Q&A for How to Use Self‐Checkout at a Store

It is okay to use more than one bag. There is no limit to how many bags you can have at self checkout.

No. If you were going to pay with a money order, you would have to do it with a cashier.

You will likely need to ask for assistance. If you have a chip card, then insert it into the slot.

Yes, but the attendant may have to enter them manually into the system depending on the store.

No, this is not possible. If the store accepts checks, you will have to go through an aisle with a cashier.

There's usually an on-screen button for the membership card. Tap the on-screen button and follow the instructions to either scan your discount card or look it up by phone number or email.

Credit cards are generally taken at the end of the sale. Follow the directions on screen to know exactly when the credit card is required.

Look for a button that says something like "produce" on the screen of the self-checkout. Tap on it and select the image or name of the produce you would like to scan. Place the produce on the counter so the machine can weigh it.

Ask the nearby employees for help, but be aware that not all stores accept EBT for payment.

You may need assistance from an attendant if the gift card doesn't simply swipe like a credit card would.

You could try the chip reader, if there is one. If not, hand your card to the person working at the register and he or she can enter the number for you.

Most stores will not allow you to do that. Reason: Many people will “return” the item and get the refund and take it. Then they get a free refund.

Sometimes you have to print out a label with the barcode for the specific item on it, although usually there is an option on the screen to look up items. If in doubt, ask a member of staff.

You can get a second bag. Ideally, you should bring an additional shopping bag or two in order to be best prepared and be less wasteful, but if you don't have another bag, you can typically buy one, or get a free reused one. If you are unsure, ask a shop assistant.

For a typical self checkout, less than 20 items as self checkouts are supposed to be quicker. If you are using a self-checkout with a conveyer belt, you can have more.

The weight on the bagging area is measured and taking a bag off means the till may detect an unusual weight change, which may be assumed to be shoplifting. It also makes it easier to put items back if you find you can't pay for your shopping.

There should be an option on the till to look up an item. From there you can just browse by category until you find the correct item.

Yes. Unless the till is card only, you should be allowed to use cash to pay.

One side will be labelled as the bagging area, typically the right. The other side, typically the left, will be where you put your basket of unscanned items.