Why experts say you should think twice before paying with a 250 dollar bill
- There is no official 250 dollar bill in U.S. currency—the highest denomination ever printed for public circulation is the $100 bill. Encountering one is a major red flag for counterfeit activity.
- The largest bills ever made by the U.S. Treasury were for $10,000 and $100,000, but they were discontinued in 1969 and are only legal for collectors or interbank use.
- If someone tries to hand you a 250 dollar bill in a store or private sale, do not accept it. Run it through a counterfeit pen or check for security features—most fakes are easy to spot.
- Attempting to spend a fake 250 dollar bill is a federal crime. Even if you unwittingly receive one, you could be held legally responsible if you pass it on.
- The best thing to do when you see a suspicious 250 dollar bill is to contact local law enforcement or the Secret Service. Reporting it keeps you safe and helps curb counterfeit rings.