Do You Sign a Money Order? A Complete Guide to Filling One Out Correctly

When you need to send money securely without using cash or a check, a money order is a reliable option. But if you’re wondering whether you need to sign a money order and how to complete the entire process, you’re not alone. Many first-time users get confused about the signing requirements and the proper way to fill in all the fields. Let’s break down everything you need to know.

Do You Actually Need to Sign a Money Order?

The short answer is yes—but with an important exception. For most money orders purchased from Western Union, MoneyGram, Walmart, or other retailers, you’ll need to sign the document once you’ve filled in all other information. The signature field is typically located near the bottom of the money order on the front side.

However, if you’re buying a money order from the U.S. Postal Service, the signature requirement is waived. USPS money orders don’t require your signature as the purchaser, though the payee will still need to sign the back when they receive it.

This is a critical distinction because it affects how different money orders function once they reach the recipient.

What Goes Into Filling Out Your Money Order?

Before you even think about signing, you need to understand what information belongs where. Whether you’re purchasing from a bank, convenience store, or gas station, every money order requires the same basic details:

• The payee’s full name (the person or business receiving the money)
• The payee’s complete address
• Your name as the purchaser
• Your address
• The date of purchase
• The dollar amount
• A memo line explaining the payment purpose
• Your signature (on most money order types)

Step-by-Step: How to Complete Your Money Order

Start with the payee information. The payee’s name goes in the “Pay to the Order of” field. Write clearly in ink so the name can’t be altered if the money order is lost. This is your first priority because an unsigned payee field means anyone could cash the money order.

Add the address below the name. Whether it’s a residential or business address, ensure you write it correctly and in ink. This step seems simple but errors here are common.

Fill in your information as the purchaser. Most money orders have a “From” or “Purchaser” section where you enter your name and address. This identifies who sent the money order.

Complete the memo line. If you’re paying a bill, include the account number here. If you’re paying for goods or services, note the purpose. This field isn’t required but provides crucial documentation.

Sign the money order. Once all other fields are complete, add your signature in the designated signature field. Remember: USPS money orders don’t require this step, but others do.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filling Out a Money Order

People often rush through the process and make preventable errors. Don’t misspell the payee’s name or provide an incorrect address. Leaving the recipient field blank is asking for trouble—anyone could then cash it. Similarly, forgetting to sign a money order (when required) or signing in the wrong location can create processing delays.

Another frequent oversight is not keeping your receipt. Your receipt includes a tracking number that lets you monitor when the money order is cashed. It’s essential if you ever need to cancel or replace a lost or stolen money order.

Also compare fees before purchasing. Money order costs typically range from $1 to $5, but different issuers charge different rates. Some banks offer lower fees than retailers, so it’s worth checking before you buy.

After You’ve Signed and Completed Your Money Order

Review the entire document one final time. If you spot an error, don’t attempt to correct it yourself. Contact the issuer immediately—they may be able to fix it, or you might need to cancel and purchase a new one (assuming you haven’t already paid).

Once everything looks correct, pay for your money order with cash or a debit card. Some issuers accept credit cards, but verify before assuming. Hold onto that receipt with the tracking number. If your money order gets lost or stolen, this receipt is your proof of purchase and your path to recovery.

Other Questions About Money Order Signing and Use

Can you deposit a money order without signing? The payee must sign the back of the money order to deposit or cash it. If depositing through mobile check deposit or ATM, the payee signs the back and writes their account number below the signature.

Where can you purchase money orders? The U.S. Postal Service, Western Union, MoneyGram, Walmart, banks, credit unions, grocery stores, drug stores, and gas stations all sell them. Purchase limits vary by issuer—USPS caps single domestic money orders at $1,000.

What if the money order gets lost? This is why your receipt matters. With the tracking number, you can contact the issuer to report it missing and request a replacement or refund, assuming they haven’t already been cashed.

Money orders remain a secure payment method when you understand the proper procedures. Taking time to fill one out correctly—including knowing whether you need to sign and where—prevents complications down the road and ensures your money reaches its intended recipient safely.