Starting today, it is illegal for New York food or retail stores to refuse to accept cash. The new statewide law is similar to a law that has already been in effect in New York City since 2020.

Under the law, shops cannot refuse cash or require digital only payment. They can't charge a higher price for cash payments. If they do, they will face a fine of $1,000 for the first violation and a $1,500 fine for each time after.

Stores do not have to accept bills over $20. It is only for in-store purchases and does not apply if a store has a device to convert cash into a prepaid card.

New York Attorney General Letitia James has a complaint line for those who think a shop violated the law. Her office can be contacted at (800) 771-7755 or file online .