Paying at the pump with a credit card is a daily habit for most drivers, and a convenience that can cost more than you think.
Across several states, including Florida, gas stations are increasingly charging higher prices per gallon for credit card users. The difference is often as much as $1 more per gallon compared to the cash price, a markup that can quietly add up on a full tank.
While it’s legal for businesses to charge extra for credit card transactions, most states require that these fees be clearly disclosed to customers. Some gas stations are skirting that line by posting notices in fine print on the pump or signage that drivers may not easily notice.
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The result? Many drivers swipe their cards expecting the advertised street price, only to find out after the fact that they’ve been charged significantly more. With gas prices already pushing budgets, an extra $10 or $20 per fill-up can make a real impact.
Consumer watchdogs point out that while the surcharge itself may be legal, the lack of upfront transparency could border on deceptive business practices. And as long as stations get away with it, the hidden fee trend may continue to grow.
The best way to avoid surprise charges is to pay close attention to posted pricing at the pump and read the fine print before fueling. Some stations make their cash-versus-credit prices obvious, while others bury the details in pump stickers or small signs.
Apps and rewards programs can also help soften the blow.
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Ultimately, small habits—like checking for price differences or choosing stations that don’t penalize credit card users—can save hundreds over the course of a year. With gas expenses averaging over $2,400 per driver annually, every dollar counts.
Related: Ford Recalls 850,000 Vehicles but Doesn’t Yet Have a Fix
Gas Stations Quietly Charging Drivers $1 More per Gallon for This 1 Reason first appeared on Men’s Journal on Jul 13, 2025
