Yes, in most places you can buy a money order with a debit card, but it depends on the specific provider and their rules.

Quick Scoop

  • Many banks, credit unions, big-box stores, and some convenience stores let you buy a money order with a debit card or cash.
  • Some locations are stricter (for example, certain post offices or smaller retailers may only take cash for money orders), so policies can vary by branch or chain.
  • You usually cannot use a credit card directly for a money order anymore at most mainstream providers; they’ll want cash or debit.
  • Always have enough money in your checking account to cover both the money order amount and the fee, or your debit transaction will be declined.

Where you can usually use a debit card

Common places that often accept debit cards for money orders include:

  • Banks and credit unions
  • Some large retailers (like supermarkets, big-box chains, and certain convenience stores)
  • Some check‑cashing or payday‑loan type stores

Each chain and even each individual location can set its own rules, so one store may allow debit while another in the same chain prefers cash only.

Exceptions and “gotchas”

  • Certain money order providers or specific locations may only accept cash , especially when they treat money orders as “cash-equivalent” to avoid fraud or chargeback risk.
  • Credit cards are usually rejected directly for money orders now, and if you try to work around that by taking a cash advance and then buying a money order, you can get hit with high fees and interest.
  • Some places may allow mobile wallets like Apple Pay or similar if they’re linked to a debit card, but this is still hit-or-miss and very location‑dependent.

How to avoid a wasted trip

Before you go:

  1. Call the exact branch or store and ask:
    • “Do you sell money orders?”
    • “Can I pay with a debit card , or is it cash only?”
  1. Ask about:
    • Maximum amount per money order
    • Fees per money order
    • Whether you need ID for larger amounts

Simple example

If you need a 900‑dollar money order for rent, you might go to a big supermarket that offers money orders, pay with your bank debit card, and pay a small fee at the counter (often a few dollars). The funds come straight from your checking account, and you leave with a paper money order made out to your landlord.

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Wondering “can you buy a money order with a debit card”? In most cases yes—banks, credit unions, and many retailers accept debit for money orders, though some locations are cash‑only.

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