We all have change lying around our house and in our cars. In fact, the average American has about $90 is spare change just lying around! But how can you turn that loose change into bills for free? Many banks will do it for free if you are a member. But what if you are not a member or do not live close to a branch? Many banks even charge to count coins because they absolutely hate it. Well, Coinstar can help you turn your change into gift cards for use at many major retailers. If you turn your change into gift cards, they waive their 8.9% surcharge. I have been doing this for quite some time now. They offer gift cards for my favorite shopping site, Amazon.com
- Amazon.com
- AMC Theaters
- Borders
- Cabelas
- CVS
- Eddie Bauer
- iTunes
- JC Penney
- Lowes
- Old Navy
- Overstock.com
- Starbucks
Looking at this list, you can see that there is something for everyone. Want to go to the movies? Get the AMC gift card. Need an electronic gadget or about anything else under the sun? Get an Amazon.com gift card. Coffee addict? Get a Starbucks gift card.
Personally, we use Coinstar for all of our change. They have a location near us in a supermarket which makes it very convenient. You can find locations near you by searching on their site.
photo by: tattoodjj
If you don’t want gift cards, chances are there’s a free change counting machine near you: http://www.theunderstory.com/
Commerce bank, if you have one near where you live has a coin counter that has no charge and you do not need to be a member to use it. You just bring your slip of paper to the front and they hand you cash back if you aren’t a member, or deposit it into your account if you are. Bonus, they don’t charge a cent. If you don’t have a Commerce near you, search around. THere are other free ones out there, you just have to ask!
@Red – Thanks for the tip! I knew that they offered free coin counting, but I thought it was only for their customers. You have to admit, it will probably help them get new customers. I would think that is the only reason they are offering the service free to the public.