A brand new period in U.S. foreign money is on the horizon. Starting in 2026, the Federal Reserve will provoke probably the most complete rollout of redesigned banknotes in many years—beginning with the $10 invoice in 2026, adopted by the $50 in 2028, $20 in 2030, $5 in 2032 and persevering with via the $100 observe in 2034. These new notes will incorporate cutting-edge safety features to safeguard in opposition to counterfeiting, improve public confidence, and guarantee machine-readability throughout more and more digital money ecosystems.
Whereas this modernization represents a constructive step ahead in foreign money safety, it additionally introduces an pressing problem: Are monetary establishments (FIs) ready to acknowledge and authenticate the brand new banknotes?
The quick reply for a lot of is—no. Far too many FIs are nonetheless working on legacy programs not outfitted to course of or authenticate the brand new technology of foreign money. These outdated gadgets—whether or not within the type of ATMs, TCRs, or foreign money counters and sorters —pose a severe danger of rejecting real banknotes or, worse, failing to detect counterfeits.
This transition isn’t just a know-how improve—it’s a crucial safety mandate.
Why Pressing Motion Is Wanted
The risk panorama is evolving. Counterfeiters will not be solely utilizing superior printing methods however now leverage synthetic intelligence to duplicate safety features with alarming precision. In actual fact, counterfeit foreign money in circulation within the U.S. is estimated at $70 – 200 million (Supply: United States Division of Treasury] and the techniques behind its creation are rising extra subtle yearly.
The redesigned notes are anticipated to function strong, machine-readable safety enhancements that can problem even probably the most superior fraudsters. However to make full use of those options, FIs should proactively replace their software program, firmware, and—the place needed—exchange incompatible gear.
Steps Towards Readiness
Preparation begins with an inner audit by evaluating the cash-handling infrastructure to find out improve paths and compatibility. ATMs, foreign money counters, and teller gadgets needs to be assessed for his or her potential to course of the brand new observe sequence. In some instances, firmware and software program updates will suffice; in others, full {hardware} replacements could also be unavoidable.
Equally essential is worker coaching. Tellers, department workers, and cash-handlers have to be accustomed to the brand new designs and options. Coaching applications ought to concentrate on visible authentication, gadget operation, and escalation procedures for suspected counterfeit detection.
The objective is straightforward: reduce transaction friction, defend clients, and guarantee seamless integration of the brand new notes into each day operations to maintain the money cycle environment friendly and resilient.
Trying Forward
Money stays a trusted and important part of the U.S. monetary system—even in an more and more digital world. The Federal Reserve’s funding in next-generation notes displays a long-term dedication to money safety. For [FIs], responding with equal urgency shouldn’t be non-compulsory—it’s important.
Giesecke+Devrient has many years of expertise serving to monetary establishments worldwide improve and safe their foreign money processing programs. We’re able to associate together with your establishment to evaluate readiness, deploy improve methods, and prepare your groups for the way forward for safe money. As a know-how chief, our providing combines {hardware}, software program and providers into clever and scalable options for a resilient and environment friendly money cycle.
Is your department prepared for 2026 and past? Put together your establishment immediately by downloading G+D’s free whitepaper right here, “A Information to Navigating Counterfeit Foreign money Developments within the U.S.” to discover knowledgeable insights and actionable steps for safeguarding your cash-handling infrastructure.