New credit card fees in effect

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Retailers can now charge extra fees every time you swipe your plastic. It's a new settlement between credit card companies and banks that just went into effect.

A 7 billion dollar deal now allows stores to charge customers credit card processing fees.

Many retailers across the country have said that they do not support this settlement because it will cost their consumers thousands of dollars. In fact, some stores in New York have asked a judge to reject the proposal.

But good news for both shoppers and store owners here.

Hannoush Jewelers Manager Said Harmouche told 22News “This new rule about credit cards doesn't apply to Massachusetts. So I don't think it's going to affect our businesses here.”

Massachusetts, Connecticut and Vermont are 3 of 10 states that ban these surcharges. But in New Hampshire or Vermont, you may not be exempt.

Many shoppers told 22News these fees now make them think twice before using credit cards.

Mike Knuerr of Palmer said “There are always late fees or hidden fees or something like that. So my solution would be to use my debit card, no credit cards and go back to using cash.”

Krystal Vargas of Springfield said “It's like 20% more. It ends up being a lot more after. I prefer to have the money and not have to pay more at the end of the day.”

If you shop at a store that imposes these fees, they must display that at their entrance, the front counter and on your receipt.