Chase offers currency exchange, but only at certain branches and with significant markups

Yes, Chase Bank does exchange foreign currency, but the service is not available everywhere and comes with costs that make it one of the more expensive ways to convert money. You can exchange currency at some Chase branches in person, and you can order foreign cash before you travel. The catch: Chase charges a markup on top of the real exchange rate — typically 2% to 3% above what the market rate is that day — plus you may pay a flat fee depending on the amount and the currency.

If you need currency for travel, you have other options that often cost less. Credit unions, online currency services, and ATMs in the destination country itself usually offer better rates. Understanding what Chase charges and how it compares matters before you hand over your money.

Key Takeaways

  • Chase exchanges currency at some branches in person, but availability varies by location and you should call ahead to confirm.
  • Chase charges a markup of roughly 2% to 3% above the market rate, plus may add a flat fee for smaller transactions.
  • Ordering foreign cash through Chase takes 7 to 10 business days and requires a Chase checking or savings account.
  • ATMs in your destination country, credit unions, and online currency services often charge less than Chase for the same exchange.
  • Using a credit card with no foreign transaction fee abroad is usually cheaper than exchanging cash before you leave.

How to exchange currency at a Chase branch

If you want to exchange currency in person, you need to visit a Chase branch that offers the service. Not all branches do — availability depends on the location and how much currency the branch keeps on hand. Call your local Chase branch first to confirm they have the currency you need and that they will exchange it that day. You will need a valid ID and your Chase debit card or account number.

Bring the exact amount of U.S. dollars you want to exchange. Chase will convert it at their rate, apply the markup, and hand you the foreign currency. The whole transaction usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. If the branch does not have the currency in stock, they may be able to order it for you, which takes several business days.

Ordering foreign currency before you travel

If your branch does not have the currency on hand, you can order it through Chase's foreign currency service. You place the order online through your Chase account or by calling Chase customer service, and the cash arrives at your branch in 7 to 10 business days. You must have a Chase checking or savings account to order this way.

Ordering ahead is useful if you need a large amount or an uncommon currency, but the timeline means you have to plan ahead. Chase charges the same markup on ordered currency as they do on in-branch exchanges. Once the cash arrives, you pick it up at your branch with your ID.

What Chase charges for currency exchange

Chase's markup on currency exchange is typically 2% to 3% above the mid-market rate — the real rate banks use when trading with each other. On top of that, Chase may charge a flat fee ranging from $5 to $15 depending on the transaction size and the currency. For example, if you exchange $1,000 USD for euros, you might pay a 2.5% markup plus a $10 fee, which adds up to roughly $35 in total costs.

The exact markup and fees vary by currency and change over time. Chase does not publish a fixed fee schedule, so the best way to know what you will pay is to ask the teller or call your branch before you exchange. Some currencies that are less commonly traded may have higher markups.

Cheaper alternatives to Chase currency exchange

Several other options usually cost less than Chase. Credit unions often offer currency exchange to members at rates closer to the mid-market rate, sometimes with no markup at all or a markup under 1%. If you belong to a credit union, call them first before going to Chase.

Online currency services like OFX, Wise, and XE allow you to order foreign currency online and pick it up at a location or have it delivered. These services typically charge 1% to 2% markup, which is lower than Chase. The trade-off is that you need to order ahead and may pay a delivery fee.

Using an ATM in your destination country is often the cheapest option overall. Your bank charges a foreign ATM fee (usually $2 to $5 per withdrawal), but the exchange rate is typically better than what Chase offers, and you avoid the markup entirely. If you are traveling for more than a few days, withdrawing cash from an ATM abroad usually costs less than exchanging before you leave.

A credit card with no foreign transaction fee is even cheaper if the merchant accepts cards. You pay the card's exchange rate, which is usually close to the mid-market rate, and you avoid cash exchange fees altogether. Check your card's terms before you travel to see if it charges foreign transaction fees.

What currencies Chase can exchange

Chase stocks the most common currencies used by travelers: euros, British pounds, Canadian dollars, Japanese yen, Mexican pesos, and a few others. Less common currencies may not be available at your branch, or they may take longer to order. The branch can tell you which currencies they have in stock and which ones they can order.

If you need a currency that Chase cannot get, an online currency service or a specialty currency exchange shop may be your only option. These shops are often found near airports and tourist areas, but they typically charge even higher markups than Chase, so they are a last resort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I exchange currency at any Chase branch?

Not all Chase branches offer currency exchange. Availability depends on the location and the branch's inventory. Call your branch first to confirm they have the currency you need and that they can exchange it that day. Larger branches in major cities are more likely to have the service.

How long does it take to get foreign currency from Chase?

If the branch has the currency in stock, the exchange takes 15 to 30 minutes. If you order it, it arrives at your branch in 7 to 10 business days. Plan ahead if you need currency for an upcoming trip.

Is Chase's exchange rate better than using an ATM abroad?

No. Using an ATM in your destination country almost always costs less. You pay a $2 to $5 ATM fee, but the exchange rate is better and you avoid Chase's 2% to 3% markup. For trips longer than a few days, an ATM is the cheaper choice.

Do I need a Chase account to exchange currency?

For in-branch exchanges, you need a valid ID and a Chase debit card or account number. For ordering foreign currency ahead of time, you must have a Chase checking or savings account. Non-customers cannot order through Chase's online system.

What if I need currency for a trip that leaves tomorrow?

Call your nearest Chase branch immediately to see if they have the currency in stock. If they do, you can exchange it the same day. If not, you will need to use an ATM abroad, find a currency exchange shop near the airport, or use a credit card instead of cash.