Check Counterfeit Money: A Step-by-Step Guide

Discover essential techniques to check counterfeit money and ensure your transactions are secure.

First published: Oct 4, 2026
2 min read

person examining a hundred dollar bill with UV light — Learning to identify counterfeit money in everyday transactions.

Navigate What You’ll Get from This Guide · How to Verify U.S. Currency Authenticity in 5 Steps · Risks, Limitations, and Guarantees · Sources and further reading

What You’ll Get from This Guide

Step-by-step verification methods

Learn to use security features like watermarks, security threads, and color-shifting ink to confirm authenticity [3][1][4][2][5].

Clear identification of genuine vs. fake notes

Spot red flags such as 'For Motion Picture Use Only' or 'Replica' markings on non-genuine bills [4].

Action plan for suspected counterfeits

Know how to handle and report a suspect note to law enforcement immediately [3][6][7].

Denomination-specific security checks

Verify unique features for each bill, like the 3-D Security Ribbon on $100 notes or embedded threads on $5 and higher [1][2][5].

Practical tips for everyday use

Use the feel, tilt, and check method to inspect notes quickly in daily transactions [4][2].

How to Verify U.S. Currency Authenticity in 5 Steps

Check security features first
Hold the bill to light to spot the watermark and security thread. Genuine notes have a portrait watermark and a thread with denomination-specific details (3) (1) (2).
Tilt the bill to see color shifts
Look for color-shifting ink in the lower right corner. It changes from copper to green when tilted on genuine bills (4).
Feel the paper texture
Authentic U.S. currency has a slightly rough texture due to its unique paper composition and printing process (4).
Inspect for replica markings
Reject any bill with 'For Motion Picture Use Only' or 'Replica' printed on it. These are not legal tender (4).
Report suspected counterfeits
Store the suspect note separately and contact local police or a Secret Service field office immediately (3) (6) (7).

Risks, Limitations, and Guarantees

Verifying U.S. currency authenticity comes with risks and limitations. The most significant risk is receiving counterfeit money. If a counterfeit bill is accepted, it cannot be exchanged for genuine currency, and passing counterfeit notes is illegal (3).

Relying solely on counterfeit detection pens is not advisable. These tools can produce false results, leading to misidentification of genuine bills (3). Instead, focus on the built-in security features of the currency, such as the watermark, security thread, and color-shifting ink. These features provide reliable indicators of authenticity (3).

When suspecting a counterfeit bill, immediate action is essential. Notify local law enforcement, store the suspect note separately, and hand it over to authorities promptly (3). This process ensures the counterfeit is documented and handled correctly.

It's important to note that the U.S. Secret Service will no longer accept electronic submissions of suspected counterfeit currency after November 1, 2024. All reports must be made in person at a local field office or police department (6).

Being aware of these risks and limitations can help prevent financial loss. Always check the security features before accepting any U.S. banknote.