From 1 October 2026, businesses will no longer be able to add surcharges to credit and debit card payments made through eftpos, Mastercard and Visa.
This means customers must see one final price at checkout, whether they pay in store, online or through a mobile payment option.
For businesses, the key issue is how card payment costs will be managed once surcharges are removed.
Many businesses currently use surcharges to recover part of the cost of accepting card payments. Once the ban begins, those businesses may need to review their pricing, merchant fees and payment systems.
Payment providers are also expected to provide clearer information about their fees and margins. This may give businesses a better opportunity to compare providers or negotiate a better rate.
Before 1 October 2026, businesses should consider:
• reviewing recent merchant statements
• checking whether surcharges are built into their pricing
• speaking with their bank or payment provider
• updating POS systems and online checkout settings
• removing surcharge signage or automatic card payment add-ons
Some businesses may benefit from lower payment processing costs over time, but the impact will vary depending on the type of business and the volume of card payments.
If your business currently applies card surcharges, now is a good time to review your payment arrangements and prepare for the change.
Please contact our office if you would like help reviewing your merchant fees, pricing approach or payment systems before the new rules begin.
