Yes, you can generally get a money order with a debit card at many places.
This is a straightforward option for secure payments when cash isn't ideal, and it's widely discussed in personal finance circles as of early 2026.

Where It Works Best

Debit cards are accepted for money orders at major retailers and banks, making it convenient for everyday needs like rent or bills.

  • Walmart : Commonly allows debit card purchases up to $1,000, with fees around $0.88–$1.
  • Banks and credit unions : Most accept debit if funds are available, often with lower or no fees for account holders.
  • Grocery stores/pharmacies : Places like 7-Eleven or Rite Aid frequently take debit, though limits and fees vary (typically $0.50–$2).
  • Online options : Services like Western Union or some bank apps let you buy digitally with debit, then print or mail.

Note : USPS typically requires cash only for money orders—no debit—to prevent fraud, as confirmed in recent guides. Always call ahead.

Step-by-Step: How to Buy One

Here's a quick guide based on standard practices:

  1. Check your balance : Ensure enough for the order amount + fee (e.g., $500 order might add $1 fee).
  2. Visit the location : Bring ID (driver's license or passport) and your debit card.
  3. Fill it out : Add payee name/address neatly—errors can't be easily fixed.
  1. Pay and get receipt : Swipe debit; keep the stub for tracking/refunds if lost.

Fees and Limits Breakdown

Provider| Debit Accepted?| Typical Fee| Max Amount
---|---|---|---
Walmart| Yes| $0.88–$1.00| $1,000
USPS| No (cash only)| $2.10| $1,000
Banks| Yes| $0–$5| Varies
Retailers| Yes| $0.50–$3| $500–$1,000

Fees haven't spiked much in 2025–2026, but inflation tweaks them slightly.

Why Choose Debit Over Cash?

Imagine needing to pay a landlord $800 securely without carrying cash—debit avoids that risk. It's safer than checks (harder to bounce) and traceable if issues arise. Forums like Reddit echo this: users love it for avoiding bank teller lines.

Multiple Views : Some swear by cash for USPS reliability, while others push apps like Gerald for fee-free digital alternatives. Trending now? Digital wallets (e.g., Apple Pay at select spots) are gaining, but debit remains king for in-person.

Potential Hiccups

  • Declines : If funds are low or holds apply, it fails—like any debit swipe.
  • No credit cards : Most ban them to dodge cash advance fees.
  • 2026 Updates : No major policy shifts; Walmart/USPS rules hold steady per latest sources.

TL;DR Bottom Line

Debit works at most spots (not USPS)—fast, safe, low-fee. Verify locally for peace of mind. Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.