Are you tired of having bags or jars of coins just sitting around the house? If you’re constantly searching the Internet with the term “nearest coin exchange machines near me,” we have good news. We’ll guide you to some of the most convenient places that will effortlessly convert your coins into cash or digital tokens, relieving you of the burden of your spare change.
9 Best Places Near Me to Cash In Coins for Free
Most people don’t like to carry coins in their pockets because they are often low value and heavier than cash and credit cards. Many households put coins into jars or piggy banks and save them for a rainy day. If you’re wondering, “Where can I change my coins for cash for free?” you’re not alone. Many people seek locations where they can convert their coins without incurring extra fees, a smart move to save on unnecessary expenses.
1. Wells Fargo
Wells Fargo accepts coin-to-cash transactions whether you have an account with them. However, you need to roll your coins or put them on coin wrappers so that the bank will accept them. Doing so will take some time, so most people prefer coin-counting machines.
2. Credit Unions
Several credit unions accept coin deposits and offer coin-counting services for free. If you are a Federal credit union member with physical outlets, you can just drop by to exchange your coins for cash. You can also deposit the amount to your bank account with them.
3. Banks
Many U.S. bank customers exchange coins for cash at no cost. It’s a great option if you live in a nearby neighborhood with a bank branch. However, policies may vary from bank to bank. It’s best to call or check the bank’s website for specific coin exchange policies.
For added convenience and to avoid carrying coins, consider online banking options for withdrawals and other transactions.
4. Arcades
Arcades require a steady stream of coins to operate their games and machines. However, like casinos, they may only accept quarters, half dollars, and dollar coins. If you have pennies, nickels, dimes, and cents you may have to exchange them in bulk in other establishments on the list. It’s important to note that different establishments may have different coin acceptance policies, so checking before you go is a good idea.
These establishments often feature coin sorters to streamline operations and enhance the convenience of customers exchanging large quantities of coins.
5. Grocery Stores
Grocery chains like Kroger and Safeway have coin-counting machines near the entrance or customer service desk. These machines offer a convenient way to exchange coins for cash while you shop for a small percentage fee.
6. Vending Machine Businesses
Companies that own and operate vending machines often need a steady supply of coins. For example, some self-service car washers may offer coin exchange services. Contact a local vending machine company near you to inquire about their policies and fees.
7. Casinos
Casinos constantly need many coins for their slot machines and other gaming activities. Thus, many casinos offer coin exchange services, either for free or for a nominal fee. If you live near a casino, ask any staff member if the establishment exchanges coins for cash.
8. Check-Cashing Businesses
Check-cashing businesses, such as those in grocery stores or standalone locations, often offer coin exchange services. They are a viable option if you need to exchange many coins quickly. However, you also need to pay a small fee for their service.
To ensure no-fee transactions, always confirm the absence of fees for coin exchanges with your selected merchant.
9. Coinstar Counting Machine
Locating “free coin counting machines near me” can save you significant fees, making it an important consideration for anyone looking to cash in their spare change. Fortunately, a few companies can help you turn your coins into cash. Coinstar is one of the most popular coin exchange service providers in the U.S.
What is Coinstar?
Coinstar is a service that lets customers exchange coins for cash, gift cards, or donations through their coin exchange machines. It was established in 1989 by Jens Molbak. The first Coinstar kiosk was developed in 1992, and from there, they expanded their services beyond just coin-to-cash conversion.
Coinstar has over 7,000 kiosks in 46 states in the U.S. The company also has easily accessible locations in Canada, the UK, and several European countries, such as grocery and drug stores.
How Does Coinstar Work?
To exchange your coins for cash, gift cards, or donations, select the payout type you like on the Coinsstar machine’s screen. Then, put all your loose change into the machine to start counting them. The machine will also display the total number of coins counted and its breakdown in real-time.
After it’s done counting, the machine will print out a voucher that reflects the total amount of the coin. Give the voucher to the cashier so that they can cash in the amount for you.
Where to Find Coinstar Machines?
Coinstar machines are often available in Albertsons and Kroger supermarket stores and their subsidiaries. Retail outlets such as Walmart, Harvey’s, Winn Dixie, Hannaford, H.E.B., and E.V.S. also have Coinstar machines. By finding a reliable coin exchange near me, you can conveniently convert your coins to cash, ensuring your loose change is put to good use.
What are Coinstar’s Fees?
If you convert your coins into cash, Coinstar charges up to 12.5% of the total amount you exchange. The fee can vary slightly depending on the location. Other coin exchange services may charge fees, but the rates vary. It’s best to check their fee structure with the specific service provider.
How to Avoid Coinstar Fees?
To avoid Coinstar fees, convert your coins into e-gift cards from brands like Amazon and Starbucks. This is ideal if you shop at these stores or want to give gift cards as presents. Alternatively, you can donate your coins to charity, putting your spare change to a good cause.
Frequently Asked Questions – Coin Exchange Machines Near Me
How Do You Change Coins To Cash?
To change coins to cash using Coinstar, simply pour your coins into the machine, wait to count them, and then redeem the voucher you receive for cash at the store’s service desk. Remember, there’s up to a 12.5% fee for this service, but you can avoid the fee by opting for an e-gift card or donating to charity.
Where Can I Change up Coins?
Apart from Coinstar, you can exchange coins at banks or credit unions, though many now require the coins to be rolled. Some banks offer coin-counting services for free or a nominal fee, especially to their customers. Alternatively, you can use your coins directly for purchases at store self-checkout counters.
How Do I Avoid the Fee at Coinstar?
To avoid Coinstar fees, choose an e-gift card or make a charitable donation. Coinstar does not charge a fee for these options. The e-gift cards can be used at a wide range of retailers, and donations can be made to various charities available through Coinstar’s service.
Conclusion – Coin Exchange Machines Near Me
While some people only see coins as clunky pieces of metal, even a penny still holds value, especially in large numbers. Thanks to the Internet and the availability of coin exchange machines, exchanging coins into cash and digital tokens has never been easier.
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Founder of Spark Nomad, Radical FIRE, Journalist
Expertise: Personal finance and travel content
Education: Bachelor of Economics at Radboud University, Master in Finance at Radboud University, Minor in Economics at Chapman University.
Over 200 articles, essays, and short stories published across the web.
Experience: Marjolein Dilven is a journalist and founder of Radical FIRE, a personal finance platform, and Spark Nomad, a travel platform. Marjolein has a finance and economics background with a master’s in Finance. She has quit her job to travel the world, documenting her travels on Spark Nomad to help people plan their travels. Marjolein Dilven has written for publications like MSN, Associated Press, CNBC, Town News syndicate, and more.