7.3.3. Rules for expressing monetary units
When to use the name
When a monetary unit is referred to generally but an amount is not included, it is spelt out in letters, except in tables (see ‘When to use the ISO code’). While practice may differ for other currencies, the plural of euro is euro (without ‘s’):
an amount in euro
a sum in pounds sterling
When to use the ISO code
Text
When the monetary unit is accompanied by an amount, use the ISO code ‘EUR’ followed by a hard space and the amount in figures (compulsory in all legal texts):
The amount required is EUR 12 500.
A difference of EUR 1 550 has been noted.
In written text it is ‘a’ rather than ‘an’ EUR 3 million programme.
Tables
When indicating the main unit for a whole table, the ISO code and any multiplier appear in brackets above the table, ranged to the right. Italic type is used:
(EUR)
(million EUR)
(billion EUR)
In English texts published in the Official Journal, amounts are indicated in figures and the ISO code ‘EUR’ must be used:
EUR 10 000
EUR 1 000 000 (not EUR 1 million)
In English texts, for other currencies, when the monetary unit is accompanied by an amount, use the relevant ISO code for the currency followed by a hard space and the amount in figures:
A sum of GBP 300 was received and GBP 250 was spent.
In texts for the Court of Auditors, the amounts are followed by the currency, spelt out:
an expenditure of 15 000 euro
When to use the euro sign (€)
The euro sign (€) is reserved for use in graphics. However, its use is also permitted in popular works, promotional publications (e.g. sales catalogues) and press releases. In word-processing systems, the euro sign can be obtained by simultaneously pressing the left-hand Alt key and 0128. The technical specifications for the euro sign can be downloaded from the Commission’s euro website (https://ec.europa.eu/info/about-european-commission/euro/history-euro/design-euro_en#constructing-the-euro-symbol-for-professionals).
Position of the ISO code (EUR) in amounts
The ISO code ‘EUR’ is followed by a hard space and the amount:
a sum of EUR 30
une somme de 30 EUR
Position of the euro sign (€) in amounts
The euro sign is followed by the amount without space:
a sum of €30
une somme de 30 €
With million or billion
The following forms may be used when referring to millions or billions.
EUR 10 000 000
EUR 10 million
EUR 15 billion
million EUR, billion GBP
m EUR, bn GBP
10 million EUR, 10 billion GBP
10 m EUR, 10 bn GBP
Million/billion with decimals
When dealing with budgetary data, it is advisable to use the following form.
1.326 billion (not 1 326 million)
1 326.1 million (not 1.3261 billion)
This makes the figures easier to read and compare.