Banks in Israel
In Israel, banks have many branches in large cities, and small communities. Usually, banks are open from 8:30 AM, to 01:00 PM from Sundays to Thursdays. Some banks choose to also open some afternoons (roughly from 4:00 PM to 6:00PM) on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, in order to allow people working during the morning to access them.
Without exception, banks are closed on Saturdays. Depending on the bank, Friday morning may also be available in the early hours, i.e.: 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM.
Changing Money
Unlimited sums of local and foreign money may be brought into Israel as cash, travelers’ checks (passport is required when exchanging), credit cards or State of Israel bonds. The post office does not charge any commission, and the rate is usually good.
Purchases, Payments and VAT Refund
Major credit cards – American Express, Diners, Visa, Mastercard/Access/Eurocard are widely accepted in Israeli restaurants, stores, hotels, museums, etc.
If you have purchased items with a value exceeding $100 (including VAT) in stores and are registered with the Ministry of Tourism or in stores; you are entitled to a refund of VAT when you leave the country. Stores that offer VAT refund service have a special sign. You will need to request a VAT form in any store that you purchase something with its signature detailing the items and price.
To receive VAT refund, make sure that you have the receipt and the form from each store. The receipt and purchases must be put into a sealed bag. If the amount to be reimbursed exceeds $1,000, it will be sent after the invoice is verified with the tax authorities.
There is no VAT refund for the following items: food, drinks, tobacco products, electrical appliances, cameras, film or other photography equipment.
Additional information about VAT refunds is available at +972-3-975-4020.