Money orders are one of the fastest and easiest ways to make payments or send cash securely. When you receive a money order, it’s important you’re careful when you’re taking it to be cashed.
Since it’s just a slip of paper, it can be easily damaged or torn. However, if this happens you might still be able to use the money order – it just depends how damaged it is.
How much damage is a problem?
When you’ve handed your money order over to be cashed by a Money Services associate, they’ll need to check the serial number and signature to make sure it’s valid. As long as these key details are intact, a small tear shouldn’t be an issue.
However, if the number and signature are not clearly displayed, you may have to ask the sender for a new money order to be sent.
Can I put a shredded money order back together?
If you find yourself having to stick together pieces of a shredded money order, it’s unlikely to be accepted when you try to cash it. You will more than likely have to ask for a replacement money order to be sent to you from the sender.
To find out for sure, drop by your nearest Money Services and find a store associate. They’ll take a look and advise you on what to do.
What should I do if my money order is ruined?
If your money order is so damaged it’s deemed invalid, you’ll need whoever ordered it to get a replacement. The process is simple. All they’ll have to do is:
- Print and complete the money order customer request form.
- Return with the receipt and a $15 processing fee to the listed address.
- If they don’t have their receipt, fill out and send the same form with a $30 fee.
If the money order has not been cashed, they’ll get a refund.
For more information on buying a money order, visit our Money Orders page.
How can I keep my money order safe?
To prevent your money order getting damaged, you could keep it in these safe places:
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File or folder
Make sure you’ve got a good filing system so important documents aren’t lost or damaged.
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Locked desk drawer
Add an extra level of security with a lock system. Go a step further with a personal safe.
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Wallet or purse
When moving from store to home, don’t carry money orders in your hand or shove them into a bag. Ideally, you’d have a plastic wallet to keep them in.