January 22, 2021 226 STATE — The state has seen an increase in complaints about businesses charging an extra fee for using a credit card, according to the Department of Consumer Protection. A business may offer a discount if a customer chooses to use one type of payment, such as cash, over another, such as a credit card. Receiving a discount for paying in cash is allowed. However, charging a surcharge, or “convenience fee,” for using a credit card is prohibited by state law. “Consumers may not realize they cannot be charged extra simply for using their credit card,” Consumer Protection Commissioner Michelle H. Seagull said. “But it’s important to watch out for these unlawful charges and avoid paying them before it’s too late.”