Most states have a specific statute (often called defrauding an innkeeper) that makes it a criminal offense to obtain food, lodging, fuel, or other accommodations at a restaurant, hotel, ski resort, campground, marina, gas station, or other establishment, with the intent not to pay for such goods and services—or to secure credit at such an establishment through fraud or other means of deceit (false pretenses). Proof that a person refused or neglected to pay for such food, lodging, fuel, or accommodations, or gave payment that was not honored (declined credit card, bad check) is generally proof of such fraudulent intent not to pay for the goods or services.

The definitions and punishment for this criminal offense vary from state to state, but generally may be prosecuted as a misdemeanor or as a felony, and may include confinement in jail or state prison. In some states, if the amount owed was disputed and the amount offered in payment was refused, a person cannot be convicted under the statute.

In Washington State, the offense of defrauding an innkeeper is covered under RCW 9A.56.010 and RCW 9A.56.080. This statute makes it a crime to obtain food, lodging, or other accommodations at an establishment without paying or with the intent to not pay. The law considers actions such as refusing to pay, providing a declined credit card, or writing a bad check as evidence of fraudulent intent. Depending on the value of the goods or services obtained, the offense can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or a felony. The penalties may include fines, restitution, and imprisonment. However, if there is a genuine dispute over the amount owed and a reasonable payment offer was refused, this may serve as a defense against the charge of defrauding an innkeeper.