Payments

Majority of Americans support safe access to cash

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December 26, 2025

A national study reveals that more than 85% of Americans support laws requiring businesses to accept physical currency, with 84% opposing a move toward a fully cashless society, according to a press release from NCR Atleos.

The research, conducted by the Siena Research Institute and the Payment Choice Coalition, surveyed more than 5,500 U.S. residents. The findings indicate that despite the rise of digital banking, cash remains a vital tool for privacy, emergency preparedness and financial inclusion.

Findings include:

• 94% of respondents view cash as essential during national security threats that could disrupt digital networks, while 85% find it more reliable during natural disasters.
• 92% believe cash offers superior privacy, and 86% expressed concern that digital-only systems increase the risk of identity theft.
• 85% of Americans across the political spectrum support the Payment Choice Act, federal legislation that would mandate cash acceptance for in-person transactions up to $500.

NCR Atleos, a PCC leadership member, said the data aligns with recent Federal Reserve research showing that 92% of consumers have no plans to stop using cash. Proponents argue that maintaining cash infrastructure is critical for the 25 million unbanked or underbanked Americans, as well as rural and senior populations who face barriers to digital-only commerce.

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NCR Atleos

NCR Atleos expands self-service financial access for retailers and financial institutions who leverage our expertise, operational scale, always-on global services and constant innovation to deliver convenient self-service banking.

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