Money Orders

Money orders are used for making payments. When it’s not safe or acceptable to use a check or cash, money orders come in handy. Learn how to use them and what to watch out for.

Money orders can be useful tools. They allow you to make payments without the risks of sending cash or using a check. However, they are not perfect for every situation. Find out where money orders come up short.

Question: What’s the difference between a money order and a cashier’s check? Money orders are similar to cashier’s checks. They’re documents you can use to make payments, and they’re guaranteed by somebody. They even look alike. However, there are a few differences.

Need a money order but not sure where to get one? In most places, you have plenty of choices. You can get money orders at post offices, retail stores, and financial institutions. Find out where you can get money orders and how to choose.

Question: I sold something and was paid with a money order. I don’t know whether or not the money order is good. Is there any way to find out if the money order is legitimate?

Have to make a payment with a money order? Rest assured -- the process is easy. If you don’t know how to use a money order you’ll be an expert in just a few minutes.

When you’ve been paid with a money order, how do you turn it into cash? You can cash money orders or deposit them just like checks. Learn how to cash a money order and where to do it.

Money order scams are common when selling items online. Before handing over merchandise, be sure you’re dealing with a legitimate buyer. Be especially careful if you’re asked to send money after receiving a money order.

Question: How do you fill out a money order? I bought one for a purchase online but am not sure what to do next. Answer: Filling out a money order is similar to writing a check. The specifics depend on where you buy your money order, but these instructions will help you get almost any money order filled out.

Question: How much does a money order cost? Answer: It depends where you get it and how much you need. In most cases, money orders cost around a dollar (or even less). You can get money orders at a variety of places.