Surprised? Idaho Businesses Don’t Have to Accept Cash

Ever walked into an Idaho coffee shop, ordered your drink, and realized they don’t take cash?

It’s happening more often, and it’s completely legal. While the words 'This note is legal tender' are printed on every dollar bill, that doesn’t mean businesses have to take it.

Despite what many assume, federal nor Idaho law forces private businesses in Idaho to accept cash.

What “Legal Tender” Really Means

Under federal law, U.S. currency is considered legal tender. That means it can be used to pay off debts. However, the Federal Reserve plainly states that it doesn’t force private businesses to accept it for sales. Stores, restaurants, and venues can decide what forms of payment they’ll take. For the most part, businesses can do what they like, as long as it’s made clear to customers. If an Idaho shop wants to go all in on digital, it’s totally within their rights to do so.

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So, the federal government doesn’t enforce cash payments. But what about state law? Idaho has no law that requires private businesses to accept cash. A few states like Colorado and New Jersey, have passed laws forcing stores to take paper money. But so far, Idaho hasn’t gone there. A few lawmakers have tried. In 2021, House Bill 256 proposed requiring all Idaho sellers to accept cash, but it didn’t pass.

Who Still Has to Accept Cash in Idaho

The only exception would be Idaho state agencies and offices. Government departments like the DMV must accept cash payments under Idaho Code 67-2361.

Choice in Idaho Is a Two-Way Street

So, there’s nothing that requires an Idaho business to accept your hard-earned cash. But if you’re someone who doesn’t like digital transactions, you also have a choice. You can take your business somewhere that still deals in dollars.