This article provides information about the possibility of using a credit card to purchase a money order at several different types of locations, such as Walmart, the post office, Kroger, Publix, Western Union, Amscot, HEB, and more.
The article notes that policies regarding credit card purchases of money orders may vary by location and that it is important to carefully review any fees and terms associated with such transactions before proceeding.
Additionally, I’ll provide alternative payment options for those who are unable or prefer not to use a credit card.
What Is A Money Order
A money order is a payment instrument that is similar to a check. It is a pre-paid and guaranteed payment method, meaning that the issuer pays the full amount upfront and guarantees payment to the recipient.
Money orders can be purchased at post offices, banks, and other financial institutions, as well as some retail stores.
To obtain a money order, you typically need to provide the issuer with the name of the recipient and the amount of money you want to send.
You will also need to pay a fee to purchase the money order, which varies depending on the issuer and the amount of money you are sending.
Once you have purchased a money order, you can mail it to the recipient or deliver it to them in person. The recipient can then deposit or cash the money order at their bank or another financial institution.
Money orders are commonly used for sending money to someone you don’t know or don’t trust, as they provide a secure payment method.
Can You Get A Money Order With A Credit Card
It depends on the specific policies of the issuer from which you are purchasing the money order. Some issuers allow customers to purchase money orders with a credit card, while others do not.
If you are able to purchase a money order with a credit card, you should be aware that you may be charged additional fees.
Credit card companies often treat money orders as cash advances, which means you may be subject to higher interest rates and transaction fees.
Additionally, some issuers may have limits on the amount you can spend on a credit card to purchase a money order.
If you are interested in purchasing a money order with a credit card, you should check with the specific issuer to see if they accept credit card payments and what fees may be associated with the transaction. More, Do food trucks take credit card
It is always a good idea to review your credit card terms and conditions to understand any potential fees or charges that may apply.
Place | Accepts Credit Cards | Accepts Debit Cards |
---|---|---|
Bank | YES | YES |
7-Eleven* | YES | YES |
Grocery stores | YES | YES |
WesternUnion* | YES | YES |
Convenience stores | YES | YES |
K-Mart (uses WesternUnion) | YES | YES |
RIA | YES | YES |
Post Office (USPS) | NO | YES |
HEB | NO | YES |
Kroger | NO | YES |
Amscot | NO | YES |
Publix | NO | YES |
Walmart | NO | YES |
MoneyGram* | NO | NO |
CVS | NO | NO |
Moneytree | NO | NO |
*Can vary depending on the specific location
Where Can You Buy a money order with a credit card
There may be some exceptions depending on the specific location and their policies. Here are some options to consider:
1. Grocery stores
Some grocery stores may allow you to purchase money orders with a credit card, although this will vary by location. For example, some Safeway and Albertsons stores may accept these cards for money-order purchases, but it’s best to call ahead and confirm.
2. 7-Eleven
7-Eleven sells money orders at their convenience stores, and they typically accept cash or debit cards as payment. However, whether or not they accept credit cards for money-order purchases may depend on the specific location, so it’s best to call ahead and confirm.
3. Banks
Some banks may allow you to purchase a money order with a credit card, but this will depend on the specific bank and its policies. It’s best to check with your bank to see if this is an option.
4. Convenience stores
Some convenience stores may allow you to purchase money orders with a credit card, although this will vary by location. For example, some 7-Eleven stores may accept it for money-order purchases, but it’s best to call ahead and confirm.
5. Western Union
While Western Union does not typically allow you to purchase money orders with a credit card, they do offer the ability to send money transfers using a credit card.
6. Check cashing stores
Some check-cashing stores may allow you to purchase money orders with a credit card, although this will vary by location. Examples of check cashing stores include Money Mart and ACE Cash Express.
7. Money transfer services
Some money transfer services, such as MoneyGram, may allow you to purchase money orders with a credit card. Again, this will depend on the specific location and their policies, so it’s best to call ahead and confirm.
8. Credit card issuers
Some credit card issuers, such as American Express, may allow you to purchase money orders using your card.
However, this may be considered a cash advance and may come with additional fees and higher interest rates than regular purchases.
Places That Does Not Accept Credit Card For Money Orders
- Walmart: Walmart offers money orders at their customer service desk, and they accept cash and debit cards as payment. However, they do not allow you to purchase money orders with credit cards.
- Post Office: Money orders are available for purchase at the United States Postal Service (USPS) locations, and they typically accept cash, debit cards, and traveler’s checks as payment. However, most post offices do not allow you to purchase money orders with credit cards, as they are considered cash equivalents.
- Kroger: Money orders are available for purchase at Kroger stores, and they typically accept cash and debit cards as payment. However, they do not allow you to purchase money orders with credit cards.
- Publix: Publix offers money orders at their customer service desk, and they accept cash and debit cards as payment. However, they do not allow you to purchase money orders with credit cards.
- Amscot: Amscot is a financial services company that offers money orders, among other services. They accept cash and debit cards as payment, but they do not accept credit cards for money-order purchases.
- HEB: HEB offers money orders at their customer service desk, and they accept cash and debit cards as payment. However, they do not allow you to purchase money orders with credit cards. More, Buying Toilet paper with OTC
Fee For Purchasing A Money Order With a Credit Card
The total cost and fee for purchasing a money order with a credit card can vary depending on the location where you make the purchase, the amount of the money order, and the policies of your card issuer.
In general, using this card to purchase a money order can be more expensive compared to using cash or a debit card due to additional fees and interest charges that may apply.
The fees can range from a few cents to several dollars, depending on the location and amount of the money order.
Here are some examples of fees for purchasing a money order with using a credit card at different locations:
- USPS: Charges a fee of $1.75 for money orders up to $500, and $1.95 for money orders between $500 and $1,000. If you use a credit card to purchase a money order, an additional fee of $1.25 will apply.
- Western Union: Charges a fee of $1.50 for money orders up to $1,000. If you use this card to purchase a money order, an additional fee of $10 or more may apply, depending on the location and amount.
It’s important to check with the specific location where you plan to purchase a money order to confirm their fees and any associated charges for using a credit card.
How to Safely Use a Credit Card to Buy Money Order
In general, it can be safe to purchase a money order with a credit card, as long as you take the necessary precautions to protect your personal and financial information.
Here are some tips to help ensure a safe transaction:
- Use a reputable and trusted location to purchase your money order.
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep your personal information secure. If you’re using a credit card, make sure to shield your card information from view while entering it into the payment terminal.
- Keep a record of the transaction, including the money order number, date of purchase, and amount.
- Monitor your card statement for any unauthorized charges or suspicious activity.
- If you suspect fraud or unauthorized activity on your card, contact your card issuer immediately to report the issue and request assistance.
By following these tips, you can help reduce the risk of fraud or other security issues when purchasing a money order with a credit card.
Alternatives To A Credit Card For Buying A Money Order
If you are unable or prefer not to purchase a money order with a credit card, there are several alternative payment options available:
1. Cash
Cash is the most common form of payment accepted for money orders, and it is typically the quickest and easiest way to purchase a money order.
2. Debit card
Most places that offer money orders also accept debit cards as payment. Just like with a credit card, be sure to check if there are any fees associated with using your debit card to purchase a money order.
3. Check
Many places that offer money orders also accept personal checks as payment. However, you may need to provide identification and the check may need to clear before you can receive your money order.
4. Prepaid card
If you do not have a credit card or debit card, you may be able to use a prepaid card to purchase a money order. Just like with a credit card, be sure to check if there are any fees associated with using a prepaid card to purchase a money order.
5. Online payment
Some places, such as the United States Postal Service, allow you to purchase money orders online and pay using a checking account or credit card. However, this option may not be available at all locations, and there may be additional fees for online purchases. More, County care OTC card
Disadvantages of Buying a Money Order with a Credit Card
There are several disadvantages of buying a money order with a credit card, which include:
- Additional fees: Using a credit card to purchase a money order can be more expensive compared to using cash or a debit card, as there are additional fees and interest charges that may apply.
Depending on the location where you purchase the money order, you may be charged an extra fee for using this card on top of the fee for the money order itself. - Interest charges: If you use it to purchase a money order, the transaction may be subject to interest charges if you do not pay off the balance in full by the due date on your card statement. This can increase the total cost of the transaction over time.
- Credit utilization: Using this card to purchase a money order can increase your credit utilization, which is the percentage of your available credit that you are using. This can negatively impact your credit score if your credit utilization is high.
- Fraud risk: Using a credit card to purchase a money order can increase your risk of fraud if your card information is stolen or compromised during the transaction.
- Payment disputes: If there is a dispute or issue with the money order purchase, resolving it can be more complicated if you used this card.
This is because you will need to work with both the location where you purchased the money order and your card issuer to resolve the issue.
FAQ’s
Can I use a credit card to buy a money order online?
It’s unlikely that you can buy a money order online with a credit card. Money orders are typically only available for purchase in-person at physical locations. However, some places may allow you to purchase a money order over the phone with a credit card.
Are there any benefits to buying a money order with a credit card?
One potential benefit to buying a money order with a credit card is that it can provide an added layer of security compared to paying with cash. Additionally, using a credit card for a money order may allow you to earn rewards points or cashback on your purchase. However, any benefits should be weighed against any potential fees or interest charges that may be associated with using your credit card.
Conclusion
Using a credit card to purchase a money order may not be the most cost-effective option due to potential cash advance fees and high-interest rates on card balances.
It’s always a good idea to carefully review any fees and terms associated with using it for a money order purchase before proceeding.
The total cost and fee for purchasing a money order with a credit card can vary depending on the location and amount of the money order. More, Buying Publix cake with EBT
Overall, buying a money order with it can be convenient in some situations, but it’s important to be aware of the potential disadvantages and associated costs before making the transaction.