How to Get a Money Order for Passport Applications (2026 Guide)

A money order for a passport is a prepaid payment used to pay government passport fees safely. Most passport applications—especially at a post office or acceptance facility—require payment by money order or check, not cash or credit card.

When Do You Need a Money Order for a Passport?

You will typically need a money order when applying for a passport using forms like:

• DS-11 (first-time passport)
• Child passport applications
• Replacement or lost passport applications

Most acceptance facilities only accept:

• Money orders
• Personal checks

Cash and credit cards are usually NOT accepted for the government portion.

Where to Get a Money Order for Passport Fees

You can purchase a money order before your passport appointment at:

• Post offices (recommended for passport applications)
• Banks and credit unions
• Retail stores (Walmart, CVS, Walgreens)
• Money transfer services (Western Union, MoneyGram)

Best option: Get your money order at the same post office where you apply to avoid errors.

How to Fill Out a Money Order for a Passport?

This is where many applicants make mistakes—getting it right helps avoid delays.

Payee Name (Most Important)

Write:

“U.S. Department of State”

Do NOT abbreviate or write anything else.

Your Information

• Your full name
• Address

Memo Section (Optional but Recommended)

Include:

• Your date of birth
• Or last 4 digits of SSN

Signature

Sign the front of the money order.

How Much Should the Money Order Be?

Passport fees depend on the type of application:

Passport Book (Adult)

• Application fee: $130
• Execution fee: $35 (paid separately)

Child Passport

• Application fee: $100
• Execution fee: $35

Expedited Service (Optional)

• Add $60

Important:

• The money order is only for the application fee
• The execution fee is usually paid separately (often by card or cash at the facility)

Step-by-Step: Get a Money Order for Your Passport

1. Calculate Your Passport Fee

Know exactly how much you need before buying the money order.

2. Go to a Money Order Location

Choose a post office or nearby retailer.

3. Pay for the Money Order

Use:

• Cash
• Debit card

4. Fill It Out Correctly

Write:

• “U.S. Department of State”
• Your information

5. Keep the Receipt

This is critical for tracking or replacing the money order.

Common Mistakes That Delay Passport Applications

Avoid these errors:

• Writing the wrong payee name
• Leaving the money order blank
• Paying the wrong amount
• Combining fees incorrectly
• Losing the receipt

Even small mistakes can cause processing delays or application rejection.

Money Order vs Other Passport Payment Methods

Pro Tip: Fastest Way to Avoid Delays

• Buy your money order right before your appointment
• Double-check the amount and payee name
• Bring a backup payment method for execution fees

Need Your Passport Faster?

If you need your passport urgently, standard processing may not be enough.

You can:

• Request expedited service (+$60)
• Visit a regional passport agency
• Or use a registered expediting service like
  National Passport Service

These services can help process passports in as little as a few days depending on your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a money order for a passport?

Yes, most passport applications require a money order or check for the government fee.

Who do I make the money order out to?

Write “U.S. Department of State.”

Can I pay for a passport with a credit card?

No, credit cards are not accepted for the government fee.

Can I get a money order at the passport office?

Yes, many post offices sell money orders on-site.

If you’re applying for a passport, getting the money order right is critical.
A simple mistake can delay your application by weeks.

Before your appointment:

• Get the correct amount
• Fill it out properly
• Bring all required documents