Western Union Money Order

When you need a reliable and convenient way to pay bills, make purchases, give a gift, or handle transactions where cash isn’t accepted, choose Western Union money orders for a secure and trusted solution.​

Find a Western Union

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.

Purchase a money order for the principal amount you need

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.

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.

Fill out the money order

Accurately enter your payee’s information to ensure smooth processing. Double-check all fields and sign the money order before handing it to the payee. Need assistance? Follow our step-by-step guide on how to fill out a money order.

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 request a money order refund1

If you need to refund 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.

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.

Benefits of Using Money Orders

Money orders are widely available and simple to use, offering a hassle-free way to make payments.

Effortless Bill Payments

Money orders are commonly used to pay bills, especially when personal checks are not accepted—such as by many property management companies. They are a reliable alternative for paying rent and other recurring expenses.

Secure Way to Send Money

For those without a checking account or who prefer not to send cash, money orders provide a safe and traceable method to send funds to friends or family.

Safe Purchases

Use money orders to pay for goods and services when cash or checks are not viable options, adding a layer of security to your transactions.

No Bank Account Needed

Accessible to everyone, money orders do not require a checking account or credit card. Since they are prepaid, they help customers avoid overdraft fees and ensure the funds are available.

Frequently asked questions about money orders

How do I request a money order refund?

If you are a purchaser and you have a money order receipt, submit a money order refund request here.

Click here for other submission options to learn more about how to refund a money order.

Where can I cash a money order?

You may 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. You may also be able to deposit the money order into your bank account.

Please note, not all Western Union locations, including where you buy a money order, are able to cash them.

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.

Still can’t find what you’re looking for regarding money orders?​

Visit our FAQs page to learn more about Western Union money orders. You can also refer to our ultimate guide to using money orders

1 Additional fees apply; refunded amount will vary depending on principal amount.