A notice, often displayed at the point of sale, communicating to customers that a surcharge may be applied when using a credit card for payment. Such a placard typically includes the amount of the fee or the method by which it is calculated, allowing consumers to make informed decisions about their payment method. Examples include signs stating “A 3% fee applies to all credit card transactions” or “Prices reflect a cash discount; credit card purchases will incur a surcharge.”
The use of these notices is driven by a desire for merchants to offset the costs associated with credit card processing fees, which can significantly impact profitability. Displaying this information promotes transparency, allowing customers to choose alternative payment methods, such as cash or debit cards, to avoid the additional cost. Historically, restrictions on surcharging were prevalent, but evolving regulations have made it increasingly permissible to disclose these fees to customers.
The following sections will delve into the specifics of creating effective and compliant messaging, the legal considerations surrounding surcharges, best practices for displaying information regarding payment options, and resources for generating appropriate signage.