How to Fill Out a Money Order

Money orders are safer than checks, for purchaser and recipient. Since a money order is prepaid, it can't “bounce” or overdraw the purchaser’s bank account. Money orders can be cashed all over and are handy for those without bank accounts. Filling one out can be tricky, especially if you rarely do it. Here's how!

1. Start by buying a money order for the desired amount. Make sure that the amount you paid and the amount printed on the money order are the same.

2. Immediately write the name of the person or company whom you wish to pay. Write your account number with the company to which you are sending the money order, or include any other important identifying information on this line if there is no other line designated for this information.

3. Fill in your name. There should be a “From,” “Purchaser,” “Sender,” or “Remitter,” field. You may put your account number or other identifying information here if no other space is provided. In some cases, sign the money order. On the front of some money orders, there will be a field labeled “Purchaser, Signer for Drawer,” “Purchaser’s signature,” or “Signature.” Do not sign the back of a money order, as this space is for the payee’s signature.

4. Write in your address. Where it says "Purchaser's address" write in your address. If there is a second address field, include the address of the person or company to whom you are sending the money order.

5. Fill in the remaining fields, if necessary. Not all money orders have these spaces, but if yours does, fill in the fields if desired.

6. Keep your receipt. Your money order will either have a carbon copy underneath or a portion attached to detach and keep for your records. Keep this receipt should the money order get lost or the recipient denies receiving it. This receipt should have a tracking number to check on the status should problems arise. Without the receipt or tracking number you may be unable to verify the money order was received or to obtain a refund if it is lost.

TIPS

• If you decide not to use the money order and you have already made it out to someone else, return to the place you purchased the money order and ask for a refund or another money order in exchange.
• While money orders usually don't have an expiration date, they do depreciate in value. When cashed after a certain period of time, the money order will not be worth the value printed on the front. Usually after 5 years, depending on the issuing company, a stop payment will be placed on the money order which prevents it from being cashed. These policies are usually disclosed on the money order or available by contacting the issuing company.
• You can cash a money order at banks, check-cashing businesses, and many places where money orders are sold. Post offices will only cash U.S. Postal Service money orders. Some establishments will charge a fee for cashing it, but you should be able to find someplace that will not. You will need to endorse (sign) the back of the money order and present valid identification in order to cash it.
• If the intended recipient of the money order claims it was never received, or if the money order is lost or stolen, you can call the phone number on your receipt or, in many cases, visit the agent from whom you purchased the money order to find out the status of the money order. It is very important to keep the receipt stub.
• If you make a mistake in filling out the money order, return it to the place where purchased and ask for a refund or another money order in exchange.
• Always use a pen when filling out money orders.