New York retailers face statewide cash mandate starting March 21
New York’s new law requires all food stores and retail establishments statewide to accept cash and bans charging extra for cash payments, effective March 21. There are exceptions: cash is not required for bills over $20, and in-person transactions only; retailers may offer to convert cash to a prepaid card but cannot charge a fee or require loading more than $1. Violations can incur fines up to $1,000 for a first offense and $1,500 for subsequent offenses, as the state aims to protect access to essentials for unbanked residents.
