Yes, Bank of America can exchange dollars for euros, but you need to plan ahead and understand the costs

Bank of America offers foreign currency exchange at most of its branches, including euros. You can walk in with US dollars and exchange them for euros, or order euros in advance if your branch doesn't have them on hand. The catch is that the exchange rate Bank of America offers is not the same as the mid-market rate you see online — the bank builds in a margin, which means you'll pay more per euro than the wholesale rate.

The process is straightforward if you have time to plan. If you need euros urgently — say, tomorrow morning before a flight — a branch with euros in stock can usually complete the exchange the same day. If your branch doesn't stock euros, you can order them and pick them up in a few business days, or have them delivered to your home for an additional fee.

Key Takeaways

  • Bank of America exchanges dollars for euros at most branches, but the exchange rate includes a markup that costs you more than the mid-market rate.
  • You can exchange currency same-day if your branch has euros in stock, or order ahead if it doesn't.
  • Ordering euros online through your Bank of America account or by calling customer service usually takes three to five business days.
  • Comparing Bank of America's rate to other options — like ATM withdrawals in Europe or a currency specialist — can save you money on larger amounts.

How to order euros through Bank of America

The easiest way to order euros is through your Bank of America online banking account. Log in, look for the foreign currency or travel services section, and select euros. You'll see the current exchange rate, the amount of euros you'll receive for your dollars, and the total cost. Once you confirm the order, you can pick it up at a branch or request home delivery.

If you don't use online banking or prefer to speak with someone, call Bank of America customer service or visit a branch in person. A representative can quote you the current rate, take your order, and tell you when the euros will be ready. Most orders placed before noon on a business day are ready for pickup within three to five business days.

You'll need to bring a valid ID when you pick up your euros. If you're ordering for delivery, the bank will mail the currency to your address on file, though this adds a few extra days and sometimes a delivery fee.

Understanding Bank of America's exchange rates and fees

Bank of America publishes its exchange rates daily, but those rates are not the same as the mid-market rate — the rate at which banks trade currency with each other. Bank of America's retail rate includes a markup, typically 1 to 2 percent above the mid-market rate, depending on the currency and market conditions. This markup is how the bank covers the cost of handling physical currency and managing inventory.

On top of the exchange rate markup, Bank of America may charge a flat fee for the transaction itself, though many customers don't encounter this if they order through online banking. Home delivery of currency usually costs extra — typically $15 to $25 depending on the amount and delivery speed. If you order a small amount, the fees can eat up a meaningful portion of your exchange.

To understand what you're actually paying, ask the bank representative for the total cost in dollars before you confirm the order. That number — not the exchange rate alone — tells you whether the deal makes sense for your situation.

When to order euros and how long it takes

Order euros at least a week before you need them if possible. This gives the bank time to source the currency without rushing, and it gives you time to change your mind or adjust the amount if the rate moves. If your branch stocks euros regularly, you may be able to order just a few days ahead.

Same-day exchange is possible if you visit a branch with euros in stock and you're exchanging a reasonable amount — usually $500 or more. Call your branch first to confirm they have euros available and to ask about any wait times. Smaller amounts or less common currencies may take longer even at a branch.

If you're leaving for Europe in the next day or two and haven't ordered yet, visiting a branch in person is faster than ordering online. Bring your ID and the dollars you want to exchange, and ask whether euros are available when ready.

Comparing Bank of America to other ways to get euros

Bank of America is convenient if you have a branch nearby and want physical euros before you travel, but it's not always the cheapest option. Here are the main alternatives:

  • ATM withdrawals in Europe: Once you arrive, using a Bank of America ATM or a partner bank's ATM in Europe usually gives you a better exchange rate than exchanging dollars at a branch beforehand. You pay an ATM fee (typically $3 to $5 per withdrawal), but the rate is often better enough to make up for it on larger amounts.
  • Currency specialists: Companies like XE, OFX, or Wise offer exchange rates closer to mid-market than Bank of America does, though they may require a bank transfer rather than a same-day cash pickup.
  • Credit cards: Using a credit card with no foreign transaction fee in Europe avoids currency exchange altogether, though you'll pay interest if you carry a balance.

For a trip where you need $500 to $1,000 in euros, comparing Bank of America's total cost to an ATM withdrawal or a currency specialist is worth five minutes of your time. For smaller amounts, Bank of America's convenience may outweigh the higher cost.

What to do if your branch doesn't stock euros

Not every Bank of America branch keeps euros on hand, especially in smaller towns or rural areas. If your branch doesn't stock them, you have three options: order online for delivery to your home, order online for pickup at a branch that does stock euros, or visit a larger branch in a nearby city.

When you order through online banking, the system will show you which branches have euros available for pickup and how long delivery takes. If you choose home delivery, the euros will arrive in a security envelope, usually within five to seven business days depending on your location.

If you're short on time and your branch can't order euros fast enough, a currency specialist or a visit to a larger Bank of America branch in a nearby city may be your best option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I exchange euros back to dollars at Bank of America when I return?

Yes. Bank of America will exchange unused euros back to dollars at any branch, though again the rate will include a markup. You'll receive fewer dollars than you paid for the euros because of the markup on both the outbound and return exchange. Bring your euros and a valid ID.

What if I need euros on a weekend or holiday?

Bank of America branches are closed on weekends and federal holidays, so you can't pick up euros or exchange currency in person on those days. If you need euros urgently, order them online before the weekend or visit a branch on Friday. Some Bank of America locations inside grocery stores or malls have extended hours — check your local branch's schedule.

Is there a limit to how much currency I can exchange?

Bank of America can exchange large amounts of currency, but very large orders (typically $10,000 or more) may require advance notice and additional documentation for compliance reasons. Call your branch or customer service to discuss large orders.

Do I pay taxes on currency exchange?

No. Exchanging currency for personal travel is not a taxable transaction. If you're exchanging large amounts for business purposes or as an investment, consult a tax professional, but routine travel currency exchange has no tax consequence.

Can I order euros through the Bank of America app?

Yes, if your phone has the Bank of America mobile app, you can order foreign currency through the app the same way you would through the website. Look for the travel or foreign currency section, select euros, and choose pickup or delivery.