It’s a common predicament: vendors and businesses often refuse to accept torn currency, leaving customers in a bind. But what happens when one unexpectedly receives damaged money from an ATM?
Recently, The Pedoq highlighted the unfortunate experience of a man who withdrew a torn RM20 note from an ATM. His troubles escalated when the machine rejected the note upon his attempt to deposit it back.
Photo via X (@pedoqpop)
In his own words, he lamented, “What an inconvenience. I went to withdraw money earlier and received a torn note. After that, I tried to bank it back in, but the machine rejected it. I apologise in advance to whichever roadside vendor I might use this note with later.” He even shared images of the torn RM20 note and the ATM refusing to accept it during his deposit attempt.
Many commenters offered advice, suggesting that he could visit the bank to exchange the note with a teller—assuming the bank was open. They noted that as long as the serial number on the note remains intact, it is still usable. One user shared insights from their banker neighbour, stating, “As long as the serial number is still intact, it can be used. If the note is torn to the point where the serial number is lost, then it cannot be used or exchanged. Vendors who accept such a note can go to the bank to exchange it at the counter.”
Others chimed in, expressing their reluctance to deal with the hassle: “I’d rather change it at the bank than get scolded by vendors.” One commenter remarked, “They should accept it at the counter,” while another added, “It’s become an errand. Having to queue at the bank just to change a note seems frivolous.”
The conversation reflects a broader frustration with the inconvenience of handling torn currency and the additional effort it requires, leaving many wishing for a more straightforward solution.
