New York will require stores to accept cash payments from March 2026, ensuring consumer access regardless of payment preference. Violators face civil penalties.
NEW YORK — A new law will require stores in New York State to allow customers to pay in cash.
The new law, which makes it illegal for a New York food store or retail shop to refuse payment in cash for goods, goes into effect March 21, 2026
“New Yorkers have a right to service no matter how they choose to pay,” Attorney General Letitia James said in a news release. “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.”
The law prohibits retailers from requiring cashless payments or charging higher prices for cash transactions. The Office of Attorney General (OAG) says the law applies to any venue that sells food or consumer goods, including venues such as Six Flags Darien Lake and KeyBank Center in Buffalo. Both venues are currently cashless.
Violations can result in civil penalties of up to $1,000 for a first offense and $1,500 for each subsequent violation.
There are a few exceptions to the law, which are:
- Stores do not have to accept bills in denominations above twenty dollars.
- Stores do not have to accept cash for orders made by telephone, mail, or internet, unless that transaction takes place at the store.
- The new law also does not apply if a store provides a device on its premises to convert cash into a prepaid card. However, the store cannot charge a fee or require that the prepaid card be loaded with a minimum amount above one dollar.
If you believe a store in New York state is violating the new law, you can contact the OAG by submitting a complaint online or call: 1-800-771-7755.
