How Long Does It Take to Get a Money Order?
Quick Answer
5–10 minutes at most locations. The transaction itself takes under 5 minutes once you reach the counter, though wait times at busy locations can add 10–20 minutes.
Typical Duration
Quick Answer
Getting a money order is one of the fastest financial transactions available. The actual purchase takes under 5 minutes at the counter — you provide payment, the clerk prints the money order, and you fill in the recipient details. Total time including any wait in line is typically 5–10 minutes.
Money Order Providers Compared
| Provider | Fee | Maximum Amount | Payment Accepted | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USPS | $1.75 – $2.40 | $1,000 | Cash, debit card | Post office hours |
| Walmart | $1.00 | $1,000 | Cash, debit card | 6 AM – 11 PM (varies) |
| Western Union (agents) | $1.00 – $5.00 | $1,000 | Cash | Varies by agent |
| MoneyGram (agents) | $1.00 – $5.00 | $1,000 | Cash | Varies by agent |
| 7-Eleven | $1.50 – $3.00 | $500 | Cash | 24 hours (many locations) |
| CVS Pharmacy | $1.25 – $2.00 | $500 | Cash, debit card | Pharmacy hours |
| Banks/Credit Unions | $0 – $10.00 | Varies | Account funds | Banking hours |
| Kroger/grocery stores | $0.50 – $1.50 | $1,000 | Cash, debit card | Store hours |
Step-by-Step Process
- Bring cash or a debit card — most providers do not accept credit cards for money orders.
- Go to the customer service counter or money center.
- Request a money order for the desired amount.
- Pay the face value plus the fee — for example, a $500 money order at Walmart costs $501.00.
- Fill in the recipient's name (the "Pay to" line) immediately.
- Keep the receipt stub — this is your proof of purchase and is needed for tracking or refunds.
The entire counter transaction takes 2–3 minutes. Filling in the details adds another 1–2 minutes.
Wait Times by Location
| Location Type | Typical Wait | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Post office | 5–20 minutes | Early morning (before 10 AM) |
| Walmart Money Center | 5–15 minutes | Weekday mornings |
| Convenience store | 0–5 minutes | Anytime |
| Bank branch | 5–15 minutes | Midweek mornings |
| Grocery store | 3–10 minutes | Weekday afternoons |
Important Details
Limits and Multiple Money Orders
Most providers cap individual money orders at $500 or $1,000. For larger amounts, purchase multiple money orders. Federal regulations require ID for money order purchases totaling $3,000 or more in a single day.
What to Bring
- Cash or debit card (credit cards rarely accepted)
- Recipient's full name (have this ready before arriving)
- Government-issued ID if purchasing $3,000+ in money orders
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Never leave the "Pay to" line blank — a blank money order is like cash and cannot be recovered if lost.
- Keep the receipt — without it, tracing a lost money order can take 30–60 days and cost $15–$40.
- Do not use a credit card — the few providers that accept them treat it as a cash advance with high fees and immediate interest.
Money Order vs. Other Payment Methods
| Method | Speed | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Money order | 5–10 min to purchase | $0.50 – $5.00 | Rent, bills, unbanked recipients |
| Cashier's check | 10–20 min at bank | $5 – $15 | Large purchases, real estate |
| Wire transfer | 15–30 min to send | $15 – $50 | International or urgent payments |
| Personal check | 1–2 min to write | Free (with account) | Trusted recipients |