The Federal Reserve and Treasury clarification confirmed that Benjamin Franklin will remain on the $100 bill. This article explains what officials said, why the rumor spread, and what practical effects — if any — the announcement has for everyday use.
$100 Bill Update From the Federal Reserve
The Federal Reserve addressed online claims that Franklin’s portrait would be removed from the $100 note. Officials clarified that the portrait will not be taken off the bill and that talks about any redesign are part of standard currency review processes.
The key point is that design changes to U.S. currency follow formal procedures and are not implemented suddenly due to a viral post or informal discussion.
Why the Benjamin Franklin Rumor Spread
Several factors contribute to such rumors spreading quickly. Understanding these helps you evaluate future claims about currency.
- Social media posts with incomplete information can be shared widely before verification.
- Public interest in historical figures and representation on currency often fuels speculation.
- Previous redesigns, like the 2013 $100 bill update, make people expect changes periodically.
How Currency News Is Misinterpreted
News about consultations, proposals, or advisory meetings is sometimes misread as final decisions. That leads to headlines and social shares stating a change as fact when it is not.
Always look for official sources such as the Treasury Department, Bureau of Engraving and Printing, or the Federal Reserve for confirmation.
How Banknote Redesigns Actually Work
Redesigning U.S. currency involves multiple steps and federal agencies. It is a deliberate, multi-year process rather than a quick switch.
- Authority and design: The Secretary of the Treasury has final authority over currency design and works with the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP).
- Security updates: Redesigns typically focus on anti-counterfeiting technology like ribbons, inks, and threads.
- Production and distribution: The Federal Reserve orders currency from the BEP and manages distribution to banks.
Typical Timeline for a Redesign
Redesigns can take several years from concept to circulation. Steps usually include research, design drafts, security testing, production trials, and finally release to the public.
What This Means for the $100 Bill
With the Federal Reserve clarifying the portrait will not be removed, the immediate practical impact for most people is minimal. Existing notes remain legal tender and accepted for payments.
Authorities may still update security features on the $100 bill in future redesigns, but those updates do not imply removing historical figures.
Practical Considerations for the Public
- Acceptance: Current $100 bills remain valid and are still accepted as legal tender across the United States.
- No action needed: Individuals and businesses do not need to exchange notes or take special steps.
- Counterfeiting vigilance: Stay aware of security features to spot fakes, especially if new features are introduced later.
Security Features to Know on the $100 Bill
If you want to check authenticity, these are the key features on modern $100 bills. Knowing them can help reduce the risk of accepting counterfeit notes.
- 3-D security ribbon that shifts when you tilt the note.
- Color-shifting bell in the inkwell that changes color when viewed at different angles.
- Portrait watermark of Benjamin Franklin visible when held to light.
- Embedded security thread and microprinting readable with magnification.
How to Verify Official Information
To confirm any claim about U.S. currency, check official channels first. Rely on trusted government websites and direct statements from agencies.
- U.S. Department of the Treasury website
- Bureau of Engraving and Printing announcements
- Federal Reserve press releases and public statements
Real-World Example: Local Bank Response
A mid-sized community bank received several customer calls after a viral post claimed the $100 bill portrait would be removed. The bank referred customers to an official Federal Reserve clarification and posted the agency’s guidance on its website and social media.
After sharing the verified information, the bank saw fewer inquiries and fewer customers attempting to exchange bills unnecessarily. This shows how clear, authoritative communication can reduce confusion quickly.
What To Do If You See Conflicting Claims
If you encounter conflicting reports, use this quick checklist to verify the facts:
- Find the original source of the claim and check for official citations.
- Visit government sites (Treasury, BEP, Federal Reserve) for confirmation.
- Avoid resharing the claim until an authoritative source confirms it.
- Contact your bank for local guidance if you still have questions.
Summary: The Federal Reserve clarified that Benjamin Franklin will remain on the $100 bill. Future redesigns may update security features, but portrait removal is not happening now. For accurate updates, follow official government sources and rely on established security checks when assessing currency authenticity.