Portland Businesses Add Credit Card Fees, Raising Customer Questions
Businesses in Portland, OR, are increasingly charging customers fees for using credit cards, both online and in person, at various establishments like auto repair shops, gyms, and restaurants. This trend prompts questions about the legality and nature of these surcharges.
Portland, OR, July 25, 2026 —
Businesses across Portland, Oregon, are implementing new fees for customers who choose to pay with credit cards. This practice is becoming more prevalent in a variety of sectors, including auto repair shops, fitness centers, and dining establishments, affecting both online and in-person transactions.
The introduction of these surcharges is prompting discussions and questions among consumers regarding their legality and the specific reasons behind the additional charges. While the exact scope of the trend, including the percentage of businesses adopting the practice or the average fee amount, was not detailed, the presence of these fees is noticeable in everyday commerce.
Credit card processing fees, typically paid by merchants, have long been a cost of doing business. However, some businesses are now passing these costs directly to the consumer through explicit surcharges. The legality of such surcharges can vary, and regulations often dictate how they must be disclosed to customers.
Information regarding specific ordinances or state laws that might govern these practices in Portland was not provided in the summary. Similarly, details about whether these businesses have specific permit statuses or have undergone inspections related to their fee structures were not available.
The trend suggests a shift in how some Portland businesses are managing operational costs, with credit card fees being a new point of financial consideration for both merchants and customers. Further details on the specific rules and regulations applicable to these surcharges in Oregon would provide more clarity on the situation for consumers and businesses alike.
Story summarized from the original created by Liz Weston on www.oregonlive.com, see more information here.
