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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/stores-dont-have-to-take-cash

Under federal law, can a shop refuse cash?

Yes. State or local law may still require the shop to accept cash.

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Huh, didn't know that: Legal tender means cash is a valid way to pay a debt you already owe, like a bill.

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References

Answer: Yes, federal law does not require cash acceptance. Cash is legal tender for paying debts, but no federal law makes a private business accept it. Some states and cities have their own rules that do.

  1. Federal Reserve: Is it legal for a business to refuse cash as a form of payment? www.federalreserve.gov/faqs/currency_12772.htm
    There is no federal statute mandating that a private business, a person, or an organization must accept currency or coins as payment
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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