The Central Bank of Belize issued a public notice to address misinformation about the acceptance of mutilated (damaged) versions of the newly issued 2025 banknotes, clarifying that it has not instructed financial institutions to reject such currency. Mutilated banknotes received in day-to-day transactions can be exchanged at any local commercial bank or credit union, or brought directly to the Central Bank of Belize for assessment and replacement. The notice also reminds the public that purposely mutilating or defacing currency is a criminal offence under Belize law, carrying a maximum fine of BZD 250 on summary conviction.
Central Bank of Belize 2025-08-15
Central Bank of Belize clarifies no directive to reject mutilated 2025 banknotes and sets out exchange options
The Central Bank of Belize clarified that financial institutions have not been instructed to reject mutilated 2025 banknotes. Damaged notes can be exchanged at local banks, credit unions, or the Central Bank for assessment and replacement. The notice also warns that intentionally defacing currency is a criminal offence with a maximum fine of BZD 250.