Merchants have the legal right to refuse cheque payments, but this must comply with strict conditions. Above all, they are required to inform customers clearly and visibly upfront through signage, labels, or other notices.
Merchants and tradespeople, including craftsmen, can refuse cheques as a payment method provided they meet key requirements. The primary condition is clear, prior notification to customers.
This notice can appear as signage at store entrances or checkouts, or displays stating "No cheques accepted." It must be prominent to ensure customers are aware before attempting payment.
For professionals without physical stores, such as many craftsmen, this refusal must be stated explicitly on quotes to inform clients in advance.
Note that taxi drivers and VTC (vehicle with driver) operators are not required to accept cheques. They must, however, offer at least two payment options: cash or credit card.
Certain merchants cannot refuse cheques. Professionals affiliated with an approved management center (CGA) must accept them and display a notice like: "We accept cheques payable to our name as members of a tax-approved management center."
As defined by tax authorities, a CGA provides technical assistance, financial management, tax support, and training to industrial, commercial, craft, and agricultural businesses. Affiliation is optional but offers tax benefits.
However, CGA members can opt for cheques or bank cards—not both. If they choose cards, they may refuse cheques. They can also decline cheques for low-value purchases typically paid in cash, where regulations mandate cash, or if banking fees exceed the transaction amount.
Even when accepting cheques, merchants may set reasonable limits. They can require a minimum or maximum purchase amount, refusing payments outside these with clear signage like "Cheques accepted from €XX" or "up to €XX."
They can also mandate photo ID, such as a national ID card, driver's license, or passport.
Finally, merchants may refuse a cheque if their bank's processing fees are disproportionate to the sale amount.
