can you purchase a money order with a debit ...

You can usually purchase a money order with a debit card, but it depends on where you go and a few other details.

Quick Scoop

• Many banks, credit unions, post offices, and big retailers (like Walmart) do accept debit cards for money orders, as long as you have enough money in your account to cover both the amount and the fee.

• Some places are still cash‑only for money orders, so you’ll want to confirm before you stand in line.

• Credit cards are often not allowed directly, or they’re treated like a cash advance with extra fees and interest, which makes debit the better option if you’re paying electronically.

Where you can use a debit card

Most of these locations commonly sell money orders and may take debit:

• Banks and credit unions (policies vary by institution).

• Post offices (for example, USPS in the U.S. typically takes cash or debit, but not credit, for postal money orders).

• Big‑box retailers like Walmart and some grocery or convenience stores.

• Check‑cashing and payday‑loan stores, though fees may be higher.

Always check ahead with the specific branch or store, because each chain—and even each location—can set slightly different rules.

How paying with a debit card works

When you use a debit card for a money order:

1. The clerk enters the money order amount plus any service fee.

2. Your debit card is run like a normal purchase and the total is taken directly from your checking account.

3. You fill in the recipient, your information, and keep your receipt in case the money order is lost or needs to be traced.

Some services and institutions also let you request a money order or money‑order‑like payment online using your bank and debit information, though the exact process depends on the bank or third‑party service.

When debit might not work

There are a few common roadblocks:

• Certain stores or smaller businesses accept cash only for money orders, mainly to reduce fraud or chargeback risk.

• Some locations won’t accept prepaid or gift debit cards, only bank‑issued debit cards tied to a checking account.

• Even if credit cards are technically accepted somewhere, they may code the purchase as a cash advance , which adds extra fees and higher interest; that’s why many guides recommend against using credit for money orders.

Because of these factors, the safest approach is to call the exact place you plan to visit and ask: “Do you sell money orders, and can I pay with a debit card?”

Little real‑life angle

People sometimes “work around” stores that say “no debit for money orders” by doing something like getting cash back on a debit purchase, then using that cash to buy the money order—but in practice you are still paying with cash at the counter, and cash‑back limits usually make this only practical for small amounts.

Bottom line: Yes, you can purchase a money order with a debit card at many banks, post offices, and retailers, but you should always verify the policy and fees at the specific location before you go.