Payments

Delaware law requires retailers to accept cash

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October 12, 2022

Democratic Governor John Carney of Delaware has signed House Bill 299 into law, which prohibits sellers from refusing cash, save in certain circumstances. The law covers in-person transactions but does not cover electric or gas utilities, telephone, parking lots and garages, according to a report by Town Square Delaware.

In addition, businesses cannot require customers to convert cash into prepaid cards at ATMs or have fewer self-checkout lanes that accept cash. First time violations can run up to $1,000, second up to $1,500 and all subsequent up to $2,500.

"The Delaware State Chamber of Commerce supports the signage of HB 299 and appreciates the sponsor's willingness to incorporate feedback from the business community," Tyler Micik, the chamber's manager of public policy and government relations, told the news outlet. "Businesses — such as retailers — recognize the need to accept cash as a form of payment, whether it's a consumer preference or to help serve the unbanked. This bill ensures that Delawareans have the option to pay with cash."