Nizhny Novgorod residents were explained whether sellers have the right to demand payment via QR code.

      On July 8, 2026, at 17:16 Society More and more often, stores are offering customers to pay for goods via QR code, citing terminal malfunctions or other reasons. Alexey Konetsky, a member of the regional branch of the Association of Lawyers of Russia, explained to NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" how legal this requirement is.

      Often, the imposition of a payment method is related to the fact that the commission for acquiring when using a bank card is higher than when transferring through the Fast Payment System. The expert confirmed that it is more profitable for businesses when customers pay via QR code. At the same time, the bill and the customer remain the same; only the payment method and the commission size change. However, the store has no right to demand that the customer use this method.

      "I do not have the right, as a seller, as a person providing services, to demand payment only via QR code. I can only politely ask. If I am refused, then I must provide the method that is convenient for the customer. That is, the requirement is illegal," the lawyer explained.

      According to Alexey Konetsky, a customer can refuse to pay via QR code; in this case, the seller is obliged to accept cash or a bank card. Speaking about judicial practice, the specialist noted that such disputes rarely reach litigation.

      "It’s a very petty issue. Personally, in more than 12 years of practice, I cannot recall a dispute over a payment method reaching court," added Alexey Konetsky.

      If a customer believes their rights have been violated, they can file a complaint with Rospotrebnadzor. The lawyer clarified that such issues are usually resolved out of court.

      The communication with the lawyer took place as part of a joint project of the media group NOIC and the Nizhny Novgorod regional branch of the Association of Lawyers of Russia "So You Know." Earlier, Nizhny Novgorod residents were informed whether it is possible to return goods without a cash register receipt. NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" has channels on Telegram and MAX. Subscribe to stay updated on the main events, exclusive materials, and operational information. Copyright © 1999—2025 NIA "Nizhny Novgorod." When reprinting, a hyperlink to NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" is mandatory. This resource may contain materials 18+.