6 Best Places Where You Can Change Your Coins for Cash

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Ever been asked to “keep the change” after a small purchase? Most people say yes without a second thought — but what if that loose change could add up to real money? According to Bloomberg, Americans are losing over $62 billion annually** by discarding coins into drains, couch cushions, and trash bins. That’s an average of **$166.67 per person wasted every year.

The Hidden Value in Loose Change

This staggering figure comes from Covanta Holding Corp, a leading waste management and recycling company. Their estimate is based on the number of quarters and other coins found in landfill waste — about 250 million tons of garbage each year. A Covanta spokesperson confirms that coins of all denominations — pennies, nickels, dimes, and quarters — are routinely discovered in the waste stream.

Even the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) collects over $675,000 in unclaimed change annually from airport security checkpoints. While passengers can reclaim their money within a specific window, unclaimed funds go toward funding TSA operations.

These numbers only scratch the surface. The true value of lost or discarded coins across homes, vehicles, and public spaces is likely much higher — and nearly impossible to quantify.

Imagine collecting that loose change instead. A simple coin jar or DIY piggy bank can turn small change into a meaningful sum over time. But once your jar is full, the next question arises: Where can you exchange coins for cash?

While digital payments dominate today, physical coins still hold value — if you know where and how to redeem them.

6 Best Ways to Turn Coins into Cash

1. Coinstar: Fast and Convenient (With a Fee)

Coinstar remains one of the most accessible options for converting coins into cash. With kiosks located in grocery stores, pharmacies, and shopping centers nationwide, Coinstar makes it easy to empty your coin jar in minutes.

However, there’s a catch: Coinstar charges an 11.9% service fee — roughly $12 for every $100 in coins. While this cuts into your total, it’s a small price for instant cash without the hassle of rolling or sorting.

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Alternatively, you can skip the fee entirely by choosing a gift card instead of cash. Coinstar partners with major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Target, and Starbucks, allowing you to convert your coins into shopping credit at no extra cost.

This option is ideal if you already plan to shop at these stores — and it turns wasted change into future savings.

2. Piggy Bank Days: Free Coin Counting Events

Many banks and credit unions host Piggy Bank Days — special events designed to encourage financial literacy, especially among children and unbanked individuals. These events often include free coin counting using professional machines.

While not held regularly, they’re worth watching for in your community. Attend with your coin-filled jar and walk away with an accurate count — and often, a deposit directly into a new or existing account.

Keep in mind: some institutions may require you to open a savings account to participate. But if you’ve been meaning to start banking or teach kids about money, this is a win-win.

3. Local Banks and Credit Unions

Not all banks have abandoned coin services. While major institutions like Chase and Bank of America have phased out coin-counting machines, many local banks and credit unions still offer them — especially for account holders.

If you're a customer, most will credit your account for free after counting your rolled coins. Non-customers may face a fee (typically 8–12%), but it’s often lower than Coinstar’s rate.

Pro tip: Roll your coins beforehand using free wrappers from your bank or purchased locally. Sorted, rolled coins are easier to deposit and may help you avoid fees.

Some banks even compete with Coinstar by offering fee-free gift cards (e.g., Amazon or Walmart) in exchange for coin deposits — no cash required.

4. Local Stores and Gas Stations

While not a widespread policy, some independent convenience stores and gas stations accept loose coins in exchange for cash — particularly if they’re low on change for customers.

Limits usually apply (often $50–$100), but this can be a great option for regular contributors to a coin jar. Call ahead or ask at the counter to see if the service is available.

Additionally, large retailers like Walmart, Kohl’s, and Target sometimes allow customers to pay with coins during purchases. While they don’t hand out cash, this lets you spend every penny without penalty.

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5. Direct Bank Deposit (Rolled Coins Only)

Several banks allow you to deposit rolled coins directly into your account, especially if you're a customer. Since the bank avoids labor costs, they often waive fees for this service.

Non-customers may still deposit coins but could face processing fees (typically 10–12%). To maximize efficiency:

If you have multiple jars, consider enlisting family or friends to help — turning coin sorting into a fun, collaborative activity.

6. Donate to Charity or Church

You won’t get cash back from donating coins — but you might get tax benefits. Charities like UNICEF, Salvation Army, Feeding America, and American Red Cross accept coin donations, often through collection drives or drop boxes.

Local churches, animal shelters, and orphanages also welcome small change. While this option won’t refill your wallet, it supports meaningful causes — and may reduce your taxable income if you itemize deductions.

Use this route if you value impact over income.

Why So Many Coins Go Unclaimed

The U.S. Mint once bought back coins but stopped due to counterfeit concerns. With no central redemption system, coins circulate indefinitely — until they’re lost or discarded.

Rather than letting your change vanish into couch cracks or landfills, take action. Whether you cash out, save, or donate, those dimes and nickels deserve a second life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Does Coinstar give cash without charging a fee?
A: No — Coinstar charges approximately 11.9% for cash exchanges. However, you can avoid fees by choosing gift cards from retailers like Amazon or Walmart.

Q: Can I exchange unrolled coins at banks?
A: Most banks require coins to be rolled and sorted. Some credit unions may accept loose coins during special events like Piggy Bank Days.

Q: Are there any apps that help count or track loose change?
A: While no app counts physical coins directly, budgeting apps like Mint or YNAB can help you log coin savings goals and track progress manually.

Q: Do credit unions offer better coin exchange terms than big banks?
A: Often, yes. Credit unions are member-focused and more likely to offer free coin counting or waive fees for account holders.

Q: Is it worth saving small change over time?
A: Absolutely. At $166+ lost per American annually, consistently saving loose change can yield hundreds per year — enough for emergency funds or gifts.

Q: Can I use coins to pay for purchases at major retailers?
A: Yes — Walmart, Target, and others accept coin payments at checkout. Call your local store to confirm their policy.

Core Keywords

👉 Turn everyday financial habits into long-term gains with smart tools and strategies.

By taking advantage of these options, you transform forgotten change into tangible value — whether that’s cash in hand, savings in the bank, or support for a worthy cause. Don’t let another nickel go to waste.