Difference between revisions of "US Postal Money Order"

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(Reworked the entire page for clarity and flow. Added a step-by-step guide, new sections for fees and verification, and included multiple images to illustrate the process and security features.)
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'''US Postal Money Orders''' (USPMO) are one of the most private payment methods available on Bisq for domestic trades within the United States.
+
'''US Postal Money Orders''' (USPMO) are one of the most private payment methods available on Bisq. Because they are bearer instruments, they can be purchased with cash and mailed, providing a path to Bitcoin without a digital bank trail.
 +
 
 +
* '''Region:''' United States only
 +
* '''Maximum Trade Period:''' 8 days
 +
* '''Maximum Trade Size:''' 0.0625 BTC
  
 
This guide provides a complete overview of how to safely and privately use this payment method for buying and selling bitcoin on Bisq.
 
This guide provides a complete overview of how to safely and privately use this payment method for buying and selling bitcoin on Bisq.
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{{Admonition_Note |
 
{{Admonition_Note |
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* '''For BTC Buyers:''' You must write the BTC Seller’s name in both the "From" (Payer) and "To" (Payee) fields on the money order.
+
* '''Avoid "Same-Name" Fields:''' Do NOT write the BTC Seller’s name in both the "From" and "To" fields. Many banks and automated systems now flag these as suspicious, which can lead to complications or account closures for the Seller.
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* '''Proof is Required:''' BTC buyers must take a high-resolution photo of the filled-out USPMO and another photo of the stamped envelope showing proof of tracking.
+
* '''Video Proof is Required:''' Photos are no longer sufficient to prove a payment was sent. BTC buyers must record a continuous video of the USPMO being filled out, placed into the envelope, and sealed with the tracking label visible.
 
* '''Use Tracking:''' All USPMOs must be sent with a service that provides delivery confirmation (e.g., USPS Tracking).
 
* '''Use Tracking:''' All USPMOs must be sent with a service that provides delivery confirmation (e.g., USPS Tracking).
−
* '''Burden of Proof:''' In a dispute, the sender (BTC buyer) bears 100% of the responsibility to provide the required photos and tracking information to the mediator. This includes the USPMO Serial Number, Post Office Number, and dollar amount.
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* '''Burden of Proof:''' In a dispute, the sender (BTC buyer) bears 100% of the responsibility to provide the required mailing video and tracking information.  
  
 
If you are not prepared to follow these rules, do not trade using USPMO on Bisq.}}
 
If you are not prepared to follow these rules, do not trade using USPMO on Bisq.}}
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== Step 1: Set Up Your Payment Account ==
 
== Step 1: Set Up Your Payment Account ==
  
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First, you need to [[Create_a_payment_account|set up a USPMO payment account]] in Bisq. Your setup will differ depending on whether you are buying or selling bitcoin. For maximum privacy, consider creating two separate accounts: one for buying and one for selling.
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First, you need to [[Create_a_payment_account|set up a USPMO payment account]] in the Bisq UI. It is important to distinguish between the '''Account Information''' used within the software and the '''Physical Information''' used on the money order and envelope.
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=== For Buying Bitcoin (Maximizing Privacy) ===
 
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When buying bitcoin, the USPMO is a bearer instrument. This means the details of the sender are less important, allowing for greater privacy.
 
−
 
 
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* '''Name:''' It is acceptable to use a pseudonym or a randomly generated name.
 
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* '''Address:''' You must provide a return address. If the envelope is returned, it will go to this address. You have two main options:
 
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** '''Option 1 (Less Secure):''' Use a random address. Be aware that if your mail is returned, the money order will likely be lost permanently.
 
−
** '''Option 2 (More Secure):''' Use a trusted secondary address, such as that of a friend, neighbor, or local business that you can access. This increases the chance of recovering a returned envelope.
 
  
−
'''Note:''' Using non-authentic information in a payment account is generally against Bisq trade protocol. This is a rare, accepted exception for the purpose of privacy when buying BTC with USPMO.
+
=== Account Information in Bisq UI ===
 +
Similar to "Cash by Mail," the name you enter into your Bisq payment account does not need to match your real identity.
 +
* '''Name:''' You may use a pseudonym or a randomly generated name in the Bisq software. This name is only seen by your trading partner in the app.
 +
* '''Address:'''
 +
** '''BTC Buyers:''' Use a valid return address. For privacy, a PO Box or a trusted secondary address is recommended. If the mail is returned and your return address is invalid, the funds will be lost.
 +
** '''BTC Sellers:''' Must provide a valid mailing address where you can physically receive the envelope.
  
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=== For Selling Bitcoin (Receiving Payment) ===
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=== Information on the Physical Money Order ===
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When selling bitcoin, you must use your real information to receive and cash the money order.
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While your Bisq UI profile can be anonymous, the physical instrument has strict requirements:
−
 
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* '''Never Use Fake Info:''' Writing a fake name or a pseudonym on a US Postal Money Order is a federal offense.
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* '''Name:''' Must be your real, legal name as it appears on your photo ID.
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* '''For the Seller:''' To cash the money order, the "To" field must match your legal photo ID.
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* '''Address:''' Must be the correct and valid mailing address where you want to receive the envelope.
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* '''For the Buyer:''' You must decide between using your '''real name''' in the "From" field (best for seller's bank compliance) or leaving it '''blank''' (best for your privacy). Do '''not''' use your Bisq pseudonym on the physical document.
  
 
== Step 2: Purchase the Money Order ==
 
== Step 2: Purchase the Money Order ==
  
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After taking an offer to buy bitcoin, go to any US Post Office location to purchase the USPMO.
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* '''Amount Limit:''' Up to '''$1,000''' per money order. Multiple orders are allowed for larger trades.
−
 
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* '''Payment Method:''' It is '''highly recommended''' to use cash. Paying with a debit card creates a data trail; credit cards are not accepted.
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* '''Amount Limit:''' You can send up to '''$1,000''' in a single money order. For larger trades, you will need to purchase multiple money orders.
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* '''Fees:''' As of January 2026, the fees are:
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* '''Payment Method:'''
 
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** It is '''highly recommended''' to use cash. Paying with a debit card creates a data trail that compromises the privacy benefits of using a money order.
 
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** Debit cards are accepted, but '''credit cards are not'''.
 
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* '''Fees:''' You will pay the dollar value of the money order plus an issuing fee. As of August 2025, the fees are:
 
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
|+ USPMO Issuing Fees
 
|+ USPMO Issuing Fees
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Dollar Amount
+
! Dollar Amount !! Fee
−
! Fee
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| $0.01 to $500.00
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| $0.01 to $500.00 || $2.55
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| $2.55
 
 
|-
 
|-
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| $500.01 to $1,000.00
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| $500.01 to $1,000.00 || $3.60
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| $3.60
 
 
|-
 
|-
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| Postal Military Money Orders
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| Postal Military Money Orders || $0.84
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| $0.84
 
 
|}
 
|}
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* '''Keep Your Receipt:''' The receipt is essential for tracking the money order and is critical evidence if a trade dispute arises. Keep it in a safe place until the trade is successfully completed.
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* '''Receipt:''' Keep your receipt in a safe place. It is essential for tracking and is required if the money order is lost or damaged.
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* '''Privacy Tip:''' For maximum privacy, consider filling out the money order details away from the post office and its cameras.
 
  
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== Step 3: Send the Money Order ==
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== Step 3: Filling and Sending ==
  
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Follow the critical requirements listed at the top of this article. Address the envelope to the seller and prepare it for mailing.
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Because many banks now flag "Same-to-Same" transfers (where the same name is in both fields), you must change how you fill out the "From" (Purchaser) section.
  
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* '''Add a Privacy Layer:''' Fold a blank sheet of paper and place the money order inside it before putting it in the envelope. This makes it harder to see the contents when held up to a light.
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=== Filling out the "From" Section ===
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* '''Buy Tracking:''' You must pay for a mailing option that includes tracking or delivery confirmation.
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The "To" field must always be the Seller's legal name. For the "From" field, you have two choices:
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* '''Confirm in Bisq:''' Once you have mailed the envelope, click the '''Payment started''' button in your Bisq client. This is a crucial step that notifies the seller and continues the trade process.
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# '''Your Information:''' Most secure for the seller's bank deposits.  
 +
# '''Leave Blank:''' Provides maximum privacy for the buyer, but some banks may refuse to accept the deposit if the sender information is missing.
  
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<gallery widths="300px" heights="200px">
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=== Mandatory Video Proof ===
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File:Uspmo-1.jpg|Step 1: Open the folded paper to create a privacy layer.
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To prevent "ghost shipping" disputes, record a single continuous video:
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File:Uspmo-2.jpg|Step 2: Place the money order inside the folded sheet.
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# Show the completed USPMO (matching the trade amount and Seller's name).
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File:Uspmo-3.jpg|Step 3: Insert the sheet into the envelope and seal.
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# Show the USPS purchase receipt.
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</gallery>
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# Place the MO inside a blank sheet of paper (privacy layer) and then into the envelope.
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<br style="clear: both;" />
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# Seal the envelope and show the tracking label clearly.
  
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== Step 4: Verify the Money Order (How to Spot a Fake) ==
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== Step 4: Verify the Money Order (2025/2026 Designs) ==
  
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For the BTC seller, it is crucial to verify that a received money order is authentic before releasing the bitcoin. Real postal money orders have specific security features to prevent fraud. There are currently four valid designs in circulation.
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Sellers should verify the authenticity of the USPMO before releasing bitcoin.  
  
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When you receive a money order, hold it up to the light to check for the security features associated with its design.
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=== Red, Blue, & Red Design (2025/2026 Standard) ===
−
 
+
[[File:Red, Blue, & Red Postal Money Order (July 2025).jpeg|thumb|left|350px|Current Design]]
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=== Red, Blue, & Red Postal Money Order (July 2025) ===
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* '''Watermarks:''' Hold to light to see a '''Pony Express® rider''' on the left and "United States Postal Service" in a box on the right.
−
[[File:Red, Blue, & Red Postal Money Order (July 2025).jpeg|thumb|left|350px|Red, Blue, & Red Design (July 2025)]]
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* '''Security Thread:''' A vertical thread to the right of the rider watermark with "USPS" repeating in alternating directions.
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* A watermark image of a Pony Express® rider is visible on the left side.
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* '''QR Code:''' A QR Code on the front links directly to the USPS "Check Money Order Status" tool for easy verification.
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* A watermark of the words "United States Postal Service" appears in a box on the right side.
 
−
* An embedded security thread runs from top to bottom, revealing the letters "USPS" in alternating directions.
 
−
* A QR Code that links to the USPS "Check Money Order Status" tool.
 
 
<br style="clear: both;" />
 
<br style="clear: both;" />
  
−
=== Red, Blue, & Red Postal Money Order (February 2025) ===
+
=== Green & Purple Design (Legacy) ===
−
[[File:Red, Blue, & Red Postal Money Order (February 2025).jpeg|thumb|left|350px|Red, Blue, & Red Design (February 2025)]]
+
[[File:Green & Purple Postal Money Order (Point-of-Sale Version).jpeg|thumb|left|350px|Legacy Design]]
−
* A watermark image of a Pony Express® rider is visible on the left side.
+
* '''Watermarks:''' A U.S. Mail eagle in the center and Benjamin Franklin watermarks on the left side.
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* A watermark of the words "United States Postal Service" appears in a box on the right side.
+
* '''Security Thread:''' A vertical, multicolored security thread weaving in and out of the paper.
−
* An embedded security thread runs from top to bottom, revealing the letters "USPS" in alternating directions.
 
−
* A QR Code that links to the USPS "Check Money Order Status" tool.
 
 
<br style="clear: both;" />
 
<br style="clear: both;" />
  
−
=== Green & Purple Postal Money Order (Point-of-Sale Version) ===
+
== Step 5: Cashing the Money Order ==
−
[[File:Green & Purple Postal Money Order (Point-of-Sale Version).jpeg|thumb|left|350px|Green & Purple Design (Point-of-Sale)]]
 
−
* A watermark of the U.S. Mail eagle (1970 logo) is visible in the center.
 
−
* Watermarks of Ben Franklin repeat from top to bottom on the left side.
 
−
* A vertical, multicolored security thread with "USPS" is woven in and out of the paper to the right of the Franklin watermarks.
 
−
<br style="clear: both;" />
 
−
 
 
−
=== Green & Purple Postal Money Order (Paymaster Version) ===
 
−
[[File:Green & Purple Postal Money Order (Paymaster Version).jpeg|thumb|left|350px|Green & Purple Design (Paymaster)]]
 
−
* A watermark of the U.S. Mail eagle (1970 logo) is visible in the center.
 
−
* Watermarks of Ben Franklin repeat from top to bottom on the left side.
 
−
* A vertical, multicolored security thread with "USPS" is woven in and out of the paper to the right of the Franklin watermarks.
 
−
<br style="clear: both;" />
 
−
 
 
−
== Step 5: Redeem the Money Order ==
 
−
 
 
−
Once you have received and verified the USPMO, you have two main options for redemption.
 
−
 
 
−
=== Cashing It Out ===
 
−
You can redeem a USPMO for cash at any post office.
 
  
−
* You must present a valid photo ID that matches the name written in the "To" field.
+
It is recommended to cash the USPMO at a Post Office. You will need a valid photo ID that matches the name in the "To" field.  
−
* Post offices may have limited cash on hand. For larger amounts (e.g., $1,000), they may not have enough cash in a single drawer. You may need to visit different locations or at different times.
 
  
−
=== Exchanging for a New USPMO ===
+
If you are depositing into a bank, be aware that many physical branches now require you to use a teller for money orders rather than an ATM or mobile deposit.
−
You can exchange a USPMO you received for a new, blank USPMO in your name. This is useful if you want to use the funds to pay bills or send money elsewhere without depositing it into a bank account. Some cashiers may be unfamiliar with this process, but it is allowed. If you encounter resistance, politely ask for a manager.
 

Latest revision as of 16:53, 17 January 2026

US Postal Money Orders (USPMO) are one of the most private payment methods available on Bisq. Because they are bearer instruments, they can be purchased with cash and mailed, providing a path to Bitcoin without a digital bank trail.

  • Region: United States only
  • Maximum Trade Period: 8 days
  • Maximum Trade Size: 0.0625 BTC

This guide provides a complete overview of how to safely and privately use this payment method for buying and selling bitcoin on Bisq.

Critical Trading Requirements

Before you create or take an offer using US Postal Money Orders, you must understand and agree to the following rules. Failure to comply will result in losing any trade dispute.

Note
  • Avoid "Same-Name" Fields: Do NOT write the BTC Seller’s name in both the "From" and "To" fields. Many banks and automated systems now flag these as suspicious, which can lead to complications or account closures for the Seller.
  • Video Proof is Required: Photos are no longer sufficient to prove a payment was sent. BTC buyers must record a continuous video of the USPMO being filled out, placed into the envelope, and sealed with the tracking label visible.
  • Use Tracking: All USPMOs must be sent with a service that provides delivery confirmation (e.g., USPS Tracking).
  • Burden of Proof: In a dispute, the sender (BTC buyer) bears 100% of the responsibility to provide the required mailing video and tracking information.

If you are not prepared to follow these rules, do not trade using USPMO on Bisq.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Trading with USPMO

Step 1: Set Up Your Payment Account

First, you need to set up a USPMO payment account in the Bisq UI. It is important to distinguish between the Account Information used within the software and the Physical Information used on the money order and envelope.

Account Information in Bisq UI

Similar to "Cash by Mail," the name you enter into your Bisq payment account does not need to match your real identity.

  • Name: You may use a pseudonym or a randomly generated name in the Bisq software. This name is only seen by your trading partner in the app.
  • Address:
    • BTC Buyers: Use a valid return address. For privacy, a PO Box or a trusted secondary address is recommended. If the mail is returned and your return address is invalid, the funds will be lost.
    • BTC Sellers: Must provide a valid mailing address where you can physically receive the envelope.

Information on the Physical Money Order

While your Bisq UI profile can be anonymous, the physical instrument has strict requirements:

  • Never Use Fake Info: Writing a fake name or a pseudonym on a US Postal Money Order is a federal offense.
  • For the Seller: To cash the money order, the "To" field must match your legal photo ID.
  • For the Buyer: You must decide between using your real name in the "From" field (best for seller's bank compliance) or leaving it blank (best for your privacy). Do not use your Bisq pseudonym on the physical document.

Step 2: Purchase the Money Order

  • Amount Limit: Up to $1,000 per money order. Multiple orders are allowed for larger trades.
  • Payment Method: It is highly recommended to use cash. Paying with a debit card creates a data trail; credit cards are not accepted.
  • Fees: As of January 2026, the fees are:
USPMO Issuing Fees
Dollar Amount Fee
$0.01 to $500.00 $2.55
$500.01 to $1,000.00 $3.60
Postal Military Money Orders $0.84
  • Receipt: Keep your receipt in a safe place. It is essential for tracking and is required if the money order is lost or damaged.

Step 3: Filling and Sending

Because many banks now flag "Same-to-Same" transfers (where the same name is in both fields), you must change how you fill out the "From" (Purchaser) section.

Filling out the "From" Section

The "To" field must always be the Seller's legal name. For the "From" field, you have two choices:

  1. Your Information: Most secure for the seller's bank deposits.
  2. Leave Blank: Provides maximum privacy for the buyer, but some banks may refuse to accept the deposit if the sender information is missing.

Mandatory Video Proof

To prevent "ghost shipping" disputes, record a single continuous video:

  1. Show the completed USPMO (matching the trade amount and Seller's name).
  2. Show the USPS purchase receipt.
  3. Place the MO inside a blank sheet of paper (privacy layer) and then into the envelope.
  4. Seal the envelope and show the tracking label clearly.

Step 4: Verify the Money Order (2025/2026 Designs)

Sellers should verify the authenticity of the USPMO before releasing bitcoin.

Red, Blue, & Red Design (2025/2026 Standard)

Current Design
  • Watermarks: Hold to light to see a Pony Express® rider on the left and "United States Postal Service" in a box on the right.
  • Security Thread: A vertical thread to the right of the rider watermark with "USPS" repeating in alternating directions.
  • QR Code: A QR Code on the front links directly to the USPS "Check Money Order Status" tool for easy verification.


Green & Purple Design (Legacy)

Legacy Design
  • Watermarks: A U.S. Mail eagle in the center and Benjamin Franklin watermarks on the left side.
  • Security Thread: A vertical, multicolored security thread weaving in and out of the paper.


Step 5: Cashing the Money Order

It is recommended to cash the USPMO at a Post Office. You will need a valid photo ID that matches the name in the "To" field.

If you are depositing into a bank, be aware that many physical branches now require you to use a teller for money orders rather than an ATM or mobile deposit.

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