TITLE: Slovenia's Ministry of Finance Launches Public Consultation on Cash Access and Free Basic Payment Services Bill
BODY:
On July 17, 2026, Slovenia's Ministry of Finance, through its Financial System Directorate, launched a public consultation on a proposed law regulating cash accessibility and payment services. The bill implements Article 74.a of the Slovenian Constitution, which recognises the right to use cash, and addresses the constitutional right's practical implementation.
The proposed legislation establishes several key requirements. It mandates that merchants and service providers accept cash at points of sale, with clearly defined exceptions, while simultaneously requiring them to enable payment using at least one electronic payment method. Credit institutions and Pošta Slovenije (the national postal service) must maintain sufficient networks of cash access points—automated teller machines and branches—ensuring appropriate geographic coverage and density. In settlements with more than 1,000 residents, an automated teller machine must be available within five kilometres of the settlement centre, with similar criteria applying to branches in larger settlements. The bill also introduces limits on cash withdrawal and deposit fees, requires uninterrupted infrastructure operation, and establishes measures to manage operational risks ensuring reliable cash access during emergencies.
A significant addition to the original March 2026 draft, incorporated under the 2026–2030 coalition agreement, establishes a free basic payment services package for individuals receiving regular income. Eligible consumers—those receiving salaries, pensions, unemployment benefits, or scholarships—gain access to free services including account opening and maintenance, debit cards, online and mobile banking, unlimited inflows, cash transactions at their own bank, at least five free monthly automated teller machine withdrawals at other banks, and debit card payments. Vulnerable groups and pensioners receive expanded packages including free credit transfers, standing orders, and direct debits.
The government aims to adopt the bill by September 2026 for submission to the National Assembly, targeting passage by year-end. The Ministry of Finance coordinated the proposal with Banka Slovenije (the central bank) and relevant ministries.
REFERENCES:
Government of Slovenia. "V javni obravnavi predlog zakona o dostopnosti gotovine in brezplačnih osnovnih plačnih storitvah." July 17, 2026. https://www.gov.si/novice/v-javni-obravnavi-predlog-zakona-o-dostopnosti-gotovine-in-brezplacnih-osnovnih-placnih-storitvah/