Ever found yourself with a jar full of spare change and wondered where you could cash it in while running errands? You’re not alone—many people hope for a convenient way to turn coins into spending money during their usual shopping trips.
Knowing whether Target offers coin-counting machines is important for saving time and planning your visit. In this article, we’ll give you a clear answer, explain your options, and share some helpful tips for cashing in your coins.
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Does Target Have Coin Machines? A Complete Guide
If you have jars of spare coins sitting at home, you might be wondering where you can turn your change into cash quickly and easily. One common question is whether Target stores offer coin counting machines for their customers. Let’s dig into the details and find out what your options are.
The Clear Answer: Coin Machines at Target
No, Target does not currently have coin counting machines (like Coinstar) in its stores. While Target is a major retailer offering a wide range of services—from groceries to electronics and pharmacy—it does not provide coin cashing services in-store. This includes both staffed counters and self-serve coin counting kiosks.
However, there are many other accessible locations and methods to convert your coins into cash or store credit. Let’s explore your alternatives, reasons behind Target’s lack of such machines, and the best ways to deal with your loose change.
Why Doesn’t Target Have Coin Machines?
The decision for Target not to offer coin counting machines is rooted in a few practical and business reasons:
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Service Focus: Target specializes in retail goods and not financial services. Other retailers, especially grocers, often see coin counting as a service that draws more foot traffic or provides value to regular shoppers.
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Space and Maintenance: Coin machines require space, regular emptying, and maintenance. For a large retailer like Target, dedicating employees and space to this isn’t as attractive when compared to their core offerings.
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Third-Party Partnerships: Coin machine providers like Coinstar generally partner with grocery stores and major supermarket chains, not big box retail stores.
As a result, Target shoppers need to look elsewhere to cash in their coins.
Where Can You Find Coin Counting Machines?
Even though Target doesn’t have coin machines, you still have plenty of options. Here’s a breakdown of where you can turn your change into cash:
1. Grocery Stores and Supermarkets
Many supermarkets have coin counting kiosks near their entrances. The most common brand is Coinstar. These machines are widely available at:
- Walmart
- Kroger
- Safeway
- Albertsons
- Publix
- Harris Teeter
- Meijer
- Giant
- Stop & Shop
At these machines, you pour in your coins, and, for a small fee (often around 11-13%), you can receive cash instantly. Some machines even offer free exchanges if you choose a gift card instead of cash.
2. Banks and Credit Unions
Certain banks and credit unions offer coin counting services, often for free to their account holders. Some popular national and regional banks offer this service in select branches. It’s always best to call ahead or check your bank’s website for details.
Keep in mind:
– Some banks only offer this service to customers.
– Community credit unions are more likely than big chain banks to provide this amenity.
– A handful of banks have phased out coin counting machines due to costs and maintenance.
3. Coin Processing Retailers
Some local stores, independent grocery shops, or even pharmacies may have coin machines. These are less common than machines in big grocery stores, but they are worth checking in your area.
Pros and Cons of Using Coin Counting Machines
Understanding the advantages and drawbacks of using a coin counting machine helps you make the best decision for cashing in your change.
Benefits
- Quick and Easy: You simply dump in your change, and the machine counts it for you within minutes.
- No Rolling Required: Forget sorting and rolling coins into wrappers.
- Flexible Payout: Choose between cash, e-gift cards, or sometimes even donations to charity.
- Widely Available: Accessible at many large supermarkets and retail locations.
Challenges
- Fees Apply: Most machines charge a fee (typically 11-13%) if you opt for cash. Gift card payouts or donations are usually fee-free.
- Machine Limits: Some machines have daily limits or may be out of service for maintenance.
- Availability: Not every store has a machine, especially not big box retailers like Target.
Step-by-Step: How To Use a Coin Counting Machine
If you haven’t used a coin machine before, here’s what to expect:
- Gather Your Coins: Remove any non-coin objects (buttons, paper clips) to avoid jams.
- Head to the Store: Find a nearby store with a coin counting machine.
- Pour Coins In: Follow on-screen instructions. Slowly pour your coins into the tray.
- Choose Your Payout: Select whether you want cash, a store gift card, or to donate.
- Collect Your Slip/Receipt: If you chose cash, take the voucher to the customer service desk. For gift cards, sometimes the machine prints them directly.
- Enjoy Your Money: Spend however you wish!
Tips for Cashing In Your Coins
Maximize the benefit of your change with these smart tips:
- Sort Out Foreign or Damaged Coins: Machines won’t accept coins from other countries or damaged coins. Sort these out beforehand.
- Clean Your Coins: Dirty or sticky coins may be rejected, causing jams or delays.
- Opt for Gift Cards: If you shop at certain stores often, choosing a gift card payout avoids the cash-out fee.
- Call Ahead: Confirm with your chosen location that their coin machine is working and open.
- Bank Account Customers: If you have an account with a bank that accepts coins, bring your ID and account number to make direct deposits.
Alternatives To Coin Counting Machines
If you don’t want to pay fees or don’t have access to a nearby machine, consider these alternatives:
1. Coin-Counting at Your Bank
Many local credit unions and small banks will process coins for free if you have an account. Ask if you need to sort or roll the coins ahead of time.
2. Coin Roll and Deposit
You can roll your coins yourself using paper wrappers (available for free at most banks or for a small cost at office supply stores). Once rolled, deposit them at your bank teller window.
3. Use Coins For Purchases
Spend your coins at stores that accept them—in particular for small purchases or vending machines. This avoids any fees.
4. Donate
Some charities accept coin donations, especially for fundraisers at schools, places of worship, or charitable events.
5. Sell to Coin Collectors
For rare or old coins, check with a local coin shop to see if your coins have added value.
Practical Advice for Managing Coins
Keeping coins organized can make cashing them in easier. Here are some helpful best practices:
- Use a sturdy jar or bank to collect coins at home.
- Once the jar is full, transfer coins into bags for sorting. Keep loose bills and other items separate.
- Check your change for collectible or uncommon coins, which may be worth more than their face value.
- Plan to consolidate and cash in coins every few months, so they don’t build up too much.
Best Practices When Using Coin Counting Machines
To make your visit smooth and to maximize your money:
- Empty your coins into a tray first to remove debris.
- If the location is busy, be considerate and allow others to use the kiosk as well.
- Always double-check that you took your receipt, cash, or gift card before leaving.
- If the machine shortchanges you or malfunctions, keep the receipt and ask store staff for help.
Summary
Target does not offer coin counting machines at its stores, but you have many alternatives to turn your loose change into cash, gift cards, or donations. Most grocery stores, select banks, and some retailers offer coin counting kiosks, with Coinstar being the most common brand. Be mindful of service fees, and consider using your own bank or rolling coins yourself if you want to avoid charges. With proper planning, managing and cashing in your coins is simple and rewarding.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does Target have Coinstar machines or similar coin counters?
No, Target stores do not have Coinstar, coin counting machines, or any similar coin cashing services in-store.
2. Where can I find a Coinstar machine near me?
You’re most likely to find Coinstar machines at large grocery store chains, including Walmart, Safeway, Kroger, Stop & Shop, and many more. Some independent stores and select pharmacies may also have them.
3. What is the fee for using a coin counting machine?
Most coin counting machines charge around 11-13% of your total coins if you choose cash. You can often get gift cards for popular retailers or make charitable donations with no fee.
4. Can banks turn coins into cash for free?
Some banks and credit unions provide coin counting for free to their account holders, but not all locations do. Large nationwide banks may not offer this service, while smaller community banks or credit unions are more likely to do so. Always check with your branch beforehand.
5. What should I do with uncommon or foreign coins?
Coin counting machines generally reject non-U.S. coins or those that are damaged. Save these coins separately and look for specialty coin dealers, collectors, or currency exchange services that might be interested.
By following these steps and tips, you can easily turn your spare change into something valuable—just not at Target. Happy coin counting!