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- USPS Post Offices offer money orders made payable to “U.S. Department of State” for passport applications.
- Walmart’s Customer Service Desk or Money Services Center provides money orders for passport fees.
- Walgreens offers money orders through its Western Union or customer service desk for passport applications.
- Banks and credit unions may provide money orders for passport applications, often for their customers.
- Retail stores like CVS or Rite Aid may also offer money orders, making them convenient options.
- Ensure the money order is made payable to “U.S. Department of State” to avoid issues with your passport application.
- Verify the correct amount of the passport fee before purchasing a money order to avoid over or underpayment.
- Money orders come with a small fee, which may vary depending on the provider, so check before purchasing.
Where to Get a Money Order for Passport
When applying for a U.S. passport, one of the key steps is paying the required fees. One common method of payment is a money order. You may be wondering, “where to get a money order for passport?” Thankfully, there are many convenient locations where you can obtain a money order for your passport application.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the various places where you can get a money order, ensuring that your passport application process goes smoothly.
Understanding the Money Order for Passport Applications
Before diving into the locations where you can get a money order for passport applications, let’s first clarify what a money order is and why it is required. A money order is a prepaid form of payment that guarantees the funds are available. It’s often used when the applicant cannot pay by check or cash.
For passport applications, the U.S. Department of State requires payment in the form of a money order for certain types of fees. The money order must be payable to “U.S. Department of State” and can be used to cover passport application fees, which vary depending on the type of passport you are applying for.
Now that we understand the role of the money order, let’s explore where you can get a money order for passport.
1. USPS Post Office: A Reliable Option
One of the most common places where you can get a money order for passport applications is at a USPS (United States Postal Service) Post Office. USPS Post Offices offer money orders as a convenient service for many types of payments, including those for passport applications.
How to Get a Money Order at USPS:
- In-Person: Simply visit any USPS Post Office and request a money order for your passport fee. The postal worker will assist you in filling out the money order, ensuring it is made payable to “U.S. Department of State.”
- Online: USPS allows you to purchase a money order for passport applications through their website. This can be an easy option if you prefer to handle the transaction from home. Once purchased, you can either mail the money order with your passport application or take it to a Post Office for processing.
Why USPS is a Good Choice:
- USPS Post Offices are widely available across the U.S.
- They offer money orders in various denominations, allowing you to pay the exact fee required for your passport application.
- You can also submit your passport application directly at USPS locations, making this a one-stop-shop for many applicants.
2. Walmart: Easy Access for Passport Money Orders
Another great place to get a money order for passport applications is at Walmart. Walmart stores have a Money Services Center or Customer Service Desk where you can purchase money orders. Many people opt for Walmart because of its extended hours and large number of locations, making it an accessible option for most.
How to Get a Money Order at Walmart:
- In-Person: Visit the Customer Service Desk or Money Services Center in a Walmart store. You’ll be able to request a money order for the required amount, which can then be made payable to “U.S. Department of State.”
- Payment Methods: Walmart typically accepts payments for money orders using cash, debit, or credit cards. However, keep in mind that there may be limits on the amount you can pay by card.
Why Walmart is a Good Choice:
- Walmart has thousands of stores across the country, making it easy to find one near you.
- Their Money Services Centers are open for extended hours, including weekends, which can be convenient for those with busy schedules.
- Walmart’s process for purchasing money orders is straightforward, and it’s an affordable option for many.
3. Walgreens: Convenient for Passport Payments
Walgreens also offers money orders through its partnership with Western Union. If you are wondering where to get a money order for passport and are located near a Walgreens, this could be a convenient option for you.
How to Get a Money Order at Walgreens:
- In-Person: Go to the customer service desk or Western Union counter at your local Walgreens. Request a money order, which will be made payable to “U.S. Department of State.”
- Payment Methods: Walgreens generally accepts cash and debit cards for money orders, but policies may vary by location.
Why Walgreens is a Good Choice:
- Walgreens has numerous locations in urban and suburban areas, which may be closer to you than a USPS Post Office or Walmart.
- If you need to make other purchases while getting your money order, Walgreens provides an added convenience as a retail pharmacy.
Other Places to Get a Money Order for Passport
While USPS, Walmart, and Walgreens are the most common places to get a money order for passport applications, they are not the only options available. Other locations where you can obtain a money order include:
Banks and Credit Unions: Many banks and credit unions offer money orders to their customers. If you have an account at a bank, this can be a straightforward way to get a money order for your passport application. Be aware that fees may vary depending on your bank or credit union.
Retail Stores: Some other retail stores and grocery chains, like CVS or Rite Aid, may also provide money order services. You can inquire about this service at the customer service desk.
Check-Cashing Services: Some check-cashing services, especially those that offer money transfer services, can provide money orders. These services are often located in large urban areas.
Key Considerations When Purchasing a Money Order
When you’re thinking about where to get a money order for passport, there are a few important things to keep in mind to ensure your payment process goes smoothly:
- Payable to U.S. Department of State: Always make sure that the money order is made payable to the “U.S. Department of State” when applying for a passport. This is non-negotiable.
- Correct Amount: Make sure you have the correct amount of money for the passport application fee. You can check the fee schedule on the U.S. Department of State’s website or inquire at the location where you’re purchasing the money order.
- Fees: Be aware that money orders often come with a small fee. This fee may vary depending on the location where you purchase the money order.
- Track Your Money Order: If you’re concerned about the security of your money order, many locations offer tracking services. Be sure to keep the receipt and any tracking numbers in case you need to verify your payment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the related questions people also ask:
What is a money order for a passport application?
A money order for a passport application is a prepaid payment method used to pay for passport fees. It must be made payable to “U.S. Department of State.”
Where can I buy a money order for a passport application?
You can purchase a money order for your passport at USPS Post Offices, Walmart, Walgreens, some banks, credit unions, and other retail locations.
Can I get a money order for a passport at Walmart?
Yes, Walmart offers money orders at their Customer Service Desk or Money Services Center. You can pay for the money order using cash, debit, or credit cards.
How do I make sure the money order is correct for my passport?
Ensure the money order is made payable to “U.S. Department of State” and that it covers the exact fee required for your passport application.
Do banks offer money orders for passport applications?
Yes, many banks and credit unions offer money orders. However, they may only be available to customers, and fees may vary.
What should I do if I lose my money order for my passport?
Keep your receipt and tracking number. Contact the provider (such as USPS, Walmart, or Walgreens) for assistance in tracking or replacing a lost money order.
How much does a money order for a passport cost?
Money orders typically come with a small fee, which can vary depending on where you purchase it. The fee can range from $1 to $5 or more.
Can I pay for my passport application with a personal check instead of a money order?
For most passport applications, the U.S. Department of State requires payment via money order, not personal checks. Always check the specific payment instructions on the application.
Is there a limit to how much I can pay with a money order for a passport?
Money orders generally have a limit per transaction, typically around $1,000. If your passport fee exceeds this, you may need to buy multiple money orders.
The Bottom Line
In summary, there are many convenient options when it comes to finding out where to get a money order for passport applications. USPS Post Offices, Walmart, Walgreens, and even banks or credit unions are all viable choices.
By knowing your options, you can select the location that is most convenient for you. Always remember to ensure the money order is payable to “U.S. Department of State” and for the correct amount to avoid delays in your passport application process.
By following this guide, you can confidently get the money order you need and proceed with your passport application without any issues. Whether you choose USPS, Walmart, Walgreens, or another location, the process is simple and straightforward.