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Don't you think the 2 to 4% is built into the prices of every merchant that accepts credit cards, big or small?

It's not a great system but it's what we have so using debit instead of credit does mean losing out.

At the big box stores absolutely they have it worked in to the prices. I have no idea if the local mom and pop shops are working that 2-4% into their prices or not.

Mom and Pop stores are basically the only places left that reliably give you a cash discount for not using a card. Sometimes advertised at checkout, sometimes you need to ask.

Especially service companies. They tend to quote out "cash" (aka check/bank transfer) price and then add another 5% or so if you want to pay via card. There of course is very often an even cheaper "actual cash" price too you need to ask for if you are so inclined.

Yes, they do. They understand where their margins go and the fees on credit cards are a huge one. They simply don’t have much of a choice.

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