Merchant resources
Cash discount vs. surcharge vs. dual pricing
These programs present payment-method pricing differently. Terminology matters, and card-brand, state and provider rules may apply.
Cash discount
A cash discount generally reduces a displayed standard price when the customer pays with cash. Posting a lower price and adding a card fee is not automatically the same structure. Review the actual signage, receipts and checkout calculation with the provider.
Surcharge
A surcharge generally adds an eligible credit-card fee to a transaction. Debit and prepaid treatment, disclosure, limits and notice requirements differ from general card acceptance. Do not assume a fee is permitted because the customer selects “credit” on a debit card.
Dual pricing
Dual pricing typically displays separate cash and card prices before payment. A program’s name alone does not establish compliance. Ask how both prices appear on menus, shelf labels, invoices, online checkout and receipts.
Example: communicate the price before payment
A hypothetical item might be displayed with distinct cash and card prices, or with a standard price and an eligible cash discount. The provider should explain the approved presentation and calculations for your business. This is not legal advice or a recommended fee amount.
Costs and customer experience still matter
Software charges, program fees and non-eligible transactions may remain. Consider customer expectations, refunds, tips and tax treatment with qualified advisors. Liftoff can help compare program options without promising zero cost or savings.
Common merchant questions
Can I surcharge every card?
Do not assume so. Debit, prepaid and credit treatment differs, and network, jurisdiction and provider requirements apply.
Will this eliminate every processing expense?
No universal result is promised. Program, software and account fees may remain. Review the complete offer and customer-facing workflow.