Chase does exchange foreign currency, but only at certain branches and with restrictions that make it expensive for most transactions
Chase offers foreign currency exchange at some of its locations, but the service is limited and the rates are significantly worse than what you would get elsewhere. Not every Chase branch handles currency exchange — you need a branch that has a foreign exchange desk, which is typically only at larger locations in major cities and near airports. Even then, Chase charges a markup on top of the market rate, and you may face minimum purchase amounts or waiting periods for orders.
If you need foreign currency before travel or to send money abroad, you should compare Chase's rates and fees against other options like dedicated currency exchange services, online transfer platforms, or your credit union. For most people, Chase is not the cheapest way to get foreign currency.
Key Takeaways
- Chase exchanges foreign currency only at select branches with a foreign exchange desk, usually in major cities and airports.
- Chase charges a markup above the market exchange rate, making their rates more expensive than online currency services or dedicated exchange companies.
- You may need to order currency in advance and wait several business days, or pay a rush fee if you need it quickly.
- Chase customers can exchange currency in person at a branch, but non-customers cannot use this service.
- For amounts over $10,000 or international transfers, you will need to complete additional paperwork and comply with federal reporting rules.
Which Chase branches offer foreign currency exchange
Chase does not publish a complete list of branches that handle foreign currency exchange, so you cannot simply look it up online. Your best option is to call your local Chase branch directly and ask whether they have a foreign exchange desk. Larger branches in downtown areas, near airports, or in major metropolitan regions are more likely to offer the service than smaller suburban or rural branches.
If your nearest Chase branch does not exchange currency, you can ask whether they can order it for you from another branch and have it delivered to your location. This typically takes 5 to 10 business days and may include a delivery fee. Some branches will also allow you to pick up currency at a different Chase location if you order it in advance.
How Chase's exchange rates and fees compare
Chase's exchange rates include a markup that is typically 2 to 3 percent above the mid-market rate (the rate banks use to trade with each other). This means if the mid-market rate for euros is 1.10 USD per euro, Chase might offer you 1.07 or 1.08 USD per euro. The exact markup varies by currency and changes daily.
Online currency services like Wise, OFX, and Remitly often charge lower markups — sometimes under 1 percent — and publish their rates transparently before you commit to the exchange. Credit unions sometimes offer better rates than Chase to their members. If you are exchanging a large amount, the difference between Chase's rate and a competitor's rate can easily amount to hundreds of dollars.
Chase may also charge a flat fee for the exchange transaction itself, though this varies by branch and transaction size. Always ask about the total cost — both the markup and any flat fees — before you exchange currency at Chase.
How to order foreign currency from Chase
To order foreign currency from Chase, visit a branch in person or call ahead to confirm they offer the service. You will need to provide the currency you want, the amount, and your preferred pickup or delivery date. Chase will quote you an exchange rate and any fees, and you can accept or decline.
If you order in advance, Chase typically delivers the currency within 5 to 10 business days. If you need currency urgently — for example, the day before you travel — some branches may be able to provide it same-day or next-day, but this usually comes with a rush fee. You must be a Chase customer to order currency; non-customers cannot use this service.
Payment for the currency comes from your Chase account. You can order online through Chase's website if your branch participates in the service, or you can order by phone or in person. Check your branch's website or call ahead to confirm which ordering methods they accept.
When you need to report large currency exchanges to the government
If you exchange $10,000 or more in a single transaction or in multiple transactions that total $10,000 or more within a 12-month period, Chase is required to file a Currency Transaction Report (CTR) with the U.S. Treasury. This is a standard reporting requirement and does not mean you have done anything wrong — it is simply how the government tracks large currency movements.
You do not need to do anything yourself; Chase handles the filing. However, you should be aware that this report exists and that the information is shared with federal authorities. If you are sending money to another country or exchanging currency as part of a business, you may also need to file additional forms depending on the amount and the destination country. Ask Chase whether your transaction requires any special paperwork before you exchange the currency.
Cheaper alternatives to Chase for foreign currency
For most people, online currency transfer services offer better rates and lower fees than Chase. Wise (formerly TransferWise) is popular for international transfers and publishes its rates in real time. OFX and Remitly are also common options. These services work best if you are transferring money to a bank account abroad rather than getting physical cash.
If you need physical currency before travel, dedicated currency exchange companies like Travelex or local independent exchange shops sometimes offer rates closer to the mid-market rate than Chase does, though you should compare rates before you commit. Some credit unions also offer foreign currency exchange to members at better rates than Chase.
For very large amounts or business transactions, contact a currency broker or your bank's international services department directly — they may negotiate better rates for you than the standard retail rate.
What to do if Chase cannot provide the currency you need
Chase exchanges the major currencies — euros, British pounds, Canadian dollars, Japanese yen, Mexican pesos, and a few others — but not every currency in the world. If you need a less common currency, Chase may not stock it or may require a longer wait time to order it.
In that case, contact a dedicated currency exchange service or international money transfer platform. Many online services can deliver less common currencies, though the rates and fees may be higher. If you are traveling to a country with a less common currency, you can also withdraw cash from ATMs once you arrive — this often gives you a better exchange rate than buying currency before you leave, though you will pay an ATM fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I exchange foreign currency at any Chase ATM?
No. Chase ATMs dispense U.S. dollars only. You cannot exchange foreign currency at an ATM. You must visit a branch with a foreign exchange desk in person or order currency by phone or online for delivery.
Do I need to be a Chase customer to exchange currency?
Yes. Chase only exchanges currency for customers who hold a Chase account. Non-customers cannot use this service. If you do not have a Chase account, you will need to use an online currency service or a dedicated exchange company.
How long does it take to get foreign currency from Chase?
If you order in advance, Chase typically takes 5 to 10 business days. Some branches may have common currencies in stock and can provide them same-day or next-day, but this depends on the branch and the currency. Rush delivery usually costs extra.
What happens if I exchange more than $10,000?
Chase files a Currency Transaction Report with the U.S. Treasury, which is a standard requirement. You do not need to do anything — Chase handles the filing. This does not affect your ability to exchange the currency; it is simply a government reporting requirement.
Is Chase's exchange rate better or worse than other banks?
Chase's rates are typically worse than online currency services and some credit unions because Chase charges a markup above the mid-market rate. For large amounts, using an online service like Wise or OFX can save you hundreds of dollars compared to Chase.