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The penny has been part of everyday transactions for generations, but that’s about to change. The U.S. Mint ended penny production in 2025, with circulation expected to end by early 2026. While pennies will remain legal tender for now, this shift will affect how cash transactions work.

Here’s what the disappearance of the penny means for Members.

Why Is the Penny Going Away?

Producing a penny costs nearly four times its value—about 3.7 cents per coin. Rising metal prices and declining cash usage have made the penny impractical. With more Members choosing digital payments and debit cards, the penny’s role has become less relevant.

How Will This Impact Your Transactions?

• Cash Purchases: When paying with cash, totals will be rounded to the nearest nickel.  This rounding applies only to cash transactions—electronic payments will remain exact. For example: 
  • $10.02 → $10.00
  • $10.03 → $10.05
    
    
• Deposits: You can still deposit pennies at United branches and ATMs while they’re accepted.

What United Is Doing for You

• Member Education: We’ll share clear guidelines on rounding practices and share the latest news, so you know what to expect.
• Convenient Options: Digital banking and card payments ensure you avoid rounding altogether.

Why This Matters

For most Members, the financial impact is minimal. But for businesses and those who rely on cash, this change means adjusting habits. At United, we’re committed to making this transition smooth and stress-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who will be impacted the most by this? 

A: Business members who order rolls or boxes of pennies for their cash drawers will be impacted the most. 

Q: Is United already seeing the impact of this change? 

A: As of mid-November, United is no longer able to source pennies from any of its cash suppliers. As a result, some branches may have a limited supply, and large requests for pennies will likely not be fulfilled.

Q: Can we still get pennies? 

A: Currently, United may be able to still accommodate minor discrepancies—such as a few cents on a withdrawal of $10.63. However, larger requests, including rolled coins, are becoming increasingly difficult to fulfill and may no longer be possible.