The Federal Prosecutor’s Office of Consumer Affairs (PROFECO) in Mexico reports that no fees or commissions should be charged for paying by card in any store, as it is a prohibited practice and a fine is imposed. Consumers are therefore asked to get in touch.
This fee can range from 3 to 5% of the total bill. It is collected from large businesses such as restaurants, clothing stores or even from small businesses such as grocery stores or some local businesses, but regardless of the size and income the branch does not honor its contract with the banking institution.
How much is the fine for charging a fee for card payments?
According to the Federal Consumer Protection Act (LFPC), charging commissions for card payments has been classified as an abusive practice, as they do not have the right to charge consumers additional fees of any kind.
Card transactions represent operating expenses for the company, as do electricity costs or rent for the premises. Therefore, transferring these costs to the customer is an illegal act and may result in a fine.
Any establishment that violates the law may be fined up to 3 million 776 thousand 174 Mexican pesos.
How can I make a claim?
- You must contact your bank and report the incident.
- Log in to the facility and provide all information about the company that charged you this surcharge.
- If you had to pay the commission, send an email to Conciliaexpres@profeco.gob.mx explaining the situation, adding the date, address, time and all the necessary information about the company that charged you the commission.
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