Farewell to the penny — How retailers are adjusting as coin makes costly exit
Whether paying cash or card, consumers are getting taxed 3% when they pay with a credit card. Now, they may be paying a few cents extra when paying cash.
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The U.S. Mint printed pennies for the last time in November – now retailers must adjust because, just like everything else, it comes with a price.
Whether paying cash or card, consumers are getting taxed 3% when they pay with a credit card. Now, they may be paying a few cents extra when paying cash. This is because retailers are asking to either round up or round down per purchase.
"I use a card," said Sabina. "The card will solve that as well, right? But some people like to have cash."
Shoppers seem to have mixed reactions. Some say that it will help speed up checkout lines. Others say it is just another way for your cost to increase.
"I mostly pay by card, so it's not affecting me too much," said Gail.
RELATED: Stores in the Garden State are finding themselves a few pennies short of change
The penny was discontinued due to the high price of manufacturing them – almost four cents to produce a single penny.
"It is pretty sad, right? That's what we're used to is the penny so it's sort of weird not to be able to use it," said Sabina. "What will you do with your piggy bank?"
Already, some convenience stores, Dunkin', supermarkets and retailers, including ShopRite and Whole Foods, have had locations dealing with the penny shortages. News 12 met with the owners of a local bakery who are also having to adjust.
"It is a weird situation. Who knew that pennies could be that important right now?" said the owners of Cake Artist Bakery.
Be sure to look out for any signs near checkout that will help you decipher if you're rounding up or down when paying cash or simply select the "card only" option.
