Trying to break a $100 bill can be tricky, as some smaller retailers won’t accept them. Luckily, there are many options for exchanging your $100 note for smaller denominations.
Here’s a quick answer: Banks, credit unions, grocery stores, big box retailers, and the post office allow you to break $100 bills.
You may need to make a purchase for them to do it.
This article explores all the places and techniques for breaking large bills into smaller ones like twenties, tens, fives, and singles. With these tips, you’ll never get stuck with a Benjamin you can’t break again.
Banks and Credit Unions
When it comes to breaking a $100 bill, banks and credit unions are your best bet.
These financial institutions are equipped to handle large denominations and provide you with smaller bills in return.
Whether you are a member or not, banks and credit unions are known for their excellent customer service and convenience.
Exchange $100 bills for smaller denominations
If you need to break a $100 bill into smaller denominations, banks and credit unions can help you with that.
Simply walk into a branch and request to exchange your large bill for smaller ones. They usually have a sufficient supply of $1, $5, $10, and $20 bills on hand to accommodate your needs.
Some institutions may charge a small fee for this service, but it is usually nominal and worth the convenience.
Many offer bill-breaking services for non-members too
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t always need to be a member of a bank or credit union to take advantage of their bill-breaking services.
Many financial institutions extend this service to non-members as well.
So, even if you don’t have an account with a particular bank, you can still walk in and ask them to break your $100 bill into smaller denominations.
This is especially useful when you are in urgent need of change or when you’re traveling and don’t have access to your regular bank.
Larger regional and national bank branches recommended
While most banks and credit unions can assist you with breaking a $100 bill, it is advisable to visit larger regional or national bank branches for this purpose.
These branches typically have a higher volume of cash transactions and a larger inventory of bills in different denominations.
They are more likely to have the necessary supply of smaller bills readily available without the need for additional ordering or delays.
Grocery Stores and Big Box Retailers
When you find yourself with a $100 bill and in need of smaller denominations, grocery stores and big box retailers can be a convenient solution.
These establishments often have a variety of services available to assist customers with their currency needs.
Ask for smaller bills when checking out with a purchase
One of the easiest ways to break a $100 bill at a grocery store or big box retailer is to simply ask for smaller bills when checking out with a purchase.
Cashiers are typically equipped with a variety of denominations and can provide you with the necessary change.
This is a quick and hassle-free way to get the smaller bills you need.
Self-checkout lanes may not accommodate bill breaking
While self-checkout lanes have become increasingly popular in grocery stores and big box retailers, it’s important to note that these machines may not always be able to accommodate bill breaking.
Self-checkout machines are designed to accept bills for payment, but they may not have the capability to dispense change in the form of smaller bills.
If you’re in need of smaller denominations, it’s best to visit a staffed checkout lane instead.
Retailers with currency services include Walmart, Target, etc.
Several major retailers, including Walmart and Target, offer currency services that can help you break a $100 bill.
These services may include the ability to exchange your larger bill for smaller denominations or the option to purchase gift cards or prepaid debit cards with your $100 bill.
It’s always a good idea to check with your local store to see what currency services they offer and if there are any associated fees.
United States Post Office (USPS)
When it comes to breaking a $100 bill, one option that you may not have considered is the United States Post Office (USPS).
While USPS is primarily known for its mail and package services, many post offices across the country also offer currency exchange services.
This means that you can exchange your $100 bill for smaller denominations like $50s or $20s right at the USPS counter.
Exchange $100s for $50s or $20s at the counter
At USPS, you can simply walk up to the counter and request to exchange your $100 bill for smaller denominations.
The staff at the post office will be able to assist you with this transaction. This can be a convenient option if you need smaller bills for everyday transactions or if you prefer to carry smaller amounts of cash.
USPS often has plenty of small bills on hand
One advantage of using USPS to break a $100 bill is that they often have plenty of small bills on hand.
This is because people regularly visit post offices to purchase stamps, money orders, and other postal services, which require smaller denominations.
So, you’re more likely to find smaller bills available at USPS compared to some other establishments.
Hours may be limited compared to other options
While USPS can be a convenient option for breaking a $100 bill, it’s important to note that their hours of operation may be limited compared to other options.
USPS typically operates during regular business hours, which means they may not be open late at night or on weekends.
So, if you need to break a $100 bill outside of their operating hours, you may need to consider other alternatives such as banks or larger retail stores.
Tips for Breaking $100 Bills
Breaking a $100 bill can sometimes be a challenge, especially when many businesses prefer smaller denominations for ease of change.
However, with a few simple strategies, you can increase your chances of successfully breaking that $100 bill. Here are some helpful tips:
Ask politely and go during slow times
When approaching a business to break a $100 bill, it’s important to be polite and considerate. Remember, businesses are often concerned about having enough change on hand for other customers.
So, approach the counter with a smile and ask the cashier if they are able to break your bill.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to visit during slower times, such as early mornings or weekdays, when businesses are more likely to have sufficient change available.
Look neat and ready to make a purchase
Appearances can go a long way when trying to break a $100 bill. Make sure you look presentable and ready to make a purchase.
This can help instill confidence in the cashier that you are a genuine customer, rather than someone trying to exchange a large bill for smaller ones without making a purchase.
Remember, first impressions matter!
Start with your own bank or credit union
If you’re having difficulty finding a business that can break your $100 bill, consider starting with your own bank or credit union.
As account holders, they are more likely to have larger amounts of cash on hand and may be able to break your bill without any hassle.
Plus, they may also offer additional services such as coin exchange or check cashing.
Remember, breaking a $100 bill may not always be possible at every business, but by following these tips, you can increase your chances of success.
So, next time you find yourself with a big bill, don’t fret – just approach the situation with a positive attitude and a little bit of planning, and you’ll be able to break that $100 bill in no time!
Conclusion
While some places no longer accept $100 bills, you still have plenty of options like banks, grocery stores, retailers, and the post office.
With this guide, you can exchange Benjamins for smaller denominations conveniently and easily.
Just remember to ask politely, choose off-peak hours, and be ready to make a purchase. Following these tips will ensure you can break large bills successfully every time.
