The Central Bank Extended the Deadline to Exchange Damaged and 'small Face' Dollars.

The Central Bank extended until December 31 the regulation that allows banks to receive damaged or old series bills. The measure aims to facilitate the circulation of dollars and avoid obstacles for savers.

The measure, which was due to expire on March 31, was extended by Communication "A" 8205, published this Thursday. The Central Bank reported that:

• Banks can accept damaged or old series dollars and deposit them in the BCRA.
• The BCRA will be responsible for sending them to the U.S. Federal Reserve (FED) for replacement.
• The shipping costs are borne by the Central Bank.

Are banks required to accept them?

No. According to official sources, participation remains voluntary. Each entity decides whether to accept damaged or "small face" series dollars.

Some state entities like Banco Nación and certain provincial banks have already confirmed their participation. However, many private banks impose restrictions or additional requirements to accept them.

A problem affecting savers

Since this measure was implemented in August 2024, about US$6000 million in damaged or old bills have been sent to the FED.

The BCRA's goal is to prevent savers from having problems when trying to deposit or use dollars that some banks reject. The measure has been renewed twice:

• First, it was extended until March 2025.
• Now, the deadline has been extended until December 2025.

How does this measure affect the market?

The extension seeks to reduce the accumulation of damaged bills and ensure their recirculation in the system. Additionally, it prevents savers from losing value by having dollars they can't easily use.

Although bank participation remains optional, the measure continues to be key to facilitating access to dollars in the market.