Where can I exchange my coins for cash for free?

That jar of coins collecting dust on your counter? It could be your next grocery run or your kid’s first savings deposit. But here’s the thing: Finding a free place to cash in coins isn’t always easy.

We’ve rounded up the best ways to exchange coins for cash without paying fees, plus a few smart tips to turn your loose change into a money moment.

1. Visit your bank, credit union, or grocery store branch

Your first stop should be your own bank or credit union. Many offer free coin counting for account holders, whether that means using a coin-counting machine or accepting rolled coins. Some even provide free wrappers if you want to roll them at home.

Don't have an account at a local bank? Community banks and credit unions often extend services to non-members, especially if they have coin machines in their lobbies. And if you have a bank branch inside your local grocery store, it’s worth asking there too — these smaller branches can be surprisingly helpful.

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Pro tip: Call ahead to confirm. Not every location offers coin services, and some may only process coins on certain days.

2. Use Coinstar (and skip the fee)

Coinstar machines are everywhere — in grocery stores, Walmart, and even some pharmacies. While Coinstar typically charges a hefty 11.9% fee for cash vouchers, you can avoid the fee entirely by choosing an eGift card. Options include Amazon, Target, Starbucks, and other big-name retailers.

If you’re already planning to shop at one of these stores, it’s essentially just like cash.

Smart strategy: Let your child pick the gift card and help them figure out how much their coins are worth in store credit. It’s budgeting practice in action.

3. Roll coins at home and deposit them

No coin machines nearby? No problem. Rolling coins yourself is a tried-and-true option. Most banks accept rolled coins for deposit with no fee. You can buy wrappers at dollar stores, office supply shops, or ask your bank for some.

Make it a game: Turn this into a fun weekend challenge. See who in the family can roll the most coins in 10 minutes, then head to the bank together to deposit the money.

4. Check local schools or nonprofits

Some community organizations run coin collection drives or fundraisers and will count coins for you, especially if you’re willing to donate part of the change. If your goal is to clean out the coin jar, it can be a feel-good, no-fee solution.

Bonus: It’s a great chance to talk to your child about giving back and supporting causes they care about.

5. Watch for local promotions and events

Keep an eye on community boards, social media, or newsletters. Banks and retailers occasionally host free coin-counting events or offer fee waivers for a limited time. These pop-ups are especially common during national saving weeks or financial literacy campaigns.

Tips to avoid coin-counting fees

• Always call ahead. Even if a place has a coin machine, it might be broken or only for customers.

• Ask if the fee can be waived. Some places may waive it for small amounts or with a deposit.

• Skip the cash voucher at Coinstar. Choose an eGift card to avoid the 11.9% fee.

• Bring ID. Some banks require ID for coin transactions, even for existing customers.

Bonus: Turn spare change into a money moment

Coins might seem like small change, but they can be big learning tools for kids. Sorting, counting, and exchanging coins offers a great opportunity to:

• Practice math and money recognition

• Set savings goals together

• Talk about wants vs. needs

• Celebrate little wins (like earning enough for a toy or treat)

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This blog post is provided "as is" and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is reviewed by at least two human editors.

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