It is not unusual to spot a note in your wallet with a tear, a missing corner, or a few marks and wonder whether a shop will still take it.
Whether a retailer accepts a damaged note depends on how serious the damage is and whether the note still looks genuine. That can be hard to judge, especially now that both polymer and older paper notes exist side by side.
This guide explains how shops handle damaged banknotes, what “legal tender” really means in everyday life, how to exchange torn notes with your bank or the Bank of England, and where to find clear official guidance.
Read on to learn more.
Can Shops Legally Refuse Torn Or Ripped Banknotes?
Shops in the UK are not legally required to accept any particular form of payment, and that includes damaged banknotes. A cashier can refuse a note if it is ripped, looks altered, or if they are unsure it is genuine.
Legal tender status is often misunderstood. It relates to the settlement of debts, not to what a shop must take at the till. In practice, retailers choose what they accept, provided they apply their policy fairly and consistently.
Many will err on the side of caution with visibly damaged notes because they worry about counterfeiting or about their own bank refusing the deposit later. With that in mind, it helps to know what type of damage raises a red flag.
What Counts As A Damaged Or Ripped Banknote?
A banknote is considered damaged if it is not in the condition it left the printer. This can include tears, missing pieces, stains, heavy creases, scorch marks, or water damage.
Minor issues like a small tear or a folded corner usually do not cause problems. The risk of refusal increases when:
- Large areas are missing
- Serial numbers are hard to read
- Security features are obscured or appear altered
- There are clear attempts to fix or alter the note, for example, tape over a cut that disrupts a feature
On polymer notes, melted patches, holes from heat, or ink transfer can all count as damage. On paper notes, common issues include tears, worn edges, fading and holes.
Judgement varies. One shop may accept a taped corner, another may not. The more complete and clearly identifiable the note, the better the chance it will be taken at the counter.
When Will A Shop Refuse A Torn Note?
Shops are most likely to refuse a note when they believe it could be counterfeit or cannot be deposited. Signs that prompt a refusal include missing corners that cut into the see‑through window on polymer notes, tape that crosses over holograms or foil patches, or serial numbers that are smudged or incomplete.
A note that looks split and rejoined, or where a key feature is misaligned, will also ring alarm bells. Even if the note is genuine, a business may avoid the risk of being left with something their bank rejects.
If that happens, the next question is whether the note is still part of the current series and what you can do to recover its value.
How To Tell If A Banknote Is Still Legal Tender?
As mentioned earlier, legal tender is a technical term about settling debts, not an obligation for shops to accept every note. It is still useful to know whether your note is part of the current series.
The Bank of England keeps an up to date list of notes that are legal tender. Polymer £5, £10, £20 and £50 notes are current. Older paper versions of the £5 and £10 notes have been withdrawn, and other paper notes have also been phased out over time.
Damage does not change legal tender status, but heavy damage makes refusal more likely in everyday transactions. If your note is too worn to be used in shops, the exchange process is usually straightforward.
How To Exchange A Torn Banknote At Your Bank Or The Bank Of England
Damaged notes can often be exchanged either at your bank or directly with the Bank of England. The aim is to preserve the value, even when the physical note is no longer fit for circulation.
What Evidence Or Portions Of The Note Do Banks Require?
Banks usually ask for as much of the original note as possible. More than half of the note is ideal, and key security features and at least one serial number should be visible so staff can check authenticity. Accidental damage, such as a note put through the wash, can still be exchanged if enough remains to confirm it is genuine.
The Bank of England runs a dedicated damaged notes service. For larger amounts, they may ask for an application form and proof of identity. Full details, including what to send and how assessments are made, are set out on their website and can also be confirmed by contacting their support team.
Can Non-Account Holders Get Notes Exchanged?
High street banks often limit exchanges to their own customers, particularly for larger sums. If your bank does not offer the service, the Bank of England will consider applications from anyone, regardless of where they bank. Identification and supporting information may be required, and processing can take a little time.
What To Do If A Shop Refuses Your Damaged Note?
If a cashier declines a damaged note, try another note or a different way to pay. Staff are entitled to refuse a note they consider unsuitable, and debating the point rarely changes the outcome.
You can then take the damaged note to your bank and ask whether they will exchange it, or use the Bank of England’s damaged banknote service. Keeping the largest possible portion of the note, especially any part with the serial numbers and security features, will help.
If you use cash in gambling venues, only spend what you can afford and set personal limits.
How To Handle Polymer Notes Versus Paper Notes?
Polymer notes are more resistant to water and general wear than paper notes, but they are not indestructible. High heat, sharp folds, or contact with solvents can warp or melt sections, sometimes leaving holes or causing surfaces to fuse.
Paper notes, now seen less often, pick up tears and frayed edges more easily and can fade with moisture or repeated handling.
Whichever type you hold, keeping notes flat, clean and away from heat, liquids and chemicals helps preserve them. Avoid writing on them or using tape across security features, since that can make shops more cautious and complicate an exchange later.
With both polymer and paper, the exchange route is essentially the same. The clearer the remaining features and serial numbers, the smoother the process.
Where To Find Official Guidance On Damaged UK Banknotes
The most reliable source is the Bank of England. Its website explains what counts as damage, how claims are assessed, which forms to use and where to send them. Contact details are provided if you need help with a specific case.
High street banks also publish their own policies, particularly around whether they will exchange notes for non-customers and any limits that apply.
Checking these sources before you visit a branch or post a claim can save time and help you keep the full value of your money, even when a note has seen better days.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.