Money

Currency

One U.S. dollar is composed of 100 cents (¢). Cents come in coin denominations of 1¢ (called a penny), 5¢ (nickel), 10¢ (dime), 25¢ (quarter) and 50¢ (called a half-dollar or fifty-cent piece). There are two US$1 coins (the smaller, copper-colour "Sacagawea" and Presidential series and the large, silver-colour "Susan B Anthony"), but they are seldom used. U.S. bills are all the same green colour and size and come in denominations of US$1, US$5, US$10, US$20, US$50 and US$100. The US$2 bill has been almost entirely removed from circulation, but it is still legal currency.

ATM

The easiest and often most economical way to obtain cash in U.S. dollars is by withdrawing it from an automatic teller machine (ATM). Even the smallest towns in California usually have at least one ATM. Cirrus, Plus, Star and Maestro are the most commonly accepted networks, and these are available at nearly all ATMs. Most ATMs charge a service fee of between US$1 and US$2.50. Your bank may also charge a service fee on top of this. You may encounter problems if your personal identification number (PIN) is longer than four digits. If it is, contact your bank about creating a shorter PIN.

Credit Cards

Visa, MasterCard and American Express are widely accepted throughout California. Whether you intend to pay with a credit card or not, credit cards are almost invariably required if you plan to rent or reserve just about anything.

Traveler’s Cheques

Although not as commonly used as they once were, traveler's cheques are still a good way to carry a large amount of cash that can be replaced in the case of loss or theft. Cheques in small denominations (US$20 to US$50) are widely accepted throughout California and can be used just like cash at many hotels and restaurants. Be sure they're in U.S. dollars unless you plan to change them into local currency at a bank or exchange bureau. American Express and Visa Travelers Cheques are the most commonly accepted brands.

Lost and Stolen Credit cards and Travelers Cheques

To report missing credit cards, travelers cheques or travelers cheque cards, call the corresponding freephone numbers:

Credit Cards

• American Express: 800-528-4800
• Diners Club: 800-234-6377
• Discover: 800-347-2683
• MasterCard: 800-826-2181
• Visa: 800-336-8472

Travellers Cheques

• American Express: 800-221-7282
• MasterCard: 800-223-9920
• Thomas Cook: 800-223-7373
• Visa: 800-227-6811

Tipping

Get used to tipping. At restaurants, unless you order and pay at the counter, tipping is expected to the point of being a requirement. It is common to tip 18% to 20% if the service is good. Finer restaurants often include a 15% to 18% service charge for parties of six or more, which takes the place of a tip.

Tip bartenders between US$0.50 and US$1 per drink. Tip taxi drivers US$1 to US$3 (most people just round up to the nearest US$5). Tip hotel porters US$1 to US$3 per bag, and valet attendants the same upon returning your car. On package tours, guides and drivers usually get $10 per day from the group as a whole: check whether this has already been figured into your cost and pre-paid. For local sightseeing tours, you may individually tip the driver or guide if he or she has been helpful or informative; the amount is at your discretion. Tipping is also appropriate at a beauty salon or spa (haircut, manicure, massage, etc., at 15% of total bill.

Legal Documents

• Send to a Friend
• Print this Page