Chase offers currency exchange at most branches, but the rates and fees vary by location and the amount you're exchanging

Chase will exchange foreign currency for US dollars and vice versa at physical branches. You don't need to be a Chase customer to use this service. The exchange happens at the teller window, and you'll receive US dollars or foreign currency in cash on the same day.

The catch is that Chase's exchange rates are not the same as the mid-market rate you see online. Chase adds a margin to the rate — typically 2 to 3 percent above or below the mid-market rate, depending on the currency and the direction of the exchange. You'll also pay a flat fee per transaction, which ranges from $5 to $15 depending on your branch and the currency involved.

Not every Chase branch handles currency exchange. Smaller branches and those in rural areas may not stock foreign currency or may require you to order it in advance. Call your local branch before you go, or check the Chase website to find a branch near you that offers this service.

Key Takeaways

  • Chase exchanges currency at most full-service branches for both customers and non-customers, with cash delivered the same day.
  • Chase's exchange rates include a margin of roughly 2 to 3 percent above the mid-market rate, plus a flat fee of $5 to $15 per transaction.
  • Not all branches stock foreign currency, so you should call ahead or use the branch locator on Chase's website to confirm availability.
  • If you need a large amount of currency or an uncommon one, you may need to order it several days in advance.

What currencies Chase stocks and how to order ahead

Chase keeps the major currencies in stock at most branches: Canadian dollars, euros, British pounds, Japanese yen, Mexican pesos, and Australian dollars. If you need a less common currency — Thai baht, South African rand, or Norwegian krone, for example — the branch will need to order it, which typically takes 3 to 5 business days.

To order currency in advance, call the branch directly or visit in person. Have the currency code ready (EUR for euros, GBP for pounds, and so on) and tell them how much you need. The branch will hold the currency for you, usually for up to 30 days. You'll still pay the exchange fee and the margin when you pick it up.

If you're exchanging a large amount — more than $10,000 — the branch may ask you to fill out a Currency Transaction Report (CTR) for federal reporting purposes. This is routine and does not affect your ability to exchange the currency.

How the exchange fee and rate work in practice

Let's say you're exchanging $1,000 USD for euros. The mid-market rate on the day you exchange might be 1 USD = 0.92 EUR. Chase's rate might be 1 USD = 0.89 EUR — a margin of about 3 percent in Chase's favor. So $1,000 at Chase's rate gives you 890 euros, not 920. You'll also pay a $5 to $15 fee, which comes out of the euros you receive or is added to the dollars you pay.

The margin and fee mean you're paying more than the market rate for the convenience of getting cash the same day. If you're exchanging a small amount for a trip, the total cost is usually $15 to $40. For larger amounts, the percentage cost is lower, but the dollar amount is higher.

You can ask the teller what rate they're quoting before you commit to the exchange. They'll tell you the exact amount you'll receive or pay, including the fee. If the rate seems too high, you can decline and try another method.

Alternatives to Chase currency exchange

If Chase's rates don't work for you, other banks offer currency exchange, though not all branches do. Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank all exchange currency at select locations, usually with similar margins and fees to Chase.

Currency exchange shops — often found in airports, tourist areas, and downtown business districts — sometimes offer better rates than banks, but not always. They also charge fees. Compare the total cost (rate plus fee) before you exchange anywhere.

For larger amounts or if you have time before your trip, a service like Wise (formerly TransferWise) or OFX lets you lock in a rate online and pick up cash at a partner location, or have it deposited to a foreign bank account. These services often have better rates than banks, but they take 1 to 3 business days and may require you to set up an account.

What to bring when you exchange currency at Chase

Bring a valid photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID. If you're not a Chase customer, you'll need to show ID to complete the transaction. If you are a Chase customer, you can use your debit card or account number instead, though ID is still required.

Bring the cash or the foreign currency you want to exchange. Chase will count it at the window and confirm the amount before they quote you the rate. If you're exchanging a large amount of foreign currency, bring it in the original packaging or in a way that makes it straightforward to count.

If you ordered currency in advance, bring the confirmation or reference number the branch gave you. This speeds up the pickup process.

Timing and how long the exchange takes

If the currency is in stock, the exchange takes 10 to 15 minutes at the teller window. They'll count your cash, confirm the rate, process the transaction, and hand you the exchanged currency. You walk out with cash the same day.

If you ordered the currency in advance, pickup is faster — usually 5 minutes. The branch has already counted and set aside the currency, so the teller just confirms your ID and hands it over.

If the currency is not in stock and you didn't order ahead, the branch will order it and call you when it arrives, usually 3 to 5 business days later. You'll then go back to pick it up and pay the fee at that time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be a Chase customer to exchange currency?

No. Chase exchanges currency for anyone with a valid photo ID. You don't need an account. Non-customers pay the same rate and fee as customers.

What if my branch doesn't have the currency I need?

Call the branch and ask them to order it. Most currencies arrive within 3 to 5 business days. The branch will hold it for you, and you'll pay the fee when you pick it up. If the currency is very uncommon, it may take longer or the branch may not be able to order it at all.

Can I exchange currency online or through the Chase app?

No. Chase only exchanges currency in person at branches. You cannot order or exchange currency through the app or website. You have to visit a branch or call ahead to order.

What happens if the exchange rate changes between when I order and when I pick up?

The rate you pay is the rate on the day you pick up the currency, not the day you ordered it. If rates move in your favor, you benefit. If they move against you, you pay the new rate. This is why it's worth asking the branch to quote you the current rate before you commit.

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

Chase will exchange any amount, but transactions over $10,000 require a Currency Transaction Report for federal reporting. This is a standard form and does not prevent the exchange. For very large amounts, call ahead so the branch can have enough currency on hand.