You Can't Pay With These Banknotes in Stores. We Explain How to Get Your Money Back

Shop cashiers in Poland have the right to refuse payment with damaged banknotes, including those that are torn, stained, or discolored. If a bill's condition raises doubts, a cashier can reject it. However, this does not mean the money is lost.

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A cashier has the right to refuse to accept cash if its condition raises doubts.

Damaged banknotes can be exchanged at any bank in Poland, provided their authenticity is not in doubt and their denomination can be recognized. If these conditions aren't met, a bank may accept the note for processing at the National Bank of Poland (NBP) upon special request. Individuals can also directly contact the NBP's headquarters, but the total value of banknotes sent must not exceed 2,000 Polish zloty (PLN). A request must include contact details and a bank account number for reimbursement via bank transfer.

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Damaged banknotes can be exchanged at a bank or, in certain cases, directly at the headquarters of the National Bank of Poland.

The amount of money recovered depends significantly on the banknote's condition. If 45% to 75% of the original surface area remains intact in one piece, the note may be exchanged for half its nominal value. Full value can be recovered if over 75% of the surface remains, or if a note is in 100% of its surface but broken into no more than nine pieces. Notes not meeting these criteria will not be exchanged and will be destroyed by the NBP after six months, unless the applicant requests their return.

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If 45 to 75 percent of the original surface area is preserved in one piece, the banknote may be exchanged for half of its nominal value.