Most places won't sell you a money order with a credit card
The short answer is no — you cannot walk into a Western Union, MoneyGram, or your bank and buy a money order with a credit card at most locations. Money order sellers treat credit cards like cash advances: they see them as a risk, and they've built their systems to block them. You'll need a debit card, a prepaid card, or actual cash instead.
The reason is straightforward. A money order is a may provide payment — once you buy it, the seller has already promised the money to whoever cashes it. If you charge it to a credit card and then dispute the charge later, the money order company loses. So they don't take that bet. A few regional exceptions exist, but they're rare enough that you should plan on using a different payment method.
If you're considering a credit card because you don't have cash or a debit card on hand, there are actual workarounds — but they cost money and take time. Understanding which route makes sense depends on why you need the money order in the first place.
Key Takeaways
- Credit card companies classify money order purchases as cash advances, and most money order sellers won't accept them for that reason.
- Debit cards, prepaid cards, and cash are the payment methods that work at Western Union, MoneyGram, USPS, and most banks.
- If you need a money order but only have a credit card, you can withdraw cash from an ATM first, though this typically costs a fee.
- Some banks let you get a money order by writing a check or using online banking, which bypasses the credit card problem entirely.
- A few prepaid card providers do allow money order purchases, so checking your specific card's terms may reveal an option.
Why credit cards don't work for money orders
Money order companies treat a credit card purchase as a cash advance, even though you're not getting cash. A cash advance is a loan from your credit card company, not a purchase. The credit card company charges you a fee (usually 3 to 5 percent) and starts charging interest when ready — often at a higher rate than regular purchases.
But the real reason money order sellers block credit cards is liability. If you buy a money order for $500 with a credit card and then call your credit card company to dispute the charge, the money order company is stuck. They've already paid out the money. They can't get it back. So they straightforward don't accept credit cards — it's a blanket policy across Western Union, MoneyGram, the U.S. Postal Service, and most banks.
A few prepaid card companies have different rules, and some regional money order sellers may accept credit cards. But these are exceptions. If you're planning to buy a money order, assume you'll need a debit card, a prepaid card, or cash.
What payment methods actually work
Debit cards are the standard. Western Union, MoneyGram, USPS, and banks all accept them. A debit card is tied directly to your bank account, so there's no dispute risk — the money comes out when ready and the seller knows it's real.
Prepaid cards work at most locations, though it depends on the card. Visa and Mastercard prepaid cards are usually accepted. American Express prepaid cards are sometimes rejected because not all money order sellers take American Express. Check your card's terms or call the seller before you go.
Cash works everywhere. If you have a credit card but no debit card, you can withdraw cash from an ATM using your credit card. This will cost you a fee — typically $2 to $5 per withdrawal, depending on your bank and the ATM — and interest will start accruing when ready. But it's a straightforward option if you need a money order urgently.
Bank checks are an alternative if your bank offers them. Some banks let you order a money order online or by phone and have it mailed to you, or pick it up in person. You pay with your checking account, not a credit card. This takes longer but avoids the credit card issue entirely.
Using an ATM to get cash for a money order
If you only have a credit card and need a money order today, withdrawing cash from an ATM is the fastest route. Insert your credit card, enter your PIN, and withdraw the amount you need plus the money order fee (usually $1 to $2).
Know what this costs you. Your credit card company will charge a cash advance fee — typically 3 to 5 percent of the amount withdrawn. If you withdraw $500, you'll pay $15 to $25 just for the withdrawal. Interest starts accruing the same day, usually at 20 to 30 percent annually. If you pay it back within a week, the interest charge will be small. If it sits for a month, it adds up.
This is an expensive option, but it works when you're in a bind. If you have time, a better move is to ask your bank whether you can order a money order through your checking account instead, or to borrow a debit card from someone you trust.
Checking whether your prepaid card allows money orders
Some prepaid card providers do allow money order purchases, but not all. The rules vary by card issuer and sometimes by the specific card product.
If you have a prepaid card, check the cardholder agreement or call the customer service number on the back. Ask directly: "Can I use this card to buy a money order?" The answer will be yes, no, or "only at certain locations." If it's yes, you've found your solution — no fees, no interest, just like a debit card.
Visa and Mastercard prepaid cards are more likely to work than American Express prepaid cards. But the only way to know for sure is to ask your specific card issuer. Don't assume based on the brand.
Getting a money order without leaving home
If you want to avoid going to a store, some banks and credit unions let you order a money order online or by phone. You pay from your checking account, and the money order is either mailed to you or held for pickup at a branch.
This takes 3 to 7 business days for mailing, or you can pick it up the same day or next day at a branch. There's no credit card involved — you're paying from your bank account. Call your bank's customer service line or log into your online banking portal to see whether this option is available.
This is the slowest option, but it's also the cheapest and the most convenient if you're not in a hurry. Money order fees through banks are usually $1 to $3, and there are no additional charges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my credit card company let me use my card at a money order location?
Your credit card company doesn't prevent it — the money order seller does. Western Union, MoneyGram, USPS, and banks have their own policies, and they all decline credit cards. Even if your credit card company would allow it, the money order seller won't process it.
What if I use a credit card to pay for something else and ask for a money order as change?
This won't work. Money order sellers don't issue money orders as change. You have to buy the money order directly with an accepted payment method.
Can I buy a money order online with a credit card?
Most online money order services don't exist — money orders are physical documents that have to be issued in person or mailed by a bank. Some banks let you order a money order online and pick it up or have it mailed, but you pay from your checking account, not a credit card.
Is there a fee if I withdraw cash from an ATM with my credit card to buy a money order?
Yes. You'll pay a cash advance fee (usually 3 to 5 percent) plus interest starting when ready. A $500 withdrawal costs $15 to $25 in fees alone, before interest. This is an expensive option and should be a last resort.
Do all prepaid cards work for money orders?
No. It depends on the card issuer and the specific card product. Visa and Mastercard prepaid cards are more likely to work than American Express. Check your cardholder agreement or call customer service to confirm before you go to buy a money order.