Bank of Jamaica (BOJ) says its opening hours will be extended by an hour for the general public as the new series of polymer banknotes begin circulation tomorrow (June 15).

The Central Bank, in an advisory, noted that the new Jamaica polymer banknotes will be available over-the-counter at its Nethersole Place office in downtown Kingston.

Between June 15, through and June 23, the bank will accommodate customers who may wish to exchange the old series of banknotes for new polymer banknotes at BOJ.

The bank further indicated that those who wish to exchange the old series of banknotes at BOJ, must ensure they have the following documents:

• Valid Government-issued photo identification (e.g. driver’s licence, passport or national identification card).
• Taxpayer Registration Number (TRN)
• Source of funds documentation (salary slip, bank statement, job letter, workpermit etc.) for transactions reaching or exceeding US$1,000.00 or its equivalent in any other foreign currency. Please note the bank may, at its discretion request similar information for amounts below US$1,000.00.

“As is customary, the bank will carry out its usual verification and authentication of the old series of banknotes prior to facilitating an exchange. Additionally, the exchange of mutilated and contaminated old series banknotes will be facilitated in accordance with the Bank’s usual stipulated guidelines (Bank of Jamaica FAQs),” the bank added.

Members of the public should note that both the old and new series of banknotes will co-exist as legal tender (i.e. both can be used to conduct transactions). The old series will remain in circulation until further advised by Bank of Jamaica.

The BOJ will revert to its usual 9:00 am – 1:00 pm banking hours on June 26.