Take Control of Your Profits
Accept Cards Without Sacrificing Your Bottom Line
Running a food truck is tough. Every dollar counts. That's why more food truck owners are turning to Zero Cost Credit Card Processing — a smart way to keep profits high without saying "no" to card-paying customers. Here at FTO, we're ready to help you decide if it's the right fit for your business. Learn More about Zero Cost Processing
What Is Zero Cost Credit Card Processing?
Zero Cost Credit Card Processing lets you accept credit cards without absorbing expensive processing fees. Instead, your customers cover them — leaving you with 100% of your hard-earned money.
There are three main strategies to make it happen:
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Dual Pricing
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Cash Discounting
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Surcharging
Each one is a flexible, fully legal way to accept cards while protecting your profits.
Your Options Explained
Dual Pricing
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Definition: Two prices shown — cash and card.
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Example: "Taco Plate — $10.00 Cash / $10.40 Card"
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Why It's Great: Total transparency. Customers love the choice!
Cash Discounting
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Definition: List the card price, reward cash payers with a discount.
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Example: Menu says $10.40. Pay $10.00 in cash.
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Why It's Great: Encourages more cash without confusion.
Surcharging
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Definition: Add a small fee when a card is used.
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Example: "Taco Plate $10.00 — Credit card payments include a 3% processing fee (Note: Card brand rules cap surcharges at 3%)."
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Why It's Great: Keep menu pricing simple and cover your costs.
Quick Comparison: Which Method Works Best for Your Truck?
Dual Pricing | Cash Discounting | Surcharging | |
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Best For | Menus with fewer items and space for two clear prices | Universal — works for all types of menus | Online orders or where accepting cash is not a preference or option |
Compliance | 100% legal when properly done | 100% legal | Legal in most states (check a few exceptions) |
Customer Feel | Very transparent | Positive with clear signage | Fine if explained briefly |
Display | Two prices side-by-side | One price with cash discount at checkout | One price with fee added at checkout |
Why Food Truck Owners Love It
✅ Keep More of Every Sale: No 2-4% leaks to card companies!
✅ Stay Competitive: Accept cards without losing profits.
✅ Build Trust: Transparent pricing earns loyal customers.
✅ Boost Your Cash Flow: More money for ingredients, upgrades, and big events!
Ready to Keep 100% of Your Sales?
Zero cost processing = More profits, less stress. Let one of FTO's partners help you set it up — clear, legal, and totally food-truck-friendly.
[ Get Your Free Payments Consultation Today ]
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are quick answers to common questions food truck owners ask about Zero Cost Processing.
What exactly is "Zero Cost Credit Card Processing?"
Zero Cost Credit Card Processing means you can accept credit and debit cards without paying the typical processing fees. Instead, customers cover those fees through clear, compliant pricing adjustments.
Will my customers be upset if I pass fees onto them?
When done properly with clear signage and honest communication, most customers are very accepting. Many already encounter similar models at gas stations, convenience stores, and other small businesses.
What's the difference between Dual Pricing, Cash Discounting, and Surcharging?
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Dual Pricing: You display two prices — one for cash, one for card payments.
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Cash Discounting: You show one (higher) price but offer a discount for cash payments.
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Surcharging: You add a fee (up to 3%) only when the customer chooses to pay with a credit card. Businesses must also register with the card brands before surcharging, and surcharges can only be applied to credit card transactions — not debit cards.
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Each method is legal when implemented correctly and offers flexibility depending on your food truck's needs.
Is Dual Pricing legal?
Yes! As long as prices are clearly displayed, Dual Pricing is fully legal and compliant.
Is Surcharging allowed everywhere?
Surcharging is legal in most states, but a few states and card brands have special rules. We'll help you check your local laws to make sure you're set up properly.
Why is Cash Discounting considered "universal"?
Because it fits any type of menu or service model. It only rewards customers for using cash and requires no complicated pricing displays. Additionally, no registration is required, and it is legal in all states.
How much is the surcharge if I choose to add one?
The surcharge is typically capped at 3% to stay within Visa, Mastercard, and other card brand rules.
How will I show Dual Pricing or Cash Discounting on my food truck?
You'll post simple, clear signage explaining the price differences. Menu boards can easily list cash and card prices side-by-side, or you can add a sign near the checkout counter.
Do Dual Pricing, Cash Discounting, and Surcharging cover all costs associated with accepting electronic payments?
These programs are designed to cover standard credit card processing fees. However, depending on your setup, there may still be small costs such as monthly terminal rental fees, compliance fees, or network access fees. Our FTO partners can walk you through a clear, no-surprises breakdown of any minimal costs that could apply.
Will this slow down my service?
No. Once customers are aware of their options, transactions move just as quickly as usual.
What equipment do I need?
Most modern point-of-sale (POS) systems or mobile terminals (like Fuego or similar) can easily handle Dual Pricing, Cash Discounting, or Surcharging setups. For more information on POS systems and equipment offered by FTO partners, click here.
How do I get started?
Simple — Get Your Free Payments Consultation Today with one of FTO's trusted partners. We'll walk you through the best setup for your truck, your menu, and your goals!
Common Misconceptions About Zero Cost Processing
"Customers will get angry or refuse to pay."
Most customers today expect flexible payment options and understand that convenience may carry a small cost. When pricing is presented clearly and fairly, very few object.
"This sounds shady or illegal."
Zero Cost Processing methods like Dual Pricing, Cash Discounting, and Surcharging are 100% legal when implemented correctly. We ensure full compliance with all card brand and local rules.
"It’s too complicated for my food truck."
It’s actually very simple. Most food trucks can set up and train staff within an hour. Modern POS terminals make it seamless at checkout.
"I'll lose more customers than I save in fees."
In reality, businesses that switch often experience little to no drop-off in card sales. Customers value transparency — and you'll keep more profit from every transaction.
"I’ll have to change my entire menu or pricing structure."
Not at all. We help you make small, easy adjustments that fit your current menu layout and pricing strategy with minimal disruption.
Still have questions? Let’s keep your food truck rolling with more profits and happier customers. Reach out anytime!