Consumer Alert

Several U.S. states and cities mandate that businesses accept cash, aiming to protect unbanked consumers and ensure equitable access to goods and services. Key states with such laws include Massachusetts, New Jersey, Colorado, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Rhode Island, and New York. 

Major cities, including Philadelphia, San Francisco, and New York City, have enacted local ordinances requiring businesses to accept cash.

Laws generally require brick-and-mortar retail stores to accept cash for in-person transactions.

See below press release from  New York Attorney General:

NY AG consumer alert: Starting Saturday, stores statewide must let you pay in cash

NY AG consumer alert: reminder starting Saturday, stores statewide must let you pay in cash

By Anthony Payero and NBC New York Staff • Published March 20, 2026 • Updated on March 23, 2026 at 8:04 am

Beginning on Saturday, stores in the state of New York must accept cash payments from customers, according to a consumer alert from Attorney General Letitia James.

The alert, which James shared on Friday, reminds businesses and consumers that it will be illegal for a New York food store or retail shop to refuse payment in cash for goods or services.

“New Yorkers have a right to service no matter how they choose to pay,” James said. “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.”

Under the law, restaurants and other businesses cannot require customers to pay by credit card or use another cashless method for purchases.

They also cannot charge consumers a higher price for paying in cash. Stores in violation face maximum civil penalties of $1,000 for the first violation and $1,500 for each succeeding violation.