Finding places to cash in your coins for free can be a bit of challenge, since many banks and coin-counting services now charge a fee. However, there are still some options available if you’re looking to exchange your coins for cash without losing any of your hard-earned money to fees. Here are 9 of the best places you can check out:

1. Your Local Bank or Credit Union: Many banks and credit unions still offer free coin counting services to their members. This is often the most convenient option since you can deposit the funds directly into your account.

2. Coin Counting Machines (Select Locations): Certain coin-counting machines like Coinstar offer free counting services if you opt to receive a gift card instead of cash. Places like grocery stores often host these machines.

3. Retail Stores: Some large retailers will accept coins as payment and will count them for free if you’re making a purchase.

4. Charitable Organizations: Some charities will count and accept coins as donations, giving you a chance to get rid of your coins and support a good cause at the same time.

5. Local Businesses: Small businesses might be in need of change and may be willing to count and exchange your coins for bills without a fee.

6. Friends and Family: Ask around! You might have friends or family members who need coins for their own reasons (like laundry or vending machines) and who’d be happy to swap them for bills.

7. Schools: Some educational institutions may take coins as donations or for fundraising activities – they’ll count it for free and your donation could be tax-deductible.

8. Community Groups: Community centers, clubs, or local non-profit organizations sometimes hold fundraising events where they can count your donated coins for free.

9. Special Promotions: Watch out for special promotions from banks or financial institutions that offer free coin counting periodically as part of a promotion or event.

Before going in, always call ahead to make sure that these locations still offer free coin counting services as policies may change over time. By choosing one of these options, you can turn that jar of change into spendable cash without any extra fees eating away at your total.