why do cashiers act like using a debit card for a small purchase is strange?

Question

i don't carry cash because i have already been robed twice and lost money more then a few times in my life and i have found its just better to use my debit card for everything, it is also a good way to monitor my spending as it is all listed for me on my bank web page. just today i was buying a soda at a convenience store, it was 1.29 and i used my debit card , the Russian cashier thinking i didn't understand his language was on the phone and said "this f%6#$ng jerk is buying a Pepsi with a credit card ,what the f*7%K" first of all it clearly states its a debit card though it can be run as credit, second of all why would it matter? if it costs them extra to process credit/debit cards they can charge a surcharge so it shouldnt be that. i cant be the only person who never uses cash.

Answer 1

The biggest reason is that a debit cards costs more to process, for the merchant. Most merchant accounts pay a flat fee of about $0.35 per transaction. So for a $1.29 purchase, they lose most of their profit.

Running it as a credit card, they only pay a percentage (depending on the merchant, anywhere from 1.2% to 2.9 or higher). On average, running it as a credit card below $14 is cheaper, and as a debit card over $14 is cheaper.

As to a surcharge, it is against the credit card company's policy for a merchant to charge a surcharge. This came about in the 1970's when companies charged 3-4% surcharge per transaction if a customer used a credit card.

It is actually quicker to run a card, than it is to tender cash and return change. Especially now with minor purchases, as they do not require a signature.

Personally, I simply see it as a cost of doing business. They can always ask if they can run it as a credit card, and save their profit. I also never carry cash, because all my banking is electronic (so I never set foot in the bank).

Answer 2

Its probably because it takes longer to process a debit card transaction than it does cash.
I see your point about not carrying cash but thats a bit extreme, using a card for a bottle of pop. Why not keep a limit of about £20 cash on you, than at least you won;t get hassle in the shops.

Answer 3

Whenever I see some chump write a check or use a debit card for just a few dollars, I think that guy is a loser that does'nt even walk around with a couple bucks in his pocket. Sorry chief, if this person is you then I'm that guy standing behind in line laughing at your cheap as s. Hurry up.