Money in the USA
The USA uses the US dollar, currency code USD. Paying in the local currency usually gets you a better rate than pounds – if a card machine offers to charge you in GBP, choose USD instead.
Tipping
Tipping is expected: 18–20% in restaurants, $1–2 a drink in bars, 15–20% for taxis and hairdressers. Prices usually exclude sales tax too.
Plan your spending
Related questions
Common questions
What currency does the USA use?
The US dollar (USD).
Should I pay in pounds or USD in the USA?
Choose USD. When a card machine or cash machine offers to convert to pounds, its exchange rate is usually worse than your card's.
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