PNC Bank does sell money orders, but only at certain branches and with limits on the amount
PNC Bank offers money orders at most of its branches, but availability and pricing vary by location. You'll need to visit a branch in person — PNC does not sell money orders online or by phone. The bank typically limits money orders to $1,000 per order, though some branches may have different caps. You'll pay a fee that ranges depending on your branch and account type, usually between $3 and $10.
Not every PNC location stocks money orders, so call ahead before you go. Some smaller branches or those in rural areas may not carry them, or may require advance notice to order them in. If your nearest PNC branch doesn't have them, you have other options: grocery stores, pharmacies, check-cashing services, and the post office all sell money orders, often at lower cost.
Key Takeaways
- PNC Bank sells money orders at most branches during business hours, but you must visit in person with cash or a debit card.
- Money orders are typically capped at $1,000 per order, so you may need to buy multiple orders for larger amounts.
- Fees range from $3 to $10 depending on your branch and whether you have a PNC account, so calling ahead to confirm the price is worth your time.
- If your PNC branch doesn't carry money orders or requires a long wait, the post office, grocery stores, and Walmart often sell them for less.
What you need to bring to buy a money order at PNC
Bring cash or a debit card to pay for the money order and its fee. You'll also need to know the exact amount you want the money order for and the name of the person or business it should be made out to. Have that information ready before you reach the teller window — it speeds up the transaction.
You do not need to be a PNC customer to buy a money order there. However, some branches may charge a higher fee to non-customers, so ask when you call. Bring a photo ID if you're not a PNC account holder, as some branches request it.
How the money order process works at PNC
Walk into your local PNC branch during business hours and tell the teller you want to buy a money order. The teller will ask you for the payee name (who the money order is for), the amount, and how you're paying. They'll fill out the money order, take your payment plus the fee, and hand you the completed order.
The entire process usually takes five to ten minutes. The money order is ready to use immediately — you can mail it, hand it to someone, or deposit it into an account right away. Keep your receipt in case you need to track or cancel the money order later.
Money order limits and fees at PNC
PNC typically caps individual money orders at $1,000. If you need to send more than that, you'll have to buy multiple money orders. For example, if you need to send $2,500, you'd buy three money orders: two for $1,000 each and one for $500.
Fees vary by branch and account status. PNC customers may pay $3 to $5, while non-customers often pay $5 to $10. Some branches charge a flat rate; others charge based on the amount of the money order. Call your branch directly to find out the exact fee before you go — it's the fastest way to get an accurate answer.
When to use a money order instead of other payment methods
Money orders are useful when the recipient needs proof of payment but you don't want to give them a personal check or share your bank account number. They're also safer than cash for mailing because they can be replaced if lost or stolen. Landlords, utility companies, and government agencies often accept money orders.
Money orders are slower than electronic transfers — they take days or weeks to clear depending on how they're deposited. If you need the payment to arrive fast, a wire transfer or ACH payment through your bank is usually quicker. If the recipient won't accept electronic payment and you need proof of delivery, money orders are the right choice.
Alternatives to PNC money orders
The U.S. Postal Service sells money orders for $1.45 to $2.00 depending on the amount, which is usually cheaper than a bank. Walmart sells money orders for under $1 if you have a Walmart account, and around $3 without one. Most grocery stores and pharmacies also sell them for $2 to $5.
If you have a bank account elsewhere, check whether that bank sells money orders — some credit unions and online banks offer them free or at a discount to members. For very large amounts, a cashier's check from any bank is an alternative, though it typically costs $5 to $15 and requires you to have funds in an account at that bank.
What happens if you lose or need to cancel a PNC money order
If you lose a money order or need to cancel it, contact PNC as soon as possible with your receipt. The bank can put a stop on the money order to prevent someone else from cashing it. You'll likely have to wait 30 to 90 days to confirm the money order hasn't been cashed before PNC refunds you, though some branches may refund you sooner if you have proof it wasn't deposited.
Keep your receipt for every money order you buy. The receipt has the serial number and amount, which you'll need if you ever have to file a claim. If you don't have the receipt, the process takes longer and may not be possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy a money order at PNC online or by phone?
No. PNC only sells money orders in person at a branch. You cannot order them online or by phone, and they cannot be mailed to you. You must visit a branch during business hours with cash or a debit card.
What's the maximum amount for a PNC money order?
PNC typically limits money orders to $1,000 per order. If you need to send more, buy multiple money orders. For example, to send $3,000, you'd buy three $1,000 orders. Call your branch to confirm their specific limit.
Do I need a PNC account to buy a money order there?
No, you don't need to be a PNC customer. However, non-customers usually pay a higher fee — often $5 to $10 instead of $3 to $5. Bring a photo ID if you're not an account holder, as some branches request it.
How long does it take for a money order to clear?
Money orders are available immediately when you buy them, but how long they take to clear depends on how the recipient deposits them. If deposited at a bank, they usually clear within one to three business days. If cashed at a check-cashing service, they clear instantly.
What should I do if my PNC branch doesn't have money orders?
Call ahead to confirm availability — not all branches carry them. If yours doesn't, the post office, Walmart, and most grocery stores sell money orders for less money and with no advance notice needed. You can also ask your PNC branch if they can order money orders in for you.