than $1,000, you can purchase multiple money orders. For example, to send $2,500, you would buy three money orders: two for $1,000 each and one for $500. You would pay $0.88 for each one, totaling $2.64 in fees.

Walmart does not issue money orders to certain countries or for certain purposes. If you're sending money internationally, you may need to use a wire transfer service or money transfer company instead. Ask the customer service associate if you're unsure whether your intended use is allowed.

Why use a Walmart money order instead of other options

Money orders are useful when you need to send cash but don't want to mail actual bills, or when the recipient won't accept a personal check. They're also safer than cash because they can be replaced if lost or stolen, as long as you keep your receipt.

Walmart's low fee makes it a practical choice compared to banks, which often charge $5 or more. The post office charges more per money order, and convenience stores sometimes charge even higher fees. If you buy money orders regularly — for rent, bills, or other payments — the savings add up.

However, money orders take time to clear and arrive by mail. If you need to send money instantly, a wire transfer or digital payment service will be faster, though those typically cost more.

What to do if you lose your money order receipt

Keep your receipt. It contains the money order number and amount, which you'll need if the money order is lost, stolen, or never arrives. Without the receipt, it's much harder to track down what happened or get a replacement.

If your money order doesn't arrive or you suspect it was lost, contact Walmart customer service with your receipt. They can help you file a claim. The process usually takes several weeks, and you may be asked to sign an affidavit stating that you did not receive the funds. Once the claim is approved, Walmart will issue a replacement money order or refund.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy a Walmart money order online?

No. Walmart money orders are sold only at the customer service desk in physical stores. You cannot order them online or over the phone. You must visit a store in person with cash or a debit card.

What if I need a money order for more than $1,000?

Buy multiple money orders. You can purchase as many as you need in a single transaction. For $2,500, buy two for $1,000 and one for $500. Each costs $0.88, so the total fee would be $2.64.

Is a Walmart money order the same as a cashier's check?

No. A money order is a prepaid order for a specific amount. A cashier's check is issued by a bank and is typically used for larger amounts. Cashier's checks cost more but are often required for real estate transactions or large purchases.

Do I need an ID to buy a money order at Walmart?

Walmart does not always require ID for money orders under $1,000, but policies can vary by location. Bring your ID to be safe. If you're buying multiple money orders in one visit, the associate may ask for identification.

How long does it take for a money order to arrive?

That depends on how it's delivered. If you mail it, it typically arrives within 3 to 7 business days, depending on distance. If you hand-deliver it, it arrives immediately. The recipient should deposit or cash it within 30 days, though most money orders remain valid for a year or longer.