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What Is a Money Order, and Is There a Better Alternative?

15 Aug 2024


What exactly is a money order? It's likely that if you're asking this question, you're seeking an easy money transfer method, either domestically or internationally. A money order may seem obsolete in the digital age, but people still use it to send money to friends and family, pay bills, and purchase things. Keep reading this blog to learn everything about money orders, sending one securely, and identifying some options that could help you save money and time.
 

Everything to Know About Money Order

One form of pre-paid paper payment is a money order. It is comparable to an unceasing personal check. When you write a personal check to someone, they should have faith that you will have sufficient funds in your account when they cash the check. When purchasing with a money order, you should pay in person for the money order's total amount. In this manner, the payee (the person receiving the money) is guaranteed to get the whole amount of the money order from you (the payer).
 

After completing the money order and making the necessary payment, you can deliver it in person or by mail to the designated recipient. Many people confuse money orders with wire transfers; however, they are very different. Two varieties of money orders exist. You can purchase a domestic money order; for payments sent outside the nation, you can purchase an international money order.
 

How Can I Obtain a Money Order?

A money order should be purchased in person. This could be a hassle if you're accustomed to online banking. Thankfully, there are several locations where you can obtain a money order.

The following are some locations where you can purchase a money order:

  • Certain retail banks and credit unions, such as the Chase Western Union 
  • Several grocery stores, convenience stores and CVS are retailers that frequently collaborate with MoneyGram check-cashing and payday loan businesses.

Charges of Money Order

Each of these locations will charge a fee for the creation of a money order. Domestic money transactions are often rather modest. However, if you want to make a global money transfer through a money order, you can expect it to create a hole in your pocket. Before deciding where to pick up a money order, make sure to check the price again; the most convenient location might not be the cheapest.
 

Along with a method of payment, you will need to know a little bit about the recipient of the money order. Not every money order facility accepts credit cards as a mode of payment. Extra fees can show up on your credit card bill if you choose to pay using a credit card. This kind of credit card transaction is typically referred to as a "cash advance." Most financial institutions impose exorbitant interest rates on cash advances in addition to a fee. Generally, cash, debit cards, or traveler's checks are the best ways to make payments.
 

How to Complete a Money Order Form?

After purchasing your money order, you have to complete the paperwork. The steps to fill up a money order are as follows:

  • In the fields labeled "From," "Sender," or "Remitter," provide your name and address.
  • In the "Pay to the Order Of" field, enter the name of the recipient of the money order.
  • Sign the money order on the front.
  • Store your receipt so you can follow the money order. In the event that your money order is misplaced or stolen, or you need to cancel the payment, you will require the receipt. 

Scams Related to Money Orders

Money orders can occasionally be used as a means of deception. Therefore, it's important to be on the lookout for any potential scams while purchasing them or taking them as payment from strangers. Remember that money orders can only be purchased in person from authorized vendors. You can be certain it is a scam if you are offered to purchase a money order online or at a “discount.”
 

Make sure money orders are authentic before accepting them as payment. Some fraudsters try to use fake money orders to pay for things. They're gone by the time you discover the money order is fraudulent. Hence, it is better to use a regulated money transfer service such as ACE Money Transfer for international transactions. 
 

Drawbacks of a Money Order

Here are some apparent faults in sending money

  • It's prolonged; mailing a money order could take several days.
  • Fraudsters may use fake money orders to buy, sell, or make payments.
  • Money orders sent internationally might be costly.

ACE Money Transfer is the Perfect Alternative to Money Orders

An alternative is to use a mobile payment provider like ACE Money Transfer to send money across borders. This payment option combines the ease of use of a money order with digital payment convenience. The recipient of the money transfer can pick it up in person or have it sent to their bank account or mobile wallet. The payment is made online, which is much more convenient than money orders.
 

ACE Offers Convenience

Sending money digitally with ACE is a secure method. Digital remittances are typically less expensive to transmit and receive than other forms of payment like money orders. Moreover, the transaction takes less than one day to complete, which is impossible with money orders.
 

ACE Offers Affordability 

ACE offers the cost-effective speed of a wire transfer combined with the ease of a money order. The transfer fee is very low and exchange rates are market competitive. The goal of ACE Money Transfer is to reduce the cost and increase the speed, ease, transparency, and affordability of online money transfer. Millions of people have sent money with confidence using ACE since 2002. Sign up today on ACE and enjoy the convenience of remarkable features. 
 

Embracing Modern Solutions

When it comes to sending money domestically or internationally, understanding the nuances of different payment methods is crucial. While money orders have traditionally served as a reliable means of transferring funds, they come with limitations such as fees, delays, and susceptibility to scams. As highlighted, the digital era offers alternative solutions like ACE Money Transfer, which combines the security of traditional methods with the convenience of online transactions.
 

FAQs

Can money orders be used for recurring payments like rent?

Yes, money orders can be used for recurring payments, but you'll need to purchase a new one each time.

How long does it take for a money order to clear once it is deposited?

Money orders usually clear within a few business days, depending on the bank's policies.

Is there an expiration date for money orders?

Money orders typically do not expire, but it's best to cash them within a year to avoid potential fees.

Can you cancel a money order if it hasn’t been cashed?

Yes, you can cancel a money order if it hasn’t been cashed, using your receipt to request a refund or replacement.

Are there limits on the amount for which you can purchase a money order?

Yes, most providers have a maximum limit, often around $1,000 per money order.


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