No, effective March 2026, New York businesses in the retail and food service industries will be required to accept in-person cash payments from their customers. The law also states that businesses must not charge an additional fee or surcharge to customers who choose to pay in cash.
Exemptions are in place for non-in-person transactions, allowing businesses to refuse cash payments for transactions made via email, telephone, or online. Enforcement procedures will be in place, enabling customers to report businesses that violate the law’s stipulations via NYC311. New York businesses must ensure compliance at every in-person establishment to avoid fines, sanctions, and other penalties.
Ready Credit’s cash-to-card and other cashless payment solutions ensure New York businesses stay compliant while supporting all customers.