The 21st century has brought with it some incredible inventions, not to mention even more extraordinary and faster ways to send cash. But, if one thing’s for sure, money orders are here to stay.
Sure, electronic methods are fast, but they’re not always available when you need them. The U.S Post Office, money order program, has been around since the civil war. Back then, soldiers used it to send money home securely. Now, companies have revolutionized the concept and made it simpler and more convenient.
So, what advantages do money orders have over other payment methods?
Benefits of Sending Money Orders
- Security
When it comes to sending money, nothing is more important than knowing that it will reach its recipient safely. Modern money orders are specially designed to avert fraud. They come equipped with a security thread, like that found on cash, and a Ben Franklin watermark for added security.
On top of that, the government has implemented laws meant to discourage fraudsters from corrupting the system. Fraudsters risk the possibility of up to ten years of jail term or a $25,000 fine. This should put your mind at ease, knowing that nobody would ever dare mess with your money orders.
- Easy Access
What’s awesome about money orders is that they work like cash. You can simply endorse or cash your money order at your nearest bank. Many retailers also accept money orders as a form of payment.
And if you’re not close to a bank, no need to worry. Many retailers will also allow you to cash it free, but most will ask for a small convenience fee. If you have a USPS money order, you can cash in for free since the fee was paid during purchase. These charges, compared to check-cashing charges, are nothing but menial.
- Easy to Acquire
You can purchase money orders at any bank or post office. Many retailers and grocery stores in the U.S also sell them at their customer service counters.
And if you’re away for vacation, they’ve still got you covered. Companies like Western Union also sell money orders at most tourist destinations and other remote locations. You will be charged a small fee when purchasing a money order, but the benefits you stand to gain far outweigh the small cost.
- Safe to Mail
Mailing money orders is super safe. All you have to do is mail it and save your receipt. If it doesn’t make it to its recipient, all you have to do is call the number on the receipt and report its loss. You then have to return it to the location where you purchased it to arrange for a replacement.
You will be charged a small convenience fee for this process, but considering that your money will make it to its destination, I’d say it’s a worthy investment.
Conclusion
Money orders are safe, supercontinent, and easy to use. That being said, you should make sure you buy your money orders from a reputable distributor like the post office to avoid fraudsters.
