
If you're considering US Bank currency exchange, you're not alone in weighing your options. US Bank offers competitive exchange rates and a wide range of currencies to exchange.
US Bank's currency exchange rates are indeed competitive, with rates often beating those of other major financial institutions.
One notable exception is the Bank of America, which tends to have higher fees for currency exchange.
U.S. Bank Currency Exchange
To exchange or sell your foreign currency at U.S. Bank, you'll need to visit a U.S. Bank branch and have a checking, savings, or money market account with them. They'll help you through the process.
You'll need to bring the foreign currency and valid identification with you at the time of the visit. The total value of the currency must be at least $20 (USD), and foreign coins are not accepted.
Here's a quick rundown of what to expect:
- You need to have a U.S. Bank deposit account to order foreign currency using mobile or online banking.
- The minimum value of the currency must be $20 USD.
- Foreign coins are not accepted.
- Some currencies are restricted due to government foreign exchange controls and cannot be exchanged.
Exchanging or Selling Foreign Currency
To exchange or sell your foreign currency, you'll need to visit a U.S. Bank branch. They'll guide you through the process.
You'll need to have a checking, savings, or money market account with U.S. Bank to exchange or sell your foreign currency. This is a requirement.
Bring the foreign currency and valid identification with you at the time of the visit. Make sure to have these documents ready.
The total value of the currency must be at least $20 (USD). Foreign coins are not accepted.
Foreign currency is subject to review, so be prepared for this step. The bank will assess the currency to ensure its authenticity and value.
Foreign currency from sources other than U.S. Bank may be accepted, but this is not guaranteed. The bank has discretion in this matter.
Foreign draft sales aren't available, but an international wire transfer can be used as an alternative option. This is a good alternative if you need to transfer funds.
We encourage you to make an appointment to allow time for questions and processing. This will ensure a smooth experience.
If you've ordered foreign currency from U.S. Bank and you'd like to return it, be aware of the following:
U.S. Bank determines the applicable currency exchange rate for your foreign exchange transaction. This rate is determined by the bank's discretion and may vary.
The bank considers many factors when determining currency exchange rates, including their desired rate of return, risks taken, costs involved, and services provided.
How to Buy Foreign Currency
To buy foreign currency from U.S. Bank, you'll need to have a U.S. Bank deposit account, such as a checking, savings, or money market account. This is a requirement for ordering foreign currency using mobile or online banking.
You can order foreign currency in online banking by selecting the Account Services tab and then choosing Foreign Currency. From there, you'll be taken to a page to start your exchange.
The minimum value of the currency must be $20 USD, and foreign coins are not accepted. To order, you'll need to provide the following information: the type of currency you need, the amount, and your valid identification.
You can also order foreign currency on the U.S. Bank Mobile App by selecting the Help & services option and then choosing Order foreign currency. Once you start typing the type of currency you'll need, a list will populate, and you can choose Add to order and continue with the process.
Some currencies may be out of stock or restricted due to government foreign exchange controls, so it's a good idea to check availability before placing your order. You can also purchase foreign currency from your local branch if you prefer.
Here are some key details to keep in mind when ordering foreign currency:
- Minimum value: $20 USD
- Foreign coins are not accepted
- Valid identification is required
- Some currencies may be out of stock or restricted
- You can purchase foreign currency from your local branch
Cheaper Alternatives
If you're looking for cheaper alternatives to US Bank currency exchange, there are a few options to consider. US Bank charges a 1.5% fee for exchanging currency at a branch, but you can avoid this fee by using an ATM.
You can withdraw cash from an ATM using your debit card, which typically has a lower fee of around 1% to 2% of the withdrawal amount. For example, if you withdraw $1,000, you might pay a fee of $10 to $20.
Some US Bank customers have reported using third-party currency exchange services like OFX, which offers lower fees and better exchange rates. According to US Bank's fee schedule, OFX charges a fee of 0.5% to 1% compared to US Bank's 1.5% fee.
Cheaper Exchange Rates Than U.S. Bank
Online money transfer services are a cheaper alternative to U.S. Bank currency exchange online. According to Monito's comparison engine, Remitly ranked as the overall cheapest for transfers from the United States from June 2022 to June 2023.
U.S. Bank charges two expensive fees for sending wire transfers by SWIFT: a bank fee of $10 if the transfer is under $250, and a hidden exchange rate margin that's typically between 4-7%. This is why online money transfer services like Remitly, Wise, and WorldRemit are recommended as safer and more transparent options.
You can use Monito's comparison engine to find the cheapest exchange rates in real-time, as rates often vary by destination and fee schedules change frequently.
Here are some online money transfer services that are cheaper than U.S. Bank:
- Revolut Business — Best Overall for International Business Finance
- Payoneer — Best for E-Commerce
- Wise Business — Most Bank Account Details
- Novo — Best All-Rounder in the USA
- Starling Bank — Best Business Bank in the UK
International Business Alternatives
International Business Alternatives can be a cost-effective option for businesses looking to expand globally.
Neobanks offer a cheaper alternative to traditional banks for international business transactions.
These banks are fully regulated and manage segregated bank accounts with licensed partner banks.
For example, neobanks reviewed on Monito provide an alternative to U.S. Bank for international business needs.
Reading the full article on the best international business account solutions can provide more information about these providers.
Financial Institutions
US Bank offers competitive exchange rates for over 75 currencies, with no fees for online transactions.
You can exchange currency at any US Bank branch, with over 3,000 locations across the US.
US Bank's exchange rates are generally better than those found at airports or other financial institutions.
If you're traveling abroad, you can also order foreign currency online or by phone, with delivery to your home or office.
US Bank's online currency exchange platform is secure and easy to use, with real-time exchange rates and no hidden fees.
Order Completion
To complete your US bank currency exchange order, you'll need a few essential items. A U.S. ID, like your driver's license or passport, is a must-have.
Make sure you have the currency being exchanged, as you'll need it to complete the transaction. It's also a good idea to have some additional cash or a payment option in case your bank charges a transaction fee.
Banks typically charge a transaction fee for exchanging currency, which can be a flat fee or a variable fee depending on the amount and type of currency.
Frequently Asked Questions
U.S. Bank does do foreign currency exchange, but they charge commission fees as well as hidden exchange rate margins.
You'll pay for currency exchange with U.S. Bank, as they charge a commission fee and an exchange rate margin. Some banks and credit unions may waive their fixed commission fees, but they'll exchange your money at a weaker rate.
You can exchange foreign currency at a bank or credit union, but it's expensive. Digital multi-currency accounts like Revolut and Wise are much cheaper alternatives.
U.S. Bank charges around four to seven percent weaker than the real mid-market exchange rate, and they keep the difference as a hidden fee.
The best place for currency exchange is actually neither a bank nor a credit union. Digital multi-currency accounts like Revolut and Wise are much cheaper alternatives for buying foreign currency.
U.S. Bank will charge a commission fee and an exchange rate margin on your currency exchange, so it's not free.
Traditional banks, like U.S. Bank, don't usually publicly disclose their exchange rates online. They'll often exchange your money at a rate that's around four to seven percent weaker than the real mid-market exchange rate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do US banks give good exchange rates?
US banks may not always offer the best exchange rates, but local banks and credit unions often provide more competitive rates. Consider exploring alternative options for better exchange rates, such as online peer-to-peer services or specialized currency converters.
Do banks charge a fee for currency exchange?
Banks charge a fee for currency exchange, typically ranging from 1-3% of the transaction amount. This fee can be a percentage of the exchange or a flat rate, so it's best to check with your bank for specific details.
Which U.S. Bank has no foreign transaction fee?
Capital One and Schwab Bank offer checking accounts with no foreign transaction fees, making international transactions fee-free. Consider these options for hassle-free global spending.
What is the US bank conversion fee?
The US bank conversion fee is $10 for transactions $300 or less. It's waived for transactions over $300.
Where is the best place to convert currency?
For the best currency exchange rates and lowest fees, consider visiting your bank or credit union, especially if you're an account holder. They often offer more favorable rates than currency exchange kiosks.
Sources
- https://www.monito.com/en/bank-currency-exchange/us-bank
- https://www.usbank.com/bank-accounts/foreign-currency-exchange.html
- https://www.usbank.com/customer-service/knowledge-base/KB0069596.html
- https://www.usbank.com/customer-service/knowledge-base/KB0069380.html
- https://www.businessinsider.com/personal-finance/banking/banks-that-exchange-foreign-currency
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