Exchanging money in English
What to say when you want to exchange money and ask about the rate or fees.
Full script
Key phrases
The lines worth keeping. Read them once before you go out.
Polite way to ask
exchange = change; in speech, change money is also understood
Ask today's exchange rate
exchange rate = value of money
Ask if there is a service charge
fee / commission = service charge; airport rates are often not very good
Ask for smaller paper money
bills = paper money (US); British English often says notes
Quick answers
Say this at the counter: what to say in English
Say “I'd like to exchange some money.” — polite way to ask. exchange = change; in speech, change money is also understood.
Check the rate first: what to say in English
Say “What's the rate today?” — ask today's exchange rate. exchange rate = value of money.
Check extra cost: what to say in English
Say “Is there a fee?” — ask if there is a service charge. fee / commission = service charge; airport rates are often not very good.
Handy for taxis or buying water: what to say in English
Say “Could I get some small bills?” — ask for smaller paper money. bills = paper money (US); British English often says notes.