Many consumers and businesses avoid using cash in order to limit the transmission of COVID-19

Bank of Canada urges businesses to accept cash. Source: pixabay.com

The Bank of Canada encourages retailers to keep accepting cash so that Canadians have access to the goods and services they need. According to the statement, refusing cash purchases will put a burden on businesses that depend on cash, thus have limited payment options.

At the same time, the Bank says citizens can use payment methods that are most comfortable for them.

The Bank of Canada adds that risks posed from handling cash aren’t bigger than those posed by touching other common surfaces. The most important thing to do is to follow the public health guidelines on COVID-19 and wash hands often.

Since Canada issues polymer banknotes, it becomes possible to clean them with a bit of soap and water as they are resistant to moisture.

The Bank is also cooperating with financial institutions thus ensuring that there’s no disruption to the cash supply during the pandemic.

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• Which countries use polymer banknotes
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