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 rates at most Walmart locations in the United States. You can purchase money orders at the customer service desk or money services counter during store hours — no appointment needed.

The $5,000 limit is the maximum single money order Walmart will issue. If you need to send more than $5,000, you would need to purchase multiple money orders. Walmart does not charge a fee to cash a money order at their location, though other banks or check-cashing services may charge you to cash one there.

A few Walmart locations in certain states may charge slightly different rates, so calling ahead to your local store can confirm the exact fee. The rates listed here are current but Walmart can change them without notice.

Key Takeaways

  • Walmart charges $0.88 for money orders up to $1,000 and $1.88 for money orders between $1,000.01 and $5,000.
  • You can buy a money order at the customer service desk during regular store hours without an appointment.
  • Walmart will cash a money order for free at their location, but other banks or services may charge a fee.
  • The maximum single money order is $5,000; amounts larger than that require multiple orders.

What you need to bring to buy a money order

You will need a valid government-issued photo ID to purchase a money order at Walmart. A driver's license, passport, or state ID card all work. Walmart also requires you to have cash or a debit card to pay for the money order and its fee.

You do not need a bank account or Walmart account. The recipient's name and address are required, and you will fill those in on the money order form at the counter. The cashier will ask you to verify the amount and recipient before processing the order.

How Walmart money order fees compare to other places

Walmart's rates are competitive but not always the cheapest option. The United States Postal Service charges $1.45 for a money order up to $500 and $1.95 for $500.01 to $1,000, which is higher than Walmart for smaller amounts. However, you can only buy USPS money orders at post offices during their hours, which are often more limited than Walmart.

Banks often charge $5 to $10 per money order, making them significantly more expensive than Walmart or the post office. Credit unions may offer lower rates to members. Western Union and MoneyGram, available at many retailers, typically charge $1 to $5 depending on the amount and location, but their fees vary widely by agent.

If you are sending money regularly, comparing these options based on your location and the amount you send makes sense. Walmart's combination of low fees and extended hours makes it a practical choice for most people, but the post office may be cheaper for very small amounts.

How to fill out a Walmart money order

The money order form has spaces for the payee (recipient's name), the amount, and your name as the purchaser. Write the recipient's name clearly in the "Pay to the Order of" field. Do not leave this blank — the money order cannot be cashed without a named recipient.

Write the amount in both the numerical box and the written-out line. The two must match, or the money order may be rejected. In the memo line, you can write a brief note about what the payment is for, though this is optional. Sign the money order in the purchaser's signature line — your signature is required.

Keep your receipt. It contains a reference number you can use to track the money order if it is lost or not received. If the recipient reports they never got it, you will need that receipt number to file a claim with Walmart.

Sending your Walmart money order safely

Never send a money order through the mail without tracking. Use certified mail with signature confirmation so you have proof of delivery. The recipient can also pick up the money order in person if they are nearby, which eliminates mailing risk entirely.

Do not sign the back of the money order before sending it. The recipient should sign the back when they receive it and are ready to cash or deposit it. If you sign it early and it is lost in the mail, anyone who finds it can cash it.

Keep your receipt until the recipient confirms they received and cashed the money order. If there is a problem — the money order is lost, not received, or damaged — you will need that receipt to request a replacement or refund from Walmart.

When a Walmart money order makes sense

Money orders work well for paying bills by mail, sending money to someone without a bank account, or making a payment when you do not want to give out your checking account number. They are also useful for security deposits, rent payments, or any situation where the recipient needs proof of payment.

If you are paying someone you know and trust, a personal check or bank transfer may be simpler. If you need to send money instantly to someone across the country, a wire transfer or mobile payment app will be faster, though those usually cost more. Money orders are best when you need a paper record, cannot use digital payment, or are sending to someone without a bank account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy a Walmart money order online?

No. Walmart only sells money orders in person at the customer service desk. You cannot order one through Walmart.com or the Walmart app. You must visit a physical store location during business hours.

What if I make a mistake filling out the money order?

If you make an error before paying, tell the cashier and they can void it and issue a new one. If you have already paid and left the store, you will need to return with your receipt and ask for a replacement. Walmart may charge a small fee for replacements, though policies vary by location.

Can I get a refund if I don't use the money order?

Yes. Bring the unused money order and your receipt to the customer service desk. Walmart will refund the full amount you paid, including the fee. You must have the original receipt to process the refund.

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

Money orders typically clear within one to three business days when deposited at a bank. If cashed at a retail location or Walmart, the recipient gets the cash immediately. The exact timing depends on the recipient's bank and how they deposit it.

What happens if my money order is lost in the mail?

Contact Walmart with your receipt and the reference number printed on it. Walmart can place a stop on the money order and issue a replacement, though this process usually takes several weeks. This is why tracking and signature confirmation are important when mailing a money order.