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Cannabis payment methods compared

Understand how each payment method works, what it requires and which questions to ask before you sign.

Payment methods explained

Different rails. Different risks.

Providers sometimes use similar marketing language for technically different systems. The distinction matters when evaluating cannabis transactions.

MethodRailWhat to knowPrimary caution
CashNo electronic networkCash management, deposit handling and in-store procedures.Operational cash exposure
ACH / pay by bankBank-account transferBank-linked customer authorization; returns and reconciliation.Bank / provider eligibility
PIN debit via an EFT networkDebit network, if permittedPIN entry alone does not prove marijuana transactions are authorized.Network and sponsor approval
Conventional credit / signature debitVisa or MastercardProhibited for marijuana purchases under current major network policies.Not an approved THC route
Cashless ATM workaroundATM transaction presentationMay mischaracterize a purchase and trigger network enforcement.High compliance risk
Visa and Mastercard restrictions are described in the 2026 GAO review of banking services for cannabis businesses.

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