Are gas stations in your area doing this, and if they are, how do you feel about it?

Question

In our area gas stations are still accepting credit cards, but they are charging five or six cents extra per gallon to anyone who uses them. Most stations aren't notifying customers with signage, so some people don't realize this until they've already filled up, and I've seen very angry people go into the station and confront the cashier. Our part of the country is especially stressed and depressed economically, and I worry that someone is going to lose their temper and become violent.

One of our neighborhood gas station owners, who has always been shrewd in business, put up a large sign saying "Cash Price: 3.99. Credit Price: 3.99." He's very, very busy, and he deserves it. Aside from the credit card issue, he's the only station in our area charging less than four dollars a gallon. Everyone else is at $4.09 to $4.15 for regular.

How are stations in your area responding, and are you happy to walk in and pay cash to avoid the extra charge?

Answer 1

Gas stations (like all stores), pay transaction fees when people use credit cards.  I use my debit card, which is considered the same as cash, since the banks, with debit cards, don't charge the transaction fee.  I've read that some stations are doing the lower price for cash customers, but I haven't seen it yet, in person.

Answer 2

here ya go,Find the cheapist gas in your area.

http://gasprices.mapquest.com/

Answer 3

I always pay cash for gas. I think that the credit CARD companies are charging higher fees to the gas stations. (convenience)

You are so lucky,  - our lowest gas price around here is $4.19 -4.39 for regular gas WHEN YOU CAN FIN IT. If you want to pay 5-12 cents less you'll have to drive all over town for it.

Answer 4

Gas stations that charge more for credit card usage are trying to recoup the fees the banks charge them.   This is often in violation of the agreement they have with the banks.  

Worse,  the folks who pay for gas with a credit card are risking paying even more for the gasoline.   If the card balance isn't paid off each month before the due date,  you now get to pay interest on the money you borrowed to buy gas (using a credit card is borrowing).  

If a station owner wishes to charge me more for using my DEBIT card,  I will take my business elsewhere.