What is the first step for cashing a money order?

The first step for cashing a money order is to look for the security features. This is crucial because it ensures that the money order is legitimate and has not been forged or altered. By inspecting the security features, such as watermarks, special printing, and other design elements that are difficult to replicate, you can confirm the authenticity of the money order before proceeding with further actions.

Checking the expiration date or verifying the issuer are important, but identifying the security features should come first to establish that the document you are handling is valid. Endorsing the money order would be a step taken after confirming its authenticity. Therefore, looking for security features is the foundational step in the process of cashing a money order.