The Bank of Jamaica (BOJ) is warning members of the public that, though it purchases select foreign currency over its counter as a public service, individuals should confirm, before coming in, whether the banknotes they plan to sell will be accepted.

In a statement, the BOJ said the list of banknotes and coins that are purchased is found on its website at http://boj.org.jm/foreign_exchange/fx_crates.php.

“The Bank is not the issuer of these foreign currencies and therefore when we purchase from the public, these currencies are repatriated to the respective central banks either directly or through our overseas correspondent bank,” the BOJ said.

“In that regard, as is the case with local deposit-taking institutions, the Bank cannot accept damaged (torn or with graffiti) banknotes or tarnished or bent coins as these are not accepted by the central banks or our correspondent bank.”

The BOJ said that, in addition to those conditions, the central banks also provide guidance on the series (date) of banknotes that they will accept via repatriation.

“In other words, central banks will not accept banknotes that are printed before a certain date. This will vary among the various foreign currencies,” the BOJ said.

“The public is therefore advised to confirm, prior to coming to the Bank, if a banknote will be accepted by us. In this regard, please call the customer service area of the Banking Department at 876-922-0750-9, exts. 4158 or 4167 or email: [email protected].”

The BOJ’s opening hours are Monday to Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.