Bank of America sells money orders at most branches
Yes, Bank of America issues money orders. You can buy them at any full-service branch during business hours. The cost is typically $5 to $6 per money order, though the exact fee varies by location and the amount of the order. You do not need to be a Bank of America customer to purchase one.
Money orders are useful when you need to send cash through the mail safely, pay a bill that does not take cards or bank transfers, or give someone a may provide payment without handing over a check. Unlike a personal check, a money order cannot bounce because you pay the full amount upfront.
Bank of America also offers money orders through its online banking platform if you are a customer with a checking or savings account. You can request one through your account and pick it up at a branch, or in some cases have it mailed to you.
Key Takeaways
- Bank of America charges $5 to $6 per money order at branches, and the fee may differ depending on your location and the order amount.
- You do not need a Bank of America account to buy a money order in person at a branch.
- Money orders are safer than cash for mailing because they are traceable and cannot be cashed by anyone but the named recipient.
- Bank of America customers can request money orders online and pick them up at a branch or have them mailed.
- You will need to bring cash, a debit card, or a check to pay for the money order at the branch.
What you need to bring to the branch
To buy a money order at Bank of America, bring a valid government-issued photo ID. The teller will ask for the name of the person or business the money order is made out to (the payee), and the amount. You do not need an account number or any other documentation.
Bring cash, a debit card, or a check to pay for the money order and the fee. Some branches may have limits on how much you can spend on a single money order—typically $1,000—so if you need a larger amount, ask the teller whether you can buy multiple orders or if there is another option.
If you are buying a money order for someone else and do not know their exact legal name, ask them to spell it. The name on the money order must match the name on the recipient's ID when they cash it, so accuracy matters.
How long it takes and when you get it
Bank of America issues money orders on the spot. The teller will fill it out, take your payment, and hand it to you immediately. The entire transaction usually takes five to ten minutes. You can then mail it, deliver it by hand, or store it safely until you are ready to send it.
Money orders do not expire, so there is no rush to send it. However, if you lose it or it is stolen, you will need to contact Bank of America with your receipt to request a replacement. Keep your receipt in a safe place.
Tracking and safety features
Each money order has a unique serial number printed on it. When you receive your money order, the teller will give you a receipt that shows this number. Write down the serial number and keep the receipt—if the money order is lost or stolen in the mail, you can use this number to trace it and request a replacement.
Money orders are safer than sending cash because only the person named on the money order can cash it. If someone intercepts it in the mail, they cannot cash it without forging the recipient's signature and presenting an ID that matches the payee name. This makes money orders a common choice for paying rent, utilities, or other bills when you cannot use a bank transfer or credit card.
If your money order does not arrive or you suspect it was cashed by someone other than the intended recipient, contact Bank of America with your receipt and serial number. The bank can investigate and may issue a replacement, though the process can take several weeks.
Alternatives to Bank of America money orders
If Bank of America is not convenient, you can buy money orders at most grocery stores, pharmacies, and check-cashing services. Walmart, CVS, Walgreens, and many supermarkets sell them for $1 to $3 per order, which is often cheaper than a bank. Western Union and MoneyGram also issue money orders at thousands of locations nationwide.
If you have a checking account at any bank, you can also write a personal check instead of buying a money order. Checks are free if you already have them printed, though they take longer to clear and can bounce if you do not have enough money in your account. For bills or payments where a check is not accepted, a money order is usually the next best option.
For large payments or regular bills, ask whether the recipient will take an electronic bank transfer, ACH payment, or credit card. These methods are often faster and cheaper than money orders, especially if you need to send money regularly.
Money orders for Bank of America customers ordering online
If you are a Bank of America customer with online banking, you can request a money order through your account. Log in to your online banking portal, look for the money order option (usually under "Services" or "Payments"), and enter the payee name and amount. Bank of America will prepare the money order and notify you when it is ready for pickup at your nearest branch.
Some branches also offer mail delivery for money orders, though this adds time and may carry an additional fee. Pickup at a branch is usually faster and free. The money order will be ready within one to two business days of your request.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy a money order at Bank of America without an account?
Yes. You do not need to be a Bank of America customer. Bring a valid photo ID, the payee name, the amount, and cash or a debit card to any full-service branch. The teller will issue the money order on the spot.
What is the maximum amount for a Bank of America money order?
Most Bank of America branches limit individual money orders to $1,000. If you need to send more, you can buy multiple money orders or ask the teller whether your branch has a higher limit. Some branches may allow larger amounts for customers with accounts.
What if I lose my money order receipt?
Contact Bank of America with the serial number from the money order itself (if you still have it) or any documentation showing the transaction. Without the serial number, the bank may not be able to trace it. This is why keeping your receipt is important.
How long does a money order take to clear?
Money orders clear faster than personal checks—usually within one to three business days. The recipient deposits or cashes it at their bank, and the funds are deducted from your account immediately since you paid upfront.
Can I cancel a money order after I buy it?
Yes, but only if you have not sent it yet. Bring your receipt and the unused money order back to the Bank of America branch where you bought it. The bank will refund your payment minus a cancellation fee, which is typically $15 to $20.