Chase offers money orders at most branches, but not all locations carry them, and you'll pay a fee that varies by state
You can get a money order at a Chase branch if that branch stocks them. Not every Chase location does — smaller branches or those in certain states may not have them in stock or may not offer them at all. The fee ranges from about $5 to $10 depending on your state and the amount, and it's higher than what you'd pay at a grocery store or post office. If your nearest Chase doesn't have money orders, you have faster and cheaper alternatives nearby.
Chase money orders are issued on the spot once you provide the payee name, amount, and your ID. You'll need cash or a debit card to pay — you cannot charge a money order to a credit card. The process takes about five minutes at the teller window.
Key Takeaways
- Call your Chase branch before you go, because not all locations stock money orders and availability varies by state.
- You'll pay $5 to $10 per money order depending on your state, plus the face value of the order itself.
- Bring a valid ID and cash or a debit card — Chase does not accept credit cards for money order purchases.
- The post office, Walmart, and grocery stores often charge $1 to $3 per money order and have longer hours than bank branches.
What you need to bring to a Chase branch
Bring a valid photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. Chase will not issue a money order without it. You also need the exact name of the person or business the money order is payable to, and the amount you want. Write these down before you go so you don't have to remember them at the counter.
Bring cash or a debit card to pay the fee and the face value of the money order. Chase does not accept credit cards for money order purchases. If you're a Chase customer, you can also withdraw cash from your account at the teller window and use that to pay, but this adds an extra step.
How much Chase charges for a money order
Chase money order fees range from roughly $5 to $10 per order, depending on your state. Some states have lower caps on what banks can charge; others do not. The fee is separate from the face value — if you want a $500 money order, you pay the $500 plus the fee.
This is significantly more than what you'll pay elsewhere. The U.S. Postal Service charges $1.45 for money orders up to $500. Walmart charges $0.88 for orders under $1,000. Most grocery stores and check-cashing services charge $1 to $3. Unless you need the money order during a time when those places are closed, you'll save money going elsewhere.
When Chase branches don't have money orders in stock
Some Chase branches, particularly smaller ones or those in certain states, do not stock money orders at all. The only way to know is to call ahead. Ask for the branch directly and tell them you need a money order — they'll tell you whether they have them available and what the fee is.
If your branch doesn't have them, you have two options. You can go to a different Chase branch that does stock them, or you can use a post office, Walmart, or grocery store instead. The post office is open until 5 or 6 p.m. on weekdays and has limited Saturday hours. Walmart and grocery stores are often open later and on Sundays, which makes them more convenient if you need a money order outside normal bank hours.
How to order a money order if your branch is closed
Chase branches are typically open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 or 6 p.m., with shorter Saturday hours and no Sunday service. If you need a money order outside these hours, you cannot get one from Chase.
The post office is open until 5 or 6 p.m. on weekdays and Saturday mornings, so it's slightly more convenient than Chase for after-hours needs. Walmart and grocery stores with money order services are often open until 10 or 11 p.m. and on Sundays, making them the best option if you need a money order in the evening or on a weekend. Check your local store's hours before you go.
What happens after you get the money order
The money order is issued in your name as the sender. You'll receive a receipt with a tracking number — keep this in case the money order is lost or never reaches the payee. The payee deposits or cashes it like a check, and the funds clear within one to three business days depending on their bank.
If the money order is lost or stolen before the payee receives it, you can file a claim with Chase using your receipt and tracking number. Chase will investigate and issue a replacement if the original was never cashed. This process can take several weeks, so don't rely on it if you need the money to reach someone quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a money order from Chase online or by phone?
No. Chase does not issue money orders remotely. You must go to a branch in person with your ID and payment method. Some online banks and payment services offer digital alternatives like bill pay or wire transfers, but these are not money orders.
What if I don't have a Chase account?
You do not need a Chase account to buy a money order at a Chase branch. You only need a valid photo ID and the cash or debit card to pay the fee and face value. Non-customers are welcome.
Can I use a credit card to pay for a Chase money order?
No. Chase accepts only cash and debit cards for money order purchases. If you want to use a credit card, you'll need to go to a post office or Walmart instead, though some of those locations also restrict payment methods.
How long does it take to get a money order at Chase?
The transaction takes about five minutes once you reach the teller window. Wait times vary by branch and time of day — you may wait longer during lunch hours or on Fridays. Call ahead if you want to know how busy the branch is.
What's the maximum amount I can put on a Chase money order?
Chase money orders typically max out at $1,000 per order. If you need to send more than that, you'll need to buy multiple money orders or use a wire transfer instead. Ask your branch about their specific limit when you call.