What goes in each blank on a Chase money order

A Chase money order has six main blanks. Start at the top left with Pay to the Order of — write the name of the person or business that will cash it. Use their full legal name if you know it, or the name they use for business. Do not use nicknames or abbreviations.

The Amount box comes next, usually in the top right. Write the dollar amount in numbers in the box itself (for example, $150.00). Then write out the same amount in words on the line below it — "One hundred fifty dollars and 00/100" — and stop at the end of that line. If you write past the line or leave space, someone could add more words and change the amount.

The Memo line is optional and sits in the middle. Use this only if you need a record of what the money is for — "rent," "invoice 2024-15," or "tuition payment." This is for your own tracking and the recipient's reference, not required.

At the bottom, you will see Purchaser or From — this is you. Write your name and address here so the recipient knows who sent it and can contact you if there is a problem.

Key Takeaways

  • Write the recipient's full name on the "Pay to the Order of" line — this is the only person or business that can cash it.
  • Write the dollar amount in both numbers (in the box) and words (on the line below), and do not leave blank space after the words.
  • Fill in your own name and address in the "Purchaser" or "From" section at the bottom so the recipient can identify you.
  • Do not sign the money order until you are ready to give it to the recipient — some banks require your signature, others do not.
  • Keep your receipt from Chase, which shows the money order number and amount, in case you need to report it lost or dispute it later.

Where to write your signature

Chase money orders have a signature line, usually at the bottom right. Check your specific money order form — some require a signature, and some do not. If there is a line marked "Signature" or "Authorized Signature," sign it in blue or black ink only. Do not sign until you are about to hand the money order to the person who will cash it.

Never sign a blank money order. Once it is signed, anyone who has it can potentially cash it, just as with a personal check. If you are mailing it, sign it right before you seal the envelope.

Mistakes to avoid when filling it out

The most common error is leaving space after the written-out amount. If you write "One hundred fifty dollars" and then leave blank lines, someone could add "and fifty cents" or "and 00/100" to change what you wrote. Fill the entire line with words, or draw a line through the remaining space after your last word.

Do not use pencil — use pen in blue or black ink only. Pencil can be erased and changed. Do not cross out or white-out mistakes; if you make an error, ask Chase for a new money order form and start over. Most banks will not cash a money order with visible corrections.

Do not leave the "Pay to the Order of" blank and plan to fill it in later. A blank money order is as good as cash to anyone who finds it. Write the recipient's name before you leave the bank.

What happens after you fill it out

Once you have completed the money order, the teller will give you a receipt. This receipt shows the money order number, the amount, the date, and the recipient's name. Keep this receipt until you know the money order has been cashed. If the recipient says they never received it, or if it is lost in the mail, you will need the receipt number to report it to Chase and request a replacement.

The money order itself goes to the recipient. They take it to their bank or a check-cashing service and cash it like a check. Most banks cash money orders from other banks without charge, though some check-cashing services may charge a small fee.

When to use a money order instead of other payment methods

A money order is useful when the recipient does not want a personal check (because they are worried it might bounce) and you do not want to give them cash or your bank account number. Landlords often request money orders for rent because the money is may provide — Chase has already taken the funds from your account when you buy the money order.

Money orders are also useful for paying bills by mail when you do not have online banking set up, or when you are sending money to someone you do not know well and do not want to share your checking account details. They are safer than cash in the mail because they are made out to a specific person and cannot be cashed by anyone else.

How much Chase money orders cost

Chase charges a fee for each money order, though the amount varies. Some Chase checking accounts include information programs orders, while others charge per order. Call your local Chase branch or check your account terms to find out what you will pay. The fee is typically small — often less than a dollar — but it adds up if you buy many money orders.

You can also buy money orders at other places like grocery stores, post offices, or check-cashing services, which may charge different fees. If you buy a money order somewhere other than Chase, the process is the same — fill in the blanks the same way, and the recipient can cash it at any bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change the amount after I fill it out?

No. Once a money order is filled out and issued, you cannot change the amount. If you made a mistake, ask Chase for a new money order form. Some banks will issue a replacement if you have not yet given it to the recipient, though they may charge a fee.

What if I lose the money order before I give it to the recipient?

Report it to Chase right away with your receipt number. Chase can put a stop on it so no one else can cash it, and they can issue you a replacement. This is why keeping your receipt is important — without it, the process takes longer.

Do I need to show ID when I buy a money order at Chase?

Yes. Chase will ask for a government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) when you buy a money order. This is standard practice at banks and helps prevent fraud.

Can someone else cash a money order I filled out?

Only if you made a mistake and left the "Pay to the Order of" line blank, or if you wrote it to "Cash" instead of a specific name. If you write a specific person's name, only that person can cash it. This is what makes money orders safer than cash.

How long does it take for a money order to clear?

Once the recipient cashes it at their bank, it usually clears within one to three business days, the same as a regular check. The money comes out of your Chase account when you buy the money order, not when the recipient cashes it.