Pennies Are on Their Way Out. Here's What to Expect.
Earlier this year, the death of the penny 💀 was announced, with the U.S. Mint estimating that ending penny production will save about $56 million each year.
There are still at least 300 billion pennies in circulation, although many are probably gathering dust in piggy banks. However, some retailers are already prepared to cope with the gradual disappearance of the penny. Here's what to expect if you visit them (hint: you may want to begin carrying more pennies around than usual).
McDonald's: In some locations, customers paying with cash may no longer receive exact change. Instead, the chain will round totals to the nearest 5 cents. For example, if your Big Mac order comes up to $10.22, you'll pay $10.20 if you're paying cash. However, if it's $10.23, you may be charged $10.25.
Auntie Anne's, Cinnabon, Jamba, Carvel: These four companies are owned by GoTo Foods, who have announced that they recommend that their franchise owners round cash transactions in the customers' favor.
Wendy's: Like GoTo Foods, they're asking their management to round cash transactions down to the nearest nickel if they're short on pennies.
Kroger: As of December 2025, you'll be expected to provide exact change. Some stores have put up signs advising customers of this policy.
Kwik Trip: This chain of 900+ stores plans to be more generous, at least for the time being. It has said it will round cash transactions down to the nearest 5 cents. Kwik Trip CEO Scott Zietlow has described this as their commitment to "making everyday transactions simple and fair."
Sheetz: Live on the East Coast? Your local store may give you a free drink if you bring in a dollar's worth of pennies. (or should we say, a drink for a dollar) Perhaps the ideal strategy for the next few months is to make sure you have some pennies with you when you leave home, together with a debit card.
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Bailey & Chelsea
TXRET
