Travellers Cheques Frequently Asked Questions
Back to top- How do I cash Travellers Cheques?
Simply present the Cheque to the acceptor or bank where you wish to cash it. Make sure the acceptor watches while you countersign the Cheque in the lower left-hand corner. You can also exchange your Travellers Cheques for local currency free of charge at thousands of locations around the world. Visit www.americanexpress.com/feefree for a list of locations of Fee-Free Exchange Partners.
- Where can I use Travellers Cheques?While American Express Travellers Cheques are recognised around the world and can be used like cash in many locations, or exchanged for local currency at banks, foreign exchange bureaux and American Express Travel Service locations, acceptance is becoming increasingly uncommon. You should check that the country you are visiting accepts travellers cheques.
- Where do I sign Travellers Cheques?
Upon purchase, Travellers Cheques must be signed in the upper left-hand corner in order to be reimbursable if lost or stolen. When the Cheques are cashed, make sure the acceptor watches while you countersign the Cheque in the lower left-hand corner.
- What happens if I sign the Cheque in the wrong place, or my signatures don't match?
Acceptance of Travellers Cheques is based on the acceptor watching the customer sign the Cheque in the lower left-hand corner, and then comparing that signature with the original signature in the upper left-hand corner. The acceptor must observe the customer signing the Cheque. If the signatures are a reasonable match, the Cheque should be accepted. As always, if the acceptor is unsure, they should call an American Express Travellers Cheque Customer Service Centre.
- When do I fill out the date on my Travellers Cheque?
The date, in the upper right-hand corner, should be filled out upon use, just like a personal cheque.
- Is there a fee to cash Travellers Cheques?
Normally, there is no fee when you use Travellers Cheques to pay for goods and services at shops, restaurants, and hotels. Some establishments (primarily outside of the U.S.) and some banks may charge a fee. You can also exchange your Travellers Cheques for local currency free of charge at thousands of locations around the world. Visit www.americanexpress.com/feefree for a list of locations of Fee-Free Exchange Partners.
- If I don't use the full face value of the Travellers Cheque, will I get change back?
Yes, you will get change back, just like cash.
- What happens if my Travellers Cheques are lost or stolen?
If your Travellers Cheques are lost or stolen, contact an American Express Travellers Cheque Customer Service Centre immediately. They will provide you with step-by-step instructions for reimbursement.
Remember to keep a record of all the Travellers Cheques serial numbers in a safe location separate from your Cheques.
- Where can I get my Cheques reimbursed?
If your Cheques are lost or stolen, you will need to contact an American Express Travellers Cheque Customer Service Centre immediately. They will assist you with step-by-step instructions for replacing your Cheques.
- How do I contact an American Express Travellers Cheques Customer Service Centre?
For your convenience, American Express Travellers Cheques Customer Service Centres are available around the world. To find a Customer Service Centre, visit www.americanexpress.com/uk/tc/custservice.shtml for a complete listing.
Passport and Credit/Debit Card Replacement Assistance
Back to top- What is Passport Replacement Assistance?
Passport Replacement Assistance is available to you when carrying American Express Travellers Cheques purchased in the UK, whether or not you've lost your Travellers Cheques. In the event that you lose your passport, you should phone an American Express Travellers Cheque Service Centre as soon as possible. Our representatives will provide you with the phone numbers for the nearest consulate or embassy. They can also arrange an appointment for you, where possible, provide advice on procedures or provide documents and passport requirements needed to have your passport replaced and re-issued. In certain countries, you may have access to a passport-expediting agency to speed the re-issue process along. Terms and conditions apply.
- What is Credit/Debit Card Cancellation Assistance?
Credit Card Replacement Assistance is available to you when carrying American Express Travellers Cheques purchased in the UK, whether or not you've lost a Cheque and whether or not the card is American Express. In the event that you lose your credit or debit cards, you should phone an American Express Travellers Cheque Service Centre as soon as possible. Our representatives will provide you with the phone numbers for most financial institutions that issue major credit/debit cards - we will even stay on the phone with you to guide you through the process if you wish. If the issuing bank phone number is not available, the appropriate issuing card association can be contacted for further assistance. If needed, a customer service representative can transfer your call to one or more financial institutions to start the cancellation/replacement process. Terms and conditions apply.
- What happens if I lose my passport and/or major credit cards, but not my Travellers Cheques?
Passport and Credit Card Replacement Assistance is available to you when carrying American Express Travellers Cheques purchased in the UK whether or not you've lost a Cheque. In the event that you lose your passport or credit cards, you should phone an American Express Travellers Cheque Service Centre as soon as possible. You will be asked to provide the serial numbers of your Cheques. Keep a record of the serial numbers separate from your Cheques, passport and major credit/debit cards.
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