We've all been there before. Hungry, thirsty, and in a rush to get back to work or class. There's no time for a full meal, so you settle for a soda and snack from the vending machines in your office or break room. You put some money into the machine, make your selection, and nothing happens.
Hmpf?
The money is gone and you're without a soda or snack.
No amount of banging or pushing on the machine will help. Trust us. So, what can you do to get a refund after losing your money?
Below are three ways to get your money back from a vending machine.
How To Get Refunds From A Vending Machine
1. Refunds From a Coke or Pepsi Machine
If you lost money in a soda machine that's serviced by either Coca-Cola or Pepsi, there's a toll free number you can call to get your refund. Both companies have a system in place for this issue. They will send you a coupon to your home that is redeemable at any store where sodas are sold through a cooler or refrigerator. Here are the phone numbers:
Coca-Cola: 800-438-2653
Pepsi: 800-562-6800
2. Refunds From Vending Machines Not Serviced by Coca-Cola Or Pepsi
Sometimes local vending machine companies will service Coke and Pepsi machines in addition to snack machines. In this case, check the machine for the vendor's information. It'll often be either above the coin and dollar bill mechanisms, or on the side of the machine. Give them a call and let them know you've lost money and they will make sure you get it back.
3. Not Sure Who Services The Machine? Speak To Property Management
If you've lost money in a vending machine and you're not sure who services it, speak to the management of the location. They should know who to call, and sometimes they have their own procedures in place to provide refunds to customers or guests.
Nowadays, many vending machines have credit card readers on them. A lot of people will buy something from a vending machine, then see on their statement that they've been charged twice. Most of the time this charge is only temporary. See our blog post about why your credit card is charged twice for more information.
It's frustrating to lose money in a vending machine. Even though it's only a dollar or two, it's your money and the expectation of receiving something for it. When the transaction doesn't go through as expected, you feel cheated. Be sure to contact the supplier about the issue. Not only will you get your money back, but it will prompt a service technician to fix the vending machine and prevent the same thing from happening to someone else.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vending Machine Refunds
How do I get my money back from a vending machine?
Start by checking the machine for a customer service phone number or vendor label. If it’s a branded soda machine, you can request a refund directly from the beverage company. For local operators, contact the vendor listed on the machine. If no vendor info is available, ask the property manager or front desk for assistance.
What should I do first if a vending machine takes my money?
Take a photo of the machine’s front showing the machine number or ID, vendor sticker, and payment area. Note the date, time, your selection, and payment method (cash or card). Then contact the number on the machine or property management if no number is listed.
Can I get a refund from a Coca-Cola vending machine?
Yes. Coca-Cola provides a toll-free number to request refunds. They typically send a coupon redeemable at retail locations for your lost money.
Can I get a refund from a Pepsi vending machine?
Yes. Pepsi also offers a customer service number for refund requests. Refunds are often issued as coupons redeemable at stores selling Pepsi products.
What if the vending machine isn’t serviced by Coke or Pepsi?
Look for a vendor label near the coin or bill area or on the side of the machine. Call the vendor, explain the issue, and provide the machine ID or location and your selection. Most operators will issue a refund and arrange service if the machine is malfunctioning.
What if there’s no phone number or vendor sticker on the machine?
Contact the property manager, office manager, front desk, or facilities team. They usually know who services the machines and may have an internal refund process.
How long does it take to get a vending machine refund?
Refund timing depends on the service provider and payment type. Cash refunds may be quick through local vendors or property management. Branded beverage companies may mail coupons, which take longer. Card-related issues may resolve as payments settle.
Why did my credit card get charged twice for a vending machine purchase?
Many vending machines show a temporary authorization that appears as a duplicate charge. Usually, one charge drops off after settlement. If the duplicate remains, contact the vendor or property management for resolution.
What information do I need to request a vending machine refund?
Provide details such as location (building and area), machine ID, item selection, payment type, date and time, and a description of what happened (e.g., no vend, stuck item, double charge) to help speed up the refund process.
What if my snack gets stuck and doesn’t drop?
Do not shake or tip the machine as it can cause damage or safety risks. Instead, take a photo, note the selection code, and contact the vendor or property manager for a refund and service.
