Arizona surcharge: customers help cover eligible credit
With a compliant CMS Surcharge Program in Arizona, you keep cash prices the same. Eligible credit purchases can include a clearly disclosed surcharge — typically up to 3% under network and state caps — so processing cost is not coming entirely out of your pocket. Debit and prepaid are never surcharged. CMS confirms current Arizona regulation and availability at enrollment before anything goes live.
What customers see
CMS proposes up to 3% on eligible credit in Arizona (percentage only). Debit and prepaid stay out of the surcharge entirely.
What Arizona business owners should know
Surcharge is a regulated program, not a blank check. It applies to eligible credit cards only. It cannot include profit beyond cost of acceptance, and it cannot exceed network or state limits. Customers must see clear disclosures at the point of sale. Arizona needs a fresh CMS check — we confirm state, card-brand, and program rules for your location before presenting surcharge as available.
- Eligible credit only — never debit or prepaid
- Clear customer disclosures required
- Separate from Cash Discount (different rules)
- Flat Rate remains Available if surcharge is not the best fit
Flat Rate & Cash Discount
Your review shows estimated monthly impact beside Flat Rate and Cash Discount so you pick the option that keeps more — not a one-size pitch.
What merchants usually ask
Is credit card surcharge Available in Arizona?
Yes — Available after a fresh CMS review. Arizona merchants can run a compliant surcharge on eligible credit when pricing is shown clearly and card-network rules are followed. CMS confirms current state and program rules at enrollment — we do not assume yesterday’s rule still applies. Debit and prepaid are never surcharged.
What is the CMS surcharge amount in Arizona?
CMS proposes up to 3% on eligible credit (state- and network-capped). Your approved rate and disclosures are confirmed during enrollment — not guessed from a generic map.
Is surcharge the same as cash discount?
No. Surcharge keeps cash prices the same and adds a disclosed amount on eligible credit. Cash Discount posts a higher card-inclusive price and gives cash/check a discount. Arizona pages treat them as separate programs.