Money Order
Candlefocus EditorPurchasing a money order is a straightforward process. The buyer brings an amount of money, plus a small fee, to the money order issuer to exchange for a document that can be used in place of payment. A receipt is usually given at the time of purchase. Money orders are filled out by the purchaser, much like a check. The amount of the money order is fixed, so the recipient will be able to cash it for the full amount that is specified on the document.
The main advantage to using a money order is that the issuer is responsible for the transaction. As long as a valid money order is filled out correctly, the issuer will be responsible for paying the balance of the order. In the rare cases that a purchaser is unable to pay for a money order, the issuer will bear the loss, not the recipient.
Additionally, because the purchaser’s bank account information is not shared with the recipient, the risk of fraud is eliminated. Therefore, a money order is a good alternative to sending cash or a check when you are paying someone.
Money orders are also useful when sending money overseas or across the border. International money orders may require additional fees, but this is typically much less expensive than using other methods, such as a bank wire.
Another advantage to using money orders is that if you lose the money order, most issuers will replace it for a fee. However, in order to make sure that you are able to replace it, you should sign the money order and fill out the purchaser information as accurately as possible.
Money orders are also more secure than cash in the event of theft. If someone takes your cash, it is gone forever; however, if someone steals your money order, you can usually request a replacement.
Overall, money orders are a secure, convenient way to make payments. They eliminate the risk of fraud and theft, and the fees are typically quite low compared to other payment methods. Money orders can also be used to send money overseas or across the border quickly and inexpensively. Plus, if you do lose a money order, it can usually be replaced for a fee.