TD Bank does offer currency exchange, but only at certain locations and with limits on the amounts you can exchange

TD Bank will exchange foreign currency for U.S. dollars at most of its U.S. branches, but the service is not available at every location. You will need to visit a branch in person — you cannot do this online or by phone. The bank charges a fee for the exchange, and the rate they offer is typically less favorable than rates you would find through other methods like ATMs or online currency services.

Before you go to a branch, call ahead to confirm they have the currency you need in stock. Some branches keep only major currencies like Canadian dollars, euros, and British pounds. If you need a less common currency, the branch may have to order it, which takes several business days.

Key Takeaways

  • TD Bank exchanges currency at most U.S. branches, but you must visit in person and call ahead to confirm they have your currency.
  • The bank charges a fee on top of the exchange rate, making the total cost higher than online currency services or airport exchanges.
  • Major currencies like euros and Canadian dollars are usually in stock; less common currencies may need to be ordered and take several days.
  • TD Bank has daily limits on how much foreign currency you can exchange, which vary by branch and currency type.

How the exchange fee works

TD Bank does not publish a single fixed fee for currency exchange. Instead, the fee is built into the exchange rate itself — the rate the bank offers you is lower than the mid-market rate (the real rate between banks). This difference, called the spread, is how the bank makes money on the transaction.

The spread varies depending on the currency and the amount you are exchanging. Larger amounts sometimes get a slightly better rate than small amounts. You will not know the exact rate until you ask at the branch, because rates change throughout the day and differ by location.

If you are exchanging a small amount — say, $200 or less — the fee as a percentage of your money is usually higher than if you exchange $1,000. This makes TD Bank's currency exchange most useful when you need cash in a foreign currency right away and cannot wait for an online service to deliver it.

Limits on how much you can exchange

TD Bank sets daily limits on currency exchange, but the exact limit depends on your branch and the currency. Most branches will exchange up to $5,000 to $10,000 per day for major currencies, though some branches may go higher or lower.

If you need to exchange more than the daily limit, you can return the next day or ask the branch manager whether an exception is possible. For very large amounts, the branch may ask you to provide advance notice so they can order enough currency.

When TD Bank currency exchange makes sense

Using TD Bank for currency exchange is most practical when you need cash in a foreign currency before you travel and you have a TD Bank branch nearby. It is convenient because you can walk in, exchange money, and leave with cash the same day.

It is less practical if you are looking for the best exchange rate. Online currency services, airport exchanges, and ATMs in the destination country usually offer better rates than banks do. However, those options require planning ahead or may not be available when you land.

If you are a TD Bank customer and you travel frequently, compare the cost of exchanging at the branch against the cost of using your debit card at an ATM in the destination country. Many banks charge a flat fee per ATM withdrawal plus a small percentage for the currency conversion — sometimes this is cheaper than the spread on a large cash exchange.

What to bring to the branch

Bring a valid photo ID (driver's license or passport) and the U.S. dollars you want to exchange. If you are exchanging foreign currency back to dollars, bring the foreign bills or traveler's checks. TD Bank does not exchange coins, and it will not exchange currency that is damaged, torn, or marked.

If you are a TD Bank customer, bring your debit card or account number. Non-customers can still exchange currency, but some branches may require additional identification.

Alternatives to TD Bank currency exchange

If the rate or fee at TD Bank does not work for you, consider these other options. ATMs in the destination country usually offer the best exchange rate because they use the mid-market rate, though your own bank may charge a fee for the withdrawal. Online currency services like OFX, Wise, or XE allow you to order foreign currency online and pick it up at a branch or have it delivered, often with better rates than banks charge. Airport exchanges are convenient but typically charge higher fees than banks.

If you are moving money internationally or sending money to family abroad, wire transfer services or peer-to-peer payment apps may be cheaper than exchanging cash, depending on the amount and destination country.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I exchange currency at TD Bank without an account?

Yes, non-customers can exchange currency at most TD Bank branches. You will need a valid photo ID. Some branches may ask for additional information, so call ahead to confirm the branch will serve you.

How long does currency exchange take at TD Bank?

If the branch has the currency in stock, the exchange takes about 10 to 15 minutes. If they need to order the currency, it usually arrives within three to five business days, and you will be notified when it is ready to pick up.

Does TD Bank exchange traveler's checks?

Yes, TD Bank will exchange traveler's checks for U.S. dollars or foreign currency at most branches. Bring the checks and a valid ID. The process is similar to cash exchange, though some branches may take longer to process checks.

What if my branch does not have the currency I need?

Call the branch and ask them to order it. They can usually get major currencies within three to five business days. For very rare currencies, the branch may not be able to order it at all, and you may need to use an online currency service instead.

Is the exchange rate at TD Bank better than at the airport?

TD Bank rates are usually better than airport exchanges, but worse than online currency services or ATMs in the destination country. If you have time to plan, an online service will likely save you money. If you need cash immediately before travel, TD Bank is usually cheaper than the airport.