The City of Monroe wants residents to be aware of a change that may affect some cash payments.
Earlier this year, the U.S. Department of the Treasury made the decision to suspend production of new circulating pennies. This decision was based on the rising cost of producing the one-cent coin, which now costs more to make than its face value, and a determination that new pennies are no longer necessary to meet national demand.
While pennies remain legal tender and can still be used for payment, the reduced supply means that many organizations, including local governments, may not always have enough pennies on hand to provide exact change.
Because of this, the City of Monroe may occasionally need to round up cash payments when exact change cannot be provided.
What happens to the rounded amount?
Any amount rounded up is credited to your next bill. The City does not keep the difference and is not charging additional fees.
Example calculation
You pay your $1.08 bill with $1.10 (one dollar and one dime).
Under normal circumstances, you would receive 2 cents in change.
If pennies are not available, the City will accept the $1.10 and apply a 2-cent credit to your next bill.
Ways to avoid rounding
- Pay by credit or debit card
- Pay by check
- Bring exact change when possible
This change only affects cash transactions and helps ensure City services can continue without interruption as penny supplies decline nationwide.
Residents can learn more about the federal decision to suspend penny production by visiting the U.S. Mint website.