U.S. Bank does exchange foreign currency, but only at certain locations and with advance notice
U.S. Bank will exchange foreign currency into U.S. dollars, but the service is not available at every branch. You need to call ahead to confirm your local branch offers it, and you will usually need to order the currency in advance — same-day exchanges are rare. The bank charges a conversion fee on top of the exchange rate, and the rate itself is set by U.S. Bank, not by the market rate you see online.
If you need currency before your trip or want to exchange it after returning, U.S. Bank is one option, but it is not always the fastest or cheapest. Knowing where to go, what to bring, and what to expect will save you time and money.
Key Takeaways
- U.S. Bank exchanges foreign currency at select branches only, so you must call ahead to confirm your branch offers the service.
- Most currency orders take three to five business days, so plan ahead rather than waiting until the day before travel.
- U.S. Bank charges a conversion fee on top of the exchange rate, making the total cost higher than the mid-market rate you see online.
- You will need a valid ID and a U.S. Bank account to exchange currency at most branches.
- ATM withdrawals in the destination country and credit cards often cost less than exchanging currency before you leave.
Which U.S. Bank locations offer foreign currency exchange
Not all U.S. Bank branches exchange foreign currency. The service is typically available at larger branches in major cities and at some regional centers, but smaller branches do not carry it. Call your local branch directly and ask whether they offer foreign currency exchange — do not assume based on branch size.
If your branch does not offer the service, ask whether they can order currency from another location and have it sent to you, or whether they can direct you to the nearest branch that handles exchanges. Some branches will transfer currency between locations for you, though this adds time to the process.
How to order foreign currency from U.S. Bank
Call the branch that offers currency exchange and tell them which currency you need and how much. They will quote you a rate and fee, give you a total cost, and ask when you need it. Most orders take three to five business days to arrive, though some branches may offer faster service if you order early enough in the day.
You will need to have a U.S. Bank account and bring a valid ID when you pick up the currency. Some branches require you to pay when you place the order; others let you pay when you pick it up. Confirm the payment method and timing when you call.
If you need currency urgently — within one or two business days — ask whether the branch has any in stock. Large branches in tourist areas sometimes keep small amounts of common currencies on hand, but this is not may provide.
U.S. Bank's exchange rates and fees
U.S. Bank sets its own exchange rate, which is not the same as the mid-market rate (the rate banks charge each other). The mid-market rate changes throughout the day and is what you see on financial websites. U.S. Bank's rate includes a markup, and then the bank adds a separate conversion fee on top.
The exact fee varies by currency and branch, but expect to pay somewhere between $5 and $15 per transaction, plus the markup on the rate itself. This means your total cost is usually 2 to 5 percent higher than the mid-market rate. Before you order, ask the branch for the exact rate and fee so you can calculate the total cost in dollars.
Exchange rates change daily, so if you are ordering currency several days in advance, the rate quoted when you place the order may not be the rate you pay when you pick it up. Confirm whether the rate is locked in when you order or whether it can change.
Alternatives that may cost less
Exchanging currency before you travel is convenient, but it is often more expensive than other options. Using an ATM in the destination country usually gives you a better exchange rate and lower fees than exchanging at a U.S. bank. Most ATMs abroad charge a flat fee (usually $2 to $5) plus a small currency conversion markup, which often totals less than what U.S. Bank charges.
Credit cards also offer competitive rates when you use them abroad, though some cards charge a foreign transaction fee (typically 1 to 3 percent). Check your card's terms before you travel. If you have a U.S. Bank credit card, ask whether it waives foreign transaction fees.
If you need cash before you leave the U.S., getting a small amount from U.S. Bank and the rest from an ATM abroad is often the cheapest approach. This way you have enough cash for immediate expenses without paying high fees to exchange a large amount.
What to bring when you pick up foreign currency
Bring a valid government-issued ID (passport or driver's license) and your U.S. Bank debit card or account information. The branch will verify your identity and confirm you have an account before releasing the currency. If you ordered the currency under someone else's account, that person may need to be present or provide written authorization.
Bring the confirmation number or reference number from your order if the branch gave you one. This helps the teller locate your order quickly. If you are picking up a large amount of currency, the branch may ask you to sign a receipt or form documenting the transaction.
What happens if you need to cancel or change your order
If you need to cancel a currency order before it arrives, contact the branch immediately. Cancellations are usually free if the currency has not yet been ordered or shipped. Once the currency arrives at the branch, cancellation policies vary — some branches will take it back with no penalty, while others may charge a restocking fee or refuse to cancel.
If you need to change the amount or currency type, call the branch as soon as possible. Small changes can often be made before the order is finalized, but larger changes may require canceling and placing a new order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I exchange foreign currency I already have at U.S. Bank?
Yes, U.S. Bank will exchange foreign currency back into U.S. dollars, though the rate and fees work the same way as when you buy currency. Bring the bills in good condition — most banks will not accept torn, marked, or damaged currency. Coins are usually not accepted.
Does U.S. Bank exchange cryptocurrency or digital currencies?
No, U.S. Bank does not exchange cryptocurrency. The foreign currency exchange service covers physical bills and coins only. If you need to convert cryptocurrency, you will need to use a separate cryptocurrency exchange platform.
What if my branch doesn't have the currency I need?
Ask whether the branch can order it from another location or from a currency supplier. Most branches can order any major currency (euros, pounds, yen, pesos, Canadian dollars), though less common currencies may take longer or may not be available. The branch will tell you the timeline and cost when you call.
Is the exchange rate locked in when I place my order?
This depends on the branch and how far in advance you order. Some branches lock in the rate when you place the order; others lock it in only when you pick up the currency. Ask the branch directly so you know whether the rate can change between order and pickup.
Can I order foreign currency online through U.S. Bank's website?
U.S. Bank does not offer online currency ordering through its main website. You must call the branch directly or visit in person. Some branches may have their own ordering systems, so ask when you call whether online ordering is available at your location.