Cashier how-to

How to Count Back Change

Counting back change prevents mistakes and builds trust.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Counting back change prevents mistakes and builds trust. In short: say; leave; count, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Say the total and the amount received.

  2. Leave the customer’s bill visible until change is given.

  3. Count change starting from the total.

  4. Count coins first, then bills.

  5. Hand change and receipt to the customer.

  6. Then put the customer’s bill in the drawer.

Safety reminders for cashiers

  • Follow cash handling and robbery procedures
  • Take micro-breaks to reduce strain
  • Lift heavy items carefully
  • Never chase shoplifters

Drawer · Float · Over/short · Void · Price check · PLU code: see the full cashier glossary.

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