Follow these steps to cash a Postal Service™ money order:
1. Check that the amount does not exceed the legal limit: $1,000 for domestic, and $700 for international Postal money orders.
2. Check that the proper security features are present:
n For the legacy, green Postal Service money orders:
a. Green coloring at the top and bottom.
b. A U.S. Mail eagle logo in the center.
c. A left-side watermark of Benjamin Franklin repeating top to bottom that is only visible when held up to a light source.
d. On the right of the Benjamin Franklin watermark, a vertical, multicolored security thread with the letters “USPS®” weaves in and out of the paper.
e. Discoloration around the dollar amounts might indicate the amounts were changed.
n For the new red and blue Postal Service money orders:
a. Red and blue ink with subtle design features of an eagle head and an American flag.
b. Two watermarks that are only visible when held up to a light source:
1. A watermark of a Pony Express® rider.
2. A watermark that reads “United States Postal Service” in a rectangular box.
c. A security thread that runs from the top to the bottom of the Postal Service money order, just to the right of the Pony Express rider watermark. When held to the light, the thread reveals the letters “USPS” alternating right side up and upside down throughout the thread.
d. A Quick Response (QR) code that directs users to the USPS website to verify the status of money orders using three pieces of information.
e. Discoloration around the dollar amounts might indicate the amounts were changed.
These features also appear at usps.com/shop/money-orders.htm.
If you or a customer suspects fraud, follow the guidance from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service:
n If you question the validity of a Postal Money Order, use the Money Order Verification System at 1-866-459-7822.
n You can also check the money order status at usps.com/shop/money-orders.htm. Go to “Check Money Order Status” and input the information.
n If you suspect fraud or criminal activity, call the Inspection Service at 1-877-876-2455 at your earliest convenience.
The legacy, green Postal Service money order will stay in circulation until all existing stock is depleted. As of October 1, 2024, USPS no longer sells international money orders. USPS will no longer cash international money orders after September 30, 2025.
— Criminal Investigations Group,
U.S. Postal Inspection Service, 5-15-25.
