Money orders don’t technically expire like checks, but they can lose value or become harder to cash if you wait too long. Each issuer — such as Western Union, MoneyGram, or USPS — has its own policies for how long a money order remains valid. This 2025 guide explains how long money orders last, what happens when they go uncashed, and how to get a refund or replacement if yours is too old.
Do Money Orders Expire?
Most money orders do
not expire, but fees or dormancy charges can reduce their value after a certain time.
| Issuer | Expires? | Notes |
|---|
| USPS | No expiration | Valid indefinitely, no service fees |
| Western Union | No expiration, but fees may apply | After 1–3 years, value may decrease due to inactivity fees |
| MoneyGram | No expiration, but fees possible | Fees deducted from balance after 1 year in some states |
If your money order is older than three years, check the fine print — the issuer may deduct small monthly fees that reduce the remaining value.
USPS Money Orders
U.S. Postal Service money orders never expire and don’t lose value. They can be cashed at any post office or deposited into your bank account at any time.
- Valid indefinitely
- No fees or deductions
- Lost or damaged? File PS Form 6401 for a refund or replacement
Western Union Money Orders
Western Union money orders don’t expire, but they can lose value if uncashed for a long period. Some states allow inactivity fees that reduce the amount available for refund or cashing.
- Recommended cash-by date: Within 1 year of issue
- Possible fees: $2/month after 1–3 years of inactivity (varies by state)
- Replacement: Request via Western Union’s Money Order Research Request form
MoneyGram Money Orders
MoneyGram money orders never truly expire but may incur service charges after one year if they remain uncashed.
- Deduction: $1.95/month after 12 months (varies by location)
- Refund policy: Remaining balance refundable upon request
- Cashable: At participating retailers like CVS and Walmart
How to Replace or Refund an Old Money Order
- USPS: Fill out PS Form 6401 at your local post office (fee: $17.30).
- Western Union: Complete the Money Order Research Request form (fee: $15).
- MoneyGram: Request a refund via MoneyGram’s customer service form (fee: $18).
Refunds take 30–60 days depending on the issuer’s processing time and whether the money order has been cashed.
Can You Deposit an Old Money Order at a Bank?
Yes — banks usually accept older money orders as long as they haven’t been voided or cashed previously. However, deposits may be subject to extended holds while the issuer confirms payment validity. If your bank declines it, contact the issuer directly for refund options or replacement.
Tips to Avoid Losing Value
- Cash or deposit your money order within 6–12 months.
- Keep your receipt separate from the money order.
- Avoid folding or damaging the paper — it can delay processing.
- Check the issuer’s policy printed on the back before storing it long-term.
Final Thoughts
Money orders don’t technically expire, but some issuers deduct inactivity fees after a certain time. USPS money orders never lose value, while Western Union and MoneyGram may apply small monthly fees after a year or more. To protect your funds, cash or deposit money orders soon after receiving them. For more help, read our
CVS MoneyGram Hours & Fees or explore our
Money Order Guide.