TD Bank sells money orders at most branches, but availability and fees vary by location
TD Bank does offer money orders at the majority of its branches. You can walk in, pay a fee (typically $5 to $10 depending on the amount and your account type), and walk out with a money order the same day. However, not every TD location stocks them, and some branches may require advance notice or have limits on the amount you can purchase in a single transaction.
The fastest way to confirm whether your specific branch sells money orders is to call ahead. TD's customer service line can tell you whether your nearest location has them in stock and what the current fee is. Some branches in smaller towns or inside grocery stores may not carry them at all.
If your branch does not have money orders available, TD also offers cashier's checks as an alternative, which serve the same purpose and are often easier to obtain at any full-service branch.
Key Takeaways
- Most TD Bank branches sell money orders for a fee of $5 to $10, depending on the amount and whether you hold a TD account.
- You should call your branch before visiting to confirm they have money orders in stock, since some locations do not carry them.
- TD account holders may pay a lower fee than non-customers, so bring your debit card or account number when you go.
- If your branch cannot provide a money order, ask about a cashier's check instead, which TD can issue at any full-service branch.
- Money orders are available same-day and do not require a waiting period once you pay the fee.
What you need to bring to buy a money order at TD
Bring cash or a debit card to pay for the money order and the fee. You will also need to know the exact amount you want the money order to be for, and you should have the recipient's name ready (though you can leave the payee line blank if you are not certain yet).
If you are a TD account holder, bring your debit card or account number. Non-customers can still buy money orders, but the fee may be higher. Some branches ask for a photo ID, particularly for larger amounts or if you are not a customer.
You do not need an account at TD to purchase a money order there. Walk-in customers are welcome, though you may pay a premium fee compared to account holders.
How much TD charges for a money order
TD Bank's money order fees typically range from $5 to $10, depending on the amount of the money order and whether you maintain a TD account. A $500 money order might cost $5 if you are a customer, while a non-customer could pay $7 or $8 for the same service. Fees for larger amounts (over $1,000) may be higher.
Call your branch directly to ask about the current fee structure, since pricing can vary slightly between locations and may change. Some branches offer discounts to customers with certain account types, such as premium checking or business accounts.
Money order fees are separate from any charges your bank may impose on your account. If you pay with a debit card, the transaction itself is free, but you will still owe the money order fee.
TD money orders versus cashier's checks
A cashier's check is similar to a money order but is issued directly by the bank on its own paper. TD can issue cashier's checks at any full-service branch, and they are often preferred for larger amounts or more formal transactions (like a down payment on a house or car). Cashier's checks typically cost $10 to $15 per check.
Money orders are better for smaller, everyday payments—rent, utilities, or sending money to someone you do not have a direct relationship with. They are also faster to obtain if your branch has them in stock. Cashier's checks may require a day or two if the branch needs to order them.
Both are safer than sending cash because they are traceable and can be stopped if lost or stolen. If your branch does not have money orders available, a cashier's check is the closest alternative TD offers.
How to fill out a TD money order correctly
When you receive your money order, you will see several blank lines. The payee line is where you write the name of the person or business receiving the money. Write clearly in pen and do not leave this blank unless you are intentionally giving someone a blank money order (which is risky).
The amount line should match the amount you paid for. The teller will fill this in, but double-check it before you leave the branch. Write the amount in both numbers and words to prevent tampering.
Sign the back of the money order in the space marked "purchaser" or "sender." Do not sign the front. Keep your receipt, which shows the money order number and amount—you will need this if the money order is lost or never cashed.
What to do if your money order is lost or not cashed
If you lose a money order or it is never cashed, contact TD Bank with your receipt. The receipt number is critical; without it, the bank cannot track the money order. TD can place a stop payment on the money order, similar to stopping a check, though this may take several business days.
Once the stop payment is confirmed, TD can issue you a replacement money order for the same amount, usually at no additional charge. The process typically takes one to two weeks, depending on whether the original money order has already been cashed by someone else.
If the money order was cashed by an unauthorized person, report it to TD immediately. Money orders are not insured like bank accounts, so recovery depends on whether TD can trace who cashed it and whether the funds can be recovered from that person or institution.
Alternatives to TD Bank money orders
If TD does not have money orders available or the fee is too high, you can buy money orders at most grocery stores (including supermarkets with Western Union or MoneyGram services), post offices, and Walmart. Post office money orders typically cost $1.45 to $2.20 depending on the amount, making them cheaper than bank fees for small transfers.
Western Union and MoneyGram also sell money orders at thousands of retail locations. These are useful if you need a money order outside of business hours, though fees are often higher than at a bank or post office.
For digital alternatives, consider a bank transfer, wire transfer, or peer-to-peer payment app like Venmo or PayPal if the recipient accepts them. These are faster and often cheaper than money orders, though they require the recipient to have a bank account or app account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy a money order at TD Bank without an account?
Yes. TD sells money orders to non-customers, but you will pay a higher fee than account holders. Bring cash or a debit card and a photo ID. Call your branch first to confirm they have money orders in stock.
How long does it take to get a money order at TD?
Same-day, if your branch has them available. The teller fills it out while you wait, you sign it, and you leave with it. If the branch needs to order money orders, it may take one to three business days.
Can I cancel a TD money order after I buy it?
Yes, but only if it has not been cashed. Contact TD with your receipt and request a stop payment. Once stopped, TD can issue a replacement or refund. If the money order has already been cashed, recovery is not possible.
What is the maximum amount for a TD money order?
Most TD branches allow money orders up to $1,000 per order, though some locations may have different limits. Call your branch to confirm the maximum amount they will issue in a single transaction.
Is a TD cashier's check better than a money order?
Cashier's checks are better for large amounts or formal transactions because they carry more weight and are less likely to be questioned. Money orders are faster and cheaper for smaller, routine payments. Both are traceable and safer than cash.