Dispensaries across US face cashless ATM issues

Debit issue leaves several dispensaries taking cash only

In some states, the system that allowed dispensaries to accept debit cards is no longer working, forcing businesses to ask customers to pay with cash instead. On December 2nd a handful of Massachusetts dispensaries began notifying their customers that their debit systems no longer worked.

Cashless ATM systems that allowed customers to pay directly using their debit card at the point of sale are now under scrutiny. To avoid having the transactions flagged by banks, cannabis businesses would use the system to categorize debit purchases as ATM withdrawals. According to reporting from Bloomberg one of the largest processors of ATM transactions has pulled the plug, no longer letting businesses use the workaround. The move is difficult for consumers who enjoy the flexibility and ease of being able to pay with their debit card. Not all cannabis businesses are affected by the recent development. Although some dispensaries have not experienced disruptions and continue to accept debit cards, the number of businesses experiencing an interruption in service is growing daily.

Find the full story from Bloomberg on their website here: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-12-05/how-to-buy-weed-that-s-changing-as-cashless-atms-close