Provided by the Bucks County Department of Consumer Protection:
Q. In preparation for our family vacation this year, my children have been saving change that they find or earn, doing household chores, in a big jar. The jar is full and they are ready to cash it in. I am thinking of taking the change to one of those coin-counting machines at the grocery store since the kids have recently asked me what those machines are for. How can I be certain that these machines are accurate and that we get the correct amount of money back? S.M. Jamison, Pa.
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A. The first thing that you should know is that there are no statewide guidelines for testing procedures on these machines. That means that there has been no procedure put in place for the testing or Weights and Measures certification of coin counters such as these. Other weighing and measuring devices that consumers use such as scales, scanners and gas pumps just to name a few are tested and certified by your local Bucks County Weights and Measures Department.
Still, consumers should not be discouraged from using these machines because, generally, they will be accurate. It is advised however, to pay attention while you are using the machine that you choose.
Also, keep in mind that the machines you see at the grocery store may charge a percentage fee of the coins you deposit into the machine. Some banks though do not charge a fee for this service if you are already a customer.
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For additional tips and brochures on many consumers related issues please visit us at http://www.buckscounty.org/government/CommunityServices/ConsumerProtection/ConsumerTips
