Cash Or Credit?

The pain at the pump could get even worse for customers using plastic. News 5 has learned at least six gas stations and convenience stores in Baldwin County could soon start charging customers more for gas paid with credit. Gas station owners say an increase in fees and surcharges from credit card companies on each credit transaction could force them to make the move.

"Probably ten or 15 cents per transaction up to 70 cents just to use and run the credit card," says Erby Huggins. Huggins owns Sam's Grocery on Highway 98 in Foley. "Then the credit card company gets a percentage of the dollar amount on top of that."

The dual pricing system is simple: customers who pay cash for gas would get a better deal. Credit card users would be charged an extra six to ten cents a gallon.

"It doesn't make sense for me to give the credit card companies the profit and me sit here and get none," says Huggins.

Drivers are already fed-up with gas prices at nearly four bucks a gallon.

"That's not a good thing," says Roger George. "I guess I won't be using my credit card anymore at the pump. I'll carry cash."

Gas stations could implement the hike this summer.