How much is best for a cash register float?

Answer 1

I run a bakery that is 90% cash business. I find that a float of $385.00 is optimal. 5 x $20, 10 x $10, 20 x $5, 50 x $1, 40 x $.25, 50 x $.10, 40 x $.05, and 50 x $.01 in the drawer, with an additional roll of each coin under the drawer in case additional change is needed. It is perhaps a large float and some don't like that much cash in the drawer at one time, but RARELY do I have to make change or add additional bills during the day which saves time and money. It also make setting up the float each day fairly simple. As I can easily count out the cash amounts, dump out the change and add two rolls of each coin back to the register. I do make a a habit of checking the drawer periodically throughout the day, emptying additional $20's, checks and large bills and put the in the safe so there is not too much cash in the drawer. Hope this helps!