Buc-ee’s customers are debating a new policy that requires card payments at the pump.
While customers can still prepay inside with cash, those using credit or debit cards can no longer pay for gas at the register.
One Florida customer, Griffin McCarty, posted a video on TikTok claiming he was not allowed to use a gift card to purchase gas at the St. Augustine location.
Here’s what to know.
Can you use Buc-ee’s gift cards to buy gas?
The company has not updated its gift card policies on its website. The FAQ section simply states, “You can use your Gift Card at any Buc-ee’s in-store location.”
However, Buc-ee’s introduced a new fueling policy starting March 1. Reports indicate that signage now directs customers using credit or debit cards to pay at the pump, while those paying with cash can still prepay inside.
What is Buc-ee’s pay-at-the-pump policy?
According to signage introduced March 1:
- Fuel cannot be purchased inside the store using credit or debit cards
- Customers using credit or debit cards must pay at the pump
- Customers paying with cash can still prepay inside the store
Reactions to the new Buc-ee’s policy are mixed
Reactions on social media and Reddit are divided. Some customers support the change, saying it may speed up transactions and prevent drivers from leaving their cars at pumps while shopping inside.
Others raised concerns about debit card holds, pumps running out of receipt paper, and the risk of card skimming when paying at the pump instead of inside.
The policy may also create confusion for customers who want to shop inside and purchase fuel but do not carry cash.
Does Buc-ee’s place holds on cards when you pay at the pump?
When customers pay with a card, gas stations authorize a set amount before fueling. This “hold” ensures sufficient funds are available since the station does not know how much fuel will be purchased in advance.
“For example, if the pump is authorized for $100.00 and $40.00 of gas is pumped, then there will be a $40.00 charge and a $100.00 hold,” Buc-ee’s states on its website. “Holds can last for up to 72 hours.”
The company noted that the duration of the hold depends on the debit or credit card issuer.
Buc-ee’s locations receive ‘F’ rating from Better Business Bureau
The chain also recently faced criticism after dozens of Buc-ee’s locations received an “F” rating from the Better Business Bureau. The organization said the rating was due to the company failing to respond to 88 customer complaints.
As of April 7, about 43 locations still hold an “F” rating.
Buc-ee’s locations currently open in Kentucky
Two Buc-ee’s locations are currently open in Kentucky:
- 1013 Buc-ee’s Boulevard in Richmond
- 4001 Smiths Grove-Scottsville Road in Smiths Grove
Ohio’s first Buc-ee’s store opens near Dayton
Ohio’s first Buc-ee’s store recently opened in Huber Heights near Dayton. The location opened at 6 a.m. on April 6, with a grand opening held at noon.
The store sits at the intersection of State Route 235 and Interstate 70, about 15 minutes northeast of Dayton, roughly 65 miles from Cincinnati and 160 miles from Louisville.
What is Buc-ee’s?
Buc-ee’s started in Texas in 1982 and has since expanded beyond the state. Its locations operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, serving as one-stop destinations for travelers and locals.
The chain is known for relatively low gas prices, a large number of fuel pumps, a wide selection of hot food and freshly prepared bakery items, an extensive range of snacks and jerky, and a large retail section featuring home goods, clothing, and more.
GasBuddy.com has recognized Buc-ee’s for having the cleanest restrooms among convenience store chains in the U.S. In May 2024, USA TODAY’s 10Best ranked Buc-ee’s among the top 10 for both Best Gas Station Brand and Best Gas Station for Food.
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