A method for adjusting a frequency characteristic of an edge reflection type surface acoustic wave device includes the step of obtaining a frequency characteristic of an edge reflection type surface acoustic wave device having a piezoelectric substrate. The edge reflection type surface acoustic wave device has a pair of edges of the piezoelectric substrate which define a predetermined distance therebetween. The piezoelectric substrate is cut at a position which defines a distance that is shorter than the predetermined distance when a final frequency characteristic of the edge reflection type surface acoustic wave device is to be higher than the obtained frequency characteristic. The piezoelectric substrate is cut at a position which defines a distance that is longer than the predetermined distance when a final frequency characteristic of the edge reflection type surface acoustic wave device is to be lower than the obtained frequency characteristic.