Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Travellers Cheques safer than cash?
Travellers Cheques are safer than cash because if they are ever lost or stolen, they can be replaced quickly and easily, almost anywhere in the world, usually within 24 hours.
Where can I purchase Travellers Cheques?
You can buy Travellers Cheques at major banks such as Bank of China, Bank of Communication, Industrial & Commercial Bank of China and China Everbright Bank.
What denominations and currencies are Travellers Cheques available in?
Travellers Cheques are available in the following currencies: US dollars, Canadian dollars, Euros, British Pound Sterling, Japanese Yen and Australian dollars. They can be purchased in a variety of denominations. Contact your local selling location to make sure they have the currency and denomination that you need.
Where do I sign my Travellers Cheques?
Travellers Cheques must be signed in the upper left-hand corner upon purchase. All Travellers Cheques should be signed as soon as possible after purchase.
Can I earn credit or debit card rewards points when I purchase Travellers Cheques?
Please contact your card service company. American Express Cardmembers are not eligible to receive points or miles when purchasing Travellers Cheques, per the Cardmember agreement.
Where are Travellers Cheques accepted?
There are thousands of banks and foreign exchange partners in countries around the world where you can exchange your American Express Travellers Cheques for local currency. You may also use your Travellers Cheques like cash to pay for products and services at accepting retail locations, restaurants and hotels. Visit americanexpress.com/useTC to find the most convenient exchange location.
How do I cash Travellers Cheques?
To cash a Travellers Cheque, date it in the upper right-hand corner, just like a personal cheque (some Travellers Cheque designs may not have the date line), and fill out the “pay to the order” line. Then countersign the Travellers Cheque in the lower left-hand corner. Make sure the cashier watches as you sign so your signature can be verified. If you encounter difficulties in cashing a Travellers Cheque, encourage the cashier or merchant to call an American Express Travellers Cheque Customer Service Centre. For details, use the search tool to the right to find the country in which you need assistance.
What happens if I sign my Travellers Cheques in the wrong place, or if my signatures don't match?
Before accepting your Travellers Cheque, a cashier must watch you countersign it in the lower left-hand corner, and compare that signature with the original signature in the upper left-hand corner. If the signatures are a reasonable match, the Travellers Cheque should be accepted. If the merchant is unsure, he or she should call an American Express Travellers Cheque Customer Service Centre. For details, use the search tool to the right to find the country in which you need assistance.
Do I get change back if I do not use the full face value of a Travellers Cheque?
Yes, Travellers Cheques work just like cash and you will receive change back.
Is there a fee to cash Travellers Cheques?
Commission charges may apply and can vary by country and/or exchange partner. Visit americanexpress.com/useTC to find the most convenient exchange location.
Do Travellers Cheques ever expire?
No. Travellers Cheques do not expire. Unused Travellers Cheques can be used for a future trip, or as a secure supply of cash at locations in your area.
Can I accept Travellers Cheques from another person?
Yes, you can accept Travellers Cheques from another person for payment; however, when purchasing Travellers Cheques we recommend that you purchase them from an authorized seller.
How to securely accept Travellers Cheques from another person:
- 1. Watch & Compare
- a. Watch the presenter countersign the Travellers Cheque.
- b. Compare the signatures to see if they are reasonably alike.
- 2. Validate Security Features
- a. While holding the Travellers Cheque to the light, view the Centurion watermark in the white area, and the "AMEX" security thread in the middle area. Ensure both are visible from the front and back of the Travellers Cheque.
- b. View the holographic foil at various angles to verify denomination, and view image color changes between the Centurion and American Express logo.
- c. Ensure the Travellers Cheque has not been visibly altered or manipulated.
- 3. Authorize
- Call American Express Travellers Cheques Customer Service Centre.
If the Travellers Cheque has already been signed in both the upper and lower left, please call American Express at the number below before accepting the Travellers Cheque. After accepting a valid Travellers Cheque, you can only deposit it into your own bank account. If you have questions about accepting a Travellers Cheque, just call an American Express Travellers Cheque Customer Service Centre. For details, use the search tool to the right to find the country in which you need assistance.
What happens if my Travellers Cheques are lost or stolen?
Lost or stolen Travellers Cheques can be replaced quickly and easily, almost anywhere in the world, usually within 24 hours. Click here to obtain instructions for replacing lost or stolen Travellers Cheques.
For other questions regarding Travellers Cheques, please contact American Express Travellers Cheques Customer Service Centre. Use the search tool to the right to find the customer service number for your current location.
