How Much Does Coinstar Charge at Walmart?
If you’re looking to turn your loose change into cash or e-gift cards, Coinstar is a convenient option. With over 20,000 locations worldwide, including many Walmart stores, Coinstar is a popular choice for converting coins into cash or gift cards. But how much does Coinstar charge at Walmart? In this article, we’ll dive into the details to help you understand the fees and costs associated with using Coinstar at Walmart.
Fees and Charges
Coinstar Fees
- Standard Fee: 10% of the total amount converted, with a minimum fee of $0.25 and a maximum fee of $9.99
- Convenience Fee: 2% of the total amount converted (rounded up to the nearest dollar)
- Total Fee: 12% of the total amount converted (standard fee + convenience fee)
Example:
- Convert $100 in coins to cash: $12.00 (10% standard fee)
- Convert $100 in coins to a gift card: $12.20 (10% standard fee + 2% convenience fee)
Other Charges
- ATM Withdrawal Fee: $2.50 per withdrawal (if you withdraw cash from an ATM)
- Balance Inquiry Fee: $0.50 per inquiry (if you check your account balance)
How Coinstar Works at Walmart
Cash Conversion
- Maximum Amount: $400 per transaction
- Minimum Amount: $1.00
- Accepted Coins: Coins only, no bills or checks
Gift Card Conversion
- Maximum Amount: $300 per transaction
- Minimum Amount: $1.00
- Accepted Coins: Coins only, no bills or checks
- Gift Card Options: Gift cards from popular retailers such as Amazon, Target, and Walmart
How to Use Coinstar at Walmart
- Find a Coinstar Kiosk: Look for the Coinstar logo on the kiosk or on the Walmart store directory.
- Insert Coins: Feed in your coins, making sure to flatten any dimes or nickels.
- Choose Your Option: Select cash or gift card conversion.
- Confirm Fees: Review and confirm the fees before proceeding.
- Get Your Cash or Gift Card: Receive your cash or gift card, and store your receipt for future reference.
Pros and Cons of Using Coinstar at Walmart
Pros:
- Convenient: Easy to use and quick transaction process
- Wide Availability: Over 20,000 locations worldwide, including many Walmart stores
- No Credit Check: No credit check required for cash conversion
Cons:
- Fees: High fees compared to other options
- Limited Cash Withdrawal: Maximum cash withdrawal of $400 per transaction
- No Gift Card Options: Limited gift card options compared to other services
Alternatives to Coinstar at Walmart
- Walmart’s In-Store Coin Exchange: No fees, but limited to $1,000 per year and limited to cash only
- Mobile Apps: Apps like ChangeCoin and CoinOut offer lower fees and no convenience fees, but limited acceptance and no gift cards
Conclusion
Coinstar is a convenient option for converting coins into cash or e-gift cards, but be aware of the fees and charges associated with using their services at Walmart. With a 10% standard fee and 2% convenience fee, the total fee can range from 12% to 12.20% of the total amount converted. While Coinstar offers wide availability and easy use, it’s essential to consider the pros and cons and alternatives before making a decision. Always review and confirm the fees before proceeding to ensure you’re getting the best deal for your coins.