Can I Get Change at Any Bank Get the Lowdown

Can I get change at any bank? This is the burning question for many, especially when you’re short on coins for the laundromat or need crisp bills for that street food vendor. We’re gonna break down whether you can just waltz into any bank and score some spare change, or if it’s a bit more complicated than that. Get ready for the real talk, no cap.

We’ll dive deep into why you might need change, what banks are usually cool with it, and what might trip you up. From the size of the bank to the specific branch you hit up, a bunch of things can play a role. We’ll also cover how to ask like a pro, what you might need to show, and even some backup plans if the bank ain’t feeling it.

It’s all about knowing the game so you don’t get played.

Understanding the Core Question: “Can I Get Change at Any Bank”

The desire for small denominations, often referred to as “change,” is a common occurrence in daily life. Whether it’s for vending machines, tips, or simply to avoid overpaying for small purchases, individuals frequently find themselves in need of coins and smaller bills. This leads to a fundamental question: can one simply walk into any bank and request change, regardless of whether they are a customer?The accessibility of change services at banks for non-customers is a nuanced topic.

While banks are in the business of handling money, including dispensing it in various denominations, their policies and practices can vary significantly. This is influenced by factors such as the bank’s size, its customer base, and its internal operational procedures. Generally, banks aim to serve their account holders first and foremost, which can impact the ease with which non-customers can obtain change.

General Accessibility of Change Services for Non-Customers, Can i get change at any bank

Most banks do offer change services, but the extent to which non-customers can utilize these services is not always guaranteed. The primary function of a bank is to facilitate financial transactions for its customers. Therefore, while a teller might be able to assist a non-customer with a small change request, it’s not always a core service that is prioritized or universally available without certain conditions.

Some banks may have specific windows or personnel designated for such requests, while others might defer to their account holders.

Typical Policies Regarding Change Transactions for Non-Customers

Banks typically have established policies to manage the dispensing of change. For individuals who do not hold an account, these policies often lean towards a more cautious approach. The rationale behind this is to prevent potential misuse or to streamline operations by focusing on core banking activities. Common policies include:

• Prioritization of Account Holders: Banks generally prioritize their customers for services, including the dispensing of change.
• Transaction Limits: Non-customers may face limits on the amount of change they can obtain in a single transaction.
• Identification Requirements: Some banks might require identification, even for small change requests from non-customers, to maintain a record or for security purposes.
• Branch-Specific Policies: Policies can vary from one branch to another within the same bank, depending on the branch manager’s discretion and local operational needs.

Potential Limitations or Fees Associated with Obtaining Change at a Bank Without an Account

While obtaining change at a bank without an account might be possible, it’s important to be aware of potential limitations and the possibility of fees. These are implemented to cover operational costs and to discourage non-customers from solely relying on the bank for services that are primarily intended for account holders.

• Transaction Fees: Some banks may impose a small fee for change transactions for non-customers, especially for larger amounts. This fee can be a flat rate or a percentage of the change requested. For instance, a bank might charge $1 to break a $100 bill into smaller denominations for someone without an account.
• Volume Restrictions: Banks might limit the quantity of coins or bills that can be exchanged. For example, a teller might be willing to exchange a $20 bill for smaller denominations but might refuse to break a $500 bill into rolls of quarters.
• Availability of Denominations: The availability of specific denominations can be a limitation. If a bank is low on a particular coin or bill, they may not be able to fulfill the request, regardless of whether the person is a customer.
• Requirement to Open an Account: In some instances, particularly for significant amounts of change, a bank might suggest or even require the individual to open an account to facilitate the transaction.

It’s advisable to call ahead to a specific branch to inquire about their policies regarding change for non-customers to avoid any inconvenience.

Factors Influencing Change Availability and Service

While the core question of getting change at any bank seems straightforward, the reality is a bit more nuanced. Several factors dictate whether a bank can readily fulfill your request, turning a simple transaction into a potential hurdle. Understanding these elements helps manage expectations and navigate the process more effectively.The availability of change isn’t a static guarantee; it’s a dynamic service influenced by operational capacities and external market conditions.

Banks, much like any business, operate within constraints, and these constraints directly impact their ability to provide the granular denominations that make up change.

Bank Size and Branch Network Impact

Larger banking institutions with extensive branch networks generally possess a more robust infrastructure for managing cash flow, including the distribution and acquisition of coins and bills. Their sheer volume of transactions and the sophisticated logistics involved in moving money between branches and the Federal Reserve (or equivalent central bank) often mean they have a more consistent supply.Smaller community banks or credit unions, while offering personalized service, might have more limited access to large quantities of change.

Their cash reserves are often smaller, and their ordering capabilities might be less frequent or in smaller increments. This doesn’t mean they can’t provide change, but the scale of their operation can influence the speed and volume they can offer.

Branch Location and Customer Base Influence

The specific location of a bank branch and the demographics of its customer base can significantly affect change availability. Branches in high-traffic commercial areas, particularly those serving businesses that handle a lot of cash (like restaurants, retail stores, or laundromats), are likely to have a higher demand for change and, consequently, a more consistent supply. These branches often have a steady stream of both incoming and outgoing coins and bills.Conversely, branches in quieter residential areas or those serving a predominantly online customer base might experience less demand for physical cash and therefore might not maintain as large a reserve of coins and bills.

A branch situated near a large cash-intensive business might prioritize serving that business’s needs, potentially impacting their ability to serve individual walk-in customers requesting large amounts of change.

Impact of Coin and Bill Shortages

The banking system is not immune to shortages, and these can have a direct impact on a bank’s ability to provide change. Periods of increased demand for cash, such as around holidays, or disruptions in the coin and bill production and distribution channels can lead to scarcity. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, widespread coin shortages were reported globally, making it difficult for businesses and banks alike to obtain sufficient quantities of coins.When shortages occur, banks must prioritize their available cash.

This might mean limiting the amount of change they can dispense to individual customers or directing their limited supply to their most frequent commercial clients.

Commonly Requested Denominations and Difficulty in Obtaining

Certain denominations are far more frequently requested than others, influencing their availability.

• Most Commonly Requested:
• Quarters are perennially in high demand for vending machines, parking meters, and arcade games.
• Dimes and nickels are also frequently sought for similar transactional purposes.
• One-dollar bills are essential for many small purchases and making change for larger bills.
• Denominations That May Be Harder to Obtain:
• Rolled pennies can be surprisingly difficult to acquire in large quantities, as they are often the least desired denomination and banks may not actively replenish them.
• Larger bill denominations, such as $50 or $100 bills, might be less readily available at smaller branches or during off-peak hours, as they are often held by individuals and businesses for specific, larger transactions rather than for making change.
• Specific coin denominations like half-dollars or dollar coins are rarely used in everyday transactions and thus are often not kept in large quantities by banks unless specifically requested.

The ebb and flow of cash within the economy means that what is readily available today might be scarce tomorrow. Banks act as intermediaries, but they are ultimately dependent on the broader monetary supply.

Procedures for Requesting Change

So, you’ve got your eye on that shiny coin or a crisp bill, but it’s not quite the denomination you need. Understanding how to navigate the bank counter for change is a simple, yet often overlooked, part of financial interactions. It’s about clarity, courtesy, and knowing what to expect.Banks, in their essence, are facilitators of financial transactions, and providing change is a fundamental part of that service.

However, the ease with which you can obtain specific denominations can vary, influenced by factors we’ve touched upon and the bank’s internal policies. Here, we break down the practical steps to ensure your change request is smooth sailing.

Customer Steps for Requesting Change

Approaching the bank teller for a change request is a straightforward process, designed for efficiency. Following these steps will help ensure your needs are met promptly and accurately.

1. Approach the teller counter during business hours.
2. Wait for your turn and make eye contact with the teller to signal your readiness.
3. Politely state your request, clearly indicating the specific denominations you need and the amount you wish to exchange. For instance, instead of just saying “I need change,” be specific.
4. Present the bills or coins you wish to exchange for the desired denominations.
5. Confirm the change provided by the teller before leaving the counter.

Polite and Effective Phrasing for Change Requests

The way you articulate your request can significantly impact the interaction. Employing polite and clear language ensures the teller understands your needs precisely, fostering a positive exchange.

“Good morning/afternoon. Could I please get change for this $100 bill in smaller denominations? I’m looking for five $20 bills, please.”

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This phrasing is direct, polite, and specifies the desired outcome.

“Hello. I have a roll of quarters here, and I was hoping to exchange it for a $10 bill and some smaller bills if possible.”

This demonstrates an understanding of the bank’s potential role in facilitating such exchanges.

“Excuse me, I need to break this $50 bill. Could I have two $20 bills and a $10 bill, please?”

Clear, concise, and polite, this request leaves no room for misinterpretation.

Required Documentation or Information

While many routine change requests at a bank counter do not require extensive documentation, especially for established customers, certain situations might necessitate identification or account verification.

• Identification: For larger transactions or if you are not a recognized customer, a valid photo ID (like a driver’s license or passport) might be requested to verify your identity.
• Account Information: If the change is being requested from a specific account, you may be asked for your account number or to present your debit/ATM card for verification.
• Transaction Slip: In some cases, particularly for non-customers or unusual requests, a simple transaction slip detailing the exchange might be generated and require your signature.
• Reason for Request (Occasional): While not standard, if you are requesting an unusually large amount of specific change, a teller might politely inquire about the purpose, primarily for internal tracking or security reasons.

Common Change Requests

Banks are accustomed to fulfilling a variety of change requests. Being aware of these common needs can help you articulate your own requirements effectively.

Customers frequently seek to break down larger bills into smaller, more manageable denominations for everyday transactions, or they may need specific coin rolls for businesses or personal use. Here are some of the most common requests:

• Bill Denominations:
  • Breaking a $100 bill into smaller bills (e.g., five $20s, ten $10s, twenty $5s).
  • Exchanging a $50 bill for $20s, $10s, or $5s.
  • Obtaining smaller bills like $1s, $5s, or $10s for a larger bill.
• Coin Rolls:
  • Rolls of pennies (typically 50 coins per roll, totaling $0.50).
  • Rolls of nickels (typically 40 coins per roll, totaling $2.00).
  • Rolls of dimes (typically 50 coins per roll, totaling $5.00).
  • Rolls of quarters (typically 40 coins per roll, totaling $10.00).
  • Less common requests might include rolls of half-dollars or dollar coins.
• Specific Coin Amounts:
  • A specific number of quarters for a parking meter or vending machine.
  • A handful of dimes and nickels for bus fare.
• Mixing Denominations:
  • Requesting a combination of bills and coins to match a precise payment amount.

Alternatives and Considerations

While the allure of a bank’s readily available change is strong, the financial landscape offers a variety of other avenues for acquiring it. Each comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks, and understanding these differences can help you navigate your change-seeking endeavors more effectively. It’s not always about the most convenient option, but rather the most practical for your specific needs and circumstances.The decision of where to obtain change often hinges on factors like frequency of need, the volume required, and the time you’re willing to invest.

Banks, while seemingly the most logical choice, are not always the most efficient for everyone. Exploring these alternatives will illuminate a broader perspective on managing your coin and bill needs.

Comparing Bank Change Services with Other Establishments

When it comes to getting change, banks are often the first port of call, but they aren’t the only game in town. Grocery stores, retail shops, and even coin-counting machines offer different experiences for acquiring the small denominations you might need. Each has its own set of operational nuances that impact their suitability.

Grocery Stores and Retail Establishments

These businesses, by their very nature, handle a large volume of cash transactions and thus, usually have a good supply of change.

• Convenience: You can often get change while running other errands, saving you a separate trip.
• Volume Limitations: Stores may be reluctant to provide large amounts of change to non-customers, as it can disrupt their own cash flow. They are primarily there to serve their paying customers.
• Potential for Fees: While generally free, some smaller establishments might have informal policies to discourage excessive change requests from non-shoppers.

Coin-Counting Machines

Found in many supermarkets and malls, these machines offer a direct way to convert bulk coins into bills.

• Ease of Use: Simply dump your coins in, and the machine dispenses bills.
• Service Fees: The primary disadvantage is the fee charged by these machines, which can range from 7% to 12% of the total amount. This makes them less cost-effective for large sums.
• Limited to Coins: These machines only deal with coins; they won’t provide you with specific bill denominations.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Using a Bank for Change

Banks, as institutions designed to manage money, naturally come to mind for change. However, this convenience is not without its trade-offs.

Advantages of Bank Change Services

• Availability: Banks generally have a consistent supply of various denominations of bills and coins.
• No Fees (Usually): For account holders, obtaining change is typically a free service. Non-account holders might face nominal fees or be politely declined.
• Professional Service: You’re dealing with trained staff who understand financial transactions.

Disadvantages of Bank Change Services

• Transaction Limits: Banks may have limits on the amount of change they can provide, especially to non-customers or during busy periods.
• Time Commitment: You might have to wait in line, especially during peak hours, turning a quick errand into a lengthy wait.
• Account Holder Preference: Banks often prioritize their customers, meaning non-customers might be turned away or asked to open an account.

Alternative Solutions for Frequent Change Needs

For individuals or businesses that consistently require a significant amount of change, relying solely on ad-hoc bank visits might not be sustainable. Developing a more robust strategy is key.

• Establish a Relationship with Your Bank: If you have an account, discuss your needs with your branch manager. They may be able to set up a system for you, such as pre-ordering change or having it ready for pickup.
• Negotiate with Local Businesses: If you own a business that frequently needs change, consider forming a reciprocal arrangement with a nearby business that might need the opposite (e.g., you need coins, they need bills).
• Coin Rolls and Bundles: Banks sell coin rolls and bill bundles. While this requires you to have the corresponding bills or coins, it’s a way to organize and manage your change inventory efficiently.
• Small Business Accounts: If your need for change is business-related, opening a small business account can often grant you better access and service for these transactions.

Situational Success Factors for Approaching Any Bank

The likelihood of successfully obtaining change at any given bank is influenced by a confluence of factors, some of which are within your control, and others that are not. Being aware of these can help manage expectations.

Factors Increasing Success

• Being an Account Holder: This is by far the most significant factor. Banks are more accommodating to their customers.
• Visiting During Off-Peak Hours: Mid-morning on a weekday, after the initial rush and before the lunch crowd, is often ideal.
• Requesting Modest Amounts: Asking for a few rolls of coins or a few bills is more likely to be accommodated than a large denomination exchange.
• Polite and Clear Request: A friendly demeanor and a straightforward explanation of your need can go a long way.
• The Bank’s Current Cash Position: Sometimes, a bank might be experiencing a temporary shortage of specific denominations due to high demand or recent deposits.

Factors Decreasing Success

• Being a Non-Account Holder: As mentioned, banks prioritize their customers.
• Visiting During Peak Hours: Friday afternoons, lunch hours, and the beginning/end of the month are typically the busiest.
• Requesting Large Quantities: Asking for hundreds of dollars in change can strain a bank’s resources and may be declined outright.
• Unusual Denominations: While less common, sometimes specific, less frequently requested denominations might be temporarily out of stock.
• Bank Policies: Some branches, particularly those in high-traffic areas, may have stricter policies regarding change requests for non-customers.

Visualizing the Process

Stepping into a bank, especially with the specific intention of obtaining change, is akin to entering a well-oiled machine. The teller counter, the heart of this operation, is where the magic of financial exchange truly happens. It’s a space designed for efficiency and security, where the tangible form of money is handled with practiced ease.The environment itself offers clues. A bustling bank, with a line snaking towards the counter and tellers moving with brisk efficiency, suggests that while transactions are happening rapidly, the demand for services, including change, might also be high.

Conversely, a quieter bank, with fewer customers and a more relaxed pace, might indicate a greater capacity for individual attention and a potentially quicker turnaround for specific requests like change. The visual rhythm of the bank, from the speed of the transactions to the number of open teller windows, can subtly inform your expectations.Imagine this: You approach the counter, a small stack of bills in hand.

The teller, with a friendly smile and a practiced eye, greets you. You state your request clearly, perhaps indicating you need to break a larger bill into smaller denominations for a specific purpose. The teller nods, their fingers already moving with practiced dexterity. They access their cash drawer, a compartmentalized repository of currency. With swift movements, they count out the desired coins and bills, perhaps neatly stacking them or placing them into a small paper envelope.

The transaction is smooth, efficient, and successful. You leave with the exact change you needed, the entire exchange taking mere moments.Several visual elements within a bank signal its readiness and capability to provide change. These are the silent indicators of their operational preparedness.

• Coin Wrappers: Neatly stacked rolls of coins, indicating that the bank actively manages its coin inventory and is prepared to dispense it in standard quantities.
• Cash Drawers with Compartments: The organized sections within a teller’s cash drawer, specifically designed to hold different denominations of bills and coins, signify a system in place for easy access and dispensing.
• Coin Sorting Machines: While not always visible to the public, the presence or knowledge of such machines implies a robust process for handling and preparing large volumes of coin for circulation.
• Full Coin Trays: Visible trays filled with various denominations of coins at the teller station are a direct indicator of immediate availability.
• Abundant Cash Inventory: A teller’s ability to quickly produce a variety of bills in different denominations suggests a healthy and well-managed cash reserve.

Potential Challenges and Bank Policies

While the desire for change at any bank is understandable, the reality is that institutions operate under specific policies and considerations that can influence their willingness to accommodate such requests, especially from non-customers. Understanding these limitations is crucial for a smooth transaction.Banks are businesses with a primary focus on serving their account holders. Providing services to individuals who do not have an account can introduce several complexities, from security protocols to operational efficiency.

These factors often dictate whether a change request can be fulfilled.

Reasons for Refusal for Non-Customers

Banks may decline change requests from individuals without an account for several interconnected reasons. Primarily, it boils down to risk management and resource allocation. Serving non-customers for such transactions can expose the bank to potential fraud, as they lack the established identity verification and transaction history associated with account holders. Furthermore, the time and resources spent assisting non-customers detract from the service provided to their loyal clientele.

Bank Discretion in Serving Non-Account Holders

The concept of “bank discretion” is paramount when considering services for non-account holders. This refers to the inherent right of a financial institution to decide which services it will offer and to whom, within legal and regulatory frameworks. Banks are not obligated to provide services like change exchange to the general public. Their decisions are guided by their internal policies, risk assessments, and the desire to maintain operational efficiency and profitability.

Problematic Change Requests

Certain types of change requests can pose significant challenges for banks, leading to their refusal. These often involve unusual denominations, exceptionally large volumes, or requests that deviate from standard currency exchange practices.Examples of problematic requests include:

• Requests for a very large quantity of a specific coin denomination, such as thousands of pennies or nickels, which can deplete the bank’s available stock and disrupt their own cash management.
• Requests for change in foreign currency or unusual commemorative coins that the bank does not typically handle.
• Asking for change for counterfeit currency, which banks are legally obligated to report and refuse.
• Requests for extremely specific or obscure coin combinations that are not readily available in standard circulation.

Identification Requirements for Transactions

When conducting any financial transaction at a bank, especially one involving the exchange of currency, identification is a standard security measure. This helps the bank verify the identity of the individual and comply with anti-money laundering regulations.The types of identification that might be requested include:

• A valid, government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license, state ID card, or passport.
• In some cases, a second form of identification may be requested, particularly for larger transactions. This could include a Social Security card, a utility bill with your name and address, or a credit card.
• For non-customers, the bank may require a more thorough verification process to establish their identity before proceeding with any transaction.

Structuring Information with Tables and Lists: Can I Get Change At Any Bank

To navigate the nuances of obtaining change at different financial institutions, a structured approach is invaluable. This section will break down the probabilities, offer practical advice, address common queries, and illustrate typical scenarios.

Likelihood of Obtaining Change by Financial Institution Type

The availability of change can vary significantly depending on the size, operational model, and customer base of a financial institution. Large national banks, with their extensive networks and high transaction volumes, often have more robust change reserves. Conversely, smaller credit unions or community banks might have more localized coin supplies, influenced by the immediate needs of their members. Local branches of larger banks can also exhibit variability based on their specific location and the day-to-day demand they experience.

Institution Type	Likelihood of Change Availability	Reasoning
Large National Banks (e.g., Chase, Bank of America)	High	Extensive cash handling operations, dedicated coin services departments, and high transaction volumes generally ensure consistent availability.
Regional Banks	Moderate to High	Sufficient operational scale and customer base to maintain reasonable change reserves, though potentially less than national giants.
Credit Unions	Moderate	Availability can depend on member demand and the credit union’s size. Smaller credit unions might have more limited supplies.
Local Community Banks	Moderate to Low	Smaller scale of operations and a more localized customer base can lead to more fluctuating availability, particularly during peak demand periods.
Specific Bank Branches (within any institution type)	Variable	Depends heavily on the branch’s location, its typical customer demographic, and the specific day’s transaction patterns. A busy retail area branch might deplete its reserves faster.

Tips for Maximizing Successful Change Requests

Successfully acquiring change from a bank often involves more than just walking in and asking. Being prepared, polite, and understanding of the bank’s operational constraints can significantly improve your chances. These tips are designed to streamline the process and increase the probability of a positive outcome.

• Visit During Off-Peak Hours: Mid-morning or mid-afternoon on weekdays, avoiding Mondays and Fridays, generally sees less foot traffic and teller activity.
• Be a Customer: While some banks may assist non-customers, prioritizing your own bank or a bank where you have an account can improve service.
• Be Specific with Your Request: Clearly state the denominations you need (e.g., “I need $10 in quarters” or “I need $5 in dimes and $5 in nickels”).
• Have the Correct Amount in Bills: Be ready to exchange bills for coins. Banks are not typically in the business of giving away change for free; it’s an exchange of currency.
• Be Polite and Patient: Tellers are busy. A friendly demeanor and understanding that your request might take a moment can go a long way.
• Consider the Quantity: Requesting very large amounts of change might be more challenging, especially for smaller branches.
• Check with Your Bank’s Policy: Some banks have specific policies regarding change services for non-customers or even for customers requesting large volumes.
• Call Ahead: For larger or specific coin needs, calling the branch in advance can confirm availability and allow them to prepare.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bank Change Services

Understanding common inquiries can preempt potential misunderstandings and clarify the expectations surrounding bank change services. These questions address typical concerns and provide concise answers to guide your interactions.

What denominations of change can I typically get?

Banks generally provide common circulating denominations such as pennies, nickels, dimes, quarters, and sometimes half-dollars. Availability of less common coins can vary.

Is there a fee for getting change?

Most banks do not charge a fee for exchanging bills for coins if you are a customer. Non-customers might face a small fee, or the service may be denied, depending on the bank’s policy.

Can I get change if I don’t have an account at that bank?

Policies vary. Some banks will assist non-customers, especially for small amounts, while others may require you to be an account holder or charge a fee.

What if I need a large amount of change?

For significant amounts, it is highly recommended to call the branch in advance. This allows them to check their reserves and potentially prepare for your request, preventing disappointment.

Can I get change for a business purpose?

Many banks have specific business services departments that handle coin and currency orders for businesses. Individual branches may have limits on the volume they can provide to businesses without prior arrangement.

Hypothetical Scenario: Requesting Change at a Local Branch

This scenario illustrates a typical interaction when a customer approaches a bank teller for change, highlighting the process and potential dialogue.

Sarah, a small business owner who runs a local bakery, needs $50 in quarters for her coin-operated machines. She walks into her local community bank branch at around 10:30 AM on a Tuesday.

Sarah approaches the teller and says, “Good morning! I’d like to exchange some bills for change, please. I need $50 in quarters.” She presents a $100 bill and a $50 bill.

The teller, Mark, smiles and says, “Certainly. Let me get that for you.” He proceeds to count out the quarters from his till and the change drawer, exchanging them for Sarah’s bills. The entire transaction takes about two minutes.

Mark hands Sarah the rolls of quarters and her remaining change. “Here you go. Have a great day!”

Sarah thanks him, and the interaction concludes smoothly, demonstrating a successful and efficient change request due to clear communication and the bank’s ability to fulfill the need during a less busy period.

End of Discussion

So, can you get change at any bank? The short answer is usually yes, but it’s not always a guarantee. It really depends on the bank’s vibe, their current cash situation, and whether you’re a customer. While banks are generally helpful, they’ve got their own rules and sometimes you might hit a snag. Keep these tips in mind, be polite, and know your alternatives.

Now you’re armed with the knowledge to navigate the world of bank change, Surabaya style.

General Inquiries

Can I get change if I don’t have an account?

Yeah, most banks will give you change even if you’re not a customer, but they might have limits or even a small fee for non-account holders. It’s not a hard ‘no,’ but be prepared for that possibility.

What denominations are hardest to get?

Usually, getting rolls of specific coins like pennies or nickels can be a bit tougher than just getting a mix of bills. High-demand denominations can run out fast.

Do I need to show ID to get change?

For small amounts, probably not. But if you’re asking for a large amount of change, especially if you don’t have an account, they might ask for some form of identification just to keep things legit.

Can I get change at an ATM?

Nope, ATMs are for withdrawing cash, not for exchanging it for smaller bills or coins. You gotta go inside and talk to a teller for that.

What if the bank is super busy?

If the bank is packed, your change request might take longer, or they might politely ask you to come back later when it’s less hectic. Patience is key here.