Card surcharges in the UK: can you charge customers to pay by card?
By SendPay Business · · 2 min read
Since January 2018, UK businesses have not been allowed to add a surcharge when consumers pay with most debit and credit cards. The rules also cover some other ways of paying, such as popular e-wallets linked to those cards.
What's banned
You can't charge personal customers extra for paying with a consumer debit or credit card. That includes online, in store and over the phone.
What's still allowed
- Different prices for different payment methods can still apply to business and commercial cards, as long as the surcharge doesn't exceed your actual cost.
- Offering a discount for paying another way, such as by bank transfer, is generally treated differently from a surcharge.
- Setting prices that already include your card costs.
Covering card fees fairly
Most small businesses build card fees into their prices, compare providers for lower rates, or offer cheaper ways to pay such as bank transfer or pay by bank. Always check the current rules or take advice before changing how you charge.
Where SendPay fits
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This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice. SendPay Business is a technology company, not a bank, and does not take deposits; regulated services on the platforms are provided by licensed partners. PayPal, Patreon and Substack are named as reference points only and are not affiliated with SendPay Business.