Credit card surcharges set to be a thing of the past

legal updates

In January 2018 it is likely that no surcharges will be passed on for consumer credit cards usage.

Read our disclaimer keyboard_arrow_down

This website content is intended as a general guide to law as it applies to the motor trade. Lawgistics has taken every effort to ensure that the contents are as accurate and up to date as at the date of first publication.

The laws and opinions expressed within this website may be varied as the law develops. As such we cannot accept liability for or the consequence of, any change of law, or official guidelines since publication or any misuse of the information provided.

The opinions in this website are based upon the experience of the authors and it must be recognised that only the courts and recognised tribunals can interpret the law with authority.

Examples given within the website are based on the experience of the authors and centre upon issues that commonly give rise to disputes. Each situation in practice will be different and may comprise several points commented upon.

If you have any doubt about the correct legal position you should seek further legal advice from Lawgistics or a suitably qualified solicitor. We cannot accept liability for your failure to take professional advice where it should reasonably be sought by a prudent person.

All characters are fictitious and should not be taken as referring to any person living or dead.

Use of this website shall be considered acceptance of the terms of the disclaimer presented above.

It is common place for a surcharge to be imposed on the use of a credit card typically 2 or 3% of a purchase price.

For several years now it has been an offence to charge more to the consumer in surcharges than the traders are themselves charged for processing credit card payments.   Also, when the surcharge paid by the consumer is shown to exceed the amount paid by the trader, the difference can be reclaimed by the consumer.

Of course, it is difficult and no-doubt tiresome for consumers to challenge excess surcharges where the information may be difficult to obtain and for amounts that are individually very small.

However, in January 2018 it is likely that no surcharges will be passed on for consumer credit cards usage although there could be still be charges for commercial credit cards.

This is because the new law will result in it becoming so inexpensive for credit card payments to be processed so that traders will be able to absorb the cost themselves rather than pass it on to buyers.

When we know more we will update.

Connected Car FinanceReady to take the connected approach?

We’re here to ensure all used car dealerships deliver a better car finance experience for their customers. With over 4,000 approved dealer partners we ensure you are properly supported and connected with a range of flexible finance options, allowing you to lend and your customers to buy in complete confidence.

Jason WilliamsLegal AdvisorRead More by this author

Related Legal Updates

Important changes to the FLA Lending Code

Independent used vehicle dealers will be required to become SAF-approved or equivalent by 1 January 2025.

DCA Complaints: The FCA’s Extended Timeline and Ongoing Delays

In short, five years after the original banning of discretionary commission arrangements, the FCA will provide a new approach as to how firms should deal with these matters!

Chargeback fraud – getting back a stolen car

Like many finance companies, when a consumer complains about a vehicle, banks are notoriously reluctant to back the dealer in a chargeback fraud issue.

Do I have to reply?

The lender writes to our member for assistance with paperwork, but our member decides to ignore it.

Have motor finance lenders scored an own goal?

A clear admission from two large motor finance lenders that they have no clue as to what their dealer networks are doing.

SHOCK & HORROR! A finance company seeks to influence an expert opinion!

Any finance house thinking of or seeking to emulate such unconscionable conduct, risks not only judicial ire and sanction but also being named and shamed.

For the benefit of Nottinghamshire Trading Standards Service

The Consumer Credit Act 1974 – Section 75 – applies when a consumer buyer uses a credit card, not a debit card.

Get in touch

Complete the form to get in touch or via our details below:

Phone
01480 455500
Address

Vinpenta House
High Causeway
Whittlesey
Peterborough
PE7 1AE

By submitting this quote you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy & Cookies Policy.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.