Cash discount & dual pricing
Cash Discount and Dual Pricing Programs, Explained Clearly
Dual pricing lets you show customers two prices \u2014 one for paying by card and a lower one for cash or bank payment \u2014 so customers who pay by card help cover the cost of card acceptance. Here's how it works and when it makes sense.
How dual pricing works
With dual pricing, every item or invoice shows both a card price and a cash price. The customer chooses how to pay, and the price they pay matches the method they pick. Both prices are shown up front, before the sale.
- Both prices displayed clearly before purchase
- Customer chooses how to pay
- Receipts show the price paid
- Set up on your POS or terminal by IPS
Cash discount vs. dual pricing
The terms are often used interchangeably. Both reward customers who pay with cash or a bank transfer with a lower price. The details — how prices are shown on signs, menus, invoices, and receipts — matter, and we set the program up so it's displayed correctly.
IPS offers dual pricing. We do not offer surcharge programs.
What it can save — and the rules it must follow
Savings depend on your current processing setup, how many customers pay by card, how the program is configured, and the rules that apply to your business and location. Not every program is right for every merchant.
Every program we set up follows the card networks' rules and applicable laws, including how prices must be shown to customers. We'll tell you plainly if a program isn't a good fit.
Frequently asked questions
What should Mobile and Tuscaloosa merchants review before using dual pricing?
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Review posted prices, menus or invoices, terminal capabilities, receipts, and staff explanations. A salon also needs to review tips and product sales. IPS offers dual pricing only, not surcharging. We are based in Mobile and expanding into Tuscaloosa with a branch planned for Q4 2026; contact us to discuss the fit for your business.
Is dual pricing legal?
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Dual pricing is widely used, but it must follow card network rules and any laws that apply where you do business. We set it up to meet those requirements.
Will dual pricing eliminate my processing costs?
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Not always. Results depend on your transaction mix and setup. A free statement review shows what's realistic for you.
Is this the same as a surcharge?
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No. A surcharge adds a fee at checkout. Dual pricing shows both prices up front and lets the customer choose. IPS offers dual pricing only.
Find out what you could save
Request a free processing statement review or schedule a merchant consultation with the IPS team.