Order euros online or by phone, then pick them up at a branch or have them mailed
Bank of America lets you order foreign currency through their website, mobile app, or by calling customer service. You can pick up euros at a local branch within a few business days, or have them mailed to your address. The bank charges a markup on the exchange rate — typically 2 to 3 percent above the wholesale rate — and may charge a flat fee for orders under a certain amount or for delivery by mail.
You do not need to be a Bank of America customer to order currency, though the process is faster if you are. Non-customers can order through the bank's website but will need to provide identification and may face longer processing times.
Key Takeaways
- Order euros through the Bank of America website, mobile app, or by calling 1-800-CALL-BOA; orders typically process within one to three business days.
- Pick up at a branch for free, or pay a delivery fee if you want euros mailed to your home address.
- Bank of America charges a markup on top of the mid-market exchange rate; the exact percentage varies by order size and currency.
- You can lock in an exchange rate when you place the order, so the price does not change if rates move before you pick up or receive the currency.
- Minimum order amounts vary, but most orders start at the equivalent of $100 to $500 USD.
How to order through the Bank of America website
Log into your Bank of America account online and look for the foreign currency section under Services or Accounts. If you do not see it immediately, use the search bar and type "foreign currency" or "order currency." You will be asked to select the currency (euros), the amount you want, and your preferred pickup or delivery method.
The website will show you the exchange rate and any fees before you confirm. Review the total cost, including the markup and any delivery charges. Once you confirm, the order is locked in at that rate. Bank of America typically holds the rate for 24 hours, so if you do not complete the order within that window, you may need to start over.
After you place the order, you will receive a confirmation number via email. Check your email for the order details and the expected pickup or delivery date. Most orders are ready within one to three business days.
How to order through the mobile app
Open the Bank of America mobile app and tap the menu icon. Look for a section labeled "Services," "More," or "Tools," then select "Foreign Currency" or "Order Currency." The process mirrors the website: select euros, enter the amount, choose pickup or delivery, and review the rate and fees.
The app will show you the same exchange rate and fees as the website. After you confirm, you will receive a confirmation number on screen and via email. You can track your order status in the app under your recent transactions or in a dedicated "Orders" section.
How to order by phone
Call Bank of America customer service at 1-800-CALL-BOA (1-800-225-5262). Tell the representative you want to order euros. They will ask how many euros you need, when you want to pick them up or receive them, and confirm your identity and address.
The representative will quote you the exchange rate and fees, then lock in the rate once you agree. You will receive a confirmation number over the phone and via email. Ask the representative when your order will be ready and whether you need to bring anything to the branch to pick it up (usually just a photo ID).
Pickup at a branch versus mail delivery
Picking up at a branch is free and usually the fastest option. You can pick up euros at any Bank of America branch, not just the one closest to you. Bring a photo ID and your confirmation number. The branch will have your euros ready during normal business hours, typically within one to three business days of placing the order.
Mail delivery costs extra — the fee varies but is often $15 to $25 depending on the order size and destination. Mailed currency takes longer: expect five to seven business days from the time you place the order. Bank of America ships currency via insured mail, so it is tracked and signed for upon delivery.
Exchange rates and fees you will pay
Bank of America does not use the mid-market exchange rate (the rate you see on financial news sites). Instead, they add a markup of roughly 2 to 3 percent. For example, if the mid-market rate is 1 euro = $1.10 USD, Bank of America might offer 1 euro = $1.07 USD or $1.08 USD, depending on the size of your order and current market conditions.
Larger orders sometimes receive a smaller markup. Orders under $500 or €500 may also trigger a flat fee of $10 to $15. Mail delivery adds another $15 to $25. The website or app will show you the total cost before you confirm, so you know exactly what you are paying.
The exchange rate is locked when you place the order, not when you pick it up or receive it. This protects you if the rate moves against you over the next few days.
What to bring when you pick up euros
Bring a valid photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) and your confirmation number. The branch teller will verify your identity, confirm the order details, and hand over the euros. The entire process takes a few minutes.
If someone else is picking up on your behalf, they will need a signed authorization letter from you and their own photo ID. Some branches may require additional documentation, so call ahead if you are unsure.
What to do if you need euros urgently
If you need euros within 24 hours, branch pickup is your only option, and even that depends on whether the branch has euros in stock. Call the branch directly before placing an order to ask if they have euros available. Some branches keep small amounts on hand; others order all currency from a central location.
If your local branch does not have euros in stock, you may need to travel to a larger branch or a Bank of America financial center, which are more likely to carry multiple currencies. Plan for at least one business day, even for urgent orders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order euros if I am not a Bank of America customer?
Yes, but the process is slower. Non-customers can order through the website but will need to provide more identification and may face longer processing times. Calling customer service as a non-customer may also take longer. If you order frequently, opening a checking account may save time.
What happens if the exchange rate changes after I place my order?
Your rate is locked when you place the order, so it will not change. If you do not pick up or receive the euros within the timeframe (usually a few days), the bank may ask you to confirm the order again at the new rate, but you are not obligated to proceed.
Can I cancel or change my order after I place it?
Yes, but only within a short window — usually 24 hours. Contact Bank of America immediately by phone or through the app. After that window closes, the order is typically final. If you cancel, you may lose any fees you paid, depending on the bank's policy at the time.
Do I pay tax on euros I order from Bank of America?
No. Currency exchange is not subject to sales tax. You only pay the exchange rate markup and any delivery or service fees that Bank of America charges.
What if I receive damaged or counterfeit euros?
Contact Bank of America immediately with photos of the damaged bills or your concerns about authenticity. The bank will replace the currency at no charge. Keep your confirmation number and receipt until you have verified the euros are in good condition.