Big Changes Are Coming to U.S. Cash: What You Need to Know
By: Patrick Richards, CPI Product Manager
Every so often, history delivers a moment that reshapes how we interact with money. The upcoming Catalyst Series is one of those rare events. Beginning in 2026, the U.S. will launch its most ambitious currency redesign in more than a century—a transformation that will impact every wallet, every cash register, and every machine that accepts bills.
A Historic Milestone
Since the early 1900s, the U.S. has only redesigned its currency three times. The last major update was in 2013 with the $100 bill. Before that, the $10 note was refreshed in 2006. These changes are infrequent because they require years of research, legislation, and infrastructure updates. In fact, planning for this initiative began in 2011, and it’s taken more than a decade to reach this point.
This isn’t just a cosmetic update. It’s a complete modernization of U.S. currency—introducing new security technologies, accessibility features, and design elements that will make our notes look and feel dramatically different. For many Americans, this will be the first time they’ve ever seen such sweeping changes to cash.
Why It Matters
The name “Catalyst” says it all: this redesign is meant to spark transformation. Today’s currency must meet modern demands for security, accessibility, and global compatibility. Counterfeiting remains a persistent threat, and as technology evolves, so must the tools we use to protect commerce. These new notes will incorporate cutting-edge security features—both visible and invisible—to safeguard transactions and maintain trust in the U.S. dollar worldwide.
What’s Ahead
The rollout begins with the $10 bill in late 2026, followed by a staggered release of other denominations every two years:
- 2026: $10 note
- 2028: $50 note
- 2030: $20 note
- 2032: $5 note
- 2034: $100 note
The $1 and $2 bills will remain unchanged, but every other denomination will be reimagined.
A New Era for Cash
Think about it: the notes you’ve carried for decades will soon be replaced by bills that look, feel, and function differently. For the first time, visually impaired individuals will have tactile cues to identify denominations. For the first time, U.S. currency will incorporate security features common in other advanced economies. This is more than a refresh—it’s a once-in-a-generation leap forward.
Fast Facts: The Catalyst Series
- Name: Catalyst Series – symbolizing change and modernization
- Start Date: Late 2026 (likely Q4)
- First Note: $10 bill
- Total Notes: 5 redesigned denominations over 8 years
- Last Major Redesign: 2013 ($100 bill)
- Accessibility: First U.S. notes with tactile features for visually impaired users
- Security: Advanced visible and invisible features to combat counterfeiting
