Looking to turn your loose change into cash? Finding banks with coin counting machines near you can save time and spare you tedious sorting. This guide makes it easy to locate convenient branches that offer coin counting services, helping you maximize your money with minimal hassle. Whether you’re cashing in a jar of coins or just a handful, we’ve got you covered!
Comparing Banks with Coin Counting Machines Near Me
Selecting the right place to cash in your coins can depend on whether you are a bank customer, convenience, service fees, and payout options. The following table provides a quick overview of common locations and their main characteristics.
| Institution / Location | Machine Availability | Fees for Customers | Fees for Non-Customers | Accept Loose Coins | Accept Rolled Coins | Payout Options | Notable Restrictions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Major National Banks (e.g., Chase, BoA) | Rare/Phased Out | Free (if rolling required) | Rarely allow; may charge | No | Yes | Deposit, Cash | Usually only rolled coins, must be a customer |
| Regional/Community Banks | Select Locations | Usually Free | Varies (often 5-10%) | Sometimes | Usually | Deposit, Cash | Must be in-branch, policies vary by branch |
| Credit Unions | Common at branches | Often Free | Often 5-10% | Yes | Sometimes | Deposit, Cash | Many require membership |
| Coinstar (Retail) | Widely Available | N/A (retail service) | Up to 12% (for cash) | Yes | No | Cash, Gift Card, Charity | Fees apply for cash payouts |
| Grocery/Big-Box Retailers | Coinstar Kiosks | N/A (retail service) | Up to 12% (for cash) | Yes | No | Cash, Gift Card, Charity | Gift card/charity is fee-free |
| Local Casinos | Some have machines | Often Free | Often Free | Yes | No | Cash | Policy varies; call in advance |
Key Features, Usage, and Safety
What Are Coin Counting Machines?
Coin counting machines, sometimes called coin sorters or coin counters, automatically sort, count, and convert your pile of change into cash, a deposit, or other payout options. They are available in:
- Bank and credit union branches (lobby or behind counter)
- Retail locations and supermarkets (Coinstar kiosks)
- Some casinos and select public venues
How They Work
- Deposit Your Coins: Pour loose change into the machine’s tray.
- Sorting and Counting: The machine uses sensors to recognize coin denominations, sort, and tally.
- Payout or Voucher: Receive a printed receipt, voucher, or direct payout, depending on the location and options selected.
You may also encounter machines that accept pre-rolled coins, typically used when no automatic coin counter is available.
Safety and Precautions
- Always ensure your coins are clean and free from debris. Dirty, sticky, or foreign coins may be rejected.
- Larger banks and stores regularly service coin machines to maintain accuracy, but errors are still possible. Always check the counted amount and keep all receipts until satisfied with your payout.
- For substantial amounts of coins, carry them in sturdy containers to avoid spills or injuries.
Choosing and Using Banks with Coin Counting Machines Near Me
Deciding Where to Go
Factors to Consider:
– Are you an account holder? Many banks only provide free coin counting to their customers.
– How much change do you have? Some machines and banks have maximum limits per session, especially at retail kiosks.
– Do you mind rolling coins? Not all locations accept loose coins; some may require coins to be rolled in paper wrappers.
– Do you want cash or another payout? At Coinstar and select banks, you may choose between cash, eGift cards (fee-free), or donating to charity.
Step-by-Step: Turning Coins Into Cash
- Call Ahead: Always check with your local branch or retailer regarding machine availability, fees, and requirements. Policies change, and not all locations provide these services.
- Clean & Prepare Coins: Remove lint, wrappers, and foreign objects.
- Sort (if Needed): If your bank requires rolled coins, sort and count into paper coin wrappers.
- Visit in Off-Peak Hours: Avoid crowds by visiting during mid-morning or early afternoons during weekdays.
- Deposit and Collect: Use the machine as instructed, or hand over rolled coins to the teller. For machine use, follow on-screen prompts to choose payout.
Safety Tips
- Always count your change—and take photos of your wrappers or containers for reference.
- Hold onto your receipt until funds are confirmed in your account or you complete your cash/voucher redemption.
- Use a sturdy bag or box to carry coins; large sums can be surprisingly heavy.
Practical Tips and Best Practices
Tips for Getting the Most Value
- Avoid High Fees: If you’re not a bank customer and want to avoid fees, look for credit unions or small community banks with free machines, or select the eGift card option at Coinstar for a fee-free transaction.
- Ask for Free Coin Wrappers: Nearly all banks, even where they don’t accept loose coins, will provide coin wrappers at no charge.
- Check for Limits: Some locations impose daily, weekly, or per-session limits on how many coins you can convert, especially as a non-customer.
- Consider a Bank Account: If you frequently need to convert coins, opening an account at a nearby bank or credit union with coin-counting machines could save you significant money over time.
Best Practices for Home Use and Hobbyists
- Use at-home coin counters for regular, small-scale sorting if you’re an avid collector or save change often.
- Inspect for Valuable Coins: Before pouring coins into a machine, check for rare coins (like pre-1965 silver quarters or collectibles), which could be worth far more than face value.
Technical Comparison Table: Bank and Retail Coin Counting
| Feature / Model | Accepts Loose Coins | Accepts Rolled Coins | Customer Fee | Non-Customer Fee | Deposit Option | Cash Payout | Gift Card/Donation Option | Daily Limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bank In-Branch Machine | Yes | Sometimes | Usually $0 | 5-10% typical | Yes | Yes | Sometimes | Varies |
| Bank Counter (No Machine) | No | Yes | $0 | Varies, often not allowed | Yes | Yes | No | Varies |
| Credit Union Coin Machine | Yes | Sometimes | $0 | 5-10% typical | Yes | Yes | Sometimes | Varies |
| Coinstar Retail Kiosk | Yes | No | N/A | Up to 12% (cash) | No | Yes | Yes (fee-free for gift card/donation) | Typically $2k-$3k per session |
| Casino Coin Counter | Yes | No | $0 | $0 | No | Yes | Sometimes | Varies |
Additional Insights: Where to Find Coin Counting Machines
Common Banks and Credit Unions Offering Coin Counting
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Free for Account Holders (may vary by location/region)
- JBT Bank (PA), Republic Bank (NJ/PA), Fifth Third Bank, UW Credit Union (WI), OceanFirst Bank, Hancock County Savings Bank (WV)
- American Eagle Federal Credit Union, First County Bank, Liberty Bank, Westerra Credit Union
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Available with Fees for Non-Customers
- cPort Credit Union (5%), Eastern Bank (5%), Home State Bank (10%), UnitedOne Credit Union (7%), Peoples United (11%), TCF National Bank (8.9%), Manasquan Bank (15%)
Grocery and Retail Locations (Coinstar Kiosks)
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Found in most Walmarts, Kroger-family stores (Kroger, Fry’s, King Soopers, Ralphs, etc.), Safeway, CVS, Target, ShopRite, Stop & Shop, Albertson’s, Meijer, Food Lion, and dozens more.
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To maximize convenience, use Coinstar’s machine locator tool, usually available at the store’s customer service counter or entrance.
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Conclusion
Turning your loose change into cash (or other value) is still possible, though the process has changed in recent years. With major national banks phasing out in-branch coin-counting machines, your best bet is often local community banks, credit unions, or retail Coinstar kiosks. Each has its own rules for availability, fees, and payout options, making it vital to check each provider’s terms before visiting.
Account holders usually get the best deal at banks and credit unions—often with free, fast coin counting and cash or deposit options. For non-account holders, Coinstar kiosks are widely accessible and offer fee-free eGift card or charity options.
With the right preparation and approach, you can maximize the value of your spare change, steer clear of unnecessary fees, and even support a cause you care about—all while lightening your pockets.
FAQ
- Which banks still have coin counting machines near me?
While most large banks no longer offer this service, some regional and local banks still have in-branch coin counting machines. Examples include JBT Bank, Republic Bank, Fifth Third Bank, Hancock County Savings Bank, and select credit unions. Always call ahead to confirm availability at a branch near you.
- Do I have to be a customer to use a bank’s coin counting machine?
Typically, only bank customers can use coin counting machines for free. Non-customers may be charged a fee (often 5–10% of the total) or not allowed to use the service at all. Some community banks and credit unions extend free services or reduced fees to non-members, but this varies.
- What fees should I expect when using a coin counting machine?
Customers at their own banks or credit unions often pay no fees. Non-customers may pay anywhere from 5% to 15%, depending on the institution. Coinstar machines in retail locations commonly charge up to 12% for cash payouts, but allow free exchanges for eGift cards or charitable donations.
- Can I cash in coins without rolling them?
Many coin counting machines accept loose coins—no rolling necessary. However, banks that don’t have a machine will usually require coins to be sorted and rolled in paper wrappers, which you can get for free at most banks.
- Are Coinstar kiosks the best option if I don’t have a bank account?
Coinstar kiosks are the most convenient option for non-bank customers. They’re widely available in grocery and retail stores and process loose coins quickly. You’ll pay a fee for cash, but opting for an eGift card or charitable donation lets you avoid service fees entirely.
- How do I ensure my coins will be accepted by the machine?
Clean your coins of debris, dirt, or sticky substances, and remove any foreign or damaged coins. Machines may reject coins that can’t be recognized. Carry coins in sturdy containers to avoid accidents while transporting them.
- Is there a limit to how many coins I can bring?
For most Coinstar machines, the limit is $2,000–$3,000 per session. Banks and credit unions may impose daily or per-session limits for coin deposits, especially for non-customers. Always check with your selected branch before bringing a large amount.
- Can I get the full value of my coins?
You’ll get the full value when using your own bank’s coin machine or if you opt for an eGift card or certain donations via Coinstar. For cash payouts as a non-customer or through Coinstar, you’ll pay a percentage fee, so your returned amount will be less than your coin total.
- Are there alternatives to banks and Coinstar for cashing in coins?
Some casinos provide coin counting machines for free use. Select convenience stores (like QuikTrip) may allow direct coin-for-cash exchanges. Additionally, many self-checkout machines at retailers accept coins, allowing you to use spare change for purchases without fees.
- How do I find a coin counting machine near me?
Start by calling your local bank and credit union branches to ask about machine availability and fees. For retail locations, use a machine locator tool on the kiosks’ provider website or call the customer service desk of nearby supermarkets and big-box stores. Always confirm current policy before making the trip.