How to Write a Money Order

Money orders are like checks, but safer because they're prepaid. They won't overdraw the payer's bank account and the receiver knows they won't bounce.

How to Fill a Money Order

You need to send a money order and you need to make sure it's properly written so your transaction goes smoothly. Here's how to write a money order.

Is it the Right Amount?

Wherever you're buying your money order, from the Post Office, a bank, Western Union, a check-cashing business or elsewhere, make sure the amount pre-printed on the money order is the same as what you asked and paid for.

Who's Getting Paid?

Find where the money order says "Pay to" or "Pay to the order of" and promptly write in the name of the person you are sending the money to. Be sure to write it clearly, ideally in block letters with black ink. Double check that you are using the correct spelling of the business's or person's name.

Fill in Your Name

Where it says "From," "Remitter," "Purchaser" or "Sender," make sure to write your full name clearly as well, so that the receiver knows who sent them the money and you get proper credit for it.

Write the Address of the Person You're Paying

Under the name of the person you're paying with this money order, write in their address.

Or, some money orders will only ask for your address. Take a second look and see exactly which information your money order is requesting. Then fill it in legibly.

Write Something in the Memo Line

If only to remind yourself of the purpose of this payment, it's a good idea to write something in the money order's memo line. It could be the reason for the payment, such as "security deposit" or it could be your account number. You never know when payments can get confused, so take advantage of this chance and make sure you get credited for your payment.

Sign the Money Order (Front).

On the front, or face, of the money order, there is a place for you to sign where it says "Signature," "Purchaser's signature" or similar. Sign here now.

Don't Sign the Back!

Whatever you do, don't sign the back of the money order where it asks for an endorsement signature. The person you are paying will sign here.

How to Fill Out a Postal Money Order

Keep Your Receipt

You received a receipt with your money order. Hold onto it. In case of problems with your payment, you'll find it invaluable.

Writing a money order is easy. You just need to get a couple key things correct and your payment will be set up for success. Good luck!