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do american express travellers cheques expire

What to Do With Old Travelers Cheques (Don’t trash them)

Since smartphones and credit cards became ubiquitous, the humble traveler’s cheque (or check, depending on where you’re asking the question) has fallen out of favor. However, not that long ago they played an immensely important role in the lives of travelers across the United States.

Back when there wasn’t an ATM on every corner and cash was king, they minimized the risk globetrotters faced when traveling far from home. Cash could be lost or stolen. While traveler’s cheques could be too, they could also be reported as such and subsequently replaced!

However, now it’s 2021. Credit and debit cards are as common as dental floss and the once novel utility of traveler’s cheques has worn off. So, with that said, what do you do when you find old ones laying around?

Do not throw away your old traveler’s cheques — you may still be able to redeem them for hard currency. They never expire, so if you have ownership and the cheque’s serial number has not already been redeemed, you’ll be able to cash them at participating financial institutions.

Go dig them out of the garbage if you’ve already tossed them out! Then come back here and stick around, as we’re going to explore the state of using traveler’s cheques in the modern era.

One thing — we’re not financial or legal experts. If you doubt your ability to cash the traveler’s cheques you found, consider calling American Express at 1-800-525-7641. If American Express is not your traveler cheque issuer, simply call the company that issued them.

What About for the Deceased?

There’s a chance that if you’ve found old traveler’s cheques, they were a part of a deceased person’s estate. While it’s possible to cash the traveler’s cheques of a dead person, you have to make sure that you have the right to do so — this usually means being the executor of that person’s estate.

This is more complicated than simply proving you’re related to someone — other heirs may have equal or greater rights to the estate.

If you’re not sure if you have the ability to do this, I recommend talking to a probate lawyer or calling the company that issued the cheques.

Where To Cash Travelers Cheques in 2021

While they’re certainly not as in favor as they used to be, there are still many places that someone can redeem their traveler’s cheques for cash. While we won’t go into every location that will cash your traveler’s cheques here, we will give you a rough strategy for getting them redeemed.

via Purchases as Participating Stores

Many stores, including some Walmarts, offer the ability to cash traveler’s cheques in their store. This often takes the form of buying something with the cheque and getting the change back in U.S. currency.

Be warned — some stores will limit traveler’s cheque redemption to a certain amount of money. Consider a situation where a store only allows $20 cash back. If you paid with a $50 traveler’s cheque, you’d need to spend $30 at the store to get your total amount of money back!

Bank Deposits

Nearly all banks will allow customers to deposit their traveler’s cheques into checking or savings accounts. The same usually can’t be said if a person doesn’t have an account at that institution (with some exceptions, listed below).

However, not all banks offer this service. To know for sure, simply call your bank.

Check-cashing stores

Many people don’t know this, but check cashing places will usually cash traveler’s cheques. Like all of their other services, this will cost money. How much they’ll charge depends on the individual store policy. As with the other sections, if you’re in doubt give them a call.

Bank of America

Unlike other banks, the vast majority of Bank of America locations allow you to cash traveler’s cheques. Bank of America will often charge a fee, although some locations offer this service for free.

U.S. Post Offices

According to the USPS , you can use travelers cheques to buy postage services as long as at least 50% of the value goes toward the postage service. This means that if you have a $50 travelers cheque, you would need to buy $25 in postage services to get $25 back in change.

American Express actually offers the ability to redeem your traveler’s cheques online . In order to take advantage of this method, you’ll need the following:

  • A government issued ID (social security card, passport, or U.S. driver’s license)
  • The traveler’s cheques
  • Your bank details

Following their online instructions will allow you to redeem the cheques, depositing the money into your bank account.

Will They Ever Expire?

I touched on this in the introduction, but one of the major benefits of buying traveler’s cheques is that they will never expire . You can keep them for 50 years and they’ll be worth the same amount of issuing currency.

However, there is one major caveat to this.

If the issuing company ever goes out of business, it’s questionable whether or not you would get your money back. This makes intuitive sense — who would give it to you if the company was gone? Luckily, American Express is over 170 years old and is unlikely to go out of business anytime soon.

If they aren’t the company that issued your traveler’s cheques, this may be a concern though.

Can You Still Buy Travelers Cheques?

According to American Express, you can still purchase travelers cheques . However, according to the University of Hawai’i Federal Credit Union, American Express travelers cheques were discontinued as of December 31, 2020. As of this writing, this is the only source I can find about the planned discontinuance.

Travelers Cheques Alternatives

If travelers do go the way of the dodo, there are still other ways to accomplish their purpose. Prepaid travel cards are the 21st century replacement for them. They offer the same advantages while also letting you use them like you would a debit or credit card.

Simply fill them with the amount of currency you want to take with you and use it like a debit card until the funds are exhausted.

Final Thoughts

You should definitely try to hang on to any old travelers cheques you find. If they haven’t already been redeemed, you might have just lucked your way into a small windfall. Even if they have been redeemed, consider holding on to them.

If American Express does discontinue them, you’ll have in your hands a piece of American history!

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do american express travellers cheques expire

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How Traveler's Checks Work in the Modern World

Can You Still Buy Traveler's Checks?

do american express travellers cheques expire

  • What Are Traveler’s Checks?

Best Ways to Use Traveler’s Checks

Evolution of traveler’s checks, how to use traveler’s checks, frequently asked questions (faqs).

Traveler’s checks, once a necessity for traveling abroad, can keep your money safe. While modern alternatives accomplish most of what traveler’s checks do, those checks are far from useless. Traveler’s checks probably don’t need to be your primary resource in areas with an ATM in every town (or on every corner), but they make for an excellent backup plan.

What Are Traveler’s Checks, Anyway?

That’s a fair question in the modern world. Traveler’s checks are paper documents that can be used like standard paper checks and cash. Traditionally, travelers carried these checks to get cash in local currency and pay merchants. Issuers print checks in varying denominations, and checks can be replaced quickly if lost or stolen. With the spread of digital payment options and ATMs, traveler’s checks have become less popular and more difficult to use.

Here are situations when you might want to use traveler's checks.

Low-Tech Access to Cash

In many places, you can get cash in local currency at an ATM , but they're rare in some areas of the world. What’s more, ATMs can malfunction , communication networks might be down, and machines occasionally run out of cash. Traveler’s checks allow you to get local currency at banks, hotels, and foreign exchange offices with a familiar piece of paper. That said, converting a traveler’s check to cash can be challenging and time-consuming.

Added Security

Traveler’s checks keep your money secure. Recipients are supposed to watch you countersign and compare signatures carefully when you use a traveler’s check, making them lose value when lost or stolen. Credit and debit cards provide similar protection, but they are more attractive to thieves who often use them successfully before you disable the stolen cards. You can replace lost or stolen traveler’s checks or get a refund from the issuer. On extended trips, you can keep traveler’s checks on hand for emergencies without risking large financial losses.

Currency Control

Buying traveler’s checks in your destination country’s currency helps you avoid surprises when it comes to exchange rates. You might not get the best conversion rates at home, but you can at least secure a portion of what you need at current rates.

Traveler’s checks aren’t what they used to be. Banks, hotels, and even merchants were once accustomed to taking traveler’s checks from foreigners. Nowadays, you may not be able to find anybody willing to accept a traveler’s check (or the process will be harder than in days past).

Prepaid travel cards are the modern version of traveler’s checks. They allow you to get local currency from ATMs and make purchases with merchants—effectively eliminating the need for traveler’s checks.

Prepaid cards are not linked to your bank account , which prevents anybody from draining your checking account if the card gets lost or stolen—and you can’t go into debt. Credit cards offer similar (or better) protection , but you might not want to use your everyday card abroad. By using a dedicated travel card, you avoid spreading your card numbers around, which means you can be less vigilant about monitoring your accounts when you get back home.

Visa and MasterCard both offer prepaid cards designed for use abroad. Those cards are available online, through travel agents, and at banks or credit unions. 

Travel cards should feature low ATM fees, technology that lets you operate like a local in foreign countries, emergency cash when you lose the card, and “zero liability” fraud protection. That said, prepaid cards can be expensive , so you need to compare fees against your other cards to decide whether or not a travel card makes sense.

As an alternative, if you already have credit or debit cards that you rarely use, reserve those cards for foreign travel. Be sure to test the card if it’s been dormant, check with the card issuer before you leave home, and monitor your accounts after you return.

Contact your card issuer before you travel. Otherwise, your purchases may be flagged as fraudulent, which could cause your account to be frozen.

You can still buy traveler’s checks in the U.S. and other countries. In the U.S., checks are available primarily from American Express , but you may need to do some legwork to get your hands on new checks.

Here are a few tips for using traveler's checks.

  • Keep purchase records separate from the checks: If checks get lost or stolen, you’ll need to provide proof of purchase and check numbers to get a refund. Leave those details with a friend or online for remote access.
  • Sign the checks immediately after you get them: Follow the issuer’s instructions to find out where to sign (and only sign once). You’ll sign the checks again when you use them to make a purchase or get cash.
  • Fill in the payee and date when you’re ready to use a check: Be sure that the payee actually accepts traveler’s checks before you do so.
  • Sign the check again when you complete your payment: The person or business you’re paying must be present to watch you sign. This ensures that the signatures are valid as both signatures must match.
  • Traveler’s checks don’t expire: You can either keep them for future use or deposit them into your bank account once you’re home.
  • If checks get lost or stolen, contact the issuer immediately: You may be able to get replacement checks locally, and the issuer needs to know which checks are potential fraud risks.

Where can I buy traveler's checks?

Most traveler's checks in the U.S. are issued by American Express, but you can also buy them through various small banks and credit unions throughout the country. Call your bank, or check online to see whether it offers this service.

What do traveler's checks cost?

You'll usually have to pay a service charge of between 1% and 4% for traveler's checks. Fees typically will be higher if you purchase from an institution where you don't already have an account.

What are the differences among a traveler's check, a cashier's check, and a money order?

Traveler's checks, cashier's checks , and money orders are all issued by banks and can be used as cash or personal-check substitutes for purchases in the U.S. However, traveler's checks are the best choice if you're traveling outside the country. They're designed to be accepted anywhere in the world, come in small denominations, and can be easily replaced if lost. They're also fairly secure, because you don't sign them a second time until you're in the presence of the recipient. However, they are becoming less common and are not as widely accepted as they once were.

American Express. " Online Travelers Cheques Redemption: Frequently Asked Questions ."

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. " What Is the Difference Between a Prepaid Card, a Credit Card, and a Debit Card? "

Visa. " Visa TravelMoney Prepaid ."

Mastercard. " Prepaid Travel Card by Mastercard ."

Federal Trade Commission. " When a Company Declines Your Credit or Debit Card ."

American Express. " Acceptance of American Express Travelers Cheques ," Page 2.

American Express. " American Express Travelers Cheques ."

Frommer's. " Traveler's Checks ."

American Express Travelers Cheques Review

American Express Travelers Cheques Review: Is it safe? How does it work? What are the rates?

do american express travellers cheques expire

Co-Founder of Monito and money transfer expert, François has been helping Monito’s users navigate the jungle of money transfer fees, bad exchange rates and tricks for the last ten years.

Links on this page, including products and brands featured on ‘Sponsored’ content, may earn us an affiliate commission. This does not affect the opinions and recommendations of our editors.

Traveling or spending money overseas? Discover American Express Travelers Cheques for a safe and secure way to get currency to spend abroad. You'll learn how to save money and how to get the best rate for your next holidays abroad.

American Express Travelers Cheques - All you need to know

American Express (AMEX) Travelers Cheques were first issued more than a hundred years ago, in 1891. Although the traditional travelers cheque has been overtaken by more modern currency exchange options, they’re still used by some as a safe and secure way to spend money overseas. We’ll explore how American Express Travelers Cheques work, what they offer, the fees you’ll need to pay and various other aspects of their services.

*We’re using the same spelling for travelers cheques as AMEX uses on their website, which means no apostrophe and “cheque” instead of “check” — just so you know.

Where to buy AMEX Travelers Cheques

Travelers cheques are available from AMEX service centers, some AAA locations, certain banks and some currency exchange shops. Options to buy travelers cheques outside of major cities like New York, London, Toronto or other big metropolitan areas are limited. Places you may be able to purchase travelers cheques in the US include PNC bank branches and Travelex.

You should contact the location before you visit to check fees, limits, payment methods, restrictions, exchange rates and availability. AMEX recommends you keep your original purchase receipt as proof of purchase.

Where to redeem AMEX Travelers Checks

You can redeem, or “cash” your travelers cheques at thousands of locations around the world. Several currency exchange services, bureaux de change and banks will accept and redeem travelers cheques. Some merchants may even accept travelers cheques directly as payment for goods and services. If you want to make payment, redeem or cash in your travelers cheques, confirm this with the relevant business ahead of time. 

When you redeem your travelers cheques, the person you are redeeming them with will need to watch you countersign the cheques, and you may need to present photographic ID and have your original purchase receipt. 

In some circumstances, AMEX will allow you to redeem travelers cheques directly with them. They say, “Redemption of your Travelers Cheques directly with American Express may take longer than 30 days, depending on the circumstances of the request. There may be restrictions on the currency and method of redemption and the value of Travelers Cheques that can be directly redeemed.”

Travelers cheques do not expire, so you can either choose to redeem unused ones, or save them for future trips.

Safety and security of AMEX Travelers Cheques

If you’ve purchased travelers cheques, and they’re lost or stolen, AMEX will refund the cheques to you. Travelers cheques are not linked to your bank account either, which means you’re less likely to suffer from identity theft if the cheques are stolen from you. 

What Monito Likes About AMEX Travelers Cheques

  • A safe and secure way to get currency to spend abroad
  • Backed by American Express, a trusted brand and financial services provider
  • Refunds available if travelers cheques are lost or stolen

What Monito Dislikes About AMEX Travelers Cheques

  • Can be difficult to find locations to buy travelers cheques
  • Can be difficult to find locations to redeem or cash in travelers cheques
  • Not as widely accepted as they once were
  • High commission fees and poor exchange rates can make travelers cheques expensive to use

Alternatives to American Express Travelers Cheques

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How American Express Travelers Cheques works

1. Buy your travelers cheques from certain banks, currency exchange services and various other locations

2. Travelers cheques are available in a variety of denominations, depending on the currency

3. When you buy the travelers cheques, you will normally need to present your ID and sign the travelers cheques in the top left-hand corner

4. Write down the serial numbers of your travelers cheques as you may need these if they are lost or stolen

5. Once you have purchased your travelers cheques, you can travel to a foreign country and redeem them when you need to

6. Take your travelers cheques to a location that will cash them, sign in the bottom left-hand corner and present your identification

7. The place where you are exchanging your travelers cheques will provide local currency at their prevailing exchange rate

8. You can then spend the local currency as normal

AMEX Travelers Cheques fees & exchange rate

The fees and exchange rates for using travelers cheques can vary widely.

American Express Travelers Cheques fees

AMEX, banks and other issuers may charge a fee when issuing travelers cheques in the first place. This fee is typically between one and three percent of the total value of travelers cheques that you’re buying. AMEX will waive this fee if you’re an American Express cardholder. 

Some currency exchange services, banks and other merchants may also charge a commission when you buy or redeem your cheques. You should contact them ahead of time to check what those fees are likely to be. 

American Express Travelers Cheques exchange rates

The amount of foreign currency that you receive when redeeming travelers cheques depends on the exchange rates offered by the currency exchange service you’re using. Local bureaux de change and currency exchange services typically have fairly poor exchange rates, so you’ll end up paying more in hidden exchange rate fees. 

For example, as we explain in our guide to exchanging currency in London , “this bureau de change is around 2.8 percent more expensive than the base exchange rate for exchanging between dollars and pounds. The base exchange rate was £0.81 for every dollar, but this currency exchange offers £0.79 for each dollar.”

Customer support

If your amex travelers cheques are lost or stolen.

You should safeguard your cheques as you would cash, but if they are lost or stolen, here’s what you need to do:

  • Identify the serial numbers of any cheques that have been lost or stolen
  • Call American Express as soon as possible to report the missing or stolen cheques and make a claim
  • You will need to provide identification and proof of purchase
  • AMEX will review your claim, and issue a refund if the claim is valid

American Express Travel Cheques locations NYC

When to consider using AMEX Travelers Cheques

Although they’re no longer widely issued or accepted, it does make sense to use travelers cheques in some circumstances:

  • If you don’t have a credit or debit card, travelers cheques can be a good alternative
  • If you’re concerned about money being lost or stolen, travelers cheques can provide extra security and are not linked to your bank accounts
  • If you want to avoid foreign transactions fees (typically up to three percent) when you spend on your credit or debit card overseas, although commission or exchange rate fees on cheques may make this irrelevant

When to think about options besides American Express Travelers Cheques

One of the reasons for the decline of travelers cheques is that you have many more options when it comes to spending money abroad:

  • You can use a prepaid travel money card that you top up with currency before you travel and use like a regular debit card
  • You can use a credit or debit card that doesn’t charge a foreign transaction fee, like the TransferWise Borderless Account card
  • You can compare all your different options for travel money, including fees and exchange rates, with our easy-to-use tool

You might also like these AMEX alternatives

Best International Banks for Digital Nomads and Expats

Frommer's - Home

If You Have Old Traveler's Checks Lying Around, Here's Why You Should Cash Them ASAP

Jason cochran at mic edited

By Jason Cochran

03/07/2023, 6:15 PM

For a long time, the standard advice about traveler's checks has been conditional: You can still buy them, but be prepared for them to be refused at many places.

Traveler's checks hail from an era before ATMs, credit cards, prepaid debit cards, and digital wallets, when travelers had to bring large sums of money with them to pay for their adventures. The traveler's check enabled people to remain well-funded without the risk of carrying actual cash.

But we no longer need to carry ready funds wherever we go. We have digital payments. And as that global technology has grown, the systems that handle archaic proxy forms of payment such as traveler's checks have vanished.

Many former issuers of traveler's checks, such as Thomas Cook, Bank of America, Chase, and AAA, have either discontinued their traveler's check programs or gone out of business altogether. 

Yet there are still some consumers out there who seek out this form of payment out of familiarity. 

American Express acts like they're still worthwhile. ("Travelers Cheques mean peace of mind," the  Amex website promises .) So does  Visa , which issues them through its banking partners. 

Don't succumb. You could end up stuck with the checks after you get back home.  

Previously, if you still had some traveler's checks in your possession after a trip, you could redeposit them in your bank account. After all, they never expire.

But now big financial institutions have changed the rules. 

Last December, Charles Schwab, a major player in consumer investing, announced that it would no longer accept traveler's checks as deposits. (The company also announced it would no longer accept mobile deposits of money orders.) The warning was quietly slipped into a tiny box in the Charles Schwab app.

do american express travellers cheques expire

Financial institutions, like airlines, tend to imitate one another's consumer products. Your bank may follow suit, if it hasn't already.

In Chase's case, sales of traveler's checks were halted in 2015, but Chase still accepts them on deposit for now.

Many banks, though, will simply refer you back to the company that originally underwrote the transaction, so getting your cash might involve detective work and mailing the old checks to Europe  to petition for a refund.

Yet a lot of online travel tips still present traveler's checks as an uncommon-but-viable option.

A 2022 post by First Republic Bank sold them as "still a worthy option to consider," and a 2022 post from Capital One warned there may be a fee to deposit unused traveler's checks, but didn't mention that many banks aren't even capable of doing that anymore.

I tested ChatGPT with a question about how to obtain traveler's checks for a vacation. Because the A.I. software is fed by all the bad information online, the chatbot told me traveler's checks "have become less common in recent years," but then nonetheless proceeded to instruct me how and where to buy some.

ChatGPT never warned me that I could potentially have trouble cashing the leftovers after my trip ends.

If you research more carefully, you can find stories of people who run across old traveler's checks but have a hard time locating anyone to redeem them—even at the buyer's own bank or the institution named on the check. 

If you can't use traveler's checks easily and you can't easily get your money back afterward, they're not what I'd call a viable option anymore.

One statistic that's frequently cited online states that more than $1 billion in unredeemed traveler's checks are still circulating. Many of those checks are leftovers from long-ago vacations that came in under budget or vestiges of well-meaning grandparents who assumed buying traveler's checks as gifts was as safe as buying a bond.

Although that $1 billion figure may not be accurate, there's still no doubt that heaps of old traveler's checks are out there, forgotten in the backs of closets, sock drawers, and safe deposit boxes. The avenues for getting the value back out of the checks are swiftly closing.

So it's time to call it. Traveler's checks should never be used. 

More to the point, if you have any old traveler's checks somewhere, get the value back out of them as soon as possible.

And don't buy any more ever again. Not unless you want to run the risk of locking your hard-earned money into pieces of paper.

When it comes to travel, any company that is still issuing traveler's checks probably shouldn't be. Consider them dead.

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Traveler’s Checks When Traveling Abroad — Useful or Outdated?

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Christy Rodriguez

Travel & Finance Content Contributor

Countries Visited: 36 U.S. States Visited: 31

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Keri Stooksbury

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Countries Visited: 45 U.S. States Visited: 28

Traveler’s Checks When Traveling Abroad — Useful or Outdated?

What Are Traveler’s Checks?

Where to buy traveler’s checks, how to use traveler’s checks, what to do if traveler’s checks are stolen, 1. no access to credit or debit card, 2. limited access to atms, 3. access good exchange rates , 4. avoid common credit or debit fees, 5. as an added safety measure, 1. limited availability for use, 2. not all banks offer them, 3. potential for additional fees, 4. bulky paperwork, credit card, prepaid card, do your research, tell your bank you are traveling, don’t keep all of your money in 1 place, final thoughts.

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When traveling abroad, you might wonder how to pay for things once you arrive. Should you bring currency on your trip? Which currency should you bring? Can you get money once you arrive? How much cash should you carry at once?

Many of these questions can be answered by using traveler’s checks. Traveler’s checks might seem like an outdated choice, but they can still be useful in certain situations.

In this article, we’ll explain what traveler’s checks are, how they work, and when they might be worth the hassle. We’ll also explore other more common alternatives and give tips for obtaining foreign currency.

Traveler’s checks are documents that can be used like standard paper checks and cash. Travelers purchase them before they leave home to exchange for cash in the local currency when they arrive at their destination.

These checks are printed in varying denominations, and each check is uniquely numbered so that it can be replaced quickly if lost or stolen.

Banks, hotels, and merchants were once very used to accepting traveler’s checks. These places liked traveler’s checks because of the safeguards that were put in place. Basically, as long as the original signature matched the signature made at the time of the purchase, payment is guaranteed — eliminating any “bounced checks.”

Now, with the increased use of credit and debit cards (especially those with no foreign transaction fees ), prepaid cards, and ATMs on every corner, traveler’s checks have become less popular.

You may find it difficult to find banks or hotels that accept them , and if you do, you might be at the mercy of their business hours to cash them in.

How To Buy and Use Traveler’s Checks

You can still buy and use traveler’s checks in the U.S. and other countries.

You can find traveler’s checks offered by companies like American Express and Visa . You can also go to your local AAA office to purchase them.

The best place to purchase traveler’s checks is from your own bank, but unfortunately, many banks no longer offer traveler’s checks, including Chase, Wells Fargo, and Bank of America.

If you’re not sure if your bank offers traveler’s checks, it’s worth contacting them to confirm. If you are a customer, banks typically waive any fees to obtain them and this can add up because other companies can add on a 1% to 3% fee on top of the base currency amount that you request.

In order to obtain a traveler’s check, you will need to:

  • Either go in person to an eligible bank or visit the website of the traveler’s check issuer.
  • Select the total amount of currency to purchase.
  • Submit payment, including any fees.

Once you have the traveler’s checks, you need to know how to use them. Traveler’s checks work a bit differently than other forms of currency. Here are the steps you’ll need to take:

  • Sign the checks immediately. Follow the issuer’s instructions to find out where to sign (and only sign once).
  • Leave evidence of your traveler’s check purchase somewhere safe. If checks get lost or stolen, you’ll need to provide proof of purchase along with check numbers to get a refund. Leave those details with a friend or save them online for easy remote access.
  • Complete the payee and date fields. Once you have confirmed that the payee or bank will accept traveler’s checks, fill out the payee and date fields.
  • Sign the check again. You must complete this portion in-person to ensure that the signature matches the original. You may also need to show some sort of identification as well. This is key to keeping traveler’s checks secure.
  • If checks get lost or stolen, contact the issuer immediately. You may be able to get replacement checks locally, and the issuer needs to know which checks to cancel.

Traveler’s checks don’t expire , so if you don’t use them you can either keep them for future use or deposit them into your bank account once you’re home.

If all of your cash is stolen while you’re traveling abroad, you’ll have next to no chance of getting it back.

However, if this happens with your traveler’s checks, you’ll likely get them replaced as long as you’ve complied with your check issuer’s purchase agreement . This is the primary benefit of traveling with traveler’s checks.

Bottom Line: Treat your traveler’s checks like cash. If you lose your checks, you may not get replacements if your check issuer has reason to believe you didn’t safeguard them appropriately.

Here’s what to do if your traveler’s checks are lost or stolen:

  • Call the customer service phone number provided by your issuer or find it by accessing their website.
  • Provide proof that the check is yours by submitting the check number, proof of purchase, and your identification. It’s important to have easy access to this information for this reason.
  • If required by your issuer, provide evidence that you have reported your stolen check to the police.
  • Be sure to return any other refund paperwork requested.

If you don’t comply, you could experience delays or even have your claim denied. After you’ve reported your missing check, your provider will void it and issue you a new check.

Some issuers even pledge to get replacement checks out to you within 24 hours !

Best Ways To Use Traveler’s Checks

The following are situations when you might consider using traveler’s checks:

If you don’t have a credit card or a debit card tied to your bank account, a traveler’s check could be a safe alternative to simply carrying lots of cash abroad.

This tip also applies if your particular credit or debit card isn’t accepted abroad. This is more likely to happen if your card is something other than a Visa or Mastercard , as those credit cards claim the widest global network.

In many places, you can easily get cash in the local currency at an ATM once you arrive. This wouldn’t be a problem in Europe, for example, but ATMs are rare in some parts of the world. In addition, ATMs can malfunction, networks can be down, and machines might even run out of cash.

Traveler’s checks allow you to get local currency at participating banks, hotels, and other foreign locations without regard for these potential problems.

Buying traveler’s checks can help you avoid bad exchange rates. If you decide to exchange currency once you arrive, you might not get the best conversion rates by doing this at the airport.

By purchasing traveler’s checks before you leave, you can lock in a set amount at the current exchange rate.

Read our guide for the best places to exchange currency .

If your credit or debit card charges a foreign transaction fee , you can be charged a fee every time you make a purchase with your card in a foreign country. If your card also charges ATM fees, these fees can add up quickly.

To avoid these fees, it might make sense to use traveler’s checks. Although there may be a fee involved when you purchase or cash a traveler’s check, it might still be less than other fees your credit or debit card may charge.

Hot Tip: If your card charges a foreign transaction fee, it will typically be 3% of each purchase you make.

If you’re traveling to a potentially unsafe region, traveler’s checks keep your money secure. Even if you’re in a relatively safe place, anyone who enters your room or has access to your bags could search for your money.

The main benefit of traveler’s checks is that they reduce your risk of theft or loss. Since they can’t be cashed without your signature and often require a photo ID, they are less appealing to thieves or pickpockets. They can also be easily replaced if you provide the issuer with the proper information.

Cons of Using Traveler’s Checks

Here are some reasons that might discourage you from using traveler’s checks:

In much of Europe and Asia, traveler’s checks are no longer widely accepted and cannot be easily cashed — even at the banks that issued them.

This means that cashing in traveler’s checks might require hunting down a bank branch or hotel that accepts them during business hours.

Bottom Line: Those relying solely on traveler’s checks may find that they are unable to cash them in many remote or rural locations.

Certain major banks, such as Bank of America, no longer offer traveler’s checks at all. This might mean ordering traveler’s checks online well in advance of your travel plans or having to find a new bank that offers them.

If a company does offer traveler’s checks, it typically charges fees for both buying and cashing in a traveler’s check. While some banks offer them for free if you are a customer, others charge between 1% to 3% of the total purchase amount.

Check the math for your own situation, but using traveler’s checks could actually cost more than using an ATM or credit card abroad.

Not only are traveler’s checks a hassle to carry, but most companies also require that you keep proof of purchase for the checks to verify the check numbers if they are lost or stolen.

Both of these just add up to keeping track of additional paperwork.

Other Alternatives

Obviously, traveler’s checks aren’t your only option when it comes to obtaining foreign currency. Here are some other options you should consider.

Variety of Foreign Currency

Cash is convenient and relatively easy to exchange. You can bring money from home into a foreign bank or currency exchange location almost anywhere in the world. It can be easily exchanged without the worry of multiple bank fees or ATM fees adding up.

Hot Tip: Be aware: if you exchange your money in tourist areas, you might be hit with a bad exchange rate.

On the downside, carrying paper money is a risk since it can’t be replaced if stolen.

A debit card can be used at an ATM to collect cash. While not all ATM machines (especially in more rural places) accept foreign debit cards, you will find that most do.

Depending on your bank, you might even have to pay both an out-of-network ATM and an international ATM fee for this convenience.

Hot Tip: An out-of-network ATM fee is typically between $2 to $3.50 per transaction in 2021 and a typical international ATM fee can range from $2 to $7 per transaction (plus a 3% conversion fee), depending on your bank and card.

Most restaurants and stores accept foreign debit cards, but carrying a form of backup currency is always wise . Additionally, foreign transaction fees can add up quickly if you are using your debit card frequently.

Like debit cards, credit cards are small and easy to carry. Mastercard, Visa, and more recently, American Express , are widely accepted in other countries, so you can rest easy knowing you will be able to complete your purchases. You can also limit fees by getting a credit card with no foreign transaction fees .

A credit card also comes with fraud protection. You can dispute fraudulent charges and get them removed from your account if reported timely.

Hot Tip: While you can use a credit card for ATM transactions, you will be hit with a cash advance fee . It’s best to avoid doing this, if possible.

If you have difficulty getting approved for a credit card , a prepaid card could be a good alternative. You simply load the card with money from your bank account and use it as a debit card at an ATM or as a credit card at merchants and hotels.

While prepaid cards are locked with a PIN number, they can sometimes be difficult to use at ATM machines. Additionally, fees for foreign currency transactions can be as high as 7% , depending on the card.

Hot Tip: Booking hotels, airfare, or activities online will require either a credit card, debit card, or prepaid card.

Money Tips for Traveling Abroad

Know which types of currency are accepted at your destination and how much of each type (if any) you should bring. Especially be aware of any cash you might need on arrival (to obtain a visa , exchange upon arrival, etc.) in case you can’t immediately locate an ATM or a currency exchange office.

Carry a mix of cash, cards, and maybe even traveler’s checks. Ideally, the cards you bring with you shouldn’t have foreign transaction fees or ATM fees . Having some variety also helps if one of your cards isn’t accepted or your cash is lost or stolen. 

Always be sure to let your bank and credit card issuers know where you’re going and when so that your card isn’t declined when you try to make a purchase due to unusual activity.

If you exchange money at your bank, you will likely also get a better exchange rate.

Keep some of your currency or an extra card locked in your hotel room’s safe or in a money belt . In the terrible instance that you lose your purse or wallet, you would still have immediate access to additional money.

We’ve shown that traveler’s checks aren’t necessarily the most convenient way to take currency abroad, but depending on if you have limited access to debit or credit cards or they aren’t accepted where you are traveling, it might be worth it to bring some along.

Overall, if you’ve decided that traveler’s checks can be of use to you, taking some, along with some cash and a debit, credit, or prepaid card, may just be the smartest way to travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you still buy traveler's checks.

While many larger banks are no longer offering traveler’s checks, they are still available at American Express and other smaller banks and credit unions. It is worth asking if your bank offers them and at what cost.

How much does it cost to buy traveler's checks?

While some banks offer them for free if you are a customer, others charge between 1% and 3% of the purchase amount.

What is the purpose of a traveler's check?

A traveler’s check offers a safer option than carrying around money. There are multiple safeguards in place to prevent fraud and if the checks are lost or stolen, they can be easily replaced.

Can you cash old traveler's checks?

Traveler’s checks do not expire. You can cash them in at any time — typically even at banks that don’t offer them for sale. This means you can go to your own bank and redeem your traveler’s checks.

To do this, date them, fill out the “Pay To” field (to your bank), and countersign in the presence of the cashier . Any unused value will be returned to you in cash.

Can I buy traveler's checks online?

American Express is the only large bank that offers traveler’s checks online. Its website offers a step-by-step process to order them.

You should check with your local bank or credit union to see if they might also offer this benefit.

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About Christy Rodriguez

After having “non-rev” privileges with Southwest Airlines, Christy dove into the world of points and miles so she could continue traveling for free. Her other passion is personal finance, and is a certified CPA.

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Travelers Cheques Discontinued

Amex travelers cheques & gift cheques, discontinued 12/31/20.

American Express (AMEX) has announced that it will no longer sell Travelers Cheques and Gift Cheques.   Effective December 31, 2020 , UHFCU will no longer provide these products.

What prompted the decision?

AMEX recently conducted a review of its strategy.  Improved card acceptance, ATM access, and advanced digital payment options worldwide have led to declining consumer demand for AMEX Travelers Cheques and Gift Cheques.  Merchant preference has generally shifted to chip-enabled payment cards as well.

What happens to existing AMEX Travelers Cheques and Gift Cheques?

Although AMEX’s decision ends the sale of Travelers Cheque and Gift Cheques in the United States, this in no way affects your ability to accept these products for encashment .  UHFCU will continue to redeem AMEX Travelers Cheques and Gift Cheques along with other financial institutions and merchants.

You can find acceptance locations on the Travelers Cheque Encashment Locator tool: http://www.aetclocator.com/TCLocator .

Can customers still obtain refunds for lost and stolen Travelers Cheques?

Yes! Travelers Cheques never expire and if they are lost or stolen, they can continue to be refunded in accordance with AMEX’s internal policies and procedures . Simply contact American Express to make a claim in the unfortunate event that the product has been lost or stolen.

Are there alternative payment methods during international travel?

Yes!  There are several options available to you:

  • UHFCU Debit Card – Make purchases anywhere MasterCard® Debit is accepted worldwide, and the funds are withdrawn directly from your checking account.
  • UHFCU Credit Card – Make purchases anywhere Visa® Credit is accepted worldwide and earn rewards for your next trip.
  • Prepaid Cards – Similar to Debit and Credit cards; however, you pre-load cash before you travel. Although UHFCU does not offer this option, these cards are generally available direct from payment processors.
  • Carrying Cash – Some vendors may prefer cash or may not have the ability to accept cards, so it’s wise to carry currency (both in American dollars as well as the local currency) and store it safely.

Travel tip!   Always be sure to let your financial institution and debit/credit card issuers know where you’re going and when so that your card isn’t declined due to unusual activity when you try to make a purchase.

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do american express travellers cheques expire

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20 year old unused travelers checks... what to do with them?

User avatar

Post by anon_investor » Sun Sep 01, 2019 4:26 am

Re: 20 year old unused travelers checks... what to do with them?

Post by sport » Sun Sep 01, 2019 5:02 am

Post by veindoc » Sun Sep 01, 2019 5:13 am

Post by motorcyclesarecool » Sun Sep 01, 2019 9:52 am

User avatar

Post by sunny_socal » Sun Sep 01, 2019 10:35 am

motorcyclesarecool wrote: ↑ Sun Sep 01, 2019 9:52 am Hmmm, I wonder whether travelers’ checks in a safe deposit box might be a better solution than hoarding cash in the event of negative rates?

Post by Sconie » Sun Sep 01, 2019 12:00 pm

User avatar

Post by nisiprius » Sun Sep 01, 2019 12:34 pm

Post by GrowthSeeker » Sun Sep 01, 2019 1:00 pm

Post by 7eight9 » Sun Sep 01, 2019 6:37 pm

Post by nisiprius » Sun Sep 01, 2019 8:26 pm

7eight9 wrote: ↑ Sun Sep 01, 2019 6:37 pm The cage at your local casino will likely be pleased to cash them for you.

Post by 7eight9 » Sun Sep 01, 2019 8:32 pm

nisiprius wrote: ↑ Sun Sep 01, 2019 8:26 pm 7eight9 wrote: ↑ Sun Sep 01, 2019 6:37 pm The cage at your local casino will likely be pleased to cash them for you.

Post by anon_investor » Sun Sep 01, 2019 8:40 pm

User avatar

Post by ResearchMed » Sun Sep 01, 2019 10:58 pm

Post by Invest4lt » Sun Sep 01, 2019 11:16 pm

Post by anon_investor » Sun Sep 01, 2019 11:23 pm

Invest4lt wrote: ↑ Sun Sep 01, 2019 11:16 pm I was in a similar position with some very old travelers checks. I brought them into my bank and they entered the check numbers into some type of website or database. They came up as not cashed and not reported stolen. The teller then deposited into my account. Glad to be rid of them.

Post by Invest4lt » Sun Sep 01, 2019 11:30 pm

anon_investor wrote: ↑ Sun Sep 01, 2019 11:23 pm Invest4lt wrote: ↑ Sun Sep 01, 2019 11:16 pm I was in a similar position with some very old travelers checks. I brought them into my bank and they entered the check numbers into some type of website or database. They came up as not cashed and not reported stolen. The teller then deposited into my account. Glad to be rid of them.

Post by nisiprius » Mon Sep 02, 2019 2:49 am

7eight9 wrote: ↑ Sun Sep 01, 2019 8:32 pm nisiprius wrote: ↑ Sun Sep 01, 2019 8:26 pm 7eight9 wrote: ↑ Sun Sep 01, 2019 6:37 pm The cage at your local casino will likely be pleased to cash them for you.

Post by MrDrinkingWater » Mon Sep 02, 2019 3:02 am

Post by abyan » Mon Sep 02, 2019 3:46 am

Post by anon_investor » Mon Sep 02, 2019 3:54 am

abyan wrote: ↑ Mon Sep 02, 2019 3:46 am Mine were like 40 or 50 years old (some of them). My bank accepted them. Though it was hard matching my teenage signature!

Post by Silk McCue » Mon Sep 23, 2019 11:22 am

anon_investor wrote: ↑ Mon Sep 02, 2019 3:54 am abyan wrote: ↑ Mon Sep 02, 2019 3:46 am Mine were like 40 or 50 years old (some of them). My bank accepted them. Though it was hard matching my teenage signature!

User avatar

Post by whodidntante » Mon Sep 23, 2019 12:20 pm

User avatar

Post by FrankLUSMC » Mon Sep 23, 2019 12:52 pm

Post by anon_investor » Mon Sep 23, 2019 3:46 pm

FrankLUSMC wrote: ↑ Mon Sep 23, 2019 12:52 pm As of today Thomas Cook is out of business, so you may be out of luck now. Held too long.

Post by rich126 » Mon Sep 23, 2019 3:54 pm

According to the Federal Reserve Bank as of April 2018, there are $1.8 billion worth of outstanding traveler's checks. This is down 80% from the high of $9.2 billion in May, 1995.

Post by Kenkat » Mon Sep 23, 2019 4:07 pm

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epic journey travellers cheques

Epic journey to get refund on old Amex travellers’ cheques

We have €100 in travellers’ cheques from years ago but are unable to exchange them for cash

My husband recently found €100 worth of American Express travellers cheques tucked inside a travel guide. They were bought from our local HSBC branch a number of years ago, and we thought they never expired.

However, when we took them into the branch we were told they no longer issued these cheques and they could not cash them in. They suggested a local travel agent, who could not help either. I tried to contact Amex, but it seems you need to have one of its cards in order to register. Can you advise please? PN, Northallerton, North Yorkshire

You are right that travellers cheques don’t expire, but as you have found, you still need to find somewhere to cash them. The rise of ATMs around the world have made these cheques somewhat redundant, which is presumably why HSBC told you it no longer offers them. Happily the Post Office still does, and if you take them down to your local branch, we are reliably informed that you will get your cash.

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Do Travelers Checks Ever Expire?

Duncan Jenkins

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One of the safest ways to travel the world, still, is by using traveler's checks. These financial instruments can be cashed at nearly any bank in the world, and major retailers around the world often accept them -- and return them for cash. In addition, these checks are safe and secure; they come with copies that make it easy to replace them if lost or stolen, and usually the distributor -- in general, either Visa or American Express -- offers round-the-clock customer service. Best of all, these checks never expire.

No Expiration

Traveler's checks never expire. This means that you can use them on a trip abroad, save any remaining checks -- in a safe location, such as a safety deposit box -- and then bring them on any subsequent trips. In addition, if your checks are old and damaged, you can either cash them in for the face value or call the issuer to replace it. Make sure to always keep the check copies for verification.

Eliminating Checks

If you recently returned from a trip and do not expect to take another one for a while, you may want to consider cashing them in and putting the money in an interest-bearing account. While the checks never expire, they also do not help you financially. Traveler's checks will not earn interest or mature past their face value, unlike safety deposit bonds. If you exchange these checks for cash, you have the opportunity to deposit the money into an account that could earn interest.

Traveler's checks don't expire even when the holder of such checks dies. According to the New York Comptroller's Office, traveler's checks become part of the deceased's estate as unclaimed funds. Therefore, it is up to the surviving members of the family -- and those mentioned in the will -- to sort out the unclaimed funds in probate court.

Other Options

One option, particularly attractive if you are a frequent traveler, is to hold onto your checks. Obtaining new traveler's checks incurs new fees and is a hassle, so keeping old checks might be best for the frequent flier. Another option is to donate the old traveler's checks to a charity. The original check holder must sign each traveler's check before it can be cashed by the charity.

  • USA Today: What to Do With Unused Travelers Checks?

Based in Eugene, Ore., Duncan Jenkins has been writing finance-related articles since 2008. His specialties include personal finance advice, mortgage/equity loans and credit management. Jenkins obtained his bachelor's degree in English from Clark University.

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American Express® Travelers Cheques

Travelers Cheques are backed by American Express

For more than a century our Travelers Cheques have helped travellers protect their money. Travelers Cheques may be refunded if lost or stolen. (Terms, conditions and restrictions apply. Identification and proof of purchase required.)

Travelers Cheques never expire

Unused Travelers Cheques can be used for future trips or redeemed.

Redeeming your Travelers Cheques

1. Redeem your Travelers Cheques with American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

You can call American Express customer service at 0800-991-021  to register a redemption claim. (1)   You can find additional contact numbers based on your location. 

2. Exchange your Travelers Cheques for local currency

Travelers Cheques are welcomed at thousands of locations worldwide (Exchange fees may apply). Click below to find locations near you. (2)

(1) We usually process claims & initiate payments within 5 business days. However, when documents are required to process the claim, it can take up to 30 days, from when the documents are received, for a claim to be processed & a payment initiated. Travelers Cheque Encashment service is provided by American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc."

(2) It is is highly recommended that you call the location prior to your visit and verify fees, limits, restrictions, exchange rates and availability.

May be refunded if lost or stolen*

24/7 Customer Support

Accepted at thousands of locations worldwide

Never Expire

Travelers Cheque Service Centre

Get help with your Travelers Cheques and find answers to common questions about them

How to use Travelers Cheques

As soon as possible, sign your name on the upper signature line to help protect yourself in case of loss or theft. 

Write down your serial numbers and keep them with you when you travel, separated from your Travelers Cheques. 

Safeguard your Travelers Cheques as you would cash. 

To redeem, sign your Travelers Cheque on the lower signature line in front of the person accepting your Cheques.

Lost or Stolen Travelers Cheques

American Express Travelers Cheques are safe and secure. If they are ever lost or stolen, the funds may be refunded.*

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR CHEQUES ARE LOST OR STOLEN

1. Locate serial numbers

Have the serial numbers for your lost or stolen Cheques on hand when you call.

Please call the American Express Travelers Cheque Customer Service Centre at (0800-991-021) or find the contact number for your current location as soon as possible to report the loss and open a claim. Service Centres handle claims 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.. 

3. Receiving your refund

If your claim is approved we will help determine the best way for you to obtain a refund.

* Terms, conditions and restrictions apply. Identification and proof of purchase required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are Travelers Cheques safe and secure?

Travelers Cheques are safe and secure because if they are ever lost or stolen, they may be refunded.

Where do I sign my Travelers Cheques?

Travelers Cheques should be signed on the upper signature line as soon as possible after purchase.

USING TRAVELERS CHEQUES

Where are Travelers Cheques accepted?

There are thousands of foreign exchange partners in countries around the world where you can exchange your American Express Travelers Cheques for local currency.  Click here  to find places to redeem your Travelers Cheques. It may also be possible to redeem your Travelers Cheques directly for goods and services. Check first though with the merchant.

Can I redeem my Travelers Cheques directly with American Express? If you are unable to find or visit a nearby location to redeem your Travelers Cheques please call Customer Service at  (0800-991-021) or find the contact number for your current location. Redemption of your Travelers Cheques directly with American Express may take longer than 30 days, depending on the circumstances of the request. There may be restrictions on the currency and method of redemption and the value of Travelers Cheques that can be directly redeemed.

How do I cash Travelers Cheques?

Simply present the Cheque at the exchange or merchant location. Make sure the acceptor watches while you countersign the Cheque on the lower signature line. Photo identification may be required. We strongly recommended you retain and carry your original purchase receipt with you when you travel. Commission charges may apply and can vary by country or exchange partner. Exchange limits may apply due to local regulations and exchange policies.

What happens if I sign my Travelers Cheques in the wrong place, or if my signatures don't match?

Acceptance of Travelers Cheques is based on the acceptor watching the customer sign the Cheque on the lower signature line, and then comparing that signature with the original signature on the upper signature line . The acceptor must observe the customer signing the Cheque. If the signatures are a reasonable match, the Cheque should be accepted. Photo identification may be required at the discretion of the Acceptor. As always, if the acceptor is unsure, they should call an American Express Travelers Cheque Customer Service Centre.

Is there a fee to cash Travelers Cheques?

Commission charges may apply and can vary by country and/or exchange partner. Before you travel we recommend that you click here  to find the most convenient Travelers Cheque exchange locations, along with any information about fees that they have shared with us.

Do Travelers Cheques expire?

Travelers Cheques do not expire. Unused Travelers Cheques can be used for future trips.

What should be done with a deceased person's unused Travelers Cheques?

A refund can be arranged for the unused Travelers Cheque to the next of kin or beneficiary. Please call Customer Services at (0800-991-021) or find the contact number for your current location.

What happens if my Cheques are lost or stolen?

Lost or stolen Travelers Cheques may be refunded.* Please call Customer Services at (0800-991-021) or find the  contact number  for your current location.

For other questions regarding Travelers Cheques, please call Customer Services at (0800-991-021) or find the  contact number  for your current location.

Terms and Conditions

Following are the terms and conditions for obtaining a refund for lost or stolen Travelers Cheques.

PURCHASE AGREEMENT

Read this Agreement carefully. By either buying, signing, accepting or using these American Express ®Travelers  Cheques (“Cheques”), you agree to everything written here: You agree (a) To sign your Cheques immediately in the upper left corner, (b) Not to resell, consign, or take any similar action to transfer your Cheques to any other individual, company or entity for resale or reuse.

American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. (“Amexco”) will replace or refund the amount shown on any lost or stolen Cheque in accordance with applicable laws and only if you meet all of the requirements below:

BEFORE LOSS

  • You have signed the Travelers Cheque in the upper left-hand corner in permanent ink.
  • You have not signed the Cheque in the lower left-hand corner.
  • You have not given the Cheque to another person or company to hold or keep, or as part of a confidence game.
  • You have not used the Cheque in violation of any law, including as part of an illegal bet, game of chance or other prohibited action.
  • Your Cheque has not been taken by court order or by government action.
  • You have safeguarded the Cheque as a prudent person would safeguard a like amount of cash.
  • You promptly notify Amexco of the loss or theft of the Cheque.
  • You promptly report all facts of the loss or theft to Amexco and also to the police if Amexco asks you to.
  • You promptly inform Amexco of the serial number of the lost or stolen Cheque and the place and date of its purchase.
  • You promptly complete Amexco's refund forms and provide Amexco with acceptable proof of your identity.
  • You give Amexco all reasonable information and help requested to make a complete investigation of the loss or theft. Amexco reserves the right to investigate the loss or theft and to verify compliance with this Purchase Agreement and shall not be responsible for any delays resulting from such an investigation.
  • Please note that for quality assurance purposes your telephone call to Amexco may be monitored or recorded and that you consent to such monitoring and recording.

NO STOP PAYMENT

Amexco cannot stop payment on any Cheque.

Sign your Cheques immediately in the upper left hand corner.

For other questions regarding Travelers Cheques, please call Customer Services at  (0800-991-021) or find the contact number for your current location. 

Still need help?

You can call customer service at  (0800-991-021) . Alternatively, you can find additional contact numbers below based on your location.

American Express stopped issuing Travelers Cheques, so they’re no longer available for purchase.

Support is available by phone and the American Express website for customers to redeem valid Travelers Cheques.

Travelers Cheques remain backed by American Express and have no expiration date.

American Express: Don't live live without it

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  5. 500 Dollars (American Express Travelers Cheque)

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COMMENTS

  1. American Express Travelers Cheques

    You can call customer service at (1-800-221-7282). Alternatively, you can find additional contact numbers below based on your location. Contact Numbers. You can redeem your American Express® Travelers Cheque with American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. Find more about redeeming your Travelers Cheque.

  2. What to Do With Old Travelers Cheques (Don't trash them)

    One thing — we're not financial or legal experts. If you doubt your ability to cash the traveler's cheques you found, consider calling American Express at 1-800-525-7641. If American Express is not your traveler cheque issuer, simply call the company that issued them.

  3. How to Check American Express Travelers Cheques

    Tip. American Express travelers checks don't expire, so you can use them any time. Once you've found a bank or business that accepts traveler's cheques, fill out the check and countersign it just ...

  4. How Traveler's Checks Work in the Modern World

    In the U.S., checks are available primarily from American Express, but you may need to do some legwork to get your hands on new checks. Here are a few tips for using traveler's checks. Keep purchase records separate from the checks: If checks get lost or stolen, you'll need to provide proof of purchase and check numbers to get a refund.

  5. American Express Travelers Cheques Review

    How American Express Travelers Cheques works. Step 01. 1. Buy your travelers cheques from certain banks, currency exchange services and various other locations. Step 02. 2. Travelers cheques are available in a variety of denominations, depending on the currency. Step 03.

  6. If You Have Old Traveler's Checks Lying Around, Here's Why You Should

    Many former issuers of traveler's checks, such as Thomas Cook, Bank of America, Chase, and AAA, have either discontinued their traveler's check programs or gone out of business altogether. Yet there are still some consumers out there who seek out this form of payment out of familiarity. American Express acts like they're still worthwhile.

  7. Traveler's Checks When Traveling Abroad

    Traveler's checks do not expire. You can cash them in at any time — typically even at banks that don't offer them for sale. ... American Express is the only large bank that offers traveler's checks online. Its website offers a step-by-step process to order them. You should check with your local bank or credit union to see if they might ...

  8. Travelers Cheques Discontinued

    Travelers Cheques never expire and if they are lost or stolen, they can continue to be refunded in accordance with AMEX's internal policies and procedures. Simply contact American Express to make a claim in the unfortunate event that the product has been lost or stolen.

  9. American Express® Gift Cheques

    Redeem your Gift Cheques with American Express(2) You can call American Express customer service at ( 1-800-221-7282) to register a redemption claim. If you are located outside of the U.S, you can find additional contact numbers based on your location. 1) It is highly recommended that you call the location prior to your visit and verify fees ...

  10. Travelers Cheques

    Travelers Cheques never expire. Unused Travelers Cheques can be used for future trips or redeemed. Redeeming your Travelers Cheques. 1. Redeem your Travelers Cheques with American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. You can call American Express customer service on (1800-180-1245) to register a direct redemption claim (1).

  11. 20 year old unused travelers checks... what to do with them?

    In the heyday of travellers' cheques, it was always much easier to buy things at a places that were making a profit on purchases--and that got a lot of business from people using travellers' cheques--than to simply get cash money for them. And it was always easier to use them to buy something like a meal in a restaurant, then groceries at a ...

  12. Epic journey to get refund on old Amex travellers' cheques

    Miles Brignall. My husband recently found €100 worth of American Express travellers cheques tucked inside a travel guide. They were bought from our local HSBC branch a number of years ago, and ...

  13. Do Travelers Checks Ever Expire?

    No Expiration. Traveler's checks never expire. This means that you can use them on a trip abroad, save any remaining checks -- in a safe location, such as a safety deposit box -- and then bring them on any subsequent trips. In addition, if your checks are old and damaged, you can either cash them in for the face value or call the issuer to ...

  14. One App

    Do you have American Express Travelers Cheques that you want to redeem online? You can easily do so by following the steps on this webpage. You can choose from six different currencies and receive payment directly to your bank account. Learn more about the benefits and security of Travelers Cheques and how to redeem them online.

  15. Where can I cash Travelers Cheques?

    To find out locations where you can cash Travelers Cheques and how to redeem your Travelers Cheques directly with American Express please click here

  16. Travelers Cheques

    Renseignements importants. • L'échange des chèques de voyage est effectué par American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. • La demande d'échange devrait prendre moins de 15 minutes. • Tenez les informations suivantes à portée de main lorsque vous remplissez cette demande: • Pièce d'identité (Carte d'identité ...

  17. Travelers Cheques

    Travelers Cheques never expire. Unused Travelers Cheques can be used for future trips or redeemed. Redeeming your Travelers Cheques. 1. Redeem your Travelers Cheques with American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc (1) You can redeem your Travelers Cheques online (2). Click the button below to find out more or to register a redemption ...

  18. Log In to My Account

    Log in to your US American Express account, to activate a new card, review and spend your reward points, get a question answered, or a range of other services.

  19. Travelers Cheques

    Travelers Cheques never expire. Unused Travelers Cheques can be used for future trips or redeemed. Redeeming your Travelers Cheques. 1. Redeem your Travelers Cheques with American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc (1) You can redeem your Travelers Cheques online (2). Click the button below to find out more or to register a claim.

  20. Travelers Cheques

    Travelers Cheques never expire. Unused Travelers Cheques can be used for future trips or redeemed. Redeeming your Travelers Cheques . 1. Redeem your Travelers Cheques with American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc . You can call American Express customer service on (1-800-823-2090) to register a direct redemption claim (1).

  21. Travelers Cheques

    Redeeming your Travelers Cheques. 1. Redeem your Travelers Cheques with American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. You can call American Express customer service at 0800-991-021 to register a redemption claim. (1) You can find additional contact numbers based on your location.