In an effort to reduce the cost retailers pay for processing credit card transactions, they now have the option to charge customers for using a credit card. This means that if you opt to pay for your merchandise with a credit card, you could be charged a fee.
However, there are several ways to avoid this fee.
1) Use your check cards or debit cards to avoid the fee. They are accepted anywhere a traditional Visa credit card is accepted. The difference is that the check card uses money out of your checking account instead of charging it to a credit card.
2) Stores are required to disclose a “checkout fee” to their customers at the store entrance, when purchasing, on their website and also on the receipt. This rule ensures there isn’t last minute or hidden fees.
3) If you believe that the price of goods has been raised to compensate for card processing fees and you are being charged the “checkout fee”, you can ask for a discounted price on the goods.
4) Finally, shop around. Look for and support merchants and retailers that do not charge a “checkout fee” and avoid the fee altogether.
For more information, please read the brochure “Checkout Fees: Consumer Rights and Retailer Responsibilities
