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Debit Card Surcharging: Is It Legal?

EBizCharge

If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s legal to add a surcharge when someone pays with a debit card, you’re not alone. No, debit card surcharging isn’t legal in the U.S. The rules behind it come from a mix of card network policies, federal law, and state regulations. Can you surcharge a debit card?

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How card network rules help MoviePass disrupt the theater industry

Payments Source

A situation brewing in movie theaters that hinges on card network rules could have broad implications for the entertainment industry.

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Canada's transit fare plan could loosen debit card rules nationwide

Payments Source

Payments Canada is proposing to allow delayed transaction authorization to enable debit cards to be used in open-loop transit — and the change could affect far more than commuters.

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How to Add a Credit Card Surcharge: A Step-by-Step Guide

EBizCharge

Step 1: Understand the Basics Before you begin, it’s important to know exactly what a credit card surcharge is—and what it’s not. A surcharge is an added fee for customers who choose to pay with a credit card. They differ from blanket fees and don’t apply to cash, checks, or debit cards. Regulations can change.

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Small Business Guide to Credit Card Surcharges

EBizCharge

They’re treated differently under both state laws and card network rules. Legal complexity: You have to follow state laws and card network rules to stay compliant. Not allowed on debit or prepaid cards: Even if they’re run as credit, surcharging them violates rules. Not usually.

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Writing the Perfect Credit Card Surcharge Notice

EBizCharge

What to Include in a Credit Card Surcharge Notice When it comes to credit card surcharges, how you communicate the fee matters just as much as the fee itself. A clear and honest notice can prevent confusion, avoid legal issues, and build customer trust while helping you stay compliant with card network rules and state laws.

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Credit Card Surcharge Guidance: A State-by-State Overview of Surcharging Laws

Stax

However, before implementing it, you must know all the state, federal, and card network rules surrounding it. Surcharges can only be applied to recoup some or all of the costs of allowing credit card purchases. Surcharging does not apply to debit cards even if they are used as credit cards.