<prompt> Human: I am an expat living a very high cost of living country and pay a lot of fees for ATMs, international debit card fees, and currency conversion. The dollar is also getting weaker relative to the local currency, so my purchasing power is becoming lower each month.What are ways I can maximize the value of my dollars?  <response>: I second getting a debit card with no ATM fees or foreign transaction fees and a credit card with no foreign fees, as well. Depending where you are, just make sure theres no fee for paying with a card Ive seen places charge 3 if you pay by card instead of cash, which completely negates the point.Now, that may not be possible for you right now considering you arent physically in the US, so as another user pointed out, you should try to minimize the amount of ATM withdrawals you make. I used to pay 5 for foreign ATM withdrawals plus any local ATM fees when I used my Wells Fargo card, so I would withdraw at least 300 at a time to minimize that. I was living in SE Asia, so that lasted me pretty much the whole month.Another option, depending on the local currency where you are, is to open a TransferWise borderless account and try to get paid there. You can then convert to GBP or EUR when the exchange rate swings in your favor. You might also benefit from getting their debit card if you choose this option.Heres my setup which Im very happy with, in case it helps: TransferWise Borderless account I get paid in EUR Schwab checking account for the debit card no foreign fees and all ATM fees reimbursed Capital One Quicksilver credit card no foreign fees and 1.5 cashback on all purchases Ally savings account for emergency fund and any upcoming vacations 1.45 APY, which is a HUGE improvement from the 0.01 I got from Wells Fargo 