In Illinois, businesses can legally refuse to accept cash—even for small in-person purchases. That may sound modern and convenient. But for many people, it’s a barrier to basic access.

Right now, Illinois has no law requiring stores, restaurants, or services to take cash. Several lawmakers have tried to change that—but each time, the bills have quietly died in committee. That means businesses are still free to go completely cashless, even if it shuts out people who don’t have a bank account, a credit card, or government-issued ID.

Across the country, other states—including New Jersey and Massachusetts—have already passed laws protecting the right to pay with cash. But in Illinois, it’s still legal to walk into a store with the money to pay—and be turned away.

For millions of Americans, cash isn’t a backup. It’s their only payment option. According to the Pew Research Center, people with lower incomes, immigrants, young people, and seniors are all far more likely to rely on cash for everyday spending. Going cashless might be a business decision—but it’s one that comes at the expense of financial inclusion and equal access.

We are calling on the Illinois General Assembly and Governor JB Pritzker to pass legislation requiring all businesses to accept cash for in-person purchases under $2,000.

No one should be denied access to food, transportation, medicine, or basic goods because they don’t have the right kind of plastic. If a business is open to the public, it should accept public currency.

Sign this petition to demand that Illinois protect the right to pay with cash—and ensure that no one is excluded from everyday life because of how they bank.