Can you buy money order with credit card at post office?

Can You Buy a Money Order with a Credit Card at the Post Office?

The short answer is no. You cannot purchase a money order with a credit card at the post office. While credit cards offer convenience for many purchases, the United States Postal Service (USPS) doesn’t accept them for money order transactions.

This restriction stems from how credit cards work. Essentially, using a credit card is taking out a short-term loan. Money orders, on the other hand, are designed to be a guaranteed form of payment, similar to cash. Accepting credit cards would introduce the possibility of the payment not clearing, defeating the purpose of a money order’s guaranteed funds.

So, what are your payment options for buying a money order at the post office? The USPS accepts the following:

• Cash: This is the most straightforward method. Have the exact amount or be prepared for change.
• Debit Cards: Debit cards draw funds directly from your checking account, acting like an electronic check. This makes them an acceptable payment form for money orders.
• Traveler’s Checks: While less common these days, traveler’s checks are still a viable payment option.

Why the limitations? It boils down to security and guaranteed funds. The USPS wants to ensure the money order is backed by readily available funds, minimizing the risk of fraud or insufficient funds. Credit cards, due to their loan-based nature, introduce a layer of uncertainty that doesn’t align with the guaranteed nature of money orders.

If you’re relying on a credit card for funds, you might consider alternative options like withdrawing cash from an ATM (be mindful of fees) or using your credit card to purchase a prepaid debit card, which can then be used to buy the money order. However, remember that prepaid debit cards often come with their own set of fees.

In conclusion, while the post office provides a convenient and affordable way to obtain money orders, remember to bring cash, a debit card, or traveler’s checks. Credit cards are not accepted for this particular transaction.