in fact, it is noticeable almost immediately in rio de janeiro that after a purchase, the change back is usually rounded up as well. for instance, if the cost of an item of R$4.73 is paid for with a $R5 bill, the change back should be R$0.27, but the cashier will usually give back R$0.30 - this is because there are no pennies in Brazilian currency.

Very rarely does a cashier round down, and if this does happen, it is not a reason to become upset as it is a part of the culture - The 'leave a penny, take a penny' approach truly balances out in the end.

also to remember while boarding buses and taxis as well is that smaller bills are much more convenient. the commuter is allowed use a bill up to ten times the value of the fare in urban lines and five times in rural lines, in which the attendant or driver must provide the correct change - however, it is much more expedient and practical to use smaller bills - this is a sure way to avoid waiting around for money back if the proper amount is not available at the moment, delays, and holding up the flow of efficiency.