Wait a minute.. These businesses want the benefits of accepting credit cards, but do not want to abide by the rules? They either accept credit cards or they do not accept credit cards.

When I try to pay with my Amex at some places, I'm told there is a "minimum charge." When I remind them that it is against their merchant agreement, I usually get "the look" and my card is then accepted. If they still reject my card, I call Amex and report them. Sorry, but I have the card because I usually carry no cash unless I know I'm going to need it.

Honestly, the fact that some small business owners are "trying to make ends meet" and "trying to support their families" is none of my business.