Most money order sellers do not accept credit cards directly
You cannot buy a money order with a credit card at most locations. Banks, post offices, and check-cashing stores that sell money orders typically accept cash, debit cards, or checks — but not credit cards. This is a deliberate policy, not a technical limitation.
The reason is straightforward: money orders are meant to move cash or funds you already have. Letting someone buy a money order on credit would let them spend borrowed money to send to someone else, which increases the seller's risk. If the credit card charge is later disputed or reversed, the money order has already been sent and cashed.
A few online money order services and some specialty retailers may accept credit cards, but these are exceptions. Your best option is usually to withdraw cash from an ATM using your credit card (if your card issuer allows cash advances) and then buy the money order with that cash.
Key Takeaways
- Post offices, banks, and check-cashing stores do not accept credit cards to buy money orders, though they accept cash and debit cards.
- You can use a credit card to get cash from an ATM, then use that cash to buy a money order at any standard location.
- A few online money order services accept credit cards, but they charge higher fees than in-person sellers.
- Credit card cash advances come with interest charges that start when ready, so this route costs more than using cash or a debit card.
Using a credit card cash advance to buy a money order
If you do not have cash or a debit card on hand, you can withdraw cash using your credit card at an ATM. Most credit card issuers allow cash advances, though not all. Call the number on the back of your card or log into your online account to confirm your card supports this feature.
When you withdraw cash this way, your credit card issuer charges you a cash advance fee — typically 3 to 5 percent of the amount withdrawn, with a minimum fee of $5 to $10. Interest on the cash advance starts accruing when ready, usually at a higher rate than your regular purchase APR. If you withdraw $200, you might pay $6 to $10 in fees plus interest from day one.
Once you have the cash, you can walk into any post office, bank, or check-cashing store and buy a money order. This method works, but it is expensive compared to using cash you already have or a debit card.
Online money order services that accept credit cards
A small number of online platforms sell money orders and accept credit cards. MoneyGram and Western Union both allow credit card purchases through their websites and apps, though fees are higher than buying in person. You typically pay a service fee of $5 to $15 depending on the amount, plus the credit card processing fee the company charges.
The money order is then mailed to you or the recipient, which adds delivery time. If you need the money order quickly, this is slower than walking to a post office. These services are most useful when you cannot leave home or do not have a nearby seller.
Read the terms carefully before purchasing. Some online sellers have restrictions on the states they serve or the maximum amount you can send.
Why debit cards are a better choice than credit cards
If you have a debit card, use it instead of a credit card. Every post office, bank, and check-cashing store accepts debit cards for money order purchases. There is no cash advance fee, no interest charge, and no delay — you straightforward swipe or insert your card and pay the money order fee, which is usually $1 to $5.
A debit card draws directly from your bank account, so you are only spending money you have. A credit card borrows money and charges you interest to borrow it. For a straightforward transaction like buying a money order, a debit card is always the lower-cost option.
Alternatives if you cannot use cash or a debit card
If you do not have a debit card and cannot get cash, consider these options before using a credit card cash advance.
Ask the recipient to accept a different payment method. A bank transfer, check, or digital payment app like Venmo or PayPal may work just as well and cost nothing. Money orders are useful when the recipient specifically needs one, but many situations have alternatives.
Borrow cash from a friend or family member. This avoids the cash advance fee and interest entirely. You can repay them later using any method you choose.
Visit your bank and ask about a small personal loan. Some banks offer short-term loans at lower interest rates than credit card cash advances. The process takes longer, but the cost is often lower if you need the money for more than a few days.
Money order fees and limits across sellers
| Seller | Typical Fee | Maximum Amount | Accepts Credit Cards |
|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Post Office | $1.45 to $2.20 | $1,000 | No |
| Bank (varies by bank) | $5 to $10 | $1,000 to $5,000 | No |
| Check-cashing store | $2 to $5 | $500 to $1,000 | No |
| MoneyGram online | $5 to $15 | $1,000 | Yes |
| Western Union online | $5 to $15 | $1,000 | Yes |
Fees vary by location and the amount you are sending. Call ahead or check the website of your chosen seller to confirm the exact fee before you go.
What happens if you dispute a money order purchase on your credit card
If you buy a money order with a credit card and later dispute the charge, the credit card company will likely deny your dispute. Once a money order is issued and cashed, the transaction is final. The seller has no way to reverse it, and the credit card company cannot recover the funds.
This is another reason sellers avoid credit cards for money orders. If you change your mind after buying, you cannot get your money back through a chargeback. You would have to contact the recipient and ask them to return the money order, which they are not required to do.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy a money order with a prepaid credit card?
No. Prepaid cards are treated the same way as regular credit cards by money order sellers. You would need to withdraw cash from an ATM using the prepaid card, then use that cash to buy the money order. Check whether your prepaid card issuer charges a cash advance fee, as some do.
What if my bank offers a credit card that works like a debit card?
If your card draws directly from a linked bank account and does not borrow money, it functions as a debit card and most sellers will accept it. Check with your bank to confirm how the card works. If it is a true credit card that borrows money, sellers will likely decline it for money orders.
Do any post offices accept credit cards for money orders?
No. The U.S. Postal Service does not accept credit cards for money order purchases at any location. You can pay with cash, debit card, or check. Some post offices have ATMs on-site, so you can withdraw cash and buy the money order in one trip.
Is it worth paying the cash advance fee to buy a money order with a credit card?
Rarely. A $200 cash advance might cost $6 to $10 in fees plus interest. Unless you have no other way to get cash or a debit card, the cost is not worth it. Borrowing cash from someone or asking the recipient to accept a different payment method is almost always cheaper.
Can I buy a money order with a credit card over the phone?
Most sellers do not offer phone purchases of money orders, and those that do still do not accept credit cards. You would need to provide a debit card, bank account number, or arrange payment another way. Online services like MoneyGram and Western Union are your best option if you want to order by phone or online.