Uber introduces cash payments across most UK cities – but London remains cashless

In a major policy shift, Uber has introduced cash payments for customers in many of the UK cities in which it operates – though not in London. Previously Uber operated solely via bookings made via credit card through its app. This appears to recognise that a significant sector of the UK population still wants to use cash.

Uber wants to introduce cash payments in London too, but its proposals are under review by Transport for London pending a decision, so for now, Uber’s London ride-hailing service remains cashless.

The move follows an 18-month trial that revealed a persistent demand for cash, especially among people without bank cards or those who simply prefer using money they can touch and track. Uber now lets users choose “cash” in the app as a payment option. If the driver doesn’t have enough change, Uber ensures the passenger receives a credit for the difference.

Uber said it would not force the new policy on drivers. For many drivers, carrying money in the car adds a layer of risk of robbery, so drivers have been given the freedom to opt out of accepting cash altogether. Drivers can simply disable the feature in their app settings.

For now, the cash payment option is limited to ride-hailing services. It does not apply to Uber Eats orders or other transport modes booked through the platform.

Uber’s decision arrives amid louder calls to protect access to cash in an increasingly digital economy. The government’s Treasury Committee recently published a report warning that millions of people, including elderly individuals, those with disabilities, low-income families and victims of domestic abuse, could be left behind if cash disappeared altogether, though the committee did not go so far as to recommend a law mandating cash acceptance.