Security Features of U.S. Postal Service Money Orders

U.S. Postal Service domestic and international money orders contain security features that protect your investment. Be sure to check for these features before you accept or cash one:

• When held to the light, a repeating watermark of Benjamin Franklin appears on the left and runs from top to bottom.
• To the right of the watermark is a vertical, multicolored thread that weaves in and out of the paper. When held to the light, the thread appears continuous, with alternating horizontal dark and light bars behind it. The letters “USPS” repeat backward and forward throughout the thread.
• There should be no discoloration around the dollar amounts (which could indicate the amounts were changed).

Domestic U.S. Postal Service money orders may not exceed $1,000, and international U.S. Postal Service money orders may not exceed $700.

To verify a postal money order, call the Money Order Verification System at 1-866-459-7822. If you suspect fraud, call the U.S. Postal Inspection Service at 1-877-876-2455 (option 4).

Notice 299

October 2008

PSN 7610-05-000-5767