Wells Fargo money orders: limits, fees, and better alternatives

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A money order is a paper form of payment that looks like a check but works differently. It is prepaid, meaning the buyer pays the full amount, plus a small fee, at the time of purchase. The person receiving the money order can then deposit or cash it. This leaves the sender satisfied that the funds will be sent securely. It is safer than a personal check, which can bounce if there is not enough money in the account.

People often turn to money orders when cash or personal checks are not accepted. For example, many landlords require rent to be paid via money order. Some utility providers or service companies also prefer it because it guarantees payment. In addition, people without bank accounts use money orders to pay bills or send money safely. Since they carry less risk than carrying cash, money orders remain a trusted option in many situations.

Availability is another reason for their use. Post offices, supermarkets, and retail stores sell them at affordable fees. Because money orders are so common, many people expect large banks to provide them. Wells Fargo is one of the best-known banks in the country and often comes up when people search for money orders. However, the services the bank offers are not the same as traditional money orders.

Instead, Wells Fargo provides alternatives such as cashier's checks and wire transfers. So, what are your options? Let’s explore how to use Wells Fargo for secure payments, review their fees, order limit, and consider available alternatives.

Does Wells Fargo do money orders?

Can I get a money order at Wells Fargo? The answer is no. Instead, customers can request a cashier's check. Wells Fargo issues these checks directly and guarantees the funds, which makes them secure for large transactions.

A cashier's check differs from a money order. The bank withdraws funds from the customer's account and guarantees payment. This security makes cashier's checks a common option for large purchases, such as home closings or car payments.

A money order is a prepaid transaction and typically has a limit of around $1,000¹. People commonly use money orders for rent, utility bills, or smaller payments where personal checks are not accepted. They are easy to purchase at post offices, supermarkets, or retail stores for a small fee.

The main difference lies in the amount and the level of security. A money order is a convenient and affordable option for everyday payments. In contrast, a cashier’s check offers stronger backing and is used for hefty amounts that require additional security and assurance for both parties.

Wells Fargo money order fees

Wells Fargo does not offer money orders, so you will not find any related fees at the bank. Instead, they provide cashier’s checks, which are used for different reasons and come with their own fees.

A cashier’s check is a payment that the bank promises to cover. Wells Fargo takes the money from your account and makes sure the check will be paid, which makes it safe for bigger payments. The bank charges $10 for cashier's checks, with an additional $8 delivery charge within the U.S. For further details, view Wells Fargo’s official fee list² to understand these details clearly.

The price stands out when compared with money orders sold elsewhere. At the post office, a money order usually costs less than $2. Walmart charges about $1, and other retailers keep their fees in a similar low range.

This price difference explains why people pick the first option instead of the other. Money orders are a good choice for everyday payments like rent or utility bills because they are cheap and easy to buy. Cashier’s checks cost more, but they are backed by the bank and are better for big purchases like cars or homes. Understanding these differences helps customers choose the best option for their needs.

Can you deposit a money order at Wells Fargo?

Anyone wondering, “Can I deposit a money order at Wells Fargo?” should know the answer is yes. The bank accepts money order deposits; however, the method you choose can affect the smoothness of the process.

The most reliable way is to visit a Wells Fargo branch. A teller will process the money order like a check. This method reduces errors and gives you immediate confirmation that your deposit is complete.

Another option is to use an ATM. Wells Fargo machines often accept money orders, but they do not always scan them correctly, especially since some ATMs may struggle to read money order barcodes or images. In fact, ATMs may reject a money order several times before finally processing it. Due to errors like these, many customers prefer to visit the branch in person.

Keep in mind that Wells Fargo does not allow users to deposit money orders through its mobile app. The app only processes checks, including personal and cashier’s checks. So, you must use a branch counter or an ATM for money orders.

Processing times are generally similar to checks. Funds may show up within one business day, although the exact timeline can depend on your account type, banking history, and the occurrence of any public holiday.

Wells Fargo places daily limits on ATM deposits and, in some cases, specific restrictions on depositing money orders at certain machines. You can find your Wells Fargo debit or ATM card limits in the cardholder agreement that came with your card. If you don’t have that paperwork anymore, no worries. Just log in to your online account or the Wells Fargo app to check your current ATM limits.

This can limit the amount or even the possibility of depositing money in a single day.

Wells Fargo money order limits & restrictions

Wells Fargo does not offer money orders, so there is no set Wells Fargo money order limit for customers. Instead, Wells Fargo offers cashier’s checks, which are meant for larger amounts and have their own guidelines.

A cashier’s check is guaranteed by the bank, making it safer than a regular money order. While money orders usually have low limits, cashier’s checks can be used for much larger payments.

Deposits work differently. Wells Fargo allows customers to deposit money orders, but limits may apply depending on the method of deposit. Wells Fargo usually does not set a fixed cash deposit limit at ATMs. However, the machine’s bill capacity or your account’s daily limits may apply. You can check and manage those limits anytime through the Wells Fargo Mobile app³. If you need to deposit a large amount of cash, especially more than the ATM’s limit, it is better to visit a teller or branch directly.

This is important for people who receive multiple money orders at once. For instance, if you collect multiple rent payments, you might reach the ATM limit and need to visit the bank to deposit everything.

Alternatives to Wells Fargo money orders

Since you can’t buy a Wells Fargo money order, customers often turn to other providers. Several reliable options are available, each with its own costs, limits, and benefits. Let’s look at some of them:

USPS money orders

The United States Postal Service¹ offers money orders that many people trust. A money order under $500 costs $2.35, while amounts between $500 and $1,000 have a fee of $3.40, with a maximum limit of $1,000 per single order. USPS is widely available and backed by a federal institution, which gives customers a sense of security. However, limited post office hours may not work for everyone.

Walmart money orders

Walmart provides one of the most affordable options. A money order usually costs about $1, making it less expensive than most alternatives. The retailer uses MoneyGram or Western Union for processing, and service is available nationwide. Longer store hours make it more convenient, although customer lines can sometimes cause delays.

Western Union money orders

Western Union is another option, especially for those who need international access. The service is available at thousands of locations worldwide. Fees often range from $2 to $5, which is higher than those of USPS or Walmart. However, the global reach makes it valuable for people sending money abroad.

USPS and Walmart usually offer the lowest costs, while Western Union provides broader access at a higher price. Convenience means different things to different people. Some want low fees; others want more locations.

BOSS Money as a modern alternative

Money orders remain useful, but they often slow down and inconvenience users. Buyers must visit a location, fill out forms, and pay extra fees. Facing these limits, many people now seek faster and easier options.

BOSS Money offers a more convenient alternative. Unlike a money order, it operates through an online app, letting users send money directly from their phone without lines or paperwork. This speeds up transfers and fits easily into daily life.

The service also streamlines international payments. Many people send money abroad, but mailing a money order delays the process. BOSS Money enables faster transfers and reduces common errors found in handwritten forms. These benefits attract families and workers who support people overseas.

On top of that, their security is also top-notch. Each transfer is tracked in the app, providing transparency for both sender and receiver. Recipients collect funds only from approved locations, ensuring that the payment reaches its intended recipient securely.

Conclusion

So, how much is a money order at Wells Fargo, exactly? Wells Fargo does not sell money orders, so no cost applies. Instead, the bank offers cashier’s checks, which serve a similar purpose for larger, guaranteed payments.

Anyone who needs a money order should look elsewhere. The USPS provides them for about $1.75 when the order is under $500, and Walmart offers them for about $1. Both choices are simple, affordable, and widely accessible.

For international needs, the better option is digital. BOSS Money enables individuals to send funds abroad quickly through an app, eliminating paperwork and delays.

Sources: all third party information obtained from applicable website as of September 16, 2025

https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/banking/money-orders
https://www.wellsfargo.com/online-banking/service-fees/
https://www.wellsfargo.com/mobile-online-banking/apps/

This article is provided for general information purposes only and is not intended to address every aspect of the matters discussed herein. The information in this article is not intended as specific personal advice. The information in this article does not constitute legal, tax, regulatory or other professional advice from IDT Payment Services, Inc. and its affiliates (collectively, “IDT”), and should not be taken or used as such by any individual. IDT makes no representation, warranty or guaranty, whether express or implied, that the content in this article is current, accurate, or complete. You should obtain professional or other substantive advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the information in this article.