Government Set to Require Businesses to Accept Cash by 2028 After Assembly Vote

The next government will be expected to introduce measures requiring businesses to accept cash payments by January 2028, following a States Assembly decision on Friday.

Politicians backed a proposal from Deputy Montfort Tadier aimed at preserving cash as a payment option for islanders. The motion passed with 31 members voting in favour and eight against.

Tadier told the Assembly there was an “important window of opportunity” to safeguard the continued use of cash. In his proposal, he argued that as the island moves rapidly toward a digital economy, protections are needed to ensure no one is excluded.

“This is to ensure that as we transition at ever-increasing speed into a digital economy, and potentially a cashless one, no one is left behind,” he wrote. “It is also to make sure that Jersey has a plan to ensure people retain a choice.”

Deputy Helen Miles supported the proposal, highlighting the importance of cash for individuals with additional needs. She explained that a family member with severe learning disabilities and autism relies on cash to manage money and maintain independence.

“This debate isn’t really about cash,” she said. “It’s about everyday independence and inclusion. For my family member, cash isn’t outdated - it’s how he understands money, maintains independence, and participates in daily life. For many autistic people, routine, clarity and predictability are essential.”

However, not all politicians agreed. Deputy Kirsten Morel warned that requiring all businesses to accept cash could create financial and security risks, particularly for venues such as nightclubs.

“You would be binding all businesses, regardless of their customer base, to accept cash,” he said. “In nightclubs, most customers are younger and prefer not to carry cash, especially where it could be lost or stolen.”

He also pointed out the added burden for businesses, noting that handling cash increases security risks and that banks charge fees for depositing it.