Get My Free Growth Audit

Home / Resources / Is surcharging legal?

Payments 101

Is surcharging legal?

Short answer: yes, when it's set up correctly. But the rules are real, and a sloppy setup can expose you. Here's the plain-English version.

The rules that govern it

Surcharging is governed by card-brand rules and state law. In general: it applies to credit (not debit), there are caps on how much you can add, and you must post clear signage and disclose the surcharge on the receipt. A handful of states restrict or prohibit it — which is why setup matters.

Surcharge vs. dual pricing vs. cash discount

These are different routes to the same goal. Dual pricing and cash discount are often simpler and more widely accepted. The right one depends on your business and state — see the full comparison.

The bottom line

Done within the proper framework, these programs are completely legitimate and can take your processing cost toward zero. The danger isn't the program — it's doing it wrong. That's exactly what I handle for you.

Get it set up right

I'll recommend the compliant approach that fits your business and state, with the real numbers up front.

Do it right, save for real.

A free review shows the compliant program that fits your state and business.

Get My Free Growth Audit