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What is the difference between Cash Discount and Surcharge?

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Cash Discount and surcharge are different methods of handling credit card processing fees. The key difference is that Cash Discount lowers the price for cash, while surcharge adds a fee for credit cards. Read on for more details:

Cash Discount

  • The listed prices already include card processing fees.
  • Customers who pay with cash or debit receive a discount at checkout.
  • This method rewards non-card payments and is legal in all 50 states.

Surcharge

  • A fee is added on top of the listed price only when a customer pays with a credit card.
  • Debit and prepaid cards cannot be surcharged.
  • Surcharging is allowed only in certain states and requires registration with card brands along with proper signage.

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