Does the Dollar Expire?

💵 What Are “Old” US Banknotes

“Old” US dollars usually refer to bills issued before the 1996 redesign. They look less “high-tech”: monochrome, no colored printing, no modern security features, and classic-style presidential portraits.

Examples:

• $100 bills without the blue security ribbon or color-shifting ink
• $50 and $20 bills without watermarks, microprinting, or holograms
• $10, $5, $1 – outdated design but more widely accepted

Which bills are considered old?

Anything printed before 1996 is typically considered old. In some regions, even pre-2006 notes are seen as outdated.

Especially problematic:

• Pre-1996 series – often rejected
• 1996–2003 series – accepted less frequently
• Post-2009 series – modern design with blue ribbon and bold numerals

Do US dollars expire?

No. All notes issued by the US Federal Reserve remain legal tender, regardless of age – even ones from 100 years ago. But in practice…

Where might old bills be rejected?

In some countries and currency exchanges, older bills – especially $100s – raise suspicion due to:

• Higher counterfeiting risk
• Banks unwilling to deal with processing them
• Customers fearing they’re fake

In the US, banks accept all bills without question.

In the EU, larger banks may accept them – often with extra checks, fees, or forwarding to the central branch.

What should you do if you have old bills?

1. Don’t panic – they’re still valid
2. Exchange at a bank, not a currency booth
3. If possible, bring them to the US for exchange
4. Use reputable exchange points – preferably in airports or city centers

🧠 Bottom line

Old US dollars are still money – just not always welcome everywhere. In some countries, especially at small exchange booths, they might be rejected or undervalued.

Before you travel, check your “Franklins” – better to leave the old ones at home.