Exact change at ALDI: Please!
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Have you spotted these signs at your ALDI lately? Just a heads up before you make your next trip — this was at my store, and similar signs have been spotted in many ALDI locations across the country:
Notice: Cash Payments Restricted. Due to the Federal Reserve coin shortage, we can only accept exact cash payments at this time. All other forms of payment (credit, debit, EBT, and contactless) are unaffected and can be accepted as normal. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Good thing they started taking credit cards a few years back, is all I have to say..!
Federal Reserve coin shortage?
What’s up with the Federal Reserve coin shortage? Well, the months-long lockdown has caused coins to pile up unused rather than be recirculated through the system: Some bank lobbies have been closed, people aren’t using those coin sorting kiosks in grocery stores, and many businesses have been closed or have had limited hours.
With fewer coins in circulation, banks are receiving less supply — which means that they have less available for stores looking to restock their cash drawers.
Grocery stores are limiting cash transactions
ALDI is far from the only grocery store to limit cash transactions or ask for exact change lately; this is a nationwide issue. So, it might be time to cash in any coins you have been saving!
And, be sure to bring a supply of change for exact cash payment — or avoid the issue by using electronic payment — the next time you shop at ALDI.
I shopped my local Aldi this evening and was shocked when a cashier accepted my $20 bill, without mentioning their “store policy” and then proceeded to tell me she had no change. She expected me to leave the store without getting the .93₵ that was supposed to be my change. This store has no signs posted explaining their policy, and the cashier could have politely asked me if I had exact change before continuing with the transaction. She could have also asked if I preferred to use a credit card to solve the problem. She did not. This person felt totally vindicated in not providing change. I demanded to see a manger, asked for my change. I was fully prepared to ask for a complete refund and leave all product at the store. It’s not the amount of money at stake here, I tip $20-$40 dollars when out to dinner, it’s the attitude, and the lack of supporting a customer that really gets me. I will not be returning Aldi –EVER. Lidl is just as good, and they provide real customer service.