21.12.2022

HOW TO GET RID OF A TORN BANK NOTE?

Many people do not know what to do if torn, worn or deformed banknotes and coins fall into their hands. In fact, such banknotes can be exchanged at any bank, incl. and BNB. How this is done is described in Ordinance No. 18 of the BNB on quality control of banknotes and coins. The "Active Users" Association explains what the procedure is.

Before exchange, the bank employee checks the authenticity of the money. If there are suspicions of forgery or intentional damage, this money is seized by the relevant institution and handed over to the BNB for examination, and a document is issued for the "arrest".

Not every note or coin is accepted for exchange. There are criteria for "allowable" damage and these are described in the regulation:

- banknotes that are damaged to a minor extent by written notes, numbers, strokes of a pencil, pen, pen or other type of writing/printing means;

- coins damaged by oxidation or wear;

- banknotes damaged as a result of activated anti-theft devices, which have been found not to be the subject of a crime.

Replacement is done after evaluation

A damaged banknote, of which at least 3/4 (75%) of its area is preserved or the assembled parts of the banknote restore such part of its area, is replaced at full face value;

A damaged banknote, of which at least 1/2 (50%) of its area is preserved, is replaced by half of its face value;

A damaged banknote of which less than 1/2 (50%) of its area is preserved, or the assembled parts of the banknote restore such part of its area, is not replaced;

A banknote assembled from parts of different notes is valued by applying the above rules to each separate part;

A damaged coin, on which the obverse and reverse images are recognized, is replaced at full face value;

If the obverse and/or reverse images are not recognized, the coin is not replaced;

If only the inner circle is preserved and the obverse and reverse images are recognized, the coin is replaced at full face value;

If the metal vapor is perforated or cut, it is not replaced.

Two tips from "Active Users":

- When shopping, if you are returned a worn note or coin, it is best to immediately ask for a more secure token. The merchant must set aside this money and exchange it for new ones at a bank.

- If you find a worn or torn banknote in your wallet, don't try to push it to a cash register, just go to exchange it at the bank office most convenient for you.