How Does a Recycling Refund Work?

Which beverage containers are included?

All aluminum cans, plastic, and glass bottles that are less than three liters. Containers of milk and other dairy products, infant formulas, wine, distilled spirits and medical foods are not included.

Redeeming your beverage containers is only one option!

• Put them in your curbside bin Recycling refunds and curbside recycling go hand in hand. Your local recycler is able to collect the refund for your discarded containers left in your bin and pass the savings on to you.
• Donate them “Bottle drives” are a great way for schools, civic groups and churches to raise money.

How do I get my refund?

Redeeming your beverage containers is easy and convenient, and doesn’t have to involve another stop on your errand route.  Take your empty cans and bottles to any retailer (such as a grocery store or convenience store), recycling center or independent redemption center.

What happens when containers aren’t redeemed?

If nobody collects a refund for a container, Minnesota considers it an unclaimed deposit. Money can be used to help cities and counties strengthen existing recycling and solid waste programs or infrastructure.