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Coins to cash machines have come a long way since their inception. They're now a common sight in many retail stores and supermarkets.
The first coin-operated machine was invented in 1883 by Thomas Adams, an American inventor. It was a vending machine that dispensed chewing gum.
These machines have evolved significantly since then, with modern coin-operated machines capable of dispensing a wide range of items, from snacks to personal care products.
Some coin-operated machines are designed for specific purposes, like dispensing medication or issuing parking tickets.
Where to Cash Coins
Cashing in your coins can be a hassle, but it doesn't have to be. You can cash coins for free at many banks and credit unions, which is great if you're already a customer.
Some banks that offer free coin counters for customers include U.S. Bank, Capital One, Chase, and Bank of America. You can also try your local bank or credit union, as they may offer this service for free.
Many credit unions allow members to convert coins into cash for free, and some even offer coin counters at their locations. Connexus Credit Union, for example, has coin counters at some of its locations, and for those that don't, rolled coins are accepted.
BMO, TD Bank, and Citizens Bank are also among the banks that allow customers to cash coins for free. You can bring your rolled coins to the teller for deposit.
Some banks may require you to present the coins rolled, so it's best to confirm with your local branch. Coin-counting vending kiosks, on the other hand, usually charge a fee to convert coins to cash.
Here's a list of some banks and credit unions that offer free coin exchange:
- U.S. Bank
- Capital One
- Chase
- Citizens Bank
- TD Bank
- Bank of America
- Citi
- BMO
- BECU
- Connexus Credit Union
- Bethpage Federal Credit Union
- Patelco Credit Union
- PenFed Credit Union
Alternatives to Cash Machines
If you're tired of relying on cash machines, there are several alternatives to consider. Mobile payments are a convenient option, allowing users to make transactions using their smartphone or tablet.
Many banks now offer mobile banking apps that enable users to check their account balance, transfer funds, and make payments. For example, the article mentions that over 50% of users have made a mobile payment in the past year.
Another alternative is online banking, which allows users to manage their finances from the comfort of their own home. Online banking is available 24/7, making it a great option for those who prefer to avoid cash machines altogether.
In fact, the article notes that over 70% of users prefer online banking to visiting a cash machine. This is likely due to the convenience and flexibility it offers.
Alternatives at Other Stores
If you're not near a bank or credit union that offers free coin exchange, you can try using a coin-counting machine at a convenience store or grocery store. Some stores have these machines, but be aware that they usually charge a fee to convert coins to cash.
Coinstar machines are widely available and can quickly count your coins, providing a few options for using them. You can search for a kiosk service near you on Coinstar.com.
You can also check your local grocery store to see if they have coin-counting machines. Publix stores, for example, have these machines, but be aware that a 10% fee may apply.
If you're looking for a hassle-free experience, using a coin-counting machine is a good option. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- The machine quickly counts your coins for you
- Provides multiple cash-out options
- A 12.5% + $0.50 fee may apply
It's worth noting that not all grocery stores have coin-counting machines, so you may want to call ahead to confirm availability.
What Are Free Machines
Some banks offer free coin counting machines for their customers. JBT, Manasquan Bank, and Home State Bank are just a few examples of banks that provide free coin counting for their customers.
For customers of these banks, counting coins is a breeze. You can simply take your coins to one of their locations and let the machine do the counting for you.
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If you're a customer of Hancock County Savings Bank or Republic Bank (NJ/PA), you're also in luck. Both of these banks offer free coin counting for their customers, with no extra fees.
Here's a list of some banks that offer free coin counting for their customers:
It's worth noting that some banks may charge non-customers a fee for using their coin counting machines. American Eagle Federal Credit Union and Westerra Credit Union are two examples of banks that offer free coin counting for both their customers and non-customers.
Using Cash Machines
You can quickly count your coins at a Coinstar machine, which provides multiple cash-out options. Simply drop your coins into the slot and wait for the machine to count the value.
Coinstar machines are widely available, but you can also check your local grocery store to see if they have coin-counting machines. Publix stores, for example, have machines that charge a 10% fee for coin-to-cash conversions.
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The machine quickly counts your coins and provides options for cashing them in. You can also use these machines to make a donation to select charitable organizations.
A 12.5% + $0.50 fee may apply when using Coinstar machines. However, some grocery stores like Publix may have slightly less expensive options.
If you prefer to avoid service fees, you can redeem your coins for an electronic gift card to a participating retailer or restaurant. This option is available with no fee, but each retailer has a minimum and maximum gift card amount.
Here are some popular options for redeeming your coins:
You can find a Coinstar kiosk near you using their Find a Kiosk tool.
Counting and Separating Coins
Counting and separating coins can be a tedious task, but there are ways to make it easier.
You can save time with automated sorting by investing in a coin separator, which can be as simple as sorting trays with holes for different coin sizes or as sophisticated as an automated counting machine.
A coin separator can also help you avoid fees from coin-counting machines.
However, if you don't cash in coins often, the initial investment may not be worth it.
Rolling coins is another cost-effective way to make exchanging or spending them easier. Many banks give out coin wrappers for free, and you can also find cheap packs at dollar and office-supply stores, as well as Amazon.
If you're looking for a more efficient option, you can consider buying a coin-sorting machine, which can be found at office-supply stores, Walmart, and Amazon.
Redeeming Coins
If you're using a Coinstar machine, you have three options for redeeming your coins: cash, eGift Card, or charitable donation.
The cash voucher option comes with a fee of 11.9%, which can vary by location. This fee is deducted from the total value of your coins.
To receive a cash voucher, simply turn it in to a cashier. It's a straightforward process that's easy to understand.
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You can also choose to receive an eGift Card, which is a great option if you want to buy something online or in-store. The best part? There's no fee for this option.
The gift code for your eGift Card is printed on the receipt, so be sure to check it carefully.
If you'd rather make a charitable donation, you can do so without paying a fee. The donation is automatically made, and you'll receive a receipt for tax purposes.
Here's a quick summary of your options:
Important Considerations
Some coin-counting machines can be a bit sneaky, so it's essential to be aware of potential fees. Coinstar, the most popular brand, charges a fee of up to 12.5 percent, plus a 59-cent flat fee per transaction.
Be cautious of these fees, as they can add up quickly. You might be surprised at how much you end up paying to turn your coins into cash.
Watch Out for Fees
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Grocery stores often have coin-counting machines near checkouts.
These machines can charge a fee that can amount to a few dollars.
Coinstar, the most popular brand of these machines, charges a fee of up to 12.5 percent.
There's also a 59-cent flat fee per transaction with Coinstar.
This means you'll pay a significant amount for the service, especially if you have a large amount of coins to count.
Bottom Line
Banks and credit unions usually allow people to convert their coins into cash for free. You can exchange your coins for free at a Coinstar kiosk if you exchange them for a gift card.
Policies vary, but you generally must be a customer or member to use this service.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Coinstar take out of $100?
Coinstar takes 11.9% of the value, which is approximately $11.90 out of $100. This fee is charged on the value of the coins you exchange, not the cash you receive.
How do I avoid the fee at Coinstar?
To avoid a fee at Coinstar, cash in your coins for an eGift Card with a 0% fee, which is available at most locations. This option allows you to choose from over 20 popular brands and restaurants.
Sources
- https://www.bankrate.com/banking/best-ways-to-change-coins-into-cash/
- https://www.mybanktracker.com/news/coin-counting-machines-banks-where-find-them
- https://money.slickdeals.net/articles/places-to-cash-coins-for-free/
- https://www.creditkarma.com/income/i/cash-in-loose-change
- https://www.thebalancemoney.com/where-to-cash-in-coins-5196435
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