The BEP provides currency readers, free of charge, to all eligible blind and visually impaired U.S. citizens and national residents.
The device is small, compact, and runs on a triple-A battery, which is included. To use the currency reader, simply insert a U.S. bill into the reader and press the button. The device will tell the note’s denomination.
Currency reader applications can be downloaded here.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
- U.S. Currency Reader Program Brochure
- U.S. Currency Reader Frequently Asked Questions
- Print Guide for Using the iBill® Talking Banknote Identifier
- Audio Instructions for Using the iBill® Talking Banknote Identifier
- Recorded Public Service Announcements (PSAs) in :15, :30, and :60 formats
The BEP encourages organizations that support the blind and visually impaired community to distribute these materials, incorporate the information provided into individualized communications, or link to this website.
For questions about an existing reader, please call (202) 707-0048. For questions about acquiring a reader, the status of your application or reader, or the U.S. Currency Reader Program in general, please call (844) 815-9388 or email meaningful.access@bep.gov.
We appreciate your help in distributing information about the U.S. Currency Reader Program, but please be aware there are restrictions on the use of government symbols and agency names. 31 U.S.C. §333 prohibits using the name, symbol, or emblem of the Department of the Treasury or any of its bureaus as part of any advertisement, solicitation, business activity, or product in a manner that could be interpreted or construed as endorsement by the Department of the Treasury or any of its bureaus.
The BEP partners with the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled, Library of Congress (NLS) to distribute currency readers. NLS also administers a free library program of braille and audio materials available to U.S. residents and citizens living abroad whose low vision, blindness, or physical handicap makes it difficult to read a standard printed page. More information about NLS can be viewed at https://www.loc.gov/nls/.