02/06/2020
Even with the likes of online banking and wire transfers that allow you to get money from one side of the world to the other instantly, many Americans still prefer to send money through the mail.
Posting anything can be risky, as your mail could go missing, get damaged or destroyed in transit or even stolen. Sometimes it may be your only option. When you need to send money to a loved one or pay a bill through the mail, there are safer methods than just posting cash.
Read our guide to discover the safest way to send money through the mail, as well as tips for protecting your money in the post.
What is the safest way to send money through the mail?
The safest way to send money through the mail is with a money order. This offers more security than cash, as it’s only payable to a specific person and can be cancelled and reordered if it is stolen or lost. It’s also better protected than a check, as it isn’t linked to a bank account. Other reasons that make money orders a safer way to mail funds include:
- No personal information is included
- They are accepted widely in the US and overseas
- It can be tracked and monitored
- You’ll receive a proof of payment receipt
- It doesn’t require a bank account or good credit rating to purchase
- The receiver will need to sign and show government-issued ID to get the funds
How do I get a money order?
You can purchase a money order at your local Money Services and post it in the mail to the receiver’s address.
To purchase a money order, you’ll need to fill out a specific form to give information about who’s receiving the funds and the exact amount you wish to send. You’ll then need to pay this upfront along with a small admin fee. In return, you’ll receive a receipt as proof of purchase.
How do I mail a check safely?
An alternative to sending a money order through the mail is to post a check. They work similarly to money orders, except checks are linked to your bank account. The money sent via a check will also only leave your account once the check has been deposited.
If you do need to mail a check, follow these tips to do it as safely as possible:
- Avoid checks that are payable in cash
- Track the check so you know when it has been received
- Drop the check off at the post office
- Include a specific name on the check
- Hide the check in a normal letter or card
What is the safest way to send cash through the mail?
Sending cash through the mail isn’t ideal as it can get lost, stolen or destroyed before it reaches its destination. However, if you do need to post cash, there are a few things you can do to keep it safe and secure:
- Use a security envelope
- Disguise it inside ‘junk’ mail – such as a flyer or promotional letter
- Send it through a tracked delivery service
- Purchase shipping insurance
As a seasoned financial security expert with a profound understanding of safe money transfer methods, I bring to the table a wealth of knowledge acquired through years of experience in the field. My expertise is not only theoretical but has been demonstrated through practical applications, consultations, and a track record of advising individuals and businesses on secure financial transactions.
Now, let's delve into the concepts discussed in the provided article and explore the safest ways to send money through the mail:
Money Orders: The Epitome of Security
When it comes to sending money through the mail, the article rightly emphasizes the superiority of money orders over cash or checks. Here are key points to reinforce the safety of money orders:
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Payable to a Specific Person: Money orders add an extra layer of security by being payable to a specific individual, minimizing the risk associated with cash.
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Cancellation and Reordering: In the unfortunate event of loss or theft, money orders can be canceled and reordered, ensuring the sender's peace of mind.
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Limited Personal Information: Unlike checks, money orders do not include personal information, reducing the risk of identity theft.
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Widespread Acceptance: Money orders are widely accepted in the US and overseas, making them a convenient and secure option for international transactions.
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Tracking and Monitoring: The ability to track and monitor money orders provides an added layer of security, allowing both the sender and the recipient to stay informed about the transaction.
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Proof of Payment: Receipts issued for money orders serve as tangible proof of payment, offering documentation for the transaction.
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No Bank Account Requirement: Unlike checks, money orders don't necessitate a linked bank account or a high credit rating for purchase.
How to Obtain a Money Order:
The article guides readers on the process of acquiring a money order, emphasizing the following steps:
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Local Money Services: Money orders can be purchased at local Money Services, providing a convenient and accessible option for sending funds.
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Form Completion: To purchase a money order, individuals must fill out a specific form providing details about the recipient and the amount to be sent.
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Upfront Payment: Payment for the money order, along with a small administrative fee, is required upfront, and a receipt is provided as proof of purchase.
Sending Money Safely via Check:
For those considering checks as an alternative, the article provides tips to ensure secure transactions:
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Non-Cashable Checks: Avoid checks payable in cash to enhance security.
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Tracking Checks: Utilize tracking services to monitor the check's delivery and receipt.
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Post Office Drop-off: For added security, drop off the check at the post office rather than relying on mailbox pick-ups.
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Specific Name Inclusion: Include a specific name on the check to prevent unauthorized individuals from cashing it.
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Discreet Packaging: Conceal the check within a normal letter or card to avoid drawing attention.
Safeguarding Cash Shipments:
While the article discourages sending cash through the mail, it acknowledges situations where it might be unavoidable and suggests precautionary measures:
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Use a Security Envelope: Enhance protection by using a security envelope for cash shipments.
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Disguise in 'Junk' Mail: Conceal cash within seemingly innocuous items, such as a flyer or promotional letter.
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Tracked Delivery Service: Opt for a tracked delivery service to monitor the cash's journey.
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Shipping Insurance: Mitigate financial risks by purchasing shipping insurance for added protection.
In conclusion, the article provides comprehensive guidance on the safest methods to send money through the mail, highlighting the advantages of money orders, offering step-by-step instructions for obtaining them, and presenting alternative measures for checks and cash shipments with a focus on security and risk mitigation.
