Do merchants in Hungary have to accept cash?
Yes, in most cases. Since July 1, 2025, businesses must offer a cash payment option, following a constitutional amendment. Online-only contracts, cross-border online services and cashless automated outlets are exempt, and cash on delivery counts as a cash option.
In detail
Yes, in most cases. Since July 1, 2025, businesses must offer a cash payment option, following a constitutional amendment. Online-only contracts, cross-border online services and cashless automated outlets are exempt, and cash on delivery counts as a cash option.
Payment by cash in Hungary
The law protects cash strongly. Hungary amended its constitution in March 2025, and from July 1, 2025 businesses must offer a cash payment option, with exemptions for online-only contracts, cross-border online services and cashless automated outlets. Free ATM withdrawals are a legal right too, and since February 1, 2026 account holders can withdraw up to HUF 300,000 a month free of charge, double the previous limit.
How much Hungarians still use cash
Cash is losing share but not volume. With 42% of transactions electronic in 2024, the remaining 58% were still made in cash, according to the MNB. Banknotes and coins in circulation hit a record HUF 9,636.3 billion at the end of February 2026. Online, cash shows up as cash on delivery (utánvét), still used by 30% of online shoppers in 2026, and as bill payments at the post office.
More detail in our #PayWorldTour guide Payment methods in Hungary.