Debit cards are a great way to pay for a money order. You can use a variety of debit cards, including: Check cards: These cards are linked to your checking account and are functionally equivalent to writing a check. However, the check card transaction amount is immediately deducted from your checking account, whereas checks are deducted when they clear, a process that can take days. Most debit cards are backed by Visa or Mastercard networks. Unless your checking account has overdraft protection, your debit card may be rejected if using it would cause an overdraft. Alternatively, the bank may approve the overdraft but charge you a hefty penalty. Visa or Mastercard debit cards: These are cards that can function in two ways. You can use your PIN to use the card as a check card, sending the request for payment directly to your bank from the merchant. Or you can sign the transaction authorization, in which case the merchant temporarily borrows your payment from Visa or Mastercard until the money is withdrawn from your account. Maestro debit card: Maestro is Mastercard’s European debit card network, which you may encounter if you are an international traveler. Prepaid cards: You buy these cards and load them with funds, including cash, checks, and online transfers. These cards are perfect for unbanked consumers. You’ll never have to worry about an overdraft since you can only spend the card balance. ATM card: This is a debit card that is not associated with a credit card network such as Mastercard or Visa. You use your PIN number with this card — the signature option is not available. You can only use the card at an ATM, where you can get cash to pay for the money order.