How to Track a Money Order

Money orders are a secure, reliable way to send money almost anywhere in the world. When you buy a money order, you can track it to make sure it gets delivered to the recipient, making it a good alternative to mailing a check.

Here’s a closer look at what you can expect when you purchase a money order and how to track it.

What is a money order?

A money order is a prepaid and secure form of payment that represents a specified amount of money. It can be either a paper document that you send in the mail or a wire transfer.

You can purchase one at many post office locations, banks, credit unions, grocery stores, and convenience stores – but Western Union specializes in money orders. Since we partner with Western Union, you can visit any Advance America store to send money where you need it.

How do money orders work?

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When you purchase the money order, you’ll need to select your delivery method. Money orders usually come with a variety of delivery options so that you can choose the best one for your needs.

For example, if you’re paying rent, you might need to hand-deliver a paper money order to your landlord. If a loved one overseas needs money, the money order issuer can wire the funds to a partner location near your recipient.

Money orders are kind of like a cross between cash and personal checks. You'll have to pay the amount you’re sending with cash, debit, or credit and sign the money order. Once the recipient receives it, they sign and cash it at their local bank, credit union, or retailer.

How do I track a money order?

Tracking options will vary from one issuer to another. Here's how to track a money order from Western Union:

1. Call Western Union’s automated help line at (800) 999-9660.
2. You will get a series of prompts, including “Check the Status of a Money Order.” Select this option.
3. Locate the 11-digit serial number on the upper right corner of your Western Union money order record stub. Enter it when prompted.
4. The automated helpline will let you know the status of your money order and whether the recipient has cashed it.

How to track a money order online

You can also check the status of your money order online or in the Western Union app. To do this, simply go to Western Union's website and select the Track a Transfer option in the dropdown menu. You can then enter the Tracking Number, which is located on your transfer history page as well as on your printed or emailed receipt.

How to track a money order without the serial number

If you misplaced your receipt and still want to know the status of your money order, you can submit a Western Union Money Order Research Request. You’ll need to include:

• Your name, phone number, and full address.
• The money order amount, date of purchase, and time of purchase.
• The payee’s name (if you provided it on the money order).
• The full address of the location where you purchased the money order.
• The administrative fee.

What happens if my money order gets lost?

Although rare, it's possible for money orders to get lost while in transit. If this happens, you may be able to request a refund. For lost Western Union money orders, complete the Money Order Customer Request form.

You'll also need to send a photocopy of the money order receipt or the order itself, as well as the required processing fee. If you can't supply a photocopy of the receipt or the money order, you can follow the steps above to submit a Money Order Research Request.

Track a Western Union money order purchased through Advance America Western Union

makes money order tracking fast and easy. Stop by any Advance America location to purchase a Western Union money order – or send one online 24/7 through our website! You don’t need a bank account and can choose from a variety of payment and delivery options.

Send and receive money anytime, anywhere, with Western Union and Advance America!