Story perspectives

U.S. Mint Stops Pennies Amid Growing Cashless Concerns

12/5/2025

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Mint has ceased penny production to modernize federal payments.
As of September, the government largely stopped issuing paper checks, and the Federal Reserve evaluates their future.
Check usage declined, but still accounts for 5% of transactions and 21% of value.
Critics warn discontinuing checks could harm unbanked individuals and those uncomfortable with digital payments.
Experts warn eliminating checks could create unforeseen challenges for consumers who rely on them.

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Story summary

The U.S. Mint has ceased penny production to modernize federal payments.
As of September, the government largely stopped issuing paper checks, and the Federal Reserve evaluates their future.
Check usage declined, but still accounts for 5% of transactions and 21% of value.
Critics warn discontinuing checks could harm unbanked individuals and those uncomfortable with digital payments.
Experts warn eliminating checks could create unforeseen challenges for consumers who rely on them.