What Is Dual Pricing?
Dual pricing is a payment model where a merchant displays two prices: a cash price and a card price (typically 3–4% higher). When customers pay by card, they pay the slightly higher card price — covering the processing cost. The merchant nets the same amount either way and pays zero in credit card processing fees.
A restaurant meal is priced at $20.00 cash / $20.80 card. The customer chooses to pay by card and sees $20.80 on the receipt. The merchant receives the full amount. Credit card fees: $0.
Is Dual Pricing Legal in Oregon?
Yes. Dual pricing is fully legal in Oregon. Oregon Revised Statutes Chapter 646A permits dual pricing because both prices are clearly disclosed before the transaction. The Durbin Amendment to the Dodd-Frank Act explicitly protects a merchant's right to offer discounts for cash payment. Card network rules (Visa, Mastercard) permit dual pricing when:
- Both prices are displayed at the point of entry and point of sale
- The card price is the standard price (not an add-on surcharge)
- The disclosure is clear and visible to customers before they order
Oregon has no state law prohibiting dual pricing. Several other states restrict credit card surcharges, but Oregon is not among them — and dual pricing is categorically different from a surcharge regardless.
Dual pricing is legal in Oregon under ORS Chapter 646A, federal Dodd-Frank protections, and Visa/Mastercard operating rules. Process with Bryant handles all signage and disclosure requirements as part of setup. See the FAQ for more detail.
How Dual Pricing Works for Oregon Small Businesses
- Update your POS system. A dual pricing-capable POS (like SkyTab) automatically displays both the cash and card prices for every item.
- Post required signage. A small sign at the door and counter satisfies disclosure requirements under Oregon law and card network rules.
- Customers choose at checkout. The POS applies the correct price based on payment method.
- Merchant nets 100%. Card processing fees are built into the card price. You keep your full margin.
Dual Pricing vs. Surcharging vs. Cash Discount
| Feature | Dual Pricing | Credit Card Surcharge | Cash Discount |
|---|---|---|---|
| How it works | Two prices displayed: cash price & card price | One price shown; fee added at checkout for card use | One price shown; discount applied for cash payment |
| Legal in Oregon? | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes (with restrictions) | ✔ Yes |
| Card network approval | ✔ Fully permitted | ✗ Prohibited on debit cards; complex rules | ✔ Permitted |
| Customer experience | Transparent — price known upfront | Surprise at checkout — negative reaction common | Can feel like a rick — posted price not the real price |
| Merchant fee savings | ✔ 100% of processing fees eliminated | ✔ Partial to full | ✔ Partial to full |
| Best for | Restaurants, retail, services — clean, transparent pricing | B2B or high-ticket — customers expect itemized fees | Gas stations — industry standard signage already familiar |
How Much Can Oregon Businesses Save?
A restaurant doing $60,000/month in card transactions saves roughly $12,500/year after the $29/month flat fee. Use the free savings calculator to see your exact number.
How to Switch to Dual Pricing in Oregon
- Free savings analysis. Submit the form below. We'll review your current processing statement and calculate exactly what you'd save.
- Equipment setup. Free SkyTab POS installed at no cost. No lock-in, no lease.
- Signage & disclosure. We handle all required dual pricing signage. You're covered legally from day one.
- Go live. Most setups complete in under a week. Savings start immediately.
Process with Bryant is based in Salem, OR and serves merchants across Portland, Salem, Eugene, and the broader Oregon market. 26+ years in payment processing. We answer the phone. (503) 207-6474
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