Gas prices are already a sore spot for many Floridians, but a new concern is catching drivers off guard: credit card surcharges at the pump. In some cases, the difference between the “cash price” and the “credit price” is as much as $1 more per gallon. And here’s the kicker—it’s completely legal in Florida.
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At Liberty Savings Bank, we believe your money should work for you—not disappear because of fine print. Here’s what you need to know about these fees, why they’re allowed, and how to avoid them.
What’s Going On at the Pump?
Florida law allows businesses, including gas stations, to pass credit card processing fees onto customers. That means a station can legally charge you more when you swipe a credit card—often listing one price for cash payments and another, higher price for credit purchases.
For example:
- Cash price: $3.29 per gallon
- Credit price: $4.29 per gallon
Many drivers are frustrated to learn about the fee after they’ve started pumping, since some stations don’t clearly display both prices. This lack of transparency is what’s leading to growing concern.
Why Are Stations Doing This?
Retailers pay transaction fees to credit card companies, usually ranging from 1.5% to 3.5% of the total purchase. To recoup those costs, some gas stations now shift the burden to the consumer.
This isn't new, but what is new is the size of the surcharge. A few years ago, the difference between cash and credit prices was just a few cents. Today, it's sometimes as high as 25–30% more per gallon.
Is It Legal?
Yes, but there are rules. According to Florida law:
- Businesses must disclose any surcharge.
- The surcharge cannot exceed the actual cost of processing the credit transaction
(usually capped at around 4%).
However, how that disclosure is made varies. Some stations print it in small letters on the pump or post it on a sign that’s easy to miss. This makes it harder for consumers to make informed choices.
How You Can Protect Yourself
Don’t want to pay extra at the pump? Here are a few simple ways to avoid surprise charges:
1. Read the Signs Carefully
Look for signs that show both the cash and credit prices. If only one price is posted, it’s smart to assume that may be the cash price unless otherwise stated.
2. Pay with Cash
It might feel old-school, but cash can save you big—especially if you’re filling up a larger vehicle. You can visit a nearby Liberty Savings Bank ATM to withdraw cash with no fees at partner locations.
3. Use a Debit Card
Most stations treat debit cards like cash or charge a lower fee compared to credit cards. Always check with the station or look for signage indicating how debit cards are processed.
4. Use Fuel Price Apps
Apps like GasBuddy, Waze, and AAA Mobile help you find not just the lowest prices but also stations that clearly list cash vs. credit pricing.
5. Join Fuel Rewards Programs
Retailers like Shell and BP offer programs that provide discounts per gallon when you pay with a linked debit card or loyalty account—without the credit card fees.
Why This Matters for Everyday Banking
This situation is a great example of how everyday habits impact your financial well-being. A $1-per-gallon difference might not seem like much, but over the course of a year, it could mean hundreds of dollars lost to surcharges.
At Liberty Savings Bank, we’re committed to helping our customers make smarter financial choices. Whether it’s avoiding hidden fees or growing your savings, we’re here to help you keep more of your hard-earned money.
Stay In The Know
Credit card surcharges at Florida gas stations may be legal, but that doesn’t mean they have to catch you by surprise. With a little awareness and a few smart strategies, you can steer clear of unnecessary fees and take control of your spending.
If you're looking for more ways to stretch your dollar, stop by your local Liberty Savings Bank branch or give us a call. We’re proud to serve communities across Florida with personalized banking and transparent advice—no fine print required.
