How to order foreign currency at Chase

You can order foreign currency through Chase in three ways: online through your Chase account, by phone with a Chase representative, or in person at a Chase branch. The online method is fastest if you're ordering at least a week before you travel. Phone and branch orders work if you need currency sooner, though availability depends on the currency and your location. Chase stocks major currencies like euros, British pounds, Canadian dollars, Japanese yen, and Mexican pesos at most branches; less common currencies may take longer or require ordering through a partner service.

You'll need a Chase checking or savings account to order, and you can pick up your currency at the branch where you ordered it or at another branch if you arrange it in advance. Chase charges a foreign exchange rate that includes their markup over the wholesale rate — this markup varies by currency but is typically 2 to 3 percent above the mid-market rate. You pay when you pick up the currency, not when you order.

Key Takeaways

  • Order online through your Chase account at least seven days before you travel for the fastest service and widest currency selection.
  • Call your local Chase branch or 1-800-935-9935 to order by phone if you need currency within a few days.
  • Pick up your currency at the branch where you ordered it, or arrange a different pickup location when you place your order.
  • Chase charges a markup on the exchange rate that typically ranges from 2 to 3 percent above the mid-market rate, and you pay at pickup.
  • Major currencies are usually in stock; less common ones may require a longer wait or may not be available through Chase directly.

Ordering online through your Chase account

Log into your Chase account on the Chase website or mobile app and look for the foreign currency option, usually found under "Services" or "Travel." Select the currency you need, enter the amount, and choose your pickup location. Chase will show you the exchange rate and any fees before you confirm the order. You'll receive a confirmation number and can track your order status in your account.

Online orders placed before 2 p.m. Eastern Time on a business day typically process the same day, though Chase recommends ordering at least seven days before your trip to ensure the currency is in stock. If you order less than seven days out, Chase will tell you whether the currency is available and when you can pick it up. You cannot pay online; payment happens when you arrive at the branch to collect your currency.

Ordering by phone or at a branch

Call your local Chase branch directly or call Chase customer service at 1-800-935-9935 to order by phone. Have your account number ready and tell the representative which currency you need, how much, and when you plan to travel. They'll check availability and tell you when you can pick up the currency. Phone orders typically take one to three business days if the currency is in stock.

You can also walk into any Chase branch and ask to order foreign currency at the teller window or customer service desk. In-person orders work well if you need currency within a few days and want to see the exchange rate before committing. The branch staff will process your order and give you a pickup date and time. Some branches keep small amounts of major currencies on hand for same-day pickup, but this is not may provide.

What currencies Chase stocks and how long orders take

Chase regularly stocks euros, British pounds, Canadian dollars, Japanese yen, Australian dollars, Swiss francs, Mexican pesos, and Chinese yuan at most branches. Ordering one of these currencies online at least seven days in advance almost always succeeds. If you order less than seven days out, availability depends on recent demand and your branch's inventory.

Currencies outside this list — such as Thai baht, South African rand, or Indian rupees — may not be available through Chase directly. For these, Chase can sometimes order through a partner service, but the wait is typically two to three weeks and the exchange rate markup is higher. Ask your branch whether they can source an uncommon currency before you commit to waiting.

Pickup, payment, and what to bring

You'll pick up your currency at the Chase branch you selected when you ordered, during normal business hours. Bring your confirmation number or order reference, a valid photo ID, and your debit card or checkbook to pay. Chase will not hold your order indefinitely; if you don't pick up within 30 days, the currency may be returned to inventory and you'll need to reorder.

Payment happens at pickup, not at the time of order. The exchange rate you locked in when you ordered is the rate you pay, so you won't be charged a different rate if the market moves between order and pickup. If you need the currency delivered to a different branch, tell the staff when you pick it up and they can arrange a transfer, though this may add a day or two.

Exchange rates and fees

Chase's exchange rate includes a markup over the mid-market rate, which is the rate banks use to trade with each other. The markup typically ranges from 2 to 3 percent depending on the currency, though it can be higher for less common ones. You can see the exact rate and any additional fees in your account before you confirm your online order, or the phone representative will quote it to you.

There is no separate ordering fee or pickup fee beyond the exchange rate markup. If you cancel your order before pickup, Chase will refund your reservation, though you won't get back any difference if the exchange rate has moved in your favor — the rate you locked in is the rate you would have paid.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order foreign currency if I don't have a Chase account?

No, you must have a Chase checking or savings account to order foreign currency. If you don't bank with Chase, you can order through other banks or currency exchange services, though rates and availability vary.

What if the currency I need isn't available?

Chase can sometimes order uncommon currencies through a partner service, but the wait is typically two to three weeks and the exchange rate markup is higher. Ask your branch whether they can source it and how long it will take before you decide to wait.

Can I order currency for someone else?

You can order currency and pick it up for someone else if you have their account information or if they authorize you. Bring your ID and theirs when you pick up, or ask the branch about their policy on authorized pickups.

What happens if I don't pick up my order?

Chase typically holds foreign currency orders for 30 days. If you don't pick up within that window, the currency is returned to inventory and you'll need to reorder if you still need it.

Is the exchange rate locked in when I order, or when I pick up?

The exchange rate is locked in when you place your order. You pay that rate at pickup, regardless of whether the market rate has moved between order and collection.