Even Small Transactions Must Be Card-Friendly, Merchants Can’t Refuse!

Have you ever been frustrated when your card payment was declined because the merchant didn’t accept credit cards? This scenario is quite common in small shops, bars, and bakeries. In such moments, any customer would be caught off guard, scrambling for a solution which sometimes isn’t there if they don’t have cash on hand. Picture this: you order a coffee outside, but your card is rejected because the amount is considered too low. What can you do? Most people might think they have no choice but to withdraw cash from an ATM, but there’s another solution available in certain cases.

In France, a merchant is legally allowed to refuse a credit card payment, but only if they have clearly informed their customers. For example, a sign reading “No credit card payments” must be displayed. “This requirement to display such information also applies if the merchant has specific conditions, like a minimum amount for credit card payments,” explains legal and finance expert Masdak in his book “Ending the Scams” (Solar Everyday editions). The signage must be visible and clear right from the entrance of the store, as well as at the checkout or on the website for online sales.

If the merchant fails to meet this requirement, the customer has the right to insist on paying by credit card. Additionally, it’s less known that “certain professionals, such as taxi drivers, are obligated to accept credit card payments. Likewise, professionals associated with an approved management center,” the specialist adds.

If the merchant still refuses to budge, as a consumer, you have the option to report them to the Directorate General for Competition, Consumer Affairs, and Fraud Control (DGCCRF). For this purpose, it’s advisable to keep evidence, such as a photo of “a display regarding accepted payment methods,” to support your claim.