TD Bank does sell money orders, but only at branches that offer them
Not every TD Bank location carries money orders. Whether your branch stocks them depends on the state and the individual branch's size and services. You need to call your specific branch before you go—the bank does not advertise which locations have them online, and staff can tell you in one call whether they're in stock and what the fee is.
If your branch does not carry money orders, TD Bank can direct you to the nearest location that does, or you can buy one at a grocery store, pharmacy, or post office instead. Money orders from any source work the same way: you pay the amount plus a fee, fill in the recipient's name, and hand it over or mail it.
Key Takeaways
- TD Bank branches that offer money orders charge a fee that varies by branch and state, typically between $3 and $10 depending on the amount.
- You must call your branch directly to confirm they have money orders in stock before making a trip, since availability is not listed online.
- You will need to bring a valid ID and know the exact payee name and amount before you arrive at the teller window.
- If your TD Bank branch does not carry money orders, the post office, grocery stores, and pharmacies sell them at similar or lower fees.
What you need to bring to buy a money order
Bring a valid photo ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The teller will ask for it even if you have an account at that branch. You do not need to be a TD Bank customer to buy a money order there, but you do need to prove who you are.
You will also need to know the exact name of the person or business the money order is for. The payee name goes on the front of the money order and cannot be changed once it is written, so double-check the spelling. If you are paying a utility company or government agency, use the exact legal name they list on their bills or notices.
Bring cash or a debit card to pay the amount plus the fee. Some branches may accept checks, but cash is fastest and avoids any delay while the check clears.
How much TD Bank charges for a money order
The fee varies by branch and state. Most TD Bank locations charge between $3 and $10 for a money order under $1,000, but some branches charge more for larger amounts. The teller will tell you the exact fee before you pay.
Compare this to other sources: the post office typically charges $1.45 to $2.00 for a money order up to $500, and grocery stores and pharmacies often charge $2 to $5. If the fee matters to you, calling ahead to compare is worth the time. You are paying for the same product—a may provide payment instrument—so the cheapest source is usually the best choice.
The step-by-step process at the teller window
Walk up to the teller and say you want to buy a money order. Hand over your ID. Tell the teller the amount and the exact name of the payee. The teller will fill out the money order form or hand you one to complete, depending on the branch's process.
Review the money order before you pay. Check that the payee name is spelled correctly, the amount is right, and your name is listed as the purchaser. Once you hand over the cash or card and the teller processes it, the money order is issued and cannot be cancelled or changed.
The teller will give you the money order itself plus a receipt. Keep the receipt until the money order clears—it shows the amount, the payee, and the date, and you will need it if the money order is lost or never cashed.
When a money order makes sense versus other payment methods
A money order is useful when the recipient needs a may provide payment but you do not want to give them your bank account number or write a personal check. Landlords, utility companies, and government agencies often request money orders specifically because they cannot bounce.
If you are sending money to someone you trust and they have a bank account, a wire transfer or ACH transfer is usually faster and cheaper. If you need the money to arrive the same day, a wire transfer through TD Bank takes a few hours. A money order takes several days to clear once the recipient deposits it.
If you are paying a bill online, most companies let you pay directly from your bank account for free. Use a money order only when the payee specifically asks for one or when you need a paper receipt for proof of payment.
What to do if your branch does not have money orders
Call the branch and ask which nearby TD Bank locations carry them. The bank can usually tell you the closest branch with money orders in stock. If all nearby branches are inconvenient, the post office is open longer hours and charges less.
Grocery stores and pharmacies—Walmart, Target, CVS, Walgreens—sell money orders at the customer service desk. You do not need an account anywhere; you just need a valid ID and cash. The process is identical to buying one at a bank: you tell them the amount and payee name, pay the fee, and walk out with the money order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy a money order online from TD Bank?
No. TD Bank does not sell money orders online. You must go to a branch in person with a valid ID. Some banks offer digital money orders through their apps, but TD Bank does not currently offer this service.
What if I lose the money order before I send it?
Contact the TD Bank branch where you bought it and bring your receipt. The bank can issue a replacement, though the process may take several days and you may have to pay a replacement fee. This is why keeping your receipt is important.
Can I buy a money order for more than $1,000?
Most money orders max out at $1,000 per order. If you need to send more than that, you can buy multiple money orders. For larger amounts, a wire transfer or cashier's check through your bank is usually simpler.
Do I need a TD Bank account to buy a money order there?
No. You do not need to be a customer. You just need a valid photo ID, the payee name, the amount, and cash or a debit card to pay the fee.
How long does it take for a money order to clear?
Once the recipient deposits it, a money order typically clears within one to three business days, the same as a check. It is not when ready, so do not count on the money arriving the same day.