Does Walmart Self-Checkout Accept Cash?

Laura

·April 24, 2025

·8 min read

Does Walmart Self-Checkout Accept Cash? — Image Source: pexels

Did you know Walmart self-checkouts accept cash? It’s super convenient if you prefer using physical money or don’t have access to cards. At these self-checkout kiosks, you can pay quickly and easily with cash. Walmart ensures these kiosks are user-friendly, so handling cash during checkout is a breeze.

Key Takeaways

Walmart self-checkouts take cash, which helps people without cards.
To use cash, scan items, pick 'Cash,' and put bills in the slot.
Paying with cash helps you stay on budget and avoid card problems.

How to Use Cash at Walmart Self-Checkout

Step-by-Step Guide for Paying with Cash

Paying with cash at Walmart self-checkouts is simple and quick. If you're new to using these machines, don't worry—just follow these steps:

Find an available self-checkout machine. Look for the ones with a green light or an open sign.
Start the checkout process by following the on-screen instructions.
Scan each item one by one. Place them in the bagging area as you go.
When you're done scanning, tap the "Pay" button on the screen.
Choose "Cash" as your payment method.
Insert your cash into the designated slot on the self-checkout machine. The machine will count and verify the amount.
If you've paid more than the total, the machine will dispense your change.
Once the transaction is complete, grab your receipt and your items, and you're good to go!

Tip: If you're unsure about any step, Walmart employees are always nearby to help. Don't hesitate to ask for assistance.

Where to Insert Cash at Walmart Self-Checkouts

When you're ready to pay, look for the cash slot on the self-checkout machine. It's usually located below the screen or to the side, near the card reader. The slot is clearly labeled, so you won't miss it. Insert your bills one at a time, and make sure they're not crumpled or torn. The machine will automatically pull in the cash and confirm the amount on the screen.

If you're using coins, there's a separate coin slot. Just drop them in, and the machine will count them for you. It's a smooth process, and the machine will let you know if it has trouble accepting any bills or coins.

Getting Change from the Self-Checkout

One of the best things about Walmart self-checkouts is how they handle change. If you pay with more cash than your total, the machine will give you back the exact amount of change. Bills will come out of a dispenser, and coins will drop into a small tray. Keep an eye on the screen—it will show you how much change you're getting.

Note: If the machine runs out of change, it might alert a Walmart associate to assist you. This doesn't happen often, but it's good to know just in case.

Using cash at Walmart self-checkouts is a hassle-free way to complete your transaction. The machines are designed to make the process as smooth as possible, so you can shop with confidence.

Benefits and Limitations of Using Cash at Walmart Self-Checkouts

Advantages of Paying with Cash

Paying with cash at Walmart self-checkouts has its perks. For starters, it’s a great option if you prefer to stick to a budget. When you use cash, you can physically see how much you’re spending, which helps you avoid overspending. Plus, there’s no need to worry about card declines or technical issues with digital payment methods.

Another advantage is accessibility. Not everyone has a credit or debit card, and some people simply prefer using cash for their purchases. Walmart self-checkouts make it easy for you to shop without relying on electronic payment types. It’s also a quick way to pay if you have the exact amount ready, as you can skip the hassle of entering PINs or signing receipts.

Lastly, using cash can be a lifesaver during emergencies. Imagine your card isn’t working, or the system is down. Having cash on hand ensures you can still complete your transaction without any hiccups.

Accepted Cash Denominations at Walmart Self-Checkout

Walmart self-checkouts accept a variety of cash denominations, making it convenient for you to pay with what you have on hand. Here’s a quick breakdown of the accepted denominations and how often they’re used:

Accepted Cash Denominations	Usage Frequency
$20 increments	Commonly used
Up to $100 total	Per transaction

You can insert bills in $1, $5, $10, and $20 increments. However, the machines typically limit the total cash amount to $100 per transaction. This ensures the self-checkout kiosks operate smoothly and don’t run out of change. Coins are also accepted, so feel free to use your spare change to round off your total.

Tip: To avoid issues, make sure your bills are in good condition. Torn or crumpled bills might not be accepted by the self-checkout machine.

Limitations and Common Issues with Cash Payments

While paying with cash at Walmart self-checkouts is convenient, it’s not without its challenges. One common issue is that not all self-checkout machines accept cash. Some kiosks are card-only, which can be frustrating if you’re relying on cash to pay. Always check the machine for a cash slot before starting your transaction.

Another limitation is the occasional maintenance problems with the machines. If the cash slot isn’t working properly, it could delay your checkout process. Customers have also reported longer wait times when machines run out of change or experience technical glitches. For instance, there was a case where a customer spent over 40 minutes in line because the payment options, including cash, were blocked.

Here are some frequently reported issues with cash payments at Walmart self-checkouts:

Unavailability of cash payment options at certain machines.
Delays caused by system maintenance or malfunctions.
Machines running out of change, requiring assistance from an associate.

Despite these challenges, Walmart self-checkouts remain a reliable option for cash payments. If you ever face an issue, Walmart associates are always nearby to help resolve it quickly.

Other Payment Methods at Walmart Self-Checkout

Using Debit and Credit Cards

Debit and credit cards are the most popular payment types at Walmart self-checkouts. If you prefer using a card, the process is quick and easy. After scanning your items, select the card option on the screen. Swipe or insert your card into the reader, and follow the prompts. Some machines may ask for a PIN or signature, depending on your card type.

Tip: Make sure your card is active and has enough balance before starting your transaction. This saves time and avoids any hiccups during checkout.

Debit and credit cards are accepted at all self-checkout lanes, making them a reliable choice for most shoppers. Whether you're buying groceries or household items, paying with a card ensures a smooth checkout experience.

Walmart Pay and Gift Cards

Walmart Pay is a convenient digital wallet that lets you pay directly from your smartphone. To use it, open the Walmart app, scan the QR code displayed on the self-checkout machine, and confirm your payment. It’s fast, secure, and eliminates the need for physical cards or cash.

Gift cards are another great option. If you have a Walmart gift card, simply swipe it at the card reader or enter the card number manually. The machine will deduct the amount from your total. Gift cards are perfect for budgeting or using up store credit.

Note: Always check your gift card balance before shopping. This ensures you know how much you can spend during your visit.

Splitting Payments Between Cash and Other Methods

Sometimes, you might want to split your payment between cash and another method. Walmart self-checkouts make this possible. Start by selecting your first payment method, such as cash or a card. After entering the amount, choose a second payment method to cover the remaining balance.

For example, you can pay part of your total with cash and the rest with a debit card. The self-checkout machine will guide you through each step, ensuring the process is seamless.

Tip: If you're splitting payments, double-check the amounts entered for each method. This avoids confusion and ensures your transaction goes smoothly.

Splitting payments is ideal for situations where you have limited cash or want to use up a gift card balance. Walmart self-checkouts offer flexibility, so you can mix and match accepted payment methods to suit your needs.

Walmart self-checkouts make shopping simple and flexible. Whether you’re paying with cash or another method, the process is quick and easy. These kiosks are designed to handle transactions smoothly, so you can shop without stress. No matter your payment preference, Walmart ensures a convenient experience every time you visit.

FAQ

Can you use cash at all Walmart self-checkout machines?

No, not all machines accept cash. Some are card-only. Check for a cash slot before starting your transaction.

What happens if the self-checkout machine runs out of change?

The machine alerts a Walmart associate to assist you. They’ll provide the correct change or help complete your transaction.

Are there limits on how much cash you can use at Walmart self-checkouts?

Yes, most machines limit cash payments to $100 per transaction. This helps ensure smooth operations and prevents running out of change.