What should customers use to pay for sending a money order to the Department of State?

When sending a money order to the Department of State, customers must use a method that ensures proper processing and accountability. Check or debit card payments are accepted because they provide a reliable and traceable form of payment.

Checks are a common method for making payments, as they allow for a written record of the transaction. Debit cards also offer a similar level of traceability and come directly from the customer's bank account, making them a secure choice for sending payments.

Using cash is not advisable for such transactions because it lacks documentation and, therefore, is less secure. Credit cards and gift cards may not be accepted due to varying policies on how payments for money orders are processed by the Department of State. Therefore, check or debit card payments align with best practices for sending a money order in this context, ensuring that the payment method is both accepted and practical for tracking payments.