Legal Question in Business Law in Massachusetts

ONLY CREDIT CARDS-LEGAL?

I have this problem frequently due to not having a credit/debit card.

Is it legal for a company with their doors open to the public only accept credit/debit cards? how about certain services to those only with cc's?

My feeling is no. 1) they are forcing you into a contract with visa/mastercard/discover OR 2)forcing you into a contract with the gov thru the bank and 3) what about the Federal Reserve Act? doesn't it say on the silly things 'legal tender for all debts, public and private'

Let me know, let's go get em.


Asked on 3/09/00, 5:00 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
James Miragliotta Miragliotta Law Offices

Re: ONLY CREDIT CARDS-LEGAL?

It would be extremely hard to prove any discrimination. Even more important is the matter of choice. Are you being forced to shop at those stores? Many stores can legitimateley argue that, by only accepting credit, they limit their cash on hand and discourage robberies.

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Answered on 3/23/00, 9:37 pm
Stuart Williams

Re: ONLY CREDIT CARDS-LEGAL?

I think you are right.

I suppose it could be considered discrimination againt

the credit-challenged (or credit handicapped).

I doubt it'd be worth my time to fight it.

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Answered on 3/22/00, 9:23 pm


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