This past Sunday new guidance for New York businesses went into effect and that is good news for consumers.

The new guidance for New York Businesses will make it easier for consumers to know what "fees and surcharges" they are paying when they use a credit card to make a purchase.

The state's consumer protection division will allow businesses in New York State to pass along the credit card usage fees to consumers as long as they clearly state the charge.

There are three legal ways businesses in New York can pass along the surcharge fees.

CLEARLY POST PRICES FOR USING A CREDIT CARD AND USING CASH

If a business wants to add a credit card surcharge to the price of the item, it has to be clearly marked that you are paying more for the item if you use a credit card.

Photo Credit: NY.gov
Photo Credit: NY.gov
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POST CREDIT CARD PRICE AND OFFER DISCOUNT FOR USING CASH

Businesses can post only the price for an item, the price you will pay if you use a credit card, and then offer a discount if you use cash.

Photo Credit: NY.gov
Photo Credit: NY.gov
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CHARGE THE SAME PRICE FOR USING A CREDIT CARD OR USING CASH

A business can simply charge the same price for the item no matter what type of payment you use.

Photo Credit: NY.gov
Photo Credit: NY.gov
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There are some things that businesses can't do when it comes to collecting credit card surcharges.

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One of the biggest things is that businesses can't just post a sign saying that a processing fee is added to all credit card purchases. They also can't advertise a cash discount that doesn't apply when you use a credit card.

You can see all the new guidelines HERE

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