With Eid ul Fitr 2026 expected around March 20, many people in Pakistan are looking for fresh currency notes for Eid gifts (Eidi). To help citizens obtain new notes safely, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has issued guidance on using official banking channels instead of buying notes from illegal sellers who charge extra money.
The central bank encourages people to follow the proper process to ensure fair distribution of SBP fresh currency Eid ul Fitr notes across the country.
Step 1: Use the 8877 SMS Service
To make the process easier, the State Bank of Pakistan activates the 8877 SMS service during the second week of Ramadan.
How to request fresh notes via SMS:
- Open the SMS app on your mobile phone
- Type your 13-digit CNIC number
- Add a space and write the bank branch code you want to visit
- Send the message to 8877
After sending the SMS, you will receive a reply containing:
- A transaction code
- The address of the designated bank branch
This code allows you to collect fresh notes from the assigned branch.
Step 2: Visit the Assigned Bank Branch
Once you receive the confirmation SMS, you need to visit the bank branch mentioned in the message.
Bring the following documents:
- Original CNIC
- One photocopy of CNIC
- Transaction code received from SMS
Bank staff will verify your details and provide fresh currency bundles.
Usually, the packets include:
| Currency Notes | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Rs. 10 | Small Eidi gifts |
| Rs. 20 | Eid envelopes |
| Rs. 50 | Common Eidi distribution |
Each person is typically allowed one bundle per CNIC.
Step 3: Contact Your Bank Branch Directly
If the 8877 SMS service is unavailable or overloaded, you can contact your bank branch directly.
Many commercial banks keep a limited stock of fresh notes for their account holders.
Customers who visit early and maintain active accounts may receive priority.
Visiting the branch during the first weeks of Ramadan improves the chances of getting fresh notes.
Step 4: Visit SBP Banking Services Corporation Offices
Another option is visiting SBP Banking Services Corporation (SBP BSC) offices.
These offices usually hold larger supplies of fresh currency notes.
Major cities with SBP BSC offices include:
- Karachi
- Lahore
- Islamabad
- Multan
- Peshawar
Distribution generally works on a first-come, first-served basis, so early arrival is recommended.
Step 5: Check ATMs During the Last Days of Ramadan
In the final ten days of Ramadan, many banks refill ATMs with relatively clean and new notes.
Common ATM denominations include:
- Rs. 500
- Rs. 1,000
These notes are often used for Eid gifts for elders or larger Eidi amounts.
Important Warning About Illegal Sellers
Every year, some individuals sell fresh notes outside banks at inflated prices. This practice is illegal.
Citizens are advised to:
- Get fresh notes only from official banks or SBP offices
- Avoid buying notes from street vendors
- Report illegal sellers to authorities
Following official channels ensures fair access for everyone.
To Sum Up
The SBP fresh currency Eid ul Fitr 2026 program helps people celebrate Eid by distributing crisp banknotes through authorized banks and official services. By using the 8877 SMS service, bank branches, SBP offices, or ATMs, citizens can obtain fresh notes safely.
For the best chances of receiving new notes, apply early during Ramadan and always follow official SBP instructions.
