Most dispensaries can’t take credit cards, and it’s not their fault. Here’s the real reason why and what your options are (Cash, Debit, ATM).
So… can dispensaries take credit cards?
Short answer? Nah, not really. Even in states where cannabis is totally legal, like here in New Mexico, most dispensaries still can’t swipe your Visa or Mastercard. It’s not because they don’t want to, trust us, they do. It’s because federal laws and banking rules make it super messy.
Why don’t most dispensaries accept credit cards?
Alright, let’s break it down. Cannabis is still not legal at the federal level. So even though New Mexico says it’s cool, the big banks and credit card companies (like Visa and Mastercard) follow federal rules. That means they won’t allow transactions that involve cannabis, period.
Even if a dispensary is fully licensed and operating legally in Carlsbad or Hobbs, they’re still caught in this weird legal limbo. The banks don’t want to risk being accused of money laundering or violating federal law, so they just say nope.
Are there any workarounds?
Kind of, but they’re sketchy. Some dispensaries have tried using things like “cashless ATMs” or “point-of-banking” systems that make it look like you’re withdrawing cash. But lately, credit card companies have started cracking down on that too. A few spots in other states are experimenting with things like text-to-pay or third-party apps, but it’s not common.
Here in New Mexico? It’s mostly Cash and Debit. So if you’re heading to our Carlsbad Pierce Street location, the Canyon Street shop, or our Hobbs Marland Blvd store we offer and accept Cash, Card, and have an ATM in each location.
Will dispensaries ever be able to take cards?
That’s the dream. There’s a federal bill called the “SAFE Banking Act” (and yeah, they keep renaming it and reworking it) that would let banks work with cannabis businesses without all the legal drama. If that passes? Then yeah, dispensaries might finally be able to run your card like a normal store.
Until then, cash and debit are still king. Just something to plan for when you’re prepping your next pickup.
Quick heads up if you’re visiting
Prices are usually listed before tax, and most spots don’t add card fees (because… no cards). So just budget a little extra for tax and maybe tip your Budtender while you’re at it . They’re working hard.
Wanna know the current payment options at our stores?
Your best bet is to check in directly. Here are our New Mexico locations:
Pierce Street – Carlsbad, NM
Canyon Street – Carlsbad, NM
Marland Blvd – Hobbs, NM
Give ’em a call or swing by, we’ll always do our best to make it easy.