The recent storms that crossed Portugal left more than visible damage to homes and infrastructure. In several regions, the passage of depressions Kristin and Leonardo resulted in floods, electricity cuts and prolonged failures in electronic payment systems. In many cases, those who kept money at home saw notes rendered partially or completely unusable by water, mud or fire. What few know is that there is an official mechanism that allows you to recover this money, at no cost.
According to Banco de Portugal, a free refund service for damaged banknotes is available, applicable even when they are in poor condition due to phenomena such as floods, fires or other domestic accidents. The process follows rules common to the entire euro area and is carried out after specialized technical analysis.
Although it does not eliminate the damage caused by bad weather, this mechanism makes it possible, in many cases, to recover the cash value that seemed lost.
Not all notes give the right to a refund
Before proceeding with the request, it is important to know the applicable criteria. According to official information from Banco de Portugal, reimbursement is only made when one of the following conditions is met: more than 50 percent of the note can be reconstructed or, when this is not possible, the missing part is proven to have been destroyed.
There are, however, clear exclusions. Only genuine notes are valued. Banknotes that are intentionally mutilated, deliberately torn or altered are not eligible for any refund, even if they retain a large part of their area.
This assessment is not carried out at the place of delivery, but rather by specialized technicians, following strict procedures for verifying authenticity and reconstitution.
Where and how to deliver damaged banknotes
Citizens can start the process in person at any Banco de Portugal public service treasury. Branches are available in Lisbon, Porto, Braga, Viseu, Coimbra, Évora, Faro, Funchal and Ponta Delgada.
When attending, you must present a valid identification document and hand over any damaged banknotes. At the time of delivery, proof of receipt of the cash for recovery is issued, which allows you to monitor the process.
As the institution explains, there is no cost associated with the request, regardless of the value of the notes delivered.
Sending by mail is a valid alternative
For those who are unable to visit a treasury, there is the possibility of sending by registered mail, with a special declared value service. This method requires some additional care.
The notes must be placed in a properly closed first envelope, identified with the words “Contains cash” and with a breakdown of the notes inside. This envelope is then placed in a second one, which must be sent to the Issuance and Treasury Department of Banco de Portugal, in Lisbon.
It is mandatory to include a photocopy of the identification document, the full address and bank details for possible transfer of the amount. The institution also recommends including a telephone number or email address to facilitate communication during the process.
What happens to banknotes after delivery
After reception, the fragments go to the recovery service located in the Carregado Complex. It is there that specialized technicians analyze the notes, using physical reconstruction methods and verification of genuineness.
According to , when an IBAN is provided, the calculated amount is credited directly to the holder’s account. Otherwise, the citizen is notified to withdraw the amount from a treasury.
All fragments that do not meet the conditions for recovery are destroyed, in accordance with current procedures.
At a time when many families are facing losses accumulated due to bad weather, this mechanism can make a difference. Knowing that the damaged money is not necessarily lost is, for many, a relief that arrives outside the media radar.
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