ALBANY, N.Y. — New York State Attorney General Letitia James is reminding residents that stores must accept cash payments.
The new law goes into effect on March 21. It will become illegal for any food store or retail business in the state to refuse payment in cash.
Under the law, food stores and other retail establishments cannot require people to pay by credit card or use another cashless method to complete their purchase.
Businesses also cannot charge consumers a higher price if they pay in cash. Stores that violate the new law will face maximum civil penalties of $1,000 for the first violation and $1,500 for each succeeding violation.
“New Yorkers have a right to service no matter how they choose to pay,” said Attorney General James. “Businesses cannot deny New Yorkers access to necessities like food and clothing by refusing to take cash, or charging shoppers more for paying in cash. I will not hesitate to enforce this law to protect consumers across our state.”
There are some exceptions to the law. They are listed below:
- Stores do not have to accept bills in denominations above $20.
- Stores do not have to accept cash for orders made by telephone, mail, or internet, unless that transaction takes place at the store.
- The new law also does not apply if a store provides a device on its premises to convert cash into a prepaid card. However, the store cannot charge a fee or require that the prepaid card be loaded with a minimum amount above $1
The AG’s office said stores violating the law can be reported at this link or by calling 1-800-771-7755.
