August 15, 2025
The Central Bank of Belize is aware of misinformation circulating regarding the acceptance of mutilated (damaged) versions of the newly issued 2025 banknotes. The Bank wishes to clarify that it has not issued any directive instructing financial institutions to reject mutilated currency.
If any individual, or business establishment receives mutilated banknotes during day-to-day transactions, these notes can be exchanged at any local commercial bank or credit union. Alternatively, individuals may bring the mutilated notes directly to the Central Bank of Belize for assessment and replacement.
The Central Bank takes this opportunity to remind the public that it is a criminal offence to purposely mutilate or deface currency. Section 197 of the Criminal Code of Belize states:
“Every person who, without lawful authority or excuse (the proof whereof shall lie on the person accused), mutilates, cuts, tears, or perforates with holes any currency note or in any way defaces a currency note whether by writing, printing, drawing or stamping thereon, or by attaching or affixing thereto anything in the nature or form of an advertisement shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding two hundred and fifty dollars.”
The Central Bank urges all citizens to treat Belizean currency with care and respect. For further information or clarification, please contact the Central Bank of Belize at [email protected] or visit www.centralbank.org.bz.
-ENDS-