New York Attorney General Letitia James announced on March 20 that a new state law will require all stores in New York to accept cash payments from customers. The law, which takes effect on March 21, makes it illegal for any food store or retailer in the state to refuse cash as payment for goods or services.
The new regulation is intended to ensure that all consumers have equal access to essential goods and services, regardless of their preferred payment method. It mirrors a similar law that has been in place in New York City since 2020.
“New Yorkers have the right to be served, regardless of how they choose to pay,” said Letitia James. “Businesses cannot deny New Yorkers access to necessities like food and clothing by refusing to accept cash or by charging extra for customers who want to pay with cash. I will not hesitate to enforce this law to protect New York consumers across our state.”
Under the law, retailers cannot require customers to use credit cards or other non-cash methods, nor can they charge higher prices for those paying with cash. Violators face civil penalties of up to $1,000 for a first offense and $1,500 for each subsequent violation. There are exceptions: businesses do not have to accept bills larger than twenty dollars; they are not required to take cash for orders placed by phone, mail, or online unless the transaction occurs at the store; and if a business provides an on-site device allowing customers to convert cash into prepaid cards without fees or minimums above one dollar, it is exempt from accepting direct cash payments.
James leads the New York Attorney General’s office according to the official website. The office promotes social justice and community well-being through civil rights enforcement and consumer advocacy according to the official website. It also protects residents by ensuring public safety, defending civil rights, upholding consumer protections, and preserving the environment according to the official website.
The Attorney General’s office operates regional offices throughout New York State according to the official website, providing services such as consumer fraud investigations, oversight of charities, and mediation of tenant disputes according to the official website. As a public law enforcement and legal advocacy agency according to the official website, it addresses local legal issues affecting communities statewide.
Consumers who believe a business is violating this new requirement are encouraged by James’s office to file complaints online or call 1 (800) 771-7755.
