Surcharging and dual pricing, explained honestly
A program that changes what customers pay is an operating and compliance decision—not simply a way to advertise zero processing cost.
Name the model precisely
Surcharging, cash discounting, and dual pricing are not interchangeable labels. Ask the provider to identify the exact model, customer-facing price, receipt treatment, eligible payment types, and required disclosures.
Model customer and staff impact
Review signage, menu or shelf prices, staff scripts, refund behavior, online checkout, tips, taxes, and customer complaints before deciding whether a program fits the business.
Verify current rules before launch
Card-brand rules, state requirements, provider programs, and notice procedures can change. Obtain current written implementation and compliance requirements from the responsible provider and qualified counsel where needed.
Treat customer communication as part of the system
Review displayed prices, signage, receipts, online checkout, refunds, tips, taxes, staff scripts, and complaint handling before any program goes live.
Use a written implementation checklist
Record the exact program model, eligible payment types, responsible provider, required notices, current network rules, applicable legal review, configuration owner, staff training, and ongoing monitoring.