Is it legal to charge a credit card fee in CT?

Swipe Right on Savings: Know Your Rights About Credit Card Fees in Connecticut

Connecticut consumers, rejoice! You’re protected from sneaky credit card surcharges that inflate your purchases. While many businesses across the country pass the cost of credit card processing onto their customers, Connecticut law stands firmly against this practice. Knowing your rights can save you money and ensure fair pricing.

In Connecticut, it’s illegal for businesses to tack on an extra fee simply for using a credit card. This means the advertised price of an item or service should be the final price you pay, regardless of your payment method. While businesses certainly incur costs for processing card transactions, Connecticut law dictates they absorb these expenses rather than shifting them to the consumer.

It’s important to understand the distinction between surcharges and cash discounts. While adding a surcharge for credit card use is prohibited, offering a discount for paying with cash is perfectly legal. A cash discount incentivizes cash payments without penalizing those who choose to use a card. The key difference is the framing: a surcharge adds to the base price for card users, while a discount reduces the price for cash users.

So, what should you do if a business tries to slip in a credit card fee? First, politely inform them that such surcharges are illegal in Connecticut. If they persist, refuse to pay the extra charge. Document the incident, including the business name and date, and consider filing a complaint with the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection.

Protecting yourself from illegal surcharges is not just about saving a few dollars; it’s about upholding consumer rights and ensuring fair business practices. By being informed and assertive, Connecticut residents can contribute to a marketplace where prices are transparent and consumers are protected. Don’t let businesses swipe away your hard-earned money with unlawful fees – know your rights and exercise them.