Many states offer pop bottle returns that allow you to get cash back for the bottles and cans you purchased. Drink all the Coke and Mt. Dew you want and return their containers for a small amount. Most states give five or ten cents for every one returned. It may not seem like much, but if you start collecting you could rack up a nice amount.
Buy Now, Return Later
You can buy in bulk now, and return a plethora of cans and bottles at a later date. Rather than turning a few in each time and only getting 30 cents or so back, wait until you have at least a few dollars worth saved up. You can use the money towards your grocery bill or keep it to spend elsewhere. You could even make a habit of taking bottles back once a month so you rack up $15 or $20 worth at one time.
Start Collecting
Some people realize how quickly bottle returns can add up. They stroll through parks and other public locations with a bag ready to collect any cans or bottles they see. You can start a collection of your own so you can rack up the cash. It’ll also help the environment, as you’re clearing the area from trash others left.
States That Accept Bottle Returns
Only bottles and cans made of aluminum, glass, or plastic may be returned. There are also rules regarding which stores accept which brands. Meijer brand pop cannot get returned at another chain store, for example. California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Iowa, Maine,
Massachusetts, Michigan, New York, Oregon, Vermont, and Guam all have deposit laws in place. Most give five cents for any options, while Michigan gives ten cents. In Maine and Vermont, you can earn 15 cents for a wine or liquor bottle, but only five for all others.
While this process isn’t going to make you rich, it does help bring in some extra cash. All you have to do is head to the grocery store and use the bottle return machines to put your empties inside. Once you finish, click the button to get a receipt for the amount you made. You can head to customer service to get the cash form or apply the receipt online toward your grocery payment. Either way, it’s a quick way to earn a little extra without much effort.
~Here’s to Your Financial Health!
