Have you ever craved a snack from a vending machine or been ready to do laundry, only to realize you’re completely out of quarters?
I know I’ve been there. When John and I lived in an apartment without access to our own washer and dryer, we had to keep stacks of quarters on hand for laundry. But there were times when we’d run out unexpectedly. It wasn’t always easy, especially since the places that offered quarters had limited hours or long lines.
These days, we rely on digital payments for almost everything, including arcade games, toll roads, and even laundromats!
Paying with coins can be faster, more convenient, and even safer. You don’t want to go flashing your cards everywhere or carrying a few dollars. Or maybe you’ll stumble upon situations that still require quarters. Therefore, let’s look at a few places where you can get quarters when you need them.
Continue reading to answer the real question: Where Can I get Quarters?
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The 12 Best Places to Get Quarters
Below, we will look at some of the most reliable places to get quarters. Even though coins aren’t used as often, you’ll still need quarters for things like laundry or vending machines occasionally.
So, if you ever wonder where to get quarters, whether it’s for the laundromat, a snack from the vending machine, or even arcade games. Here are 12 places where you can reliably get the change you need. Keep this list in mind, and you’ll rarely be caught without quarters again.
1. A Local Bank or Credit Union
The easiest way to get quarters is usually at your local bank or credit union. It’s super simple: bring in a dollar bill or two and ask the bank teller for change. They’ll typically hand you quarters without any fuss.
Many banks only offer this service to account holders. If you’re a regular customer, it’s usually a smooth process. However, if you don’t have an account at the bank and ask for change too often, they might turn you away.
Also, timing is key. Try to visit during off-peak hours so you won’t hold up the line while the teller helps you with your request for quarters.
2. Grocery Stores or Convenience Stores
Most grocery stores like Walmart, Trader Joe’s, and even convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Rite Aid typically have quarters at the cash registers or customer service desks. I’ve found that most places keep a decent stash of change on hand, but it might not be a lot if you’re looking for more than just a few dollars.
A long line can slow things down if you’re in a rush, but buying something small can help speed up the process. And while some stores may require a purchase to give you change, you can usually grab a few quarters without much trouble.
3. Fast Food Establishment
Fast food restaurants are another go-to for quick quarters. You won’t find a customer service desk, but ask the cashier for a change at the cash register. It’s usually no big deal.
Like other spots, though, don’t expect to get more than a few dollars in quarters. Fast food places don’t typically keep a lot of change on hand. To speed things up, I always go for the cheapest option on the menu.
4. Arcades
Arcades and bowling alleys are great places to get quarters, as they often have coin-operated machines to exchange cash for quarters. Whether you’re about to play a game or need some change, these spots are reliable for getting coins.
Even if you’re not planning to play, stopping by is an easy way to grab quarters. Just remember that some places may have a limit on how much change you can get at once, but overall, they’re pretty reliable spots to help you out when you’re in need.
Read our related article: I Need Money Now!
5. Gas Stations
Gas stations are a convenient option, especially on a road trip. While you might not stop at an arcade, you’ll come across gas stations where you can get quarters. Even in more remote areas, these places tend to have some change available.
I’ve always been polite when asking for quarters at a gas station since you’re usually relying on the kindness of the staff or small business owners. I recommend only asking for a few dollars, though, since most gas stations don’t carry large amounts of change.
6. Pharmacies
Pharmacies are another reliable spot to grab quarters, particularly if you need just a few. Larger stores like CVS or Walgreens typically keep some change behind the counter, though smaller pharmacies might not have a lot of quarters on hand.
It’s worth asking, but you might need to head elsewhere if you want a big amount.
7. Car Washes
Car washes are surprisingly good places to get quarters. Since many still rely on coins for payment, they often have change machines where you can exchange cash for quarters.
The best part? Car washes are usually open all day, every day, so you can stop by whenever you need to get your hands on some change. Whether you need quarters for the laundromat or a vending machine, a car wash is always a solid backup.
8. Laundromats
If you come across a laundromat, chances are they’ll have quarter machines that can be a lifesaver. Many laundromats are equipped with these machines, making them a reliable option. Double-check that the machine dispenses quarters instead of tokens, which some laundromats use for their washers.
Some laundromats might require you to be a paying customer to access their change machines, so bringing a load of clothes to wash is smart. If you were looking for laundry quarters, you’ve solved both problems at once!
9. Soda Machines
If you encounter an older soda vending machine, try putting a dollar bill in without buying a drink. Instead of selecting a drink, press the change return button.
Many older machines can’t give out bills and will return your four quarters instead. It’s a simple trick that can save you a trip to the bank!
10. Make a Small Purchase
Even though credit cards are now the go-to payment method for many, most stores still accept cash. Making a small purchase can give you the change you need, and you can always ask for quarters if that’s what you’re after.
Nowadays, it’s rare to find items that cost less than fifty cents. So, if you’re breaking a dollar bill, don’t be surprised if you only get two quarters in return!
Check out our related article to find where to buy stamps near you!
11. Libraries
Libraries can be a surprisingly good place to grab quarters. Many libraries have coin-operated machines for printing or photocopying, often with quarters available for change.
It’s always a good idea to check with the staff at the front desk to see if they can help you out. While not all libraries will provide quarters, most are willing to assist, especially if you’re using their services. So, the next time you need quarters, don’t forget to stop by a nearby library!
12. Ask Your Friends and Family Members
Sometimes, the simplest solution is the best one. Don’t forget to ask your friends or family if you need quarters. They may have spare change that they’re happy to give you.
Whether a few quarters from your sibling’s coin jar or a couple of bucks from a parent, it’s often easier than hunting for quarters at a store or bank.
It’s always a good idea to ask around before going on a quest to find quarters!
FAQ
Can You Get Quarters From an ATM?
Unfortunately, regular ATMs don’t give out quarters. You’ll need to explore the other options mentioned above to get them.
Where Can I Get Change the Fastest?
The quickest place to get change is usually at a bank or credit union. They handle change requests quickly, making this an easy and reliable option.
Where Can I Get Quarters on a Sunday?
Since banks are closed on Sundays, a laundromat or car wash can be a great alternative for getting quarters. Both places often have change machines available, so you can grab the quarters you need, even on weekends.
Where Can I Get $10 in Quarters?
A local bank or credit union is the best place to get a $10 roll of quarters. Large grocery stores like Walmart might also help, but banks are your most reliable option.
How Many Quarters Are in a Roll?
A roll of quarters contains 40 quarters. Since each quarter is worth $0.25, the total value of a full roll is $10.
Now You’ll Always Know Where to Get Quarters
Quarters might not be as essential in our daily lives as they used to be, but they’re still helpful in certain situations. Even though cashless transactions are becoming more common, there are still moments when having quarters can save you a lot of hassle. Whether feeding a parking meter, grabbing a snack from a vending machine, or doing laundry at a laundromat, quarters still come in handy.
With the ideas listed above, finding quarters doesn’t have to be frustrating. These reliable places can help you and are still great options for getting the quarters you need. Who knows when everything might go fully digital? Take advantage while you still can!
Have you ever wondered where to get quarters? Which of these options was easiest for you? Let us know in the comments!
Samantha Hawrylack is a personal finance expert and full-time entrepreneur with a passion for writing and SEO. She holds a Bachelor’s in Finance and Master’s in Business Administration and previously worked for Vanguard, where she held Series 7 and 63 licenses. Her work has been featured in publications like Grow, MSN, CNBC, Ladders, Rocket Mortgage, Quicken Loans, Clever Girl Finance, Credit Donkey, Crediful, Investing Answers, Well Kept Wallet, AllCards, Mama and Money, and Concreit, among others. She writes in personal finance, real estate, credit, entrepreneurship, credit card, student loan, mortgage, personal loan, insurance, debt management, business, productivity, and career niches.
