Yes, Chase exchanges foreign currency, but only at certain locations and with advance notice
Chase Bank does exchange foreign currency at many of its branches, but the process is not the same everywhere. Some branches keep currency on hand; others order it for you. You cannot walk in and expect to exchange money the same day at most locations — you typically need to call ahead and place an order, then pick it up a few days later.
Chase charges a margin on top of the exchange rate, meaning you will get fewer foreign currency units per dollar than the mid-market rate you see online. The exact margin varies depending on the currency and the amount. Chase does not publish these margins in advance, so you have to ask your branch what rate they will give you before you commit.
If you are a Chase customer with a checking or savings account, you can order currency through your branch or sometimes through the Chase mobile app or website. If you are not a Chase customer, some branches will still exchange currency for you, but policies vary by location.
Key Takeaways
- Call your local Chase branch before you go — most locations do not keep all currencies in stock and need several days to order.
- Chase charges a margin above the mid-market exchange rate, and you should ask what rate applies to your specific currency before ordering.
- Chase customers can sometimes order currency through the mobile app or website, but calling the branch is the most reliable method.
- If your branch cannot provide the currency you need, ask them to recommend another Chase location or a currency exchange service nearby.
How to order foreign currency at Chase
Start by calling the branch where you want to pick up the currency. Ask whether they have the currency you need in stock. If they do not, ask how long it takes to order — usually two to five business days, depending on the currency and how much you need.
Tell the branch representative the amount you want to exchange and the currency. They will tell you the exchange rate Chase is offering that day. Write down the rate and the total amount of foreign currency you will receive. Ask whether there are any fees beyond the rate margin.
Once you agree to the rate, the branch will place the order. You will need to go in person to pick up the currency and pay for it. Bring your ID and a debit card or checkbook. Some branches may require you to have a Chase account, so confirm this when you call.
What currencies Chase typically stocks or can order
Chase can order most major currencies, including euros, British pounds, Canadian dollars, Japanese yen, Swiss francs, Australian dollars, and Mexican pesos. Less common currencies may take longer to order or may not be available at all.
The currencies a branch keeps on hand depend on the location. Branches in areas with large immigrant communities or near airports are more likely to have multiple currencies ready. Rural branches may stock only a few. Always call ahead rather than assuming your branch has what you need.
If Chase cannot get the currency you need, ask the branch for a referral to a currency exchange service. Some independent currency exchanges can order harder-to-find currencies faster than banks.
Understanding Chase's exchange rates and fees
Chase's exchange rate includes a margin — the difference between what Chase pays for the currency and what they charge you. This margin is how the bank makes money on currency exchange. The margin varies by currency; major currencies like euros and pounds typically have smaller margins than less common ones.
You will not know the exact rate until you call the branch and ask. Chase does not post exchange rates for currency orders online. The rate you get may also depend on how much currency you are ordering — larger amounts sometimes get slightly better rates.
Ask the branch whether there are additional fees beyond the rate margin. Some branches charge a flat fee for ordering currency; others do not. Get the total cost in writing before you commit to the order.
Alternatives if Chase cannot help
If your local Chase branch cannot order the currency you need, or if the rate is too high, you have other options. Independent currency exchange services, often found in shopping centers or near airports, sometimes offer better rates for certain currencies. However, they may charge higher fees for small amounts.
If you are exchanging a large amount of money, ask Chase whether they can refer you to a wholesale currency exchange service. Some banks work with these services for customers with bigger needs.
Credit unions sometimes offer currency exchange to members at better rates than banks. If you belong to a credit union, call and ask whether they exchange currency and what their rates are.
Using Chase's international services instead of exchanging cash
If you are traveling or sending money abroad, exchanging physical currency at a branch may not be your best option. Chase offers other ways to access foreign currency that may be cheaper or more convenient.
Chase debit and credit cards can be used at ATMs in most countries, and you will get the mid-market exchange rate plus a small ATM fee — often better than the margin Chase charges for currency exchange. Chase also offers international wire transfers, though these have their own fees.
If you need to send money to another country regularly, ask Chase about their international transfer services. For very large amounts, a wire transfer may be cheaper than exchanging cash.
What to bring when you pick up your currency
Bring a government-issued ID, such as a passport or driver's license. Bring the debit card or checkbook you will use to pay. If you are not a Chase customer, ask the branch what payment methods they accept.
Bring the confirmation number or reference the branch gave you when you placed the order. This helps the teller find your order quickly. If you ordered a large amount, bring a bag or envelope to carry it safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I exchange foreign currency at any Chase branch?
Most Chase branches can order currency for you, but not all keep currency in stock. Call the specific branch where you want to pick up the money. Some very small branches may not offer this service at all, so ask.
How long does it take to get foreign currency from Chase?
If the branch has the currency in stock, you may be able to pick it up the same day or the next day. If they need to order it, expect two to five business days. Weekends and holidays can add time, so plan ahead if you are traveling soon.
Is Chase's exchange rate better or worse than other places?
Chase's margin is typically higher than the mid-market rate you see online, but competitive with other banks. Independent currency exchanges and ATM withdrawals abroad often offer better rates. Compare a few options before deciding where to exchange your money.
Do I need to be a Chase customer to exchange currency?
Many Chase branches will exchange currency for non-customers, but policies vary by location. Call your branch and ask. If they cannot help you, they may refer you to another bank or currency exchange service nearby.
What if I need a currency Chase cannot order?
Ask the branch for a referral to an independent currency exchange service. These services often stock less common currencies or can order them. You may also consider using an ATM abroad if you are traveling, which gives you access to local currency without needing to order in advance.