GAS PRICES

That isn't allowed via the store's agreement with its merchant. If you care enough to complain, the merchant will cancel the store's credit card processing account rather quickly. I see it a lot at small restaurants, particularly of the Chinese variety.

 

That's what I thought, but I never looked into it. I don't really give a shit- if I'm not spending $10 I use cash. It's the only store in town and I like being able to use a card there.

 

Interesting, I see this all the time and it's a freaking hassle. Usually I just leave without buying anything but I'm going to try this tactic next time a store tries to strong-arm me into buying a bunch of bullshit so I can get a lighter.

 

I don't think they care until they get threatened with action from Visa/MC....which I doubt happens too quickly with small business.

 

Not sure it's just to get you to buy more, it's more to make the transaction worth it to the store. I understand why they do it, I just avoid it. For something under say $5, most of that sale is taken up by merchant fees and not worth it to the store. They'll take the small sale but with cash so they keep all the proceeds.

 

Given the number of places that do this, I think you are correct.

 

I double checked myself. I stand corrected..... the merchant's fees for debit transactions are cheaper than the fees for credit.... Either way, it explains why most merchants make you take extra steps to make the transaction a credit transaction vs. a debit transaction.

 

Anybody heard of the "Amero"? It's what some are contemplating as a currency for North America, similar to the Euro. The dollar is what's behind the recent spike in oil prices, along with some good economic news. The dollar volatility is what the "Amero" is all about.

 

http://www.snopes.com/politics/business/amerocoin.asp

 

Thanks.