Credit Card Surcharging Solutions
Pass processing fees directly to customers legally and compliantly
What is Credit Card Surcharging?
Credit card surcharging allows merchants to pass the cost of processing fees directly to customers who choose to pay with credit cards. This practice is legal in most U.S. states and provides immediate relief from processing costs.
- Pass processing fees to customers choosing credit cards
- Maintain your current pricing structure
- Legal in 46+ U.S. states
- Compliant with all card brand regulations
- No impact on debit card transactions
- Immediate cost savings for your business
Surcharging vs. Cash Discount: What's the Difference?
| Aspect | Credit Card Surcharging | Cash Discount Program |
|---|---|---|
| Base Price | Posted price remains the same | Cash discount price is posted |
| Fee Application | Fee added to credit card transactions | Service fee added to all card transactions |
| State Compliance | Legal in 46+ states | Legal in all 50 states |
| Debit Cards | Cannot surcharge debit cards | Usually excluded from fees |
| Customer Perception | Fee seen as penalty | Cash discount seen as benefit |
| Implementation | Requires state registration | No registration required |
State-by-State Surcharging Laws
✅ Surcharging Allowed (46 States)
Most states allow credit card surcharging with proper disclosure and compliance procedures.
❌ Surcharging Prohibited
- • Colorado (with exceptions)
- • Connecticut
- • Massachusetts
- • Puerto Rico
Surcharging Implementation Process
1. Compliance Review
We verify your state's laws and ensure your business qualifies for surcharging programs.
2. Registration & Filing
Handle all required registrations with card brands and state authorities (where required).
3. System Setup
Configure your POS system to apply surcharges correctly and provide required disclosures.
4. Signage Installation
Install compliant signage at entry points and payment areas with required disclosure language.
5. Staff Training
Train your team on surcharging procedures and customer communication best practices.
6. Go Live
Launch your surcharging program with ongoing compliance monitoring and support.
Technical Requirements & Support
Our surcharging solutions integrate seamlessly with your existing payment infrastructure.
- Compatible with all major POS systems
- Automatic surcharge calculation and application
- Real-time compliance monitoring
- Detailed reporting and analytics
- 24/7 technical support and maintenance
- Regular compliance updates and adjustments
Industry-Specific Benefits
Retail Businesses
Perfect for high-volume retail where customers expect to see fees for card usage.
Professional Services
Pass fees to clients on invoiced services while maintaining professional relationships.
Automotive Services
Save significantly on high-ticket transactions like repairs and parts sales.
B2B Companies
Reduce costs on large invoice payments where fees can be substantial.
Required Compliance Elements
Before Implementation
- ✓ Card brand registration (30 days notice)
- ✓ State registration (where required)
- ✓ Acquirer notification and approval
- ✓ Compliance policy documentation
Ongoing Requirements
- ✓ Maximum surcharge limits (4% or actual cost)
- ✓ Clear disclosure before payment
- ✓ Separate line item on receipts
- ✓ Posted signage at entry points
Typical Results with Surcharging
Ready to Implement Surcharging?
Get expert guidance on surcharging compliance and start saving on processing fees.