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Can You Buy a Money Order With a Credit Card?

Buying a money order with a credit card may be possible but it’s not advisable.

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Updated February 21, 2024
Written by Rachel Alulis
Here at MoneyFor, our goal is to help you make informed financial decisions. We are committed to accuracy and impartiality in all our content. It’s important to note that articles may reference products from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we feature and their presentation on our site, not our evaluation.

Key takeaways

  • Buying a money order with a credit card is not typically allowed. If a merchant does allow it, it will be treated as a cash advance, which comes with high fees and interest rates.
  • If you find a provider that lets you to purchase a money order with a credit card, be prepared for additional costs: a credit card cash advance fee, ATM fee, and a higher interest rate charged immediately.
  • The better option is to use a debit card or cash or to pay via an app, cashiers check, or prepaid card.

Buying a money order with a credit card is possible but it’s not an ideal solution. You canbuy a money order with a credit card but not directly. Most merchants will only take cash or a debit card. This means that you’ll have to use your card at an ATM, take out a cash advance, and then use the cash to make the purchase.

Learn more about how you can use money orders and where can you buy a money order with a credit card.

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How to use money orders

Money orders are similar to checks. The difference is when you write a check the funds stay in your account until the recipient cashes it. With a money order, you pay for it upfront using cash or a transfer from your bank account. Purchasing ones is straightforward.

Go to your local bank, credit union, post office, or other authorized location like Walmart, 7-Eleven, or Western Union. You will have to pay for the amount you want plus associated fees upfront. Fees typically range from a few dollars to $5 or more.

Next, fill out the form. Put the recipient’s name down on the ‘Pay to Order of Line’. Then add your name and contact information.

Sign the front where indicated. Do not sign the back, as that area is for the recipient’s endorsement. Keep the receipt or stub since it contains the tracking number and can be used to verify that the order was cashed.

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Where can you buy a money order?

So, where can you buy a money order with a credit card? There are countless locations where you can purchase a money order.

  • Post office: Post offices are a convenient option if you also want to send it through the mail but can you buy a money order with a credit card at the post office? To do that, you will have to use your card withdraw cash, and then use the cash to make the purchase.
  • Grocery stores: Some grocery stores also offer money orders with other monetary services.
  • Banks: Many banks will charge a fee for this service. The amount of the fee will depend on the amount of ordered.
  • Retail stores: You can also get them from popular retailers like Walmart, 7-Eleven, and Western Union. Note that even if the store is open 24 hours, the service center that provides money orders may have a more limited schedule.

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Can you earn rewards from the purchase of a money order?

No, most issuers do not allow you to earn rewards from purchasing a money order. A money order is a secure form of payment that is in return for cash. If you use your card for it most credit card issuers will treat it as a cash advance, not a purchase that earns rewards.

Some retailers offer promotions and loyalty points on money orders. However, you should always check with the retailer before purchasing to see whether any promotions are available.

Read more about credit cards!

Paying for a money order with a credit card

Can you buy a money order with a credit card? While possible, it is not a good idea. Few merchants will accept cards and if you find a merchant who does, your credit card issuer will consider the transaction a cash advance. Credit card cash advances are a convenient but costly way to get cash. Issuers charge a higher APR for cash advances than for regular purchases. There is also no grace period so you will begin accruing interest immediately. Lastly, your issuer will charge additional fees plus the ATM fee for the cash advance. Overall, it’s not a good idea.

Can you use a credit card to pay for a money order online?

The short answer is no. Money orders must be purchased in person with cash or a debit card. You can find companies who will print and mail orders you’ve already paid for, but they are subject to scams.

If you want to send funds online, there are plenty of apps that will let you do this. Venmo, Zelle, Chime, and Current are a few that provide this service.

Where can you buy a money order with a credit card?

In general, you cannot buy a money order directly with a credit card. Most merchants and institutions prefer cash or debit cards as forms of payment. While there may have been some providers in the past, such as Western Union and 7-Eleven, that accepted cards, it seems that this is no longer the case. You cannot buy a money order with a credit card at Walmart.

If you want to use credit, you would typically need to obtain a cash advance. This involves withdrawing cash from an ATM or bank branch using your card. You then use that cash to purchase the money order. However, as we discussed before cash advances typically come with higher fees and interest rates compared to regular credit card purchases, making it a costly option.

What merchants accept credit cards for a money order?

No merchant allows you to pay with with credit for a money order. There are rumors that you can buy a money order with a credit card at 7-Eleven or Western Union, but this has been confirmed not to be true. Like other merchants they take debit card or cash payments only. 

You can buy a MoneyGram money order with a credit card but it will not be a direct purchase. MoneyGram and the US Postal Service allow transfers for the purchase of money orders. These transfers can be wire transfers, telephone transfers, prepaid cards, etc. A transfer with a credit card would be considered a cash advance.

Money order fees

Fees vary depending on the amount of the order and where you purchase it.

  • US post office: The United States Postal Service charges from $2.10 to $3 depending on the amount.
  • Banks: Many banks charge a fee from $5 to $10 or 10% of the total amount ordered. Some banks waive fees for customers who have certain types of accounts.
  • Walmart: Walmart typically charges a maximum of $1 per order.
  • Western Union: Western Union’s fees depend on the location and specific circumstances. In general, they range from 50 cents to $1.50 or more.
  • 7-Eleven: The fees typically range from 1% to 3% of the total amount of the order, with a minimum fee of $0.65 . The specific fee may depend on the location of the 7-Eleven store.

Money order alternatives to consider

Alternatives to consider include:

Prepaid cards: Prepaid cards can be a secure and anonymous alternative. They can be used to pay friends, family members, or for regular purchases, bills, and rent.

Personal checks: A personal check is a secure and inexpensive way to send funds. It requires a bank account, but typically doesn’t have fees. You can purchase a book of checks from your bank’s check provider.

Bank drafts: Bank drafts are similar to checks but are guaranteed by the bank, so they are accepted as payment immediately.

Cashiers checks: Cashiers checks are considered safer since they are backed by a bank or credit union. However, they may come with slightly higher fees.

Pay via an app: Some institutions let you use a payment app like PayPal, Venmo, or Zelle. These can safely let you transfer funds without fees. Just make sure you have the cash in your bank account.

Another option is to free up cash so you’re not dependent on credit. Redo your budget or use your card for other purchases. Take out a paycheck advance from a cash advance app. These apps let you access your pay early and instantly with no credit check, no interest, and few fees.

You could also take a personal loan if you need more funds than you can get from a cash advance app. Online marketplaces are very useful since they connect you with direct lenders instantly and can send funds to your bank account in less than 24 hours.

Personal loans typically have lower interest rates and fewer fees than payday loans.

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Cash advance fees can be substantial

Credit card cash advances are expensive. Fees range from a flat fee of $5 to $10 or 3% to 5% of the amount withdrawn, depending on your issuer. The interest rates are also much higher than for regular purchases – around 29.99% APR. Interest starts accruing immediately, so you’ll want to pay back your cash advance as soon as possible.

Bottom line

Merchants no longer accept credit cards to purchase money orders. If you have no other option, you can take out a cash advance from an ATM and use the funds to pay for it but this will cost you. It is better to consider an alternative like paying via an app, using a prepaid card, or going with debit.

1. Paycheck Advance is For eligible customers only. Your actual available Paycheck Advance amount will be displayed to you in the mobile app and may change from time to time. Conditions and eligibility may vary and are subject to change at any time, at the sole discretion of Finco Advance LLC, which offers this optional feature. Finco Advance LLC is a financial technology company, not a bank. Expedited disbursement of your Paycheck Advance is an optional feature that is subject to an Instant Access Fee and may not be available to all users. Expedited disbursements may take up to an hour. For more information, please refer to Paycheck Advance Terms and Conditions.           Current is a financial technology company, not an FDIC-insured bank. FDIC insurance up to $250,000 only covers the failure of an FDIC-insured bank. Certain conditions must be satisfied for pass-through deposit insurance coverage to apply. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group, Member FDIC, and Cross River Bank, Member FDIC. The Current Visa® Debit Card issued by Choice Financial Group, and the Current Visa® secured charge card issued by Cross River Bank, are both pursuant to licenses from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa debit or credit cards are accepted. Current Individual Account required to apply for the Current Visa® secured charge card. Independent approval required.           Faster access to funds is based on comparison of traditional banking policies and deposit of paper checks from employers and government agencies versus deposits made electronically. Direct deposit and earlier availability of funds is subject to timing of payer’s submission of deposits.
2. Current is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group, Member FDIC, and Cross River Bank, Member FDIC. The Current Visa® Debit Card is issued by Choice Financial Group pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted. The Current Visa® secured charge card is issued by Cross River Bank pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and may be used everywhere Visa credit cards are accepted. Please see the back of your Card for its issuing bank. Current Individual Account required to apply for the Current Visa® secured charge card. Independent approval required.
3. Individual results may vary. Using your credit card responsibly may allow you to improve your credit score. Credit building depends on various factors, including your payment history, credit utilization, length of credit history, and other financial activities.
4. Faster access to funds is based on comparison of traditional banking policies and deposit of paper checks from employers and government agencies versus deposits made electronically. Direct deposit and earlier availability of funds is subject to timing of payer’s submission of deposits.
5. Current is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group. Funds held in Savings Pods are FDIC-insured on a pass-through basis up to $250,000 at our partner bank Choice Financial Group, member FDIC
6. Paycheck Advance is For eligible customers only. Your actual available Paycheck Advance amount will be displayed to you in the mobile app and may change from time to time. Conditions and eligibility may vary and are subject to change at any time, at the sole discretion of Finco Advance LLC, which offers this optional feature. Finco Advance LLC is a financial technology company, not a bank. Expedited disbursement of your Paycheck Advance is an optional feature that is subject to an Instant Access Fee and may not be available to all users. Expedited disbursements may take up to an hour. For more information, please refer to Paycheck Advance Terms and Conditions.
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11. Cryptocurrency services are powered by Zero Hash LLC and Zero Hash Liquidity Services LLC, and may not be available in all states. Terms and conditions apply. When you buy or sell cryptocurrency, a difference between the current market price and the price you buy or sell that asset for is called a spread. However, unlike most other exchanges Current does not charge an additional trading fee. Cryptocurrency transactions are a form of investment, and all investments are subject to investment risks, including possible loss of the principal amount invested. Cryptocurrency is not insured by the FDIC or any other government-backed or third-party insurance. Your purchase of cryptocurrency is not a deposit or other obligation of, or guaranteed by, Choice Financial Group or Cross River Bank. The cryptocurrency assets in your Zero Hash account are not held at Current, Choice Financial Group, or Cross River Bank. Current, Choice Financial Group, and Cross River Bank are not responsible for the cryptocurrency assets held in any Zero Hash account. Neither Current, Choice, nor Cross River Bank is involved in the purchase, sale, exchange of fiat funds for cryptocurrency, or custody of the cryptocurrencies. Terms and Conditions apply (platform and user agreements). Crypto on Current is not currently available in HI. Licensed to engage in Virtual Currency Business Activity by the New York State Department of Financial Services. This does not constitute investment advice.
12. Current is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group. Your money is FDIC-insured on a pass-through basis up to $250,000 at each of our partner banks, Choice Financial Group and Cross River Bank, members FDIC.
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16. Baggage Insurance Plan coverage can be in effect for Covered Persons for eligible lost, damaged, or stolen Baggage during their travel on a Common Carrier Vehicle (e.g. plane, train, ship, or bus) when the Entire Fare for a ticket for the trip (one- way or round-trip) is charged to an Eligible Card. Coverage can be provided for up to $2,000 for checked Baggage and up to a combined maximum of $3,000 for checked and carry-on baggage, in excess of coverage provided by the Common Carrier. The coverage is also subject to a $3,000 aggregate limit per Covered Trip. For New York State residents, there is a $2,000 per bag/suitcase limit for each Covered Person with a $10,000 aggregate maximum for all Covered Persons per Covered Trip. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.
17. Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance can provide coverage up to $75,000 for theft of or damage to most rental vehicles when you use your eligible Card to reserve and pay for the entire eligible vehicle rental and decline the collision damage waiver or similar option offered by the Commercial Car Rental Company. This product provides secondary coverage and does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered. Geographic restrictions apply. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.
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20. Purchase Protection is an embedded benefit of your Card Membership and requires no enrollment. It can help protect Covered Purchases made on your Eligible Card when they’re accidentally damaged, stolen, or lost, for up to 90 days from the Covered Purchase date. The coverage is limited to up to $10,000 per occurrence, up to $50,000 per Card Member account per calendar year. Coverage Limits Apply. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.
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24. The Annual Percentage Yield (“APY”) for the Chime Savings Account is variable and may change at any time. The disclosed APY is effective as of September 20, 2023. No minimum balance required. Must have $0.01 in savings to earn interest.
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26. To apply for Credit Builder, you must have received a single qualifying direct deposit of $200 or more to your Chime Checking Account. The qualifying direct deposit must be from your employer, payroll provider, gig economy payer, or benefits payer by Automated Clearing House (ACH) deposit OR Original Credit Transaction (OCT). Bank ACH transfers, Pay Anyone transfers, verification or trial deposits from financial institutions, peer to peer transfers from services such as PayPal, Cash App, or Venmo, mobile check deposits, cash loads or deposits, one-time direct deposits, such as tax refunds and other similar transactions, and any deposit to which Chime deems to not be a qualifying direct deposit are not qualifying direct deposits.
27. Money added to Credit Builder will be held in a secured account as collateral for your Credit Builder Visa card, which means you can spend up to this amount on your card. This is money you can use to pay off your charges at the end of every month.
28. Based on a representative study conducted by Experian®, members who made their first purchase with Credit Builder between June 2020 and October 2020 observed an average FICO® Score 8 increase of 30 points after approximately 8 months. On-time payment history can have a positive impact on your credit score. Late payment may negatively impact your credit score.
29. On-time payment history may have a positive impact on your credit score. Late payment may negatively impact your credit score. Chime will report your activities to Transunion®, Experian®, and Equifax®. Impact on your credit may vary, as Credit scores are independently determined by credit bureaus based on a number of factors including the financial decisions you make with other financial services organizations.
30. Early access to direct deposit funds depends on the timing of the submission of the payment file from the payer. We generally make these funds available on the day the payment file is received, which may be up to 2 days earlier than the scheduled payment date.
31. SpotMe® on Debit is an optional, no fee overdraft service attached to your Chime Checking Account. To qualify for the SpotMe on Debit service, you must receive $200 or more in qualifying direct deposits to your Chime Checking Account each month and have activated your Visa debit card. Qualifying members will be allowed to overdraw their Chime Checking Account for up to $20 on debit card purchases and cash withdrawals initially but may later be eligible for a higher limit of up to $200 or more based on Chime Account history, direct deposit frequency and amount, spending activity and other risk-based factors. The SpotMe on Debit limit will be displayed within the Chime mobile app and is subject to change at any time, at Chime’s sole discretion. Although Chime does not charge any overdraft fees for SpotMe on Debit, there may be out-of-network or third-party fees associated with ATM transactions. SpotMe on Debit will not cover any non-debit card transactions, including ACH transfers, Pay Anyone transfers, or Chime Checkbook transactions. SpotMe on Debit Terms and Conditions.
32. Tipping or not tipping has no impact on your eligibility for SpotMe®.
33. Out-of-network ATM withdrawal fees may apply except at MoneyPass ATMs in a 7-Eleven, or any Allpoint or Visa Plus Alliance ATM.
34. Save When I Get Paid automatically transfers 10% of your direct deposits of $500 or more from your Checking Account into your savings account.
35. Round Ups automatically round up debit card purchases to the nearest dollar and transfer the round up from your Chime Checking Account to your savings account.
36. Mobile Check Deposit eligibility is determined by Chime in its sole discretion and may be granted based on various factors including, but not limited to, a member’s direct deposit enrollment status.
37. Funds are automatically debited from your Checking Account and typically deposited into the recipient’s Checking Account within seconds. Pay Anyone transactions will be monitored and may be held, delayed or blocked if the transfer could result in fraud or another form of financial harm. Sometimes instant transfers can be delayed.
38. Pay Anyone transactions will be monitored and may be held, delayed or blocked if the transfer could result in fraud or another form of financial harm. Sometimes instant transfers can be delayed. Non-Chime members must use a valid debit card to claim funds.
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About the author

Rachel Alulis

Rachel Alulis has been the lead editor for Moneyfor’s credit cards team since 2015 and for the financial rewards team since 2023. Before joining Moneyfor, Rachel worked at USA Today and the Des Moines Register. She then established a successful freelance writing and editing business specializing in personal finance. Rachel holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism and an MBA.

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