When you need a secure way to send money without using cash or a personal check, a money order at Tom Thumb might be the answer. Available at most Tom Thumb locations and backed by Western Union, this service provides a simple and low-cost solution for paying bills or sending funds to friends and family.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to buy, fill out, and track your money order. No matter how or why you need to send money, Western Union makes it easy.
Key takeaways
- Tom Thumb money order services are powered by Western Union and are available at the store’s Customer Service Desk.
- Fees are low, typically around $1 or less per money order.
- You can track, cancel, or request a refund if you have your receipt and follow the proper steps.
- While money orders can be mailed abroad, Western Union offers faster global transfer options to send money internationally.
Does Tom Thumb offer money orders?
Tom Thumb sells money orders through its partnership with Western Union. You can purchase them at the store’s Customer Service Desk.
Money orders work like prepaid checks. You pay the amount upfront plus a small fee and receive a paper document that the recipient can cash or deposit. It’s a great option for paying rent, bills, or making secure payments when cash and personal checks may not apply.
While you can buy a money order at Tom Thumb, you’ll need to find an alternative location to cash it.
Want to learn more about how this process works? Check out our guide to money orders for more information.
How much is a money order at Tom Thumb?
Buying a money order at your local store is a convenient and affordable way to send money. Most money orders cost $1 or less, although prices may vary slightly by location.
Recipients may pay a small fee depending on where they cash the money order.
Tom Thumb money order limits
Most money orders at Tom Thumb and other stores have a cap of $1,000. When you need to send a larger amount, you’ll need to buy multiple money orders and pay the fee for each.
Plan ahead if you need to send a higher amount or multiple money orders. Some stores may require a valid government-issued ID for multiple money order purchases.
How to send money using a money order
Sending money with a Tom Thumb money order, powered by Western Union, is a simple process. Follow the steps below to purchase a money order:
- Go to the Customer Service Desk. Visit your local Tom Thumb store’s customer service counter.
- Request the money order. Tell the associate the amount you need.
- Pay for the money order. Use cash or a debit card to complete your purchase. You can’t buy a money order with a credit card.
- Complete the money order form. Include the recipient’s name, your details, and any memo information.
- Send your money order. Mail or hand-deliver the money order to the recipient. Always keep your receipt for tracking or refund purposes.
How to fill out money orders at Tom Thumb
Completing a money order correctly ensures smooth processing. Follow these steps:
- Write the recipient’s name in the “Pay to the Order of” field.
- Add your name and address in the “Purchaser” section.
- Include a memo (if needed) for account numbers or payment purposes.
- Sign the money order on the “Purchaser’s Signature” line.
- Keep the receipt with the tracking number for your records.
How to track or cancel a money order bought at Tom Thumb
Keep your stub or receipt after purchasing a Tom Thumb money order, as it contains the Western Union tracking number. Because money orders don’t expire, you’ll want to use tracking information to check its status and confirm when (or if) it’s cashed.
To track your money order, follow the instructions on the back of the stub. You’ll need the money order number and exact dollar amount. Should you no longer need the money order, and it’s been unaltered, you may be able to cash it yourself by writing “Not used for purpose intended” on the back. Check with your bank first.
If your money order is lost or stolen, you can submit a claim through Western Union’s support form.
Can you use money orders to send money abroad?
While you can mail a money order purchased at Tom Thumb or any other retailer, it’s not always the fastest or most reliable option to send money internationally. Mailing delays, lost items, and foreign bank policies can slow down processing or reduce the amount received due to exchange fees.
For a quicker, more direct option, consider Western Union’s global transfer services. Visit one of our many Western Union locations or send money online in minutes to over 200 countries or territories, no stamps required.
Money order FAQs
Yes, Tom Thumb sells Western Union money orders at its customer service counter.
Money order purchase fees are typically around $1 or less per order, depending on location.
Go to the service counter, request your amount, pay with cash or debit, and fill out the form before sending.