How can you tell if a USPS money order is real?

How can you tell if a USPS money order is real?

If you hold the money order up to the light you should see:

1. Watermarks of Ben Franklin on the left side repeat top to bottom (circle 1 on image).
2. On the right of the Franklin watermark, a vertical, multicolored thread with the letters “USPS” weaves in and out of the paper to (circle 2 on image).

Can USPS money orders be fake?

Check that the proper security features are present: n When held to the light, a watermark of Benjamin Franklin is repeated from top to bottom on the left side. n When held to the light, a dark line (security thread) runs from top to bottom with the word “USPS” repeated.

Can you be scammed with a money order?

The scam reveals itself after the money has been sent and the victim’s bank later notifies its customer that the item was fake. Banks often release funds from a cashier’s check or money order before it clears, so just because you can withdraw the money, it doesn’t mean the check is good.

Is USPS money order safe?

If you ever find yourself needing to mail a payment, a money order is a secure way to do just that. It’s safer than mailing cash or a check, since it can be tracked and canceled, and it’s addressed to a specific recipient.

How can you tell if money is counterfeit?

Here is a list of eight ways to tell if a bill is real or counterfeit:

1. Color-shifting Ink.
2. Watermark.
3. Blurry Borders, Printing, or Text.
4. Raised Printing.
5. Security Thread with Microprinting.
6. Ultraviolet Glow.
7. Red and Blue Threads.
8. Serial Numbers.

Can postal money orders be forged?

Online fraud artists have been using counterfeit and worthless checks for years. However, in recent years, there’s been an uptick in the use of counterfeiting U.S. Postal Service money orders. The quality of what these con artists are producing is very good and ordinary consumers can easily be fooled.

How do you tell if a cashier’s check is real or fake?

The payee’s name should already be printed on a cashier’s check (this is done at the bank by a teller). If the payee line is blank, the check is fake. A genuine cashier’s check always includes a phone number for the issuing bank. That number is often missing on a fake check or is fake itself.

Is a postal money order the same as a money order?

A postal order is purchased directly from a national postal system, such as the US Postal Service or the Post Office in the United Kingdom. By contrast, a money order is produced by an independent financial service provider and may be purchased at any number of retail outlets, including supermarkets or drugstores.

Are USPS money orders safe?

How safe are USPS money orders?

U.S. Postal Service™ money orders are among the most secure financial instruments in the world. Genuine U.S. Postal Service money orders contain design features that maximize their security. U.S. Postal Service domestic and international money orders contain security features that protect your investment.

Are fake money orders illegal?

What are the Legal Consequences of Money Order Fraud? Most instances of money order fraud are classified as white collar crime, which is punishable under criminal laws. The legal consequences can include criminal penalties such as fines and jail sentences.

Can I deposit a USPS money order at my bank?

Banks accept U.S. Postal Service money orders as they would regular checks at branches, ATMs or even on a banking app with a mobile check deposit function. Don’t forget to sign the back of the money order before depositing.

What is a USPS money order?

What is a USPS money order? According to the USPS website, “Money orders are a secure payment method. They are convenient, affordable, and widely accepted. Money orders are a good way to send cash that never expires.” Basically, they act like checks, so they’re more secure to mail than cash.

How do I contact the United States postal service for money order?

The information received is based upon the most recent information the United States Postal Service® has. Visit Money Ordersto learn more about money order guidelines and tips. Contact Us If you have money order related questions, please email the Accounting Help Deskor call 1-866-974-2733. Hours of Operation

How can you tell if a money order is authentic?

Any discoloration around the printed dollar amount may indicate the amount has been altered, and you should verify further before accepting the money order. Domestic U.S. Postal service money orders do not exceed $1,000, so U.S. Postal money orders for more than $1,000 are not authentic.

Do you have to sign a money order at the post office?

Do not sign the money order. Take a primary photo ID with the money order to any Post Office location. Sign the money order at the counter in front of a retail associate. See additional requirements for money orders made out to organizations, more than one person, and minors.

Does the post office sell international money orders?

To find a Post Office that sells International Money Orders, go to the Post Office Locator (click “Post Offices” > “Refine search” > “Money Orders”) or call 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777). Money orders can also be purchased from rural carriers and some contract stations. Contact the contract station to confirm availability.