Cash and payments when the systems are down
Updated · 4 min read
New here? Start with our overview of home readiness: what to have ready, and why.
Denmark's payment infrastructure is secure and efficient, but situations can arise where one or more payment solutions do not work as usual, and you can prepare for that.[1] It is not about dropping the card, but about not depending on any single solution always working.
In short: Keep several payment methods ready: at least two physical cards from different brands, a payment solution on your phone, and a smaller amount of cash, with a benchmark of 250 kr. per person in the household.[1]
Keep several payment methods
The Danish central bank recommends having several different payment methods available: payment cards, cash and a payment solution on your phone, such as mobile banking or MobilePay.[1] That way you can still pay even if a single solution fails.
At least two physical cards
Each household should have at least two physical payment cards from different brands.[1] The Danish authority for societal security also points to keeping one or more physical payment cards ready in case the internet is down.[2]
A little cash at home
Keep a smaller amount in cash. A benchmark can be 250 kr. per person in the household. Assess for yourself whether your need is greater.[1] Small notes and coins are an advantage, because they make it easier for shops to give change if many people pay in cash.[1]
Keep the cash together with the rest of your kit, so it is there the day the card does not work, and remember to check the amount now and then.
Cash is not a replacement for the card, but a safety net, so you can buy the essentials if the digital solutions are down.[2]
Get your readiness sorted
See how to put together a calm home emergency kit, from water and light to the practical things you should have ready.
If you want to see the rest of your readiness, read on here: 72-hour readiness: how to manage three days
Frequently asked questions
How much cash should I keep in my emergency kit?
The Danish central bank points to a benchmark of 250 kr. per person in the household. Assess for yourself whether your need is greater. Small notes and coins are easiest to shop with.
How many payment cards should I have?
Each household should have at least two physical payment cards from different brands, so you can pay if one of them does not work.
How can I still pay if the internet is down?
Keep several different payment methods ready: payment cards, cash and a payment solution on your phone. That way you are not dependent on any single one working.
What do I do if MobilePay or my card is down?
Switch to another payment method. That is why the Danish central bank recommends several: at least two physical cards from different brands, a payment solution on your phone, and a little cash, so you can pay even if one solution fails.
Sources
- [1]Danmarks Nationalbank: Nye anbefalinger om betalinger i butikker og anden fysisk handel (2025-10-06)
- [2]Styrelsen for Samfundssikkerhed (samsik.dk): Sådan forbereder du dig