Eid-ul-Fitr 2026: Official Guidelines to Get New Currency Notes from the State Bank of Pakistan

As Eid-ul-Fitr 2026 approaches, many people in Pakistan begin preparing for the traditional practice of giving “Eidi”—cash gifts given to children and relatives during the festival. Fresh and crisp currency notes are especially popular for this purpose. To facilitate the public and ensure fair distribution, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has issued guidelines explaining how citizens can obtain fresh currency notes through official channels.

Importance of Fresh Currency Notes During Eid

Demand for new currency notes rises significantly during Ramadan, particularly in the days leading up to Eid-ul-Fitr. Families prefer clean and new notes when giving Eidi as part of a long-standing cultural tradition. However, the high demand often leads to illegal sales in markets where dealers sell fresh notes at inflated prices. To prevent such practices, the State Bank encourages citizens to obtain notes only through authorized banking channels.

Step 1: Use the 8877 SMS Service

One of the easiest ways to request fresh currency notes is through the SBP’s SMS service (8877), which is usually activated during the second week of Ramadan. This service allows citizens to register for new notes from their preferred bank branch.

To use the service:

1. Open the SMS application on your mobile phone.

2. Type your CNIC number, followed by a space and the branch code of your preferred bank.

3. Send the message to 8877.

4. You will receive a reply SMS with a transaction code and branch address where the notes can be collected.

This system helps reduce crowding at banks and ensures that fresh notes are distributed in an organized manner.

Step 2: Visit the Designated Bank Branch

After receiving the confirmation SMS, the next step is to visit the bank branch mentioned in the message. When visiting the bank:

• Bring your original CNIC and a photocopy.

• Provide the transaction code received via SMS.

• Bank staff will verify your details before issuing the notes.

Usually, banks provide small denomination currency packets containing Rs10, Rs20, and Rs50 notes, which are commonly used for Eidi.

Step 3: Contact Your Bank Branch Directly

If the SMS service is unavailable or overloaded due to heavy demand, people can also contact their local bank branch or bank manager. Many commercial banks keep a limited stock of fresh notes for their account holders, particularly during Ramadan.

Customers who visit banks earlier in the month have a better chance of receiving fresh notes because supplies may run out closer to Eid.

Step 4: Visit SBP Bank Services Corporation Offices

Another option is to visit SBP Bank Services Corporation (BSC) offices, which operate in major cities such as Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. These offices often hold larger stocks of fresh currency notes and distribute them directly to the public.

Distribution at these locations usually works on a first-come, first-served basis, so early visits are recommended.

Step 5: Withdraw Clean Notes from ATMs

During the final ten days of Ramadan, many banks also load relatively clean and crisp currency notes into their ATM machines. These ATMs typically provide higher denominations such as Rs500 and Rs1,000, which are often used for gifting to elders or for Eid expenses.

Warning Against Fake Messages and Black Market Sales

Recently, rumors circulated on social media claiming that fresh currency notes would not be issued for Eid-ul-Fitr 2026. The State Bank of Pakistan has clarified that such messages are fake and that any official announcement will be released only through formal press statements.

Authorities also warn citizens not to purchase currency notes from illegal sellers who charge extra money for fresh bundles. Such practices are unlawful and can lead to exploitation of customers.

Conclusion

Fresh currency notes remain an important part of Eid celebrations in Pakistan. To make the process transparent and convenient, the State Bank of Pakistan provides multiple official methods for obtaining them, including the 8877 SMS service, commercial bank branches, SBP offices, and ATMs. By following these official guidelines and avoiding illegal sellers, citizens can safely obtain new notes and continue the joyful tradition of giving Eidi during Eid-ul-Fitr 2026.

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