How To Identify Counterfeit Money

Counterfeit currency is a serious problem that retail store and business owners need to be aware of. It's estimated that $3 billion of fake bills are currently in circulation, and with all of the recent technological advancements in computer software and printing, this number will likely grow. Retail stores are responsible for spotting fake bills when used by a customer to purchase goods. Overlooking this step or simply turning a blind eye could leave your business in legal 'hot water,' which is why all retail store owners should educate themselves on how to spot counterfeit money.

Feel It

Real money has a very distinct texture and feeling when you run it in your hands. Experienced federal agents are oftentimes able to determine whether or not a bill is fake simply by feeling it. This is because U.S. currency is printed on a very specific type of paper (25% linen and 75% cotton) that feels quite soft yet equally strong. Counterfeit currency is typically printed on cheap paper before being tumbled in an attempt to 'mimic' the feeling of authentic currency. Spend some time rolling around real money in your hands to familiarize yourself with this feeling. Just remember to wash your hands afterwards, as currency is germ haven!

Border Lines

When visually inspecting currency, pay close attention to the lines defining its borders. If you compare a counterfeit bill with an authentic U.S. currency bill side-by-side, you'll probably notice the real bill has stronger, cleaner lines that really stand out. On the other hand, counterfeit bills have almost mottled border lines that blend into the background. This is just one of the many nuances between real and fake bills that retail store owners should look for.

Treasury Seals

Of course, you should also closely inspect the treasury seals on currency as it passes through your store. Authentic currency possesses clean treasury seals with straight, non-bleeding lines. If the seal is uneven, misaligned or bleeding through to the background, the bill could be fake.

Other Tips For Identifying Counterfeit Money:

• Look for the embedded security thread by holding the bill up to the light (not present in $1 bills).
• Look for the watermarks.
• U.S. currency is printed with color shift ink which causes it to change color when moved around in light.
• Real money contains small individual fibers which are also noticeable in the light.
• Use a counterfeit marker on large bills.