Chase does currency exchange, but only at certain branches and with limits on the amounts and currencies they handle

Chase Bank offers currency exchange at some of its locations, but the service is not available everywhere and comes with restrictions. You cannot walk into any Chase branch and exchange money — you need to find a branch that offers the service, and you may need to order the currency in advance if you want a large amount or an uncommon currency. Chase charges a markup on the exchange rate, meaning you pay more than the mid-market rate you see online.

The availability and terms depend on your account type, the currency you need, and the specific branch. Before you go in, call ahead to confirm the branch handles currency exchange and ask what currencies they stock on hand versus what they need to order.

Key Takeaways

  • Chase currency exchange is available only at select branches, not all locations, so you must call ahead to confirm your branch offers it.
  • Chase charges a markup above the mid-market exchange rate, so the rate you receive will be lower than what you see quoted online.
  • Common currencies like euros and Canadian dollars are more likely to be in stock; less common currencies usually require an advance order.
  • You may need to order currency several business days in advance, especially for larger amounts or currencies Chase does not regularly stock.
  • Chase customers with certain account types may have better rates or lower minimums than non-customers or those with basic accounts.

Which Chase branches offer currency exchange

Chase does not publish a complete list of branches that handle currency exchange. Your best option is to call the branch you plan to visit and ask directly whether they offer the service. You can find the phone number for your nearest Chase branch on Chase.com or by calling Chase customer service at 1-800-935-9935.

Larger branches in major cities and near airports are more likely to offer currency exchange than smaller suburban or rural branches. If your local branch does not offer it, ask whether they can order currency for you or refer you to a nearby branch that does.

What currencies Chase can exchange

Chase typically stocks common currencies used by travelers and business customers, including euros, British pounds, Canadian dollars, Japanese yen, Swiss francs, Australian dollars, and Mexican pesos. Less common currencies — such as Thai baht, South African rand, or currencies from smaller countries — may be available but usually require an advance order.

Call the branch ahead of time and tell them which currency you need and how much. They will tell you whether they have it in stock or how long an order takes. If you need currency urgently and your branch cannot stock it, ask whether they can refer you to another branch or a currency exchange service.

How the exchange rate and fees work

Chase quotes an exchange rate that includes a markup — the difference between what Chase pays for the currency and what it charges you. This markup is not listed as a separate fee; it is built into the rate itself. The rate you receive will be noticeably lower than the mid-market rate you see on financial websites or Google.

The exact markup varies by currency, branch, and account type. Chase does not publish the markup in advance, so you cannot know the exact rate until you ask the branch or visit in person. Some Chase accounts, such as certain premium checking or wealth management accounts, may receive better rates than standard accounts, but you should confirm this with your branch.

How to order currency in advance

If you need currency and your branch does not have it in stock, you can place an order by phone or in person. Call the branch and provide the currency type, amount, and date you need it. Chase typically requires several business days to receive the currency from its supplier, so order as early as possible.

When you order, ask the branch to hold the currency for you and confirm the exchange rate before you commit. Some branches may require you to pay a deposit or place the order through a specific department. Once the currency arrives, you will pick it up at the branch and pay the full amount at the agreed rate.

Alternatives to Chase currency exchange

If Chase's rates or availability do not work for you, other options exist. Independent currency exchange shops, often found in airports and downtown areas, sometimes offer better rates for common currencies but may charge higher markups for less common ones. Credit unions sometimes offer currency exchange to members at competitive rates. Online currency exchange services like OFX, Wise, or XE allow you to order currency online and pick it up at a location or have it delivered, though delivery takes time.

If you are traveling internationally, using an ATM in the destination country often gives you a better exchange rate than any currency exchange service, because the rate is set by your bank and the ATM network, not by a middleman. Check with Chase about which ATMs you can use abroad without a foreign transaction fee.

What to bring when you exchange currency

Bring a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a passport or driver's license. If you are a Chase customer, bring your debit card or account number so the branch can confirm your account type and apply any account-specific rates. If you are not a Chase customer, you can still exchange currency at most branches, but you may face higher markups or minimum amounts.

Bring cash or a debit card to pay for the currency. Some branches may accept checks, but cash or card is faster and more reliable. Ask the branch in advance what payment methods they accept.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I exchange currency at any Chase branch?

No. Currency exchange is available only at select branches. Call ahead to confirm your branch offers it, or ask whether they can refer you to a nearby branch that does.

How long does it take to get currency if I order in advance?

It typically takes three to five business days for Chase to receive currency from its supplier, though this varies by currency and branch. Order as early as possible, especially if you need an uncommon currency or a large amount.

Is the exchange rate at Chase better than at an airport currency exchange?

Both charge markups, and the rates are usually similar. Airport exchanges are convenient but often have higher markups. Compare rates by calling Chase and the airport exchange before you decide.

What if I need currency on a weekend or holiday?

Chase branches are closed on weekends and holidays, so you cannot exchange currency then. Plan ahead and order currency before the weekend. Some airports have 24-hour currency exchange services if you need cash urgently.

Do I get a better rate if I am a Chase customer?

Some Chase account types receive better rates than others, but Chase does not publish the difference. Ask your branch whether your account type qualifies for a better rate before you exchange.