Yes, banks take coins, but the process and limits depend on the bank and how you bring them in

Most banks will accept coins as a deposit into your account. However, they usually want coins sorted, rolled, or in a bag — not loose in a jar. Some banks charge a fee if you bring in large amounts of unsorted coins, while others waive the fee for customers. A few banks have stopped taking coins altogether, so it's worth calling ahead before you show up with a bag of change.

The key difference is between bringing coins to a teller (which most banks still do) and using a coin machine at the bank (which is becoming less common). If your bank has a coin machine, you can usually deposit coins yourself without talking to anyone. If not, you'll hand them to a teller, who may ask you to sort them first or may do it for you — depending on the bank's policy.

Key Takeaways

  • Most banks accept coins from customers, but policies vary by bank and branch.
  • Banks typically prefer coins to be rolled, sorted, or in a bag rather than loose.
  • Some banks charge a fee for depositing large amounts of unsorted coins, while others do not.
  • Coin-counting machines at banks are becoming less common, so ask your bank whether yours has one.
  • Credit unions often have more flexible coin policies than large national banks.

What happens when you bring coins to a bank teller

When you walk up to a teller with coins, they will either accept them as-is or ask you to sort them first. If the coins are already rolled (in paper rolls from a bank or store) or in a clear bag so the teller can see what you have, most banks will take them without complaint. If you dump loose coins on the counter, the teller may ask you to come back with them sorted, or they may do it themselves but charge you a fee.

The fee, when charged, is usually a percentage of the total — often 5 to 10 percent — though some banks waive it for customers with accounts in good standing. A few banks, particularly smaller branches, may not charge anything at all. The teller will count the coins (or weigh them if there are a lot), add the amount to your account, and give you a receipt.

Coin-counting machines and where to find them

Some banks still have coin-counting machines on the floor that customers can use for free or for a small fee. These machines let you pour coins in, and they count and sort them automatically. However, many large banks have removed these machines over the past decade, so they are becoming harder to find.

If your bank has a machine, it is usually near the teller area or in the lobby. You can ask a teller or call ahead to confirm whether your branch has one. If your bank does not have a machine, you have two options: bring the coins to a teller and accept any fee they charge, or sort and roll them yourself before depositing.

How to sort and roll coins yourself

Sorting coins takes time but can save you a fee. Separate your coins by type: pennies, nickels, dimes, and quarters. Then count out the right amount for each paper roll. A standard roll holds 50 pennies ($0.50), 40 nickels ($2.00), 50 dimes ($5.00), or 40 quarters ($10.00). You can buy empty paper rolls at most banks for free or at a dollar store for a few cents.

Once your coins are rolled, bring them to the bank and hand them to a teller. Most banks will not charge a fee for pre-rolled coins. This method also makes it easier for the teller to process your deposit quickly, since they do not have to count or sort anything.

Banks that have stopped taking coins

A small number of banks have stopped accepting coins from customers entirely, usually citing staffing costs and the time it takes to process them. If your bank is one of them, you will need to find another way to deposit your coins. Some options include asking a family member or friend who banks elsewhere, using a coin-counting machine at a grocery store or laundromat (though these usually take a percentage), or rolling the coins and depositing them at a different bank.

Before assuming your bank does not take coins, call and ask. Policies can vary by branch, and a teller can tell you exactly what your location accepts. You may also find that a nearby branch of the same bank has a different policy, so it is worth checking more than one location if the first one turns you away.

Credit unions and coin deposits

Credit unions tend to be more flexible about coin deposits than large national banks. Many credit unions have coin machines, accept unsorted coins without charging a fee, or both. If you are a member of a credit union, ask whether they take coins and what their process is.

If you are not a member but have access to one, this can be a good reason to join — especially if you regularly deposit coins. Credit unions are member-owned, so they often prioritize customer service over cutting costs, which means they are more likely to keep coin services available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I deposit coins at an ATM?

No. ATMs only accept paper bills, not coins. You must go to a teller or use a coin machine inside the bank branch.

What if I have a really large amount of coins?

Call your bank ahead of time and let them know. They may ask you to bring the coins in a bag or container, and they may want you to sort them first. Some banks have limits on how much loose change they will accept in one day, so it is worth checking.

Do I need to be a customer to deposit coins at a bank?

Yes. You must have an account at the bank to deposit coins into it. If you do not have an account, you cannot use their services.

Will the bank give me cash back if I deposit coins?

No. When you deposit coins, they go into your account as a deposit, just like a check or cash would. You can withdraw the money later if you need it in another form.

What should I do with coins if my bank will not take them?

You can roll them and try a different bank or credit union, use a coin-counting machine at a grocery store or laundromat (though these charge a fee), or spend the coins directly at a store. Some people also donate rolled coins to charity.