If you’re the type of person that hardly ever carries cash, it’s highly likely that you’ve stopped in convenient store and heard the clerk say, “Sorry, we have a minimum purchase of $X.” At that point you either turn around and walk off or load up on more junk that you don’t need. But… can stores actually require a minimum purchase? Here’s the official word from Allen who manages Truliant’s Visa program.
“Some merchants will have a sign posted requiring a minimum purchase amount such as $5.00 or $10.00 in order for you to use your debit or credit card. At this time, merchants cannot require a minimum purchase amount, this is a Compliance Violation under Visa’s Operating Rules. If a merchant has a sign stating this or tells you verbally, then you can advise them they are in violation of Visa Compliance Rule 5.2.F. and can call 800-VISA911 to file a compliant.
Vermont is the only state that has a law (effective January 1, 2011) where a merchant can require a minimum purchase amount (up to $10.00) in order for you to use your debit or credit card.”
So there you have it… Now you are armed with “You are in violation of Visa Compliance Rule 5.2F!” Ok, the clerk might laugh at you if you say that, but at least you now know that they are technically breaking the rules and that you have a course of action.
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What kind of fee does the merchant pay the processor on a $5 purchase?