Senate Bill Would Require Stores to Accept Cash for Purchases Up to $500
Also known as: Payment Choice Act of 2025
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New 'cash law' could force Walmart and Costco to take your money the old-fashioned way
The Payment Choice Act of 2025 would require businesses to accept cash and bar them from charging higher prices to those who pay in cash. The bill aims to protect the 4.5% of U.S. households that lack access to banking services, ensuring they can still shop at major retailers like Walmart.

Regulation creep: 5 policy issues vending operators should watch in 2026
The Payment Choice Act of 2025 is highlighted as a key federal policy for 2026. It would require covered retail businesses to accept cash for on-site sales up to $500. Vending operators are warned that cashless-only machines in public-sector locations may need to adapt to remain compliant.

Is cash legislation making a comeback?
The Payment Choice Act of 2025, reintroduced by Rep. John Rose, aims to prohibit retailers from denying cash payments. The bill defines retailers broadly and includes specific exceptions, such as when a business lacks enough cash on hand to make change or faces technical issues.