Money orders are prepaid financial instruments that can be used as legal tender to settle any type of debt obligation. As an alternative to currency, checks, or any type of wire transfer, this type of instrument is the favored option among many people who choose to pay bills by mail. Because of the popularity of this form of payment, money order services are offered at several common retail and financial institutions.
One of the most popular places to purchase money orders in the United States and several other countries is the local post office. In some countries, the fee for a postal money order is based on the total amount for the document, while the postal systems in other countries charge a flat fee regardless of the face value of the order. The post office is also an excellent source for international money orders when there is a need to remit payment in a foreign currency.
Along with the post office, banks and credit unions often offer money orders along with cashier’s checks. Generally, there is a higher limit on the face value for bank orders. There is also a good chance that the process to replace a lost one will be less complicated than with other services.
Check cashing services often offer these financial instruments for low prices. This can be very convenient for people who prefer to pay bills using this type of financial instrument. The paycheck can be cashed at the service, then the cash can be used to purchase the orders. Since many check cashing services also sell envelopes and stamps, it is possible to prepare the money orders for mailing on the spot and drop the bills into a mailbox on the way home.
The Internet offers one final option. Online services allow consumers to request and pay for money orders online. Some of these online vendors also offer a mailing service for an additional fee. This makes it possible to purchase and mail the orders without having to leave the comfort of home. Best of all, going with an online provider makes it possible to purchase the orders any time of the day or night, eliminating the need to get to a bank, supermarket, or check cashing service during their normal hours of operation.
