Money orders are a safe alternative to checks — but can you cash one at an ATM? The short answer is yes, **some ATMs let you deposit money orders**, though you usually can’t receive instant cash back. This 2025 guide explains which banks accept money orders at ATMs, how the process works, and safer alternatives if your bank doesn’t allow it.
Can You Cash a Money Order at Any ATM?
No — you can only deposit money orders at ATMs that belong to your bank or credit union. Most machines treat them like regular checks and credit the amount to your account after processing. Third-party or out-of-network ATMs don’t process money orders, even if they allow cash deposits. Use your bank’s ATM locator to find deposit-enabled locations.
Banks That Accept Money Order Deposits at ATMs
- Chase Bank – Accepts USPS and Western Union money orders at envelope-free ATMs.
- Wells Fargo – Allows envelope-free deposits with same-day or next-day credit. See our Wells Fargo ATM Guide.
- Bank of America – Accepts domestic money orders but may place extended holds.
- PNC Bank – Envelope-free ATMs accept cashier’s checks and money orders.
- Capital One 360 – Mobile and ATM deposits accepted for verified accounts.
Credit unions such as Navy Federal and USAA also allow money-order deposits through select ATMs or mobile apps.
How to Deposit a Money Order at an ATM
- 1. Endorse the back — sign your name and write “For deposit only to [Bank Name].”
- 2. Insert your debit card and choose “Deposit.”
- 3. Select your account (checking or savings).
- 4. Insert the money order face-up; confirm the amount shown.
- 5. Keep the receipt until funds post.
Funds usually appear within one business day but can take longer for new accounts or large deposits.
Can You Get Cash Back from an ATM Money Order Deposit?
No. ATMs don’t immediately dispense cash from a money-order deposit. The funds must first clear just like a standard check. Once posted, you can withdraw normally.
Money Orders You Can Deposit at ATMs
- USPS Money Orders – Accepted at most major banks.
- Western Union Money Orders – Accepted by Chase, Wells Fargo, and PNC.
- MoneyGram Money Orders – Depositable at Bank of America and select credit unions.
International money orders can’t be deposited at most ATMs; visit a branch or money-transfer location instead.
Alternatives If Your Bank Doesn’t Accept Money Orders at ATMs
- Deposit via mobile app: Take photos and upload through your bank’s app.
- Visit a grocery store service desk: Stores like Kroger and Meijer cash money orders instantly.
- Use MoneyGram locations: Cash your money order at CVS or Walgreens.
- Load onto a prepaid card: Add funds via Green Dot or Netspend.
Typical Hold Times for ATM Money Order Deposits
| Bank Type | Estimated Hold Time |
|---|
| Major banks (Chase, Wells Fargo) | 1–2 business days |
| Credit unions (Navy Federal, USAA) | 1–3 business days |
| New accounts or large deposits | Up to 7 business days |
Final Thoughts
You can deposit a money order at many ATMs in 2025 — but you won’t get instant cash. Stick with your own bank’s ATM network, endorse properly, and expect funds in 1–2 business days. If your bank doesn’t accept money orders at ATMs, use mobile deposit or cash it at a store like Kroger or CVS. For more details, visit our
Money Order Resources or
Check-Cashing Guide.