NEW YORK (WABC) — Heads up, consumers: A new law taking effect in New York State over the weekend will require businesses to accept cash payments from customers.
The new law, which took effect on Saturday, makes it illegal for a New York food store or retail establishment to refuse payment in cash for goods or services.
Under the new law, consumers cannot be forced to pay by credit card or use an alternative cashless transaction method to complete their purchase. Businesses also cannot charge consumers a higher price should they choose to pay in cash.
With the new law in place, New York Attorney General Letitia James is reminding consumers of their rights.
“New Yorkers have a right to service no matter how they choose to pay,” said James in a press release on Friday.
“Businesses cannot deny New Yorkers access to necessities like food and clothing by refusing to take cash, or charging shoppers more for paying in cash. I will not hesitate to enforce this law to protect consumers across our state.”
Stores that violate the new law could face civil fines of up to $1,000 for the first offense and $1,500 for repeat offenses.
The new statewide law mirrors a similar New York City law that has been in effect since 2020.
You can read more about the new law on the New York State Attorney General website.
———-
* Get Eyewitness News Delivered
* Download the abc7NY app for breaking news alerts
Submit a tip or story idea to Eyewitness News
Have a breaking news tip or an idea for a story we should cover? Send it to Eyewitness News using the form below. If attaching a video or photo, terms of use apply.
Copyright © 2026 WABC-TV. All Rights Reserved.
