Half of Britons say they had trouble paying their bills last year, new research can reveal.
An analysis of figures from the Connected network of ATMs shows a 22 percent increase from 2023 to places that did not accept or hindered the use of cash by 2024.
The survey of 2,000 adults found that parking lots topped the list, with 21 percent of respondents citing them as the least expensive places to spend.
This was followed by cafes and restaurants (20 percent) and public transport and taxis (both 10 percent).
More than half of respondents (59 percent) say it caused them problems, an increase from 48 percent last year.
The use of cash has declined over the past decade as people increasingly use wireless and mobile payments.
No: An analysis of figures from the Connected ATM network shows a 22% increase from 2023 in places that refused or hindered the use of cash by 2024
Currently there is no law requiring businesses to accept the loan.
Last month the Treasury Select Committee opened an inquiry calling for recommendations to decide whether new legislation is needed to enforce the currency agreement across Britain.
It said the fund would remain a ‘critical resource for many’ and could be a ‘lifeline for groups such as those with chronic health conditions, those at risk of economic exploitation’ .
Contactless payments are still the most popular payment option, with 43 percent of adults using them regularly, followed by 22 percent who prefer mobile payments.
According to Graham Mott, director of strategy at Link: ‘Forcing the acceptance of money in other countries has not always been successful, many businesses have already left the bank as it has been demand declines.
‘However, there is still a high reliance on finance alongside the growing number of people who are digitally excluded.
‘It is important to debate how to address this issue.’
