Buying a money order with a credit card seems convenient — but in most cases, it’s not allowed. Stores like Walmart, CVS, and the U.S. Postal Service typically require
cash or debit only to reduce fraud and avoid credit processing fees. This 2025 guide explains where you can and can’t use a credit card for money orders, what fees to expect, and safer alternatives that still let you pay digitally.
Can You Buy a Money Order with a Credit Card?
Generally, **no** — most money-order providers accept only cash, debit cards, or prepaid cards. When a credit card is accepted, the issuer often processes it as a
cash advance, which adds high fees and immediate interest charges.
- Accepted: Cash, debit, prepaid cards
- Usually declined: Credit cards, mobile wallets
- Risk: Cash advance fees + high APR
Why Stores Don’t Accept Credit Cards for Money Orders
- Fraud prevention: Credit cards can be disputed or stolen.
- Processing cost: Card networks charge high transaction fees.
- Policy restrictions: Issuers classify money orders as “cash equivalents.”
Even if a store system allows the swipe, your bank may block the transaction or treat it as a cash advance.
Where You Can Buy a Money Order (and Accepted Payments)
| Location | Money Order Provider | Accepted Payment |
|---|
| USPS | USPS | Cash, debit, traveler’s checks (no credit) |
| Walmart | MoneyGram | Cash, debit only |
| CVS | MoneyGram | Cash, debit only |
| Kroger | Western Union | Cash, debit only |
| 7-Eleven | MoneyGram | Cash only |
| Western Union online | Western Union | Credit allowed (cash advance applies) |
Buying Money Orders Online with a Credit Card
Some online platforms like Western Union and MoneyGram allow you to
send money orders or transfers using a credit card, but they come with heavy fees:
- Cash advance fee: Usually 3–5% of transaction
- Immediate interest: Charged from day one
- Processing fee: $2–$15 depending on amount
For this reason, it’s rarely worth using a credit card unless it’s for an emergency or you’re earning a significant rewards bonus that outweighs the fees.
Best Alternatives to Using a Credit Card
- Use a debit card: Widely accepted and processes instantly.
- Withdraw cash from an ATM: Most banks allow up to $1,000 daily. See our ATM Finder Guide.
- Load funds to a prepaid card: Then buy your money order with that card balance.
- Use mobile payment apps: Transfer funds through PayPal or Venmo if a paper money order isn’t required.
Can You Earn Rewards by Buying Money Orders with a Credit Card?
Technically, yes — but it’s not advisable. Since most issuers treat money orders as cash advances, you’ll pay fees and interest immediately, which eliminates any credit card rewards. If you’re looking to maximize rewards, consider making purchases directly with your card instead of using it to buy cash equivalents.
Final Thoughts
You can’t typically buy a money order with a credit card in 2025, especially at in-person retailers like Walmart or USPS. While some online platforms allow it, cash-advance fees make it a costly move. Use cash, debit, or a prepaid card to avoid extra fees and delays. For related information, read our
CVS MoneyGram Hours & Fees or
Do Money Orders Expire? guides.