Chase does exchange foreign currency, but the process and fees vary by location and account type
Chase Bank will exchange foreign currency at most of its branches, but you need to plan ahead. The bank does not keep all currencies in stock at every location, so you typically need to order the currency you want in advance — usually three to five business days before you need it. Some branches may have common currencies like euros, Canadian dollars, and British pounds available without an order, but this varies by branch size and location.
When you exchange currency at Chase, you pay the bank's exchange rate, which is different from the mid-market rate you see online. Chase adds a margin to the rate, meaning you get fewer foreign currency units per dollar than the real-time market rate. The exact margin depends on the currency and current market conditions. You also may pay a flat fee per transaction, though some Chase accounts waive this fee.
You do not have to be a Chase customer to exchange currency at a Chase branch, but customers may receive better rates or lower fees. The bank can exchange currency into US dollars or from US dollars into foreign currency, but exchanging between two foreign currencies (for example, euros to British pounds) is not available at branches — you would need to do that through a currency exchange service or your own bank in another country.
Key Takeaways
- Most Chase branches exchange foreign currency, but you should call ahead or order online because many currencies must be ordered three to five business days in advance.
- Chase's exchange rate includes a margin above the mid-market rate, so you will receive fewer units of foreign currency per dollar than the published market rate.
- Chase customers may receive better exchange rates or lower fees than non-customers, depending on your account type.
- You can exchange currency at a Chase branch in person, but exchanging between two foreign currencies (not involving US dollars) is not available at branches.
- Fees and rates vary by branch and currency, so calling your local branch or checking Chase's website before you go will save time.
How to order foreign currency through Chase
To order foreign currency, call your local Chase branch or visit a branch in person and ask to place an order. You can also order online through Chase's website if you have a Chase checking or savings account. When you order, tell the branch which currency you need, how much, and when you need it. The branch will confirm the exchange rate and any fees before finalizing the order.
Once your currency arrives at the branch, you will receive a notification (usually by phone or email, depending on how you ordered). You then go to the branch with your ID and payment method — either cash, a debit card, or a check drawn on your Chase account. The branch will give you the foreign currency and a receipt showing the exchange rate and fees charged.
If you need currency urgently and do not have time to order, ask the branch whether they have the currency in stock. Some high-traffic branches keep small amounts of popular currencies available for same-day exchange, but availability is not may provide. Branches in or near airports or tourist areas are more likely to have currency on hand.
Exchange rates and fees at Chase
Chase publishes its exchange rates daily, but the rate you receive depends on when you exchange the currency and which branch you use. The rate shown online is typically the rate for that day, but rates can shift throughout the day as markets move. When you place an order, Chase locks in the rate at the time you complete the transaction, not when you pick up the currency.
Fees for currency exchange at Chase are not published as a single flat amount — they vary by currency and account type. Some Chase checking accounts (such as certain premium or business accounts) may have reduced or waived exchange fees. Non-customers typically pay a higher fee than account holders. The best way to find out the exact fee is to call your branch or ask when you place an order.
Chase also charges a fee if you exchange currency back into US dollars. For example, if you return from a trip with leftover euros and want to convert them back to dollars, Chase will charge you a fee on top of explore its exchange rate. This fee is separate from any fee charged when you originally exchanged dollars for euros.
Alternatives to exchanging currency at Chase
If Chase's rates or fees do not work for you, other options exist. Currency exchange services like XE, OFX, or Wise (formerly TransferWise) often offer better exchange rates than banks, especially for larger amounts. These services can deliver currency to your home or allow you to pick it up at a location, though delivery takes longer than a branch visit.
ATMs in the country you are visiting typically offer better exchange rates than banks or currency exchange services, because they use the mid-market rate with only a small ATM fee added. If you are traveling, withdrawing cash from an ATM abroad is often cheaper than exchanging currency before you leave.
Credit cards and debit cards also exchange currency automatically when you use them abroad, though the exchange rate includes a margin similar to what Chase charges. Some travel credit cards offer better foreign exchange rates or waive foreign transaction fees, so comparing card options before a trip can save money.
What currencies Chase can exchange
Chase exchanges the major world currencies, including euros, British pounds, Canadian dollars, Japanese yen, Swiss francs, Australian dollars, and Mexican pesos. The bank also exchanges many other currencies, but less common ones may take longer to order or may not be available at all branches.
If you need a currency that is not commonly traded, call your branch to ask whether they can order it. Some branches can order less common currencies through their currency supplier, but this may take longer than the standard three to five business days and may carry a higher fee. If a branch cannot order the currency you need, they can refer you to a currency exchange service that specializes in rare or less-traded currencies.
Exchanging currency as a Chase customer versus non-customer
Chase customers generally receive better exchange rates and lower fees than non-customers. The exact benefit depends on your account type — premium checking accounts, business accounts, and wealth management accounts often receive the best rates. Basic checking accounts may receive a smaller discount or no discount at all.
To receive the customer rate, you must bring your Chase debit card or have your account number ready when you exchange currency. If you are not a Chase customer, you can still exchange currency at any Chase branch, but you will pay the standard non-customer rate and fees. You will need to bring a valid ID and payment in cash, by debit card, or by check.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I exchange foreign currency at any Chase branch?
Most Chase branches exchange currency, but not all. Very small branches or those in rural areas may not offer this service. Call ahead to confirm your branch exchanges currency before you visit. If your branch does not, they can usually order currency for you or direct you to a nearby branch that has it in stock.
How long does it take to get foreign currency from Chase?
If you order in advance, most currencies arrive within three to five business days. Some high-traffic branches may have popular currencies available for same-day pickup, but this is not may provide. Call your branch to ask what they have in stock before you visit.
What if I need currency on a weekend or holiday?
Chase branches are closed on weekends and federal holidays, so you cannot pick up currency on those days. If you need currency urgently, plan to order it by Thursday for a Friday pickup, or order it several days in advance if you need it on a Monday after a holiday weekend.
Does Chase charge a fee to convert leftover foreign currency back to dollars?
Yes. Chase charges a fee to exchange foreign currency back into US dollars, in addition to explore its exchange rate. The fee amount varies by currency and account type. Ask your branch for the fee before you exchange leftover currency.
Can I exchange currency online without visiting a branch?
You can place an order online if you have a Chase account, but you must visit a branch in person to pick up the currency and complete the payment. Chase does not deliver currency by mail or allow you to receive it without visiting a branch.