Finance Minister Klingbeil pushes law to ban cash-only signs in retail
Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil plans to require shops, restaurants and service providers to accept digital payments, eliminating cash-only signage.
Lars Klingbeil, Germany's finance minister, has introduced a draft regulation that would obligate retailers, restaurants and service firms to provide a digital payment option in addition to cash, effectively ending the use of "cash only" signs. The rule would apply across the entire sector, with merchants free to choose any widely used digital payment system, provided a European method is included. The legislation bans minimum spend thresholds and prohibits additional surcharges for card transactions.
While most businesses would be covered, non-profit entities such as amateur sports associations and charitable organisations could continue to operate cash-only. The measure is slated for cabinet approval this year and is set to take effect in 2027, reflecting a coalition agreement between the Union and SPD.
Why it matters
It will reshape how German consumers pay, affecting everyday purchases and small businesses.
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