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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: Are we starting to see the impacts of this? 

A: Yes. Cash orders in North Carolina were impacted in September, and this will eventually impact other states as well.

Q: Can we still get pennies? 

A: When the Federal Reserve’s penny inventory is depleted at a certain coin distribution location, that specific location will stop fulfilling orders of pennies.