Even if the money order has been cashed, you might be able to acquire a replacement. How? Read on
Money orders not only let you send money securely without a bank account, but they also provide you confidence when buying or selling used products.
There is no need to meet strangers while carrying large sums of cash, and in the event that something goes wrong, a tracking number is provided.
But what should you do if something does go wrong? What happens if a money order is misplaced, stolen, or lost?
If the payee field is filled out, a missing money order is not cause for alarm. All you have to do to get your money back is cancel or replace it.
Here are the detailed instructions.
How to reverse a misplaced money order
Only if the money order hasn't been cashed yet may you cancel a lost one. Skip to the following section if it has already been cashed.
You must gather the necessary information and submit a cancellation form to the issuer in order to cancel a money order. When you purchase a money order, be sure to retain the receipt until it is paid because the majority of this information can be located there. Even better, take a picture of it.
These are three of the most common issuers' instructions for canceling a lost money order. Give them a call and find out how to replace a money order from a different source if you need one.
Cancel a money order from Western Union
Fill out the refund request form on the back of your receipt and send it in by mail, fax, or email to cancel Western Union money orders. A $15 processing charge must be paid, and processing may take up to 30 days.
You will need to print, complete, and notarize their Money Order Customer Request form if you don't have the receipt. Additionally, you should enclose as much supporting documents as you can. This might comprise:
- original receipt from the till.
- Your bank statement serving as payment documentation.
- a copy of any money orders or receipts you bought on the same day for other purchases.
- copies of similar receipts or money orders (if used for recurring payments such as rent).
- The police report in copy (if it was reported stolen).
The procedure can take between six and eight weeks and costs $30 without a receipt. Also, there is no assurance that you will get your money back.
Cancel a money order from MoneyGram
A MoneyGram money order can be totally changed or canceled online. Checking your money order's eligibility within their system is the first step. Enter the serial number that can be found on the receipt to achieve this. You will be directed through their cancellation form and charged a $18 processing fee if it is eligible.
Online cancellation requests are processed within seven to ten business days, and you can check on their status at any time.
Call customer support at 1-800-926-9400 if you don't have your receipt, or go to the closest branch.
Cancel a money order from the USPS
Money orders from the U.S. Postal Service can be tracked online. However, you must go to the post office in person if you wish to cancel, refund, or replace one. They will assist you in submitting a money order inquiry to look into your circumstance.
Investigations can take up to 60 days, cost $6.25 for domestic money orders and $7.85 for international ones, and you can check on their progress online. You will be given a refund if it is determined that your money order was lost or stolen.
If you have your receipt, as with other issuers, the transaction will go more smoothly and is more likely to be successful.
What would happen if the check was cashed?
The issuer won't be able to refund you if you learn the money order has been cashed.
There is yet some hope, though.
Obtain a photocopy of the cashed money order from the issuer to determine who signed it.
Report the event to law enforcement and include the photocopy if it appears that the money was stolen. Their chances of catching the criminal men increase with the speed at which they begin their investigation.
Additionally, you might be able to get your money back if they catch the crooks.
Despite this, there is no assurance. It's important to take the necessary safeguards to avoid this problem altogether.
3 recommendations to avoid money order theft or loss
Money orders are a very safe way to make payments when handled properly. But remember to always abide by these three guidelines:
1. Enter the Payee's name right away. When you buy a money order, fill out the Payee field. The payee must present proper identification that exactly matches the name on the money order in order to cash it. It will be far more difficult to cash if it gets into the wrong hands with the Payee column filled out.
Additionally, you will have a better chance of getting your money back if the money is ever stolen because you have evidence that the wrong individual cashed it.
2. Don't lose your receipt. Your cancellation form will be processed more quickly the more details you can provide.
Before placing the receipt in your pocket after receiving it from the issuer, take a picture of it. That way, you have a backup in case it gets lost.
3. Send your money order in a secure manner. Hand delivery of a money order is the most secure method.
If that isn't possible, you can send it securely by mail as long as you fill out the Payee field. In spite of this, avoid placing it in a drop box or any location where it could be stolen easily.
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