Can You Cancel Money Orders and What to Expect

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Canceling a money order can be a bit of a challenge, but it's not impossible. You can cancel a money order, but it's only possible if you initiated the transaction and the money order hasn't been cashed.

The process of canceling a money order varies depending on the issuer, but most require you to contact them directly. You'll need to provide your name, the money order number, and the reason for cancellation to initiate the process.

If the money order has been cashed, it's considered final and can't be canceled.

How to Track

If you're wondering how to track a money order, the process is relatively straightforward. You can track a money order through the issuer's online tracking tools if available.

First, check if the money order has been cashed or deposited by contacting the issuer. If it's been cashed, it's too late to cancel.

You can track a money order through the issuer, whether you're the sender or the receiver. For Western Union money orders, enter the Western Union tracking number online to find out where it is.

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To track MoneyGram money orders purchased at Walmart or another location, go to the MoneyGram website and enter the serial number and dollar amount. You'll need this information to track the money order online.

If you're unsure whether a money order has been cashed, you can contact the issuing institution to track it. MoneyGram, Western Union, USPS, and local banks all have different procedures for tracking lost money orders, and each will require a fee for the service.

Gathering Documentation and Fees

To cancel a money order, you'll need to gather some essential documentation. This usually includes the original receipt of the money order, the money order number and the exact amount, the name of the person or entity to whom the money order was issued, and your identification.

You'll also need to be prepared for a possible cancellation fee. The fee can vary depending on where you purchased the money order, and some issuers may charge more if you don't have your original receipt.

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Here's a breakdown of the fees you can expect to pay for money order cancellation at some top issuers:

Keep in mind that different fees may apply if you purchase a money order at your bank or credit union.

Step 2: Gather Documentation

Gathering the necessary documentation is a crucial step in the process of canceling a money order. You'll need to have certain information and documents ready.

The original receipt of the money order is often required, so be sure to keep that safe. If you don't have the receipt, you can still submit a cancellation request form using the information you can remember.

You'll need to provide the money order number and the exact amount. This is usually found on the receipt.

The name of the person or entity to whom the money order was issued is also required. Make sure you have this information handy.

You may also need to provide your identification, such as a government-issued ID.

Here's a list of the documents you'll typically need to have ready:

  • The original receipt of the money order
  • The money order number and the exact amount
  • The name of the person or entity to whom the money order was issued
  • Your identification (some issuers may require a government-issued ID)

Fees

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Fees can add up quickly when canceling a money order. You can expect to pay a cancellation fee, which varies depending on where you purchased the money order.

At Walmart (MoneyGram), the fee is $18. Western Union charges $15 if you have your original receipt, but $30 if you don't.

USPS Money Order has a cancellation fee of $17.30. Different fees may apply if you purchase a money order at your bank or credit union.

It's best to submit payment along with your cancellation request to speed up the process. In some cases, the fee can be deducted from your refund.

Here's a breakdown of the cancellation fees for some top money order issuers:

Allow Processing Time

Allowing processing time is a crucial step in canceling a money order. This can take several days or even several weeks, depending on the issuer and whether you have your original receipt.

You can expect to wait up to 30 days for a refund if you have your receipt, as is the case with Western Union. Without your receipt, processing can take up to six to eight weeks.

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The time frame can vary depending on the situation's complexity. Some issuers may offer refunds, while others provide a replacement money order, which you can make payable to yourself.

Here's a rough estimate of the processing time:

Plan for the process to take 30 to 60 days, but be aware that this can vary depending on the issuer's refund policies. Once your request is approved, you can receive a replacement money order or a refund, depending on your preference.

Correcting Mistakes and Lost Items

Losing a money order can be stressful, but there are steps you can take to recover your funds or get a replacement. To start, try to locate your receipt or any documentation related to the lost money order, including the money order number, amount, and recipient's name.

If you don't have the receipt, try to recall where and when you purchased it. Inform the issuer that the money order has been lost and give them all the information you have. If the money order hasn't been cashed, you can usually request a money order replacement, which can take from a few days to several weeks.

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If you prefer a refund instead of a replacement, you can request it during the claim process. Some issuers may also ask for a notarized signature or additional identification. To track a lost money order, contact the issuing institution, which will require a fee for the service.

If you make a mistake when issuing a money order, you'll have to cancel it and issue a new one. You can't change the existing order, so it's best to start fresh.

Correcting Mistakes

If you've made a mistake on a money order, you're probably out of luck - you'll have to cancel it and issue a new one.

To cancel a money order, you'll need to contact the issuer for specific instructions on their return process. Be prepared to present the original money order and your receipt to verify your purchase.

Some issuers might deduct a processing fee from the refund amount, so be aware of their policies before proceeding.

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If you're using Western Union, you can refer to their "How Do I Cancel My Money Transfer and Get a Refund?" page for more information.

In any case, it's a good idea to review the issuer's requirements and fees before attempting to cancel a money order.

If you're dealing with a Western Union money order, you can also check their "Western Union Money Orders" page for more details.

In some cases, you might be able to exchange the money order for a new one, but this will depend on the issuer's policies.

If you're using MoneyGram, you can refer to their "How Do I Cancel Money Transfer?" page for more information.

It's always a good idea to be aware of the issuer's time frames for returning a money order to be eligible for a refund.

Here's a quick rundown of what to do if you need to correct a mistake on a money order:

What If an Item Is Lost?

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If an item is lost, such as a money order, it can be stressful. You can take steps to recover your funds or get a replacement.

Try to locate your receipt or any documentation related to the lost money order. This will include the money order number, the amount, and the recipient's name.

Inform the issuer that the money order has been lost and give them all the information you have. They will guide you on the next steps.

You can usually request a money order replacement if the original hasn't been cashed. The issuer will void the original money order and issue a new one. This process can take from a few days to several weeks.

If you prefer a refund instead of a replacement, you can request it during the claim process. Some issuers may also ask for a notarized signature or additional identification.

To track a lost money order, contact the issuing institution. MoneyGram, Western Union, USPS, and local banks all have different procedures for tracking lost money orders. Each will require a fee for the service.

Here's a summary of the steps to take:

  • Locate your receipt or documentation
  • Inform the issuer that the money order has been lost
  • Fill out a loss report or claim form
  • Pay a processing fee (if required)

Issuer Refund Policies and Resources

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Each money order issuer has its own refund policies, so it's essential to review them before purchasing. This way, you'll know what to expect if you need to cancel your money order.

Some issuers offer refunds or replacements if your money order is lost or stolen, but this often requires an extended waiting period and additional fees. For example, if your USPS money order is lost, you can request a cancellation at your nearest post office location.

To get a refund, you'll typically need to provide the original receipt and fill out a cancellation or refund request form with the issuer. Most companies will charge a processing fee for this service, and the refund may take several weeks to process.

It's also a good idea to review the refund policies of the issuer before purchasing a money order. This will help you understand what fees may be deducted from a money order refund, how long you may have to complete a cancellation request form, and how you can make a request.

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Here are some resources to help you understand the refund policies of each issuer:

  • For Western Union, a Lost Money Order Search Request form
  • For MoneyGram, a Money Order Claim Card
  • For USPS money orders, form PS 6401 (Money Order Inquiry)

Contact your money order issuer immediately for up-to-date forms and the fastest service.

Vanessa Schmidt

Lead Writer

Vanessa Schmidt is a seasoned writer with a passion for crafting informative and engaging content. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for research, she has established herself as a trusted voice in the world of personal finance. Her expertise has led to the creation of articles on a wide range of topics, including Wells Fargo credit card information, where she provides readers with valuable insights and practical advice.

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