Is Taping Real Money Illegal? the Dos and Don'ts of Making Cash Graduation Leis

What should you know about Is Taping Real Money Illegal? the Dos and Don'ts of Making Cash Graduation Leis? Get the answers in this feature article.

Q1: Is it illegal to give a money lei in the United States?
A1: No. Gifting currency in decorative arrangements is completely legal. It only violates federal law (18 U.S. Code § 333) if you intentionally cut, tear, mark, or permanently glue currency in a manner that renders it unfit to be re-issued by a bank.

Q2: How do I remove sticky tape residue from dollar bills?
A2: Never use acetone, bleach, or harsh industrial solvents, as these strip banknote ink and dissolve security threads. If bills were mistakenly taped, carefully dab the affected area with a cotton swab lightly moistened with 90% isopropyl alcohol, which breaks down acrylic adhesives without dissolving linen currency paper. Allow it to air-dry flat.

Q3: What should I use instead of real bills if the school bans cash?
A3: Swap actual currency for customized faux banknotes printed with the graduate's senior portrait and future college logo, or build a candy graduation lei using cellophane lei tubing filled with bite-sized chocolates. You can deliver real funds through a bank transfer, personal check, or cash envelope handed over during the private family party.