Most major banks no longer offer coin counting to non-customers, and many have removed machines entirely
Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Chase, and Citibank all stopped offering free coin counting to the public years ago. Some branches still have machines, but access depends on whether you hold an account there—and even then, policies vary by location. If you have an account at one of these banks, call your local branch directly; do not assume the machine is available just because the bank operates it.
Credit unions are more likely to have working coin counters and to let members use them without fees. If you belong to a credit union, ask whether your branch has a machine and whether it charges per use. Some credit unions charge $1 to $3 per transaction, while others include it free for members.
Regional and community banks vary widely. Some still maintain coin counters as a service to account holders; others have phased them out entirely in favor of digital payment methods. The only way to know is to contact the specific branch where you bank.
Key Takeaways
- Major national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo have largely removed coin counting machines or restricted access to account holders only.
- Credit unions are your best bet for coin counting access, though some charge a per-use fee of $1 to $3.
- Calling your local branch is the fastest way to confirm whether a machine exists and who can use it.
- Grocery stores, laundromats, and arcades often have coin-changing services or machines as an alternative to banks.
Why banks removed coin counting machines
Coin counting was expensive for banks to maintain. Machines break down, require regular servicing, and take up space that banks now use for other purposes. As fewer people use cash, the demand for coin counting dropped, making the service unprofitable. Banks decided to redirect resources toward digital services instead.
The shift accelerated during the pandemic, when many branches closed or reduced hours. When they reopened, many did not reinstall coin counters. Some banks now view coin handling as a liability rather than a service—the machines jam, customers get frustrated, and the bank absorbs the cost.
How to find a bank with a working coin counter
Call ahead. Do not drive to a branch expecting a machine to be there. Ask specifically: "Does your branch have a coin counting machine?" and "Can I use it if I'm not an account holder?" Write down the answer and the name of the person who told you, in case the information changes.
If your bank does have a machine, ask whether there is a fee. Some banks charge account holders nothing; others charge $0.10 per dollar of coins or a flat fee per transaction. Non-account holders, if allowed at all, usually pay more.
Check your bank's website or app first. Some banks list which branches have coin counters. If the information is not online, a phone call to the branch is faster than visiting in person.
Credit unions as a more reliable option
Credit unions tend to keep coin counting machines because their members expect it and because the machines serve a community function. Membership requirements vary—some are open to anyone in a geographic area, others require employment at a specific company or membership in an organization.
If you are not currently a credit union member, search for one in your area using the CO-OP Network or Alliant Credit Union's locator tool. Many credit unions will let you open an account with a small deposit ($25 to $100) and use the coin counter immediately. The fee for coin counting at credit unions ranges from free to $3 per transaction, depending on the institution.
Non-bank places that count or exchange coins
Grocery stores with customer service desks sometimes count coins for free if you are a regular customer or if you exchange them for bills on the spot. Coinstar machines, found in many grocery stores and pharmacies, charge a percentage of the total (usually 10 to 12 percent) but do not require a bank account. If you want to avoid the fee, Coinstar offers a no-fee option if you exchange coins for an Amazon gift card instead of cash.
Laundromats, arcades, and casinos often have change machines that convert bills to coins or coins to bills. Some charge a small fee; others do it free. Coin dealers and numismatic shops will count and exchange coins, though they may charge a fee or expect you to be a customer.
What to bring when you go to count coins
Bring coins in a bag or container—do not dump loose coins on the counter. Most machines accept coins that are clean and undamaged. Coins that are bent, corroded, or foreign will jam the machine or be rejected. If you have a large amount, call ahead and ask whether the branch prefers you to bring coins in rolls or loose.
Bring your account information if you are an account holder. Some machines require you to insert your debit card or enter your account number before you can use them. If you are not an account holder and the branch allows non-member access, ask what identification or information you need to provide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Coinstar charge a fee?
Coinstar charges approximately 10 to 12 percent of the total value of coins you exchange for cash. If you exchange coins for an Amazon gift card instead, there is no fee. Coinstar machines are located in most grocery stores, pharmacies, and some retail locations.
Can I use a bank's coin counter if I don't have an account there?
Most major banks no longer allow non-account holders to use their coin counters. Some regional banks and credit unions still do, but policies vary by location. Call the branch directly to ask; do not assume access based on another branch's policy.
What if the coin counter at my bank is broken?
Ask the branch when it will be repaired or whether another nearby branch has a working machine. If repairs are delayed, ask whether the branch will count coins by hand or direct you to an alternative. Some branches will do this as a courtesy to account holders.
Are there coin counting machines that don't charge a fee?
Credit unions often offer free coin counting to members. Some banks still do as well, though this is becoming rare. Coinstar offers a no-fee option if you exchange coins for an Amazon gift card. Your best option is to call local credit unions and banks in your area and ask about their policies.
Can I roll my own coins instead of using a machine?
Yes. Most banks accept hand-rolled coins from account holders. Rolls must be properly wrapped and labeled with the coin type and total amount. Bring them to a teller during business hours. This avoids machine fees entirely, though it takes time to roll coins yourself.