Walmart money order: Fees, limits, and how to fill out

If you need to send a money order, you can get one at Walmart through Western Union or MoneyGram.¹

A money order is a safer way to send money through the mail, as opposed to checks or cash, because it doesn't include your bank account number and needs signatures from both the sender and the recipient to be valid.

Here’s what you need to know about sending money orders using Walmart, and how much it can cost.

Does Walmart sell money orders?

A money order is like a prepaid check. You'll pay the full amount upfront plus a small fee, and get a paper document you can send to someone else to cash or deposit. People often use money orders when they don't want to send cash or personal checks.

Walmart offers money orders through Western Union and MoneyGram at most store locations. Both Western Union and MoneyGram are large and reliable money transfer companies. You can purchase them at either the Customer Service Desk or the Money Services Center during regular store hours.¹

How much is a money order at Walmart?

Walmart money order cost varies by location, but the retailer claims it'll never be over 1 USD.¹ This makes it an affordable option, even if you're sending multiple money orders.

If you're sending money internationally, your recipient may face additional charges. When they cash the money order in another country, they'll typically get a less favorable exchange rate and might have to pay extra processing fees.

Also, both MoneyGram and Western Union make money by setting their own exchange rates below the mid-market rate and keeping the difference as profit.²³

Walmart money order limit

Walmart doesn't disclose its money order limit online, but most providers cap money orders at 1,000 USD. It's safe to assume that's the limit you'll face at your local Walmart.

If you need to send more money, you can purchase multiple money orders, but there's usually a daily limit on how many you can buy. Because of these restrictions, money orders work best for sending smaller amounts of money.

Can I send money overseas with a Walmart money order?

Yes, you can get a money order at Walmart and send it to another country.

However, keep in mind that money orders sent by mail can take a long time to reach their destination. Moreover, many banks outside the US either won't accept them or charge high fees to process them.

Since a money order is a physical piece of paper, your recipient might get it in the mail, but end up being unable to actually access the funds.

Both MoneyGram and Western Union offer faster direct money transfer services at Walmart, but you should look at the costs before sending. These companies profit from currency exchange, so these services can be expensive.²³

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How to send money using Walmart money order

Here's how to send a money order from Walmart.

1. Visit any Walmart location and head to the Customer Service Desk or Money Services Center
2. Bring your payment (cash or debit card)
3. Tell the clerk how much you want to send
4. Pay for your money order
5. Fill out the money order
6. Keep your receipt until you confirm the recipient got the money
7. Give the money order to your recipient in person or send it via mail

Since a money order is a piece of paper, you can't get one online. You need to come to Walmart in person.

If you're sending more than 1,000 USD, you'll also need a government-issued ID.¹

How to fill out a Walmart money order

Here's exactly how to fill out your money order at Walmart.

1. Write the recipient's full legal name in "Pay to the Order of"
2. Fill in the recipient's address (if required)
3. Add your information in the "Purchaser" section. You'll typically need to provide your full name and address
4. Write any important details in the memo field, such as an account number if paying a bill
5. Sign the front where it says "Purchaser's Signature." Don't sign the back - that's for the recipient

If you have any questions, the clerk will be able to help you out. Make sure to keep your receipt because you'll need it for tracking or if you need to cancel your money order.

How to track or cancel a Walmart money order

A money order is a physical document, so tracking only tells you if it's been cashed - not where it is in transit.

You can track your Walmart money order online, or by calling MoneyGram at 1-800-542-3590. For Western Union money order tracking, follow the instructions on the back of your order.¹

If your money order hasn't been cashed yet, you can cancel it and get a refund. Walmart notes that refunds are only available for 10 days after the purchase, and you must bring the original money order, along with the receipt and a valid ID. The money order can't be damaged or altered.¹

Walmart money order FAQs

Can I cash a money order at Walmart?

Yes, Walmart cashes both Western Union and MoneyGram money orders, but you may have to pay a check-cashing fee.¹

Does Walmart do money orders from a debit card?

Yes, you can buy a money order at Walmart using either a debit card or cash. Credit cards aren't accepted because money orders are prepaid.¹

Can Walmart money orders be traced?

You can only check if your money order has been cashed yet. Since it's a piece of paper, you can't track its physical location once you've mailed it.

It's easy to get a Walmart money order, and it can be a good option for sending a small amount of money domestically. The fees will never be over 1 USD, which makes it an affordable option.¹

But if you're sending money abroad, a money order can be tricky. It'll likely take a long time to get to your recipient, and they may have a problem cashing it. Walmart recommends checking with your recipient before getting your money order.¹

Use Wise to easily send money to over 160 countries online and with low fees. It's fast, simple and secure, with no exchange rate markups.