Cover for the February 2026 SMB Growth Report, A PYMNTS Intelligence and Mastercard collaboration. PYMNTS Intelligence shows why SMBs still use cash and checks and what speeds adoption of business credit cards and digital payments.

Nearly Half of SMBs Want to Ditch Cash and Checks

Ready for Change: Why Nearly Half of SMBs Want to Ditch Cash and Checks

SMBs are signaling that they’re ready to modernize how they pay suppliers, but they need payment tools that fit real workflows. “Ready for Change: Why Nearly Half of SMBs Want to Ditch Cash and Checks,” a PYMNTS Intelligence and Mastercard collaboration, shows where momentum is building for business credit cards and what could unlock faster adoption.

Inside the February Report

  • Cash- and check-heavy behaviors often reflect practical workflow needs, not a dislike of digital payments, creating a clear opening for solutions that fit how SMBs already run the business.
  • SMBs most reliant on cash are also among the most motivated to cut back, signaling readiness for modern options that improve speed, visibility, and control.
  • Many SMBs value cards as operating tools, especially when they offer liquidity, protection and flexibility, such as adjustable payment windows and digital management tools.

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