Money orders: Purchase & cash at a Western Union near you

Q: Where can I cash a money order?

Participating Western Union locations can cash money orders. You may also be able to cash your money order at banks and other retailers (grocery stores, check-cashing locations, or other stores where you’ve been able to cash checks in the past). In some circumstances, the bank or retailer may charge you to cash your money order. Please note that not all Western Union locations, including where you buy a money order, can cash them.

Q: How do I track a money order?

You can track your money order with your MTCN. Use our money order tracking tool to check its status. If you’re the purchaser, make sure to have the original receipt, too.

Q: Do money orders have an expiration date?

No, money orders do not expire . However, depending upon the state of purchase, if you do not use or cash the money order within one to three years of the purchase date, a non-refundable service charge may be deducted from the principal amount.

Q: How can I cancel a Western Union money order?

You can cancel a money order by submitting a money order refund request . Processing time varies based on whether you have the original receipt.

How to purchase a money order

Visit a Western Union location

Find a nearby Western Union location that offers money order services. Use our location finder to check availability before heading out.

Determine how much to send

Choose the amount for your money order based on your needs. Keep in mind that some locations may have limits on the maximum money order amount.

Fill out the money order

Accurately enter your recipient’s name and details to ensure smooth processing. Double-check all fiends before handing it to the agent. Need assistance? Follow our step-by-step guide on how to fill out a money order.

Pay for the money order

Complete your payment using cash or a debit card, depending on the policies of your local Western Union location. Agents at participating locations can confirm accepted payment methods and answer any other questions you have about purchasing money orders.

Keep your receipt

Once your money order purchase is finalized, save your receipt. It contains important details that allow you to check money order status or request a refund if needed.

Find a Money Order Location

How to cash a money order

Cashing a money order is one of the most convenient ways to receive money. The process is simple, but policies can vary by location. Whether you’re using a bank, a check-cashing service, or a participating Western Union location, follow these steps for a smooth transaction.

Find a location

Not all places that allow you to send money in person can cash money orders. Check with your local bank, check-cashing store, or a Western Union agent location to confirm their cashing policies. Some locations may charge a small fee for cashing.

Verify your identity

Before cashing your money order, you’ll need to verify your identity. Most locations require a government-issued photo ID. Be sure to carry an acceptable form of identification such as a passport, driver’s license, or national ID card.

Receive your cash

Sign the back of the money order in the designated endorsement area when you’re ready to cash it. Once your money order is verified, the cashier will give you the cash amount, minus any applicable fees. If you’re unsure about fees, ask the agent before completing the transaction.

How to request a money order refund

If you need to cancel a Western Union money order, you can submit a request online.

With a receipt

Complete the money order refund request form and submit it online or by mail. Be sure to register online for a Western Union account to track the status of your money order refund.

Without a receipt

If you do not have your money order receipt, refunding may take longer and may require additional verification. Submit a money order refund request or visit a Western Union location to learn more.

Benefits of using Western Union® money orders

Money orders, available at participating Western Union agent locations, provide a secure and widely accepted payment method without requiring a bank account.

Enjoy a reliable way to transfer money for purchases, rent, bills, or gifts either in person or through the mail.

Available for purchase at participating Western Union locations, money orders are easier than cash for large sums, reducing the risk of loss or theft.

Money orders are accessible worldwide and there’s no need for a bank account. This makes transactions easy for everyone.

An Alternative to Money Orders: The Western Union® Prepaid Card

Need a flexible way to receive and send money without a bank account? A Western Union prepaid card lets you make purchases, pay bills, and access funds anywhere online and in person that Visa is accepted.

Buying & cashing money orders