Debit card interchange fees help pay for consumers and merchants to access one of the most convenient payment systems in the world.

But giant retailers don’t want to pay their fair share for this system – one that brings them higher sales and guaranteed payment.  They want consumers to foot the bill instead. In fact, they’ve been lobbying Congress for years to shift their costs to their customers.

In 2010, giant retailers got their wish. Without any hearings and barely any debate, Congress added an amendment to the financial reform bill that directed the Federal Reserve to put price controls on debit interchange.

In December, the Fed issued a draconian regulation that reduces fees paid by retailers by 70 to 90 percent. As a result, the nation’s largest 2 percent of retailers will receive a $12 billion windfall – and debit card users like you will have to pay the tab.

What does this mean for you?

YOU could see higher fees, reduced rewards, and new debit card restrictions, unless Congress acts now to stop the rule.

You shouldn’t have to pay more to use your debit card.

TELL CONGRESS: DON’T MAKE US PAY.

For more information, contact the Electronic Payments Coalition at info@electronicpaymentscoalition.org.