I just had a bad experience at this location attempting to cash a money order. I received a USPS money order as a gift over four years ago but made the mistake of putting it somewhere "safe." I was cleaning over the weekend and found it in an envelope, under a pile of papers, etc. I tried cashing it at a bank but was told they would not honor money orders more than two years old and I would need to go to the post office for help. In retrospect, I suspect the bank employee may have been mistaken or maybe they have some sort of policy.
Today, I walked into the Capuchino Post Office and explained my predicament. The woman behind the counter said that the money orders expire after two years and it was no longer good. I plead my case with her and she continued to explain that it was no longer good and there was nothing she could do. Apparently my persistence caused her to chuckle about the issue, which I found upsetting. I did not find this funny at all... from my point of view, the Post Office was given money that was intended for me, and now I wasn't going to get it? She reluctantly wrote down a phone number (passed the buck) so that I could speak with someone else about my situation.
I walked outside and called the number which turned out to be for the post office located on Broadway in Millbrae. I spoke with a polite and friendly woman who quickly assured me that USPS money orders never expire. Also, my money order could be cashed immediately at the post office if I was in possession of the original money order and I was the actual recipient.
I really didn't want to drive to Millbrae to do this if I didn't have to, so I went back in and told that same woman she should be able to cash it. She obviously didn't believe me but took my money order and disappeared into the back to check it out for herself. She was gone for what seemed like an eternity while other customers trickled in and backed up in the line. By the way, there were no other people in line behind me when this whole charade began.
At this point I used my phone to look at the USPS website where it clearly stated USPS money orders never expire. I did see something about lost money orders not being able to be re-issued after a certain amount of time, but that had nothing to do with my situation.
When the lady finally returned, she told me she would cash the money order for me like it was no big deal. She checked that my identification matched the money order, checked the serial number in some book to make sure it wasn't lost or stolen, and then proceeded to give me cash.
I walked out with my money but of course no apology or acknowledgement of her error. I don't know which I find worse... Her flippant attitude toward my predicament or the fact that she was so sure about something she was completely wrong about. Terrible customer service.
One thing to note, I have been to this post office many times over the years. I have not been particularly fond of the customer service but never had to much more than mail packages or buy stamps. Any prior criticism would have been for slow service and not opening up a second window when the line backs up. Which reminds me... I felt really bad for the people waiting in line behind me. There ended up being at least five people waiting by the time I was done. read more
