The rules for paying with cash in major UK supermarkets (2024)

FAQs

Do UK supermarkets accept cash? ›

UK supermarkets do not accept any plastic cards. Cash only and they're still using pounds shillings and pence though it is expected they will soon begin accept the new decimal currency which was introduced recently in 1971.

There is no legal limit for cash payments. However, the trader is also not legally obliged to always accept cash payments. Such procedures must be clearly communicated, for example in the form of signs at the entrance of a shop, e.g. refusing to accept more than 50 coins or a large banknote.

There is no cash limit to bring into the UK money from abroad, however you do need to declare if you bring cash to the UK of £10,000 or more. When you arrive in the UK, follow the “goods to declare” or “red channel” signs, and tell a Border Force officer you want to declare cash.

Ways of financing major purchases

There are several ways of paying for something expensive, including cash (from checking or savings), credit cards, personal loans and lines of credit. Each comes with its own set of caveats.

Yes. While many people prefer to transact by card in the UK, there are some times when cash is unavoidable, such as when shopping in markets or with small stores.

Cards accounted for the overwhelming proportion (85%) of money spent, with debit cards taking three-quarters of this spending. They are used more often than credit cards but for smaller value transactions. Meanwhile, cash increased to 11% of consumer spend (8% in 2021).

It is estimated that by the year 2043, the UK will be a completely cashless society, however this depends on how the government accepts and actions a completely cashless UK. The demise in the use of cheques shows a similar progression to cash, in which the use has plummeted.

In certain circ*mstances, dealing with physical cash may be easier or more convenient. However, whilst paying or receiving cash in hand are not illegal activities, certain rules must be followed to remain on the right side of the law.

Legally there is no limit per se. In theory you could walk around carrying over £1million. You would be stupid to do so, however. If the police saw you carrying large amounts of cash, say thousands or more, then they would ask you where you got it from, what you were doing/planning to do with it.

You don't need cash, and when paying for a coffee, contactless is the norm rather than cash. Worth getting some cash out of a cash point though just in case though, but it's highly likely that it'll go untouched. Tipping is a whole other subject - certainly don't be tipping for coffee, drinks at a bar etc.

How much cash can you carry on a plane internationally? ›

You need to declare it when traveling internationally

It's legal to travel with more than $10,000 in the United States and abroad. You have the right to travel with as much money as you want. However, during international travel, you need to report currency and monetary instruments in excess of $10,000.

Venmo, Cash App, Google Pay, Zelle, PayPal, and wire transfer are some of the safest way to send money digitally. Money transfer apps are inexpensive and convenient options for paying family and friends. Wire transfers at a bank are ideal for securely sending large amounts domestically or internationally.

Protect yourself with proof of payment

If you pay a bill in cash, ask the party receiving payment to record it in their records and give you a sales receipt. The receipt should show your name, a short description of the product or service purchased, the transaction date, and the amount paid.

Businesses are able to choose the forms of payment they accept. The government's proposals for legislation support cash acceptance. It did recognise that some 'vulnerable people' rely on cash. However, it made it clear that it is still the right of the individual businesses to choose what form of payment they accept.

Working cash in hand refers to the practice of receiving payment for goods or services without declaring it for tax purposes. While it may seem like an appealing option for some individuals, it is important to understand that this practice is illegal in the United Kingdom.

Tesco does not have any rules over cash payments - but advises on its website: "Since the start of the pandemic, we've focused on ensuring everyone can get the food they need in a safe environment. "Our safety measures are there to protect you and our colleagues, as we all follow the latest government guidance."

Declare cash when you arrive in the UK

At UK customs, follow 'goods to declare' or 'red channel' signs, and tell a Border Force officer you want to declare cash. You may have to use a courtesy phone. They may give you a paper form to fill in or take your declaration themselves.