Dual pricing · Connecticut
Dual Pricing Laws in Connecticut (2026 Guide)
Yes, dual pricing is legal in Connecticut. Showing a card price and a lower cash price is treated as a cash discount, which federal law and every state allow.
Is dual pricing legal in Connecticut?
Yes, dual pricing is legal in Connecticut. Showing a card price and a lower cash price is treated as a cash discount, which federal law and every state allow. Connecticut is the strictest state. You may offer a cash discount only by discounting down from the posted card price; posting a price plus a card fee is treated as an illegal surcharge. Source: Nickel 2026 state surcharge table, Katalyst OS 2026 state guide, Payment Review, 2026 surcharge rules.
How dual pricing works
Every item shows two prices: the card price and the cash price. The customer chooses how to pay. Because the lower price is a discount for cash, it is not a surcharge, so surcharge caps and card network surcharge registration do not apply. Receipts should show the price paid and the payment method.
Dual pricing vs surcharging in Connecticut
Surcharging is banned in Connecticut, so dual pricing is the main legal way to recover card fees. See the Connecticut surcharge laws guide for the surcharge rules.
Doing it right
- Show both prices clearly on signs, menus, shelf tags or your website.
- Apply the cash price to every customer who pays cash.
- Keep the difference consistent across items.
- Use a processor and terminal built for dual pricing so receipts and totals stay accurate.
How PayWavez helps
PayWavez's dual pricing program sets up the signage, terminal and receipts for Connecticut merchants so card fees are covered and every price shown is compliant.
Frequently asked questions
Is dual pricing legal in Connecticut?
Yes, dual pricing is legal in Connecticut. Showing a card price and a lower cash price is treated as a cash discount, which federal law and every state allow. Connecticut is the strictest state. You may offer a cash discount only by discounting down from the posted card price; posting a price plus a card fee is treated as an illegal surcharge.
Is dual pricing the same as a surcharge in Connecticut?
No. A surcharge adds a fee for paying by card. Dual pricing shows two prices and gives a discount for paying cash, which is why it is legal everywhere.
Do I need to show both prices in Connecticut?
Yes. Customers should see both the card price and the cash price before they pay.
Can Connecticut merchants use dual pricing on debit cards?
Dual pricing treats all card payments the same way: the card price applies to credit and debit, and the discounted price applies to cash.
Related guides
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