I have some USD left over from my last trip to the states, about $2K. I know this can be used in Canada but does anyone know if it is a set exchange? I am just trying to see if I should exchange it up here or leave it and use it there.

BTW, should be landing in Dec.

Each store sets its own exchange for paper bills. Coins are taken at par. It's very likely (as the USD gets closer to the CND) that the USD will be taken at par.

Send it to me



What do you mean "set exchange"? The Fx rates go up and down. You lose regardless when you change it. Maybe bring it and open a US$ account at a canadian bank?

I wasn't sure if when you used it in shops they have a more set rate of exchange but probably not.

Depends on the shop I think. Most (where Ive noticed it) dont seem to update the rate daily, but to be honest most shops dont have a rate at all, the only place Ive really noticed it is in border towns and at Tim Hortons along the 401...

Dealing in US is more a convenience for those with US and no CDN cash, and like most conveniences, it comes with a cost, so the rate wont be in your favour.

Bear in mind that while many Canadian shops will accept American currency, they are under no obligation to do so. The do it purely as a convenience for the shopper. Don't be offended if you find a shop that won't take it. Converting it to Canadian currency at a Canadian bank will get you a better exchange rate than simply spending it. If I had a few thousand in USD in Canada, my order of preference would be:

1 - open USD account at a Canadian bank (my parents have one at TD)
2 - convert to Canadian $ at Canadian bank
3 - hang on to it and use it when in the US
4 - spend it in Canada.

Promote #3 higher if planning regular trips to the US.