Commonwealth Bank has urged the Reserve Bank to scrap surcharges on debit and credit card payments, amid mounting consumer anger over the ubiquitous practice.

The RBA is evaluating the future of payments to ensure the system is fairer and fit for purpose. Before the election, the Albanese government is searching for ways to alleviate cost-of-living pressures, and has seized on eliminating surcharges as an issue that will play well with voters without adding pressure to the budget.