Tech QA: Cannabis POS, Payments and Onsite ATMs

What We'll Cover...

• Point of Sale (POS) Systems: Features & Compliance
• Payment Processing Solutions for Cannabis Retail
• ATM & Cashless ATM Options
• Integration & Security Best Practices
• Your Questions Answered in Real-Time

Your Questions?

Interactive Q&A Segment: Ask anything about POS systems, payments, ATMs, compliance, or cannabis retail operations in the registration sign-up! Or email them to info@carpfishcreative.com.

Cannabis POS Systems Questions...

Cannabis-specific POS platforms differ from retail systems—they're designed for compliance-heavy operations.

• Real-time inventory tracking & Metrc integration
• Automated compliance reporting to state systems
• THC equivalency calculations & tracking
• Multi-location management & iPad-based operations

Q: What are the key features to look for in a cannabis POS system? Compliance automation (Metrc sync), real-time inventory, delivery management, multi-location support, security camera integration, and local government reporting capabilities..

Q: How does POS software prevent over-limit sales? Advanced systems automatically calculate THC equivalencies and alert staff when purchases approach legal limits, preventing compliance violations.

Cannabis Payment Challenges Questions...

Federal restrictions limit traditional card processing for cannabis retailers.

• Credit/debit card restrictions create cash-heavy operations
• Cash management & security risks
• Customer friction at checkout
• Banking compliance & anti-money laundering (AML) requirements

Q: What payment methods can cannabis dispensaries accept? Cash (primary), PIN Debit cards, Cashless ATM transactions, and some cash-equivalent payment systems. Traditional credit cards remain restricted.

Q: How does PIN Debit differ from credit card processing? PIN Debit is treated as an ATM transaction, not a purchase, allowing debit access without triggering card network restrictions on cannabis sales.

Traditional & Cashless ATMs

ATMs serve dual purposes: providing customer cash access and generating revenue.

• Traditional ATM: Customers withdraw cash to pay for purchases
• Cashless ATM: Debit card → PIN entry → direct payment (avoids cash handling)
• Revenue-sharing models with ATM providers
• Compliance & PCI security requirements

Q: Should dispensaries use traditional or cashless ATMs? Many use both—traditional ATMs increase cash availability, while cashless ATMs streamline transactions and reduce security risks. Strategy depends on the customer base and location.

Q: What are the compliance/security requirements for on-site ATMs? PCI DSS compliance, SOC 2 reporting, 24/7 transaction monitoring, cash handling protocols, and coordination with local banking regulations.

Q: Should dispensaries use traditional or cashless ATMs? Many use both—traditional ATMs increase cash availability, while cashless ATMs streamline transactions and reduce security risks. Strategy depends on the customer base and location.

Q: What are the compliance/security requirements for on-site ATMs? PCI DSS compliance, SOC 2 reporting, 24/7 transaction monitoring, cash handling protocols, and coordination with local banking regulations

Key Takeaways

• Cannabis POS systems are compliance-critical—don't compromise on features
• Payment solutions require federal/state understanding—plan ahead
• ATMs boost customer experience AND generate revenue
• Security & training are non-negotiable for success
• Vendor partnerships drive operational excellence