Money Order Essentials: What Information You Actually Need to Include

Sending money safely without a bank account? A money order might be your answer. But here’s the thing—getting it right matters. One small mistake can delay payment or worse, result in the money going to the wrong person. Let’s break down exactly what information is needed for a money order and how to avoid the common pitfalls.

The Information You Must Include on a Money Order

Think of a money order as a prepaid check—it’s secure, traceable, and requires specific details to be valid. Different issuers have slightly different formats, but the core requirements remain consistent across USPS, Western Union, MoneyGram, and retail locations like Walmart.

Here’s what information is needed for a money order:

Recipient Details:

• The payee’s full name (the person or business receiving the funds)
• Their complete address (home address for individuals, business address for companies)

Your Information:

• Your full name
• Your mailing address

Transaction Details:

• Purchase date
• The exact dollar amount
• Purpose of payment (memo line)
• Your signature (varies by issuer—USPS doesn’t require it, but others do)

The date and amount typically print automatically at the counter. Everything else falls on you to write clearly in ink.

Where to Buy and Price Comparisons

Not all money order vendors are created equal. Fees vary significantly:

• USPS: Capped at $1,000 per domestic order; fees typically under $2
• Western Union & MoneyGram: Higher limits but variable fees ($1-$5 depending on amount)
• Walmart & Drug Stores: Competitive pricing, usually $1-$3
• Banks & Credit Unions: Available to members; fees vary by institution

Before purchasing, compare costs. A $5 fee on a $100 money order is significantly more expensive than the same $100 order at USPS for under $2.

Step-by-Step: Filling Out Your Money Order Correctly

Step 1: Write the Payee Name First

This is critical. Until you fill this in, theoretically anyone could write their name and cash it. Use the “Pay to the Order of” field, write clearly, and use ink (never pencil). Check spelling twice—a misspelled name can cause deposit issues.

Step 2: Add the Recipient’s Address

This goes below the payee’s name. Verify the street number and name are correct. Small errors here can cause delays or failed delivery.

Step 3: Enter Your Name and Address

The “From” or “Purchaser” section is where you identify yourself. This helps with tracking if issues arise later.

Step 4: Fill the Memo Line

If paying a bill, write the account number here—this is non-negotiable. For personal transactions, specify the purpose (e.g., “Payment for used vehicle”).

Step 5: Sign If Required

Check your issuer’s policy. USPS postal money orders don’t require a purchaser signature, but other issuers do. Sign only on the front; the back signature space is for the payee only.

Common Mistakes That Actually Cost You

• Blank payee field: Money order sits uncashed or cashed by someone unintended
• Wrong address: Delivery delays or failed deposit
• Missing account number: Bill payment goes to general receivables instead of your account
• Pencil instead of ink: Information can be altered
• Lost receipt: No proof of purchase or tracking number; difficult to cancel or replace

Keep your receipt. It contains the tracking number—your insurance policy if the money order goes missing.

What Happens After You Fill It Out

Double-check every field before payment. If you spot an error before paying, tell the cashier—they may correct it. If you’ve already paid, you’ll likely need to cancel and purchase a new one.

Payment methods vary: most vendors accept cash or debit cards. Some accept credit cards, though fees may apply. Add the issuer’s fee to your total cost.

Once purchased, hold that receipt until the payee confirms they’ve cashed or deposited the money order. For USPS orders, you can typically track delivery status online.

When a Money Order Gets Lost or Stolen

Having the receipt matters here. Contact the issuer with your receipt and tracking number. They can issue a replacement or refund—but this process takes time (typically 30-45 days) and requires proof the original wasn’t cashed.

Without the receipt? You’re in a much harder position. Recovery becomes complicated and lengthy.

Better Alternatives Worth Considering

Money orders serve a purpose, but they’re not always the best option. Mobile payment apps offer instant delivery. Personal checks work if the recipient accepts them. Certified checks from your bank carry a guarantee. And if you’re handling regular payments, opening a checking or savings account can simplify everything—plus you gain access to ACH transfers and bill-pay services, which are faster and cheaper than money orders.

The Bottom Line

Understanding what information is needed for a money order isn’t complicated, but precision is everything. Misspelled names, wrong addresses, missing account numbers—small errors create real headaches. Fill out your money order carefully, keep your receipt, and verify all details before handing over payment. That few minutes of extra care prevents most problems down the road.