If you don’t have enough cash or money in your checking account, you might wonder: can you buy a money order with a credit card?
The short answer is: it’s complicated. In this guide, we’ll explain when, how, and whether you can use a credit card to buy a money order — and whether you should.
We’ll also break down the risks, fees, and better alternatives if you’re short on cash.
What is a money order?
A money order is a prepaid payment method — kind of like a check, but without the need for a bank account.
It’s a physical paper document that you buy with funds upfront and then use to pay a recipient. It’s commonly used to:
- Pay rent or bills when the recipient doesn’t take cards
- Send money by mail securely
- Pay for items without sharing bank information
You can buy money orders at places like the post office (USPS), Walmart, grocery stores, banks, and convenience stores.
Can you buy a money order with a credit card?
In most cases, no — at least not directly. Most major retailers and institutions do not accept credit cards as a payment method for money orders.
Here’s what you need to know by location:
- USPS: Only accepts cash, debit cards, and traveler’s checks. No credit cards.
- Walmart: Usually accepts cash and debit only.
- Western Union / MoneyGram: Varies by location, but most do not accept credit cards in person. Some may allow online purchases with a credit card.
- Banks: Most require you to use funds from your account — not a credit card.
Even when a location allows credit card payment for a money order (rare), it’s typically processed as a cash advance — which can be expensive.
Why credit card companies treat money orders as cash advances
Money orders are treated like cash equivalents — similar to ATM withdrawals, casino chips, or wire transfers. This means:
- Cash advance fees apply: Typically 3% to 5% of the amount
- Higher interest rates: Cash advances often have APRs above 25%, with no grace period
- Interest starts immediately: Unlike regular purchases, interest begins accruing on day one
So even if you could use your credit card, you’d likely pay much more than the value of the money order — sometimes turning a $500 payment into $525+ instantly, and more if you carry a balance.
Can you buy a money order online with a credit card?
Yes — but with caveats. Some services, like Western Union and MoneyGram, may allow you to buy a money order or send money online using a credit card. However:
- They usually charge high fees
- It’s still considered a cash advance by your card issuer
- Your bank may block or flag the transaction
Read the terms carefully. Even if the site says “credit card accepted,” your card issuer may classify it differently, leading to unexpected fees and interest.
Why people try to use credit cards to buy money orders
There are a few reasons people attempt this method — and most come down to short-term convenience:
- They don’t have enough cash: A credit card lets them access money they don’t physically have yet
- To pay bills that don’t accept cards: Such as rent or private landlords
- To meet minimum spending for rewards: Some try to “game the system” to earn sign-up bonuses or points
While the logic makes sense, the execution is often risky or even prohibited by credit card terms.
Risks of using a credit card for a money order
If you’re still tempted, consider the following risks:
- Immediate debt: You’re borrowing money with high interest
- No rewards: Most cards do not offer points or cashback on cash advances
- Credit score impact: Large cash advances increase your credit utilization and may lower your score
- Bank flagging: Some issuers may freeze your card or investigate for suspicious activity
And perhaps most importantly: using a credit card for a money order may violate your card’s user agreement.
This can lead to account restrictions or even closure in extreme cases.
Better alternatives if you need a money order
If you need to buy a money order but don’t have cash, here are some safer and cheaper options:
1. Use a debit card
Most locations accept debit cards, and the transaction won’t count as a cash advance.Be sure you have enough in your checking account to cover it.
2. Withdraw cash from your bank or ATM
If your bank allows it, withdraw the amount you need and use it to buy the money order. This avoids credit card fees entirely.
3. Use a prepaid debit card
You can load funds onto a prepaid card and use it as a debit card to buy a money order. Just be sure the issuing location accepts prepaid cards.
4. Use an online bill pay service
Some services let you send payments (even rent) via check or money order using your bank account, avoiding the need to handle paper yourself.
5. Ask the recipient to accept digital payments
In many cases, platforms like Venmo, PayPal, or Zelle can replace the need for a money order entirely — especially for person-to-person transactions.
What to avoid
As tempting as it may be, avoid the following practices:
- Buying money orders to pay off credit cards: This is considered a form of “cash cycling” and is flagged as suspicious
- Using cash advance checks to fund money orders: You’ll face double fees and interest
- Taking out payday loans: These can trap you in high-interest debt cycles worse than any credit card
So, can you buy a money order with a credit card? Technically, yes — but in reality, it’s not easy, and it’s rarely a good idea.
Most sellers don’t accept credit cards for money orders, and when they do, it’s treated as a cash advance — with high fees, steep interest, and no rewards.
If you’re facing a cash crunch, explore other options like debit, prepaid cards, or digital payments.
And if you often find yourself needing credit to make basic payments, it may be time to review your budget or speak with a financial counselor.
Money orders are a useful financial tool — but using a credit card to buy them can turn a simple transaction into a costly mistake.