The Central Bank of Ecuador has updated the procedures financial institutions must follow when depositing USD 50 and USD 100 banknotes at the central bank to strengthen prevention of money laundering and the financing of other crimes. The rules have applied since Nov. 6, 2026, without restricting the notes’ circulation, acceptance or use in everyday transactions.
The requirements cover verification, due diligence, identification and recordkeeping for deposits of these denominations. Financial institutions must use the central bank’s mint in Quito or its designated currency units in Guayaquil and Cuenca, complying with the applicable conditions, hours and requirements. They may not use counters reserved for banknote exchanges by individuals.
Banks, cooperatives and mutual institutions continue to accept these notes under their internal policies, procedures and requirements. Individuals exchanging USD 50 and USD 100 notes for smaller denominations at central bank counters must identify themselves, declare the lawful origin of the funds and allow the serial numbers of the banknotes submitted to be recorded.