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.​

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Fast and reliable online money transfers at special prices

Our encryption and fraud prevention efforts help protect your money transfer

Reliable service since 1851

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 agent. 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.

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How to request a money order refund

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 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 payment method that can be used for purchases, rent, bills, or gifts either in person or pay to your intended sending the money order via mail.​

Available for purchase at participating Western Union locations, money orders are easier than cash for large sums up to $1,000, reducing the risk of loss or theft. ​

Money orders are accessible across the United States and Canada, and there’s no need for a bank account to purchase it. This makes transactions easy for everyone.

Frequently asked questions about money orders

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Visit our FAQs page to learn more about Western Union money orders.