Question:
Hello Rabbi,
I am wondering if there is a halachic advantage to paying with cash as opposed to credit card whenever I go to the laundromat to pick up my laundry. Note: there is an understanding in advance that the owner of the laundromat will accept credit card payment for his service.
Thank you for your consideration
Answer:
Hello,
I think that there is an advantage to paying in cash, if the owner is Jewish. There is a mitzva to pay one’s worker, on the day that the work was done, and the same applies for a rental. Using the washing machine is a type of rental, and by paying cash you are giving the owner his money right away. (If the credit card company pays the vendor right away then this advantage would not apply)
Best wishes
