This paper analyzes the affordability of cash in an international context and argues that maintaining affordable access to cash is essential for a resilient and efficient payment system. Placing the consumer at the center of the analysis, it reviews the literature on payment instrument costs, traces costs along the entire cash cycle, and evaluates regulatory frameworks and their effects on cash demand and infrastructure. On this basis, the paper formulates policy recommendations aimed at safeguarding affordable access to cash within a diversified and inclusive payment ecosystem.