Merchant Account Fees To Business Owners
By Debbie Dragon
As a business owner, when you set up a merchant account to
enable your customers the ability to pay for your products or
services using credit cards (or debit cards with a Visa or
Mastercard Logo), you will have some fees associated with the
credit card transactions.
The specific fee amounts that you pay will depend on the
merchant account provider you select to provide your credit card
processing service; however, there is a list of typical fees
that the majority of providers charge business owners in
exchange for the ability to accept credit as payment.
Discount Rates
Visa and MasterCard have what is called “interchange” rates.
They range in price- so in order to make it easier, the merchant
providers created three categories.
Qualified Discount Rate – a percentage is paid from each dollar
charged.
Mid-Qualified Rate – does not apply to merchants that manually
enter transactions.
Non-Qualified Rate – added to the qualified rate n certain
transactions. Also get billed this higher rate if you don’t use
address verification service (AVS) when you manually enter
transactions.
Other fees many merchant account providers charge their
business customers include, but are not limited to the
following:
Reward Cards- most merchant providers charge higher rates if
the consumer pays using a reward card.
Transaction Fees- a specific, flat rate that is paid on every
sale processed through the credit card processor. (Sometimes
the transaction fee is called the interchange fee, authorization
fee, or per inquiry fee).
Address Verification Service (AVS)- merchant account providers
charge a small fee for the validation service to ensure that the
billing address provided in the online checkout process matches
the issuing bank’s records. Not using this service will result
in hefty charges on the processing of the card for that sale.
Batch Fees- most merchant account providers require that
customers close out their transactions a minimum of one time
each day. The batch fee pays for expenses for the gateway or
software that accesses the credit card processing network. If
you don’t have transactions to process, there is no batch fee to
pay.
Monthly Statement or Customer Service Fee – most merchant
account providers charge a monthly fee in order to cover their
monthly costs of operation (paying their customer service team
for example).
Monthly Minimum Fee- some merchant account providers require
you process a minimum amounts of sales per month, or you pay a
monthly minimum. Monthly minimums tend to range between $15 and
$40 per month.
Gateway Fees- for some merchant accounts, there are fees for
internet and mail order merchants to use an internet gateway
service such as Authorize.net, although some merchant providers
will cover this fee on their customer’s behalf as part of the
package deal. If you are solely an internet business, you’ll
want to look for an internet merchant account that includes the
gateway service as part of the package.
Annual Fees- often charged by merchant account providers-
particularly the merchant account providers that offer free
terminal equipment. There are numerous merchant account
providers that do not charge an annual fee, so you may want to
shop around if the first few you look at require an annual fee.
Sometimes it would be cheaper to purchase the equipment than to
pay an ongoing annual fee.
Cancellation/Termination Fees- Most merchant accounts require a
contract agreement of one or two years and if you cancel early,
you are likely to be charged a termination fee.
Chargeback/Retrieval Fees- When a customer requests a refund
(or the customer’s credit card issuer requests a refund),
merchant account providers typically charge a “chargeback” fee.
About the Author: This article has been provided courtesy of
Creditor Web, http://www.creditorweb.com .
Source: http://www.isnare.com
Friday, July 27, 2007
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Merchant Services
Merchant Accounts
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Marcus_Peterson]Marcus Peterson
An account where merchants can accept credit card payments is known as a merchant account. Merchant accounts can be acquired through credit card companies, banks, or any other payment processor. A merchant wanting to take credit card payments must have a merchant account.
There are three major forms of merchant accounts. One is the retail merchant account. This account generally offers the lowest transaction fees, but often comes with stringent rules. Retail merchant accounts mostly require credit card sales be done with the "card present." In other words, the card has to be swiped through a credit card terminal for the transaction to take place. Retail merchant accounts are usually linked with restaurants, small hotels and grocery stores. Retail merchant accounts are not suited for merchants who want to conduct business through the Internet or the mail.
Mail Order Telephone Order (MOTO) accounts generally charge higher transaction rates; these accounts are used when the credit cards cannot be physically utilized. In this case, merchants process the payments by entering the customer’s credit card data onto a personal computer, or through a standard web browser, where they can process the transaction on the payment service provider's website.
Internet merchant accounts are quite similar to MOTO accounts in that the credit card need not be physically used. However, these transactions can only be done through the Internet. Merchants with Internet accounts employ a payment service gateway or a virtual terminal to process credit card transactions.
It is imperative to choose the appropriate form of merchant account for the business you are conducting. Also, it is wise to carefully go through the terms of service of the providers, as many charge a fortune and have strict rules. [http://www.z-MerchantAccounts.com]Merchant Accounts provides detailed information on Merchant Accounts, Credit Card Merchant Accounts, Internet Merchant Accounts, About High Risk Merchant Accounts and more. Merchant Accounts is affiliated with [http://www.merchantservices-web.com]Internet Merchant Services.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marcus_Peterson http://EzineArticles.com/?Merchant-Accounts&id=251460
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Marcus_Peterson]Marcus Peterson
An account where merchants can accept credit card payments is known as a merchant account. Merchant accounts can be acquired through credit card companies, banks, or any other payment processor. A merchant wanting to take credit card payments must have a merchant account.
There are three major forms of merchant accounts. One is the retail merchant account. This account generally offers the lowest transaction fees, but often comes with stringent rules. Retail merchant accounts mostly require credit card sales be done with the "card present." In other words, the card has to be swiped through a credit card terminal for the transaction to take place. Retail merchant accounts are usually linked with restaurants, small hotels and grocery stores. Retail merchant accounts are not suited for merchants who want to conduct business through the Internet or the mail.
Mail Order Telephone Order (MOTO) accounts generally charge higher transaction rates; these accounts are used when the credit cards cannot be physically utilized. In this case, merchants process the payments by entering the customer’s credit card data onto a personal computer, or through a standard web browser, where they can process the transaction on the payment service provider's website.
Internet merchant accounts are quite similar to MOTO accounts in that the credit card need not be physically used. However, these transactions can only be done through the Internet. Merchants with Internet accounts employ a payment service gateway or a virtual terminal to process credit card transactions.
It is imperative to choose the appropriate form of merchant account for the business you are conducting. Also, it is wise to carefully go through the terms of service of the providers, as many charge a fortune and have strict rules. [http://www.z-MerchantAccounts.com]Merchant Accounts provides detailed information on Merchant Accounts, Credit Card Merchant Accounts, Internet Merchant Accounts, About High Risk Merchant Accounts and more. Merchant Accounts is affiliated with [http://www.merchantservices-web.com]Internet Merchant Services.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marcus_Peterson http://EzineArticles.com/?Merchant-Accounts&id=251460
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Merchant Services
Merchant Account Fees: Are They Worth It?
By Debbie Dragon
Merchant account services are the services that allow you to
accept credit cards as payments, both online and off, and help
you handle the credit card transaction processing. Without
merchant accounts, your customers would have to pay with cash or
check- and believe it or not, most customers will spend more if
they can swipe their card and worry about the bill later.
The Cost of Accepting Credit Cards
Merchant accounts can be costly. There are numerous providers
of merchant accounts that are reputable and offer good value for
their service- but there are even more providers of merchant
accounts that charge excessive fees and have hidden expenses
that you were not aware of when agreeing to use their service to
accept credit cards online.
Fees range from per transaction fees (usually a percentage or a
few cents on each card processed) to monthly or annual
maintenance fees that can range from a few dollars to a few
hundred dollars.
Online Businesses Need Merchant Accounts
Online merchant accounts are crucial to having a successful
online business venture. Consider it from the eyes of a
customer: if you were on a website, looking to buy a widget,
would you want to take the time to mail a check or money order,
or do you plan on making a purchase right then with your debit
or credit card? Most people don’t want to take the time to
write and mail a check or money order for an online purchase-
not having the ability to accept credit or debit cards will
severely hurt your business as an online merchant.
As the merchant, credit and debit cards make your life easier,
as well. You get your money much faster than waiting for a
customer to write and mail a check or money order; and you don’t
have to wait for the payment to clear the bank before you can
mail out their purchase. Credit card payments offer you payment
within a day or two of the customer putting in the card details.
Deciding if a Merchant Account is Worth the Fees
So are the fees that are paid for merchant accounts worth the
value the accounts provide your business? It all depends on the
type of business you are operating and the volume of sales you
process on a given month, as well as the merchant account
provider you choose to go with. Merchant account providers are
not a one-size-fits-all solution for every business, and you
really need to do a little research before selecting a provider.
Consider the per transaction fee, the application fee, monthly
maintenance fee, set up fee, and any annual membership charges
you must pay. Do you have to purchase or lease any special
equipment? Is the software for processing online credit card
payments included in the service, or is that an additional fee?
Once you have that information for a few different merchant
account providers, you can determine what you believe your
credit card sales will be each month. This may be difficult to
do, but make your best estimate based on your current level of
sales and the idea that people typically spend more with a
credit card than they do with cash.
Determine what fees you’ll pay on your estimated amount of
sales each month, and see if it makes sense to pay for a
merchant account. As mentioned previously, if your plan is to
operate an online business- you really need a way to accept
credit card payments online in order to become successful.
About the Author: This article has been provided courtesy of
Creditor Web, http://www.creditorweb.com .
Source: http://www.isnare.com
By Debbie Dragon
Merchant account services are the services that allow you to
accept credit cards as payments, both online and off, and help
you handle the credit card transaction processing. Without
merchant accounts, your customers would have to pay with cash or
check- and believe it or not, most customers will spend more if
they can swipe their card and worry about the bill later.
The Cost of Accepting Credit Cards
Merchant accounts can be costly. There are numerous providers
of merchant accounts that are reputable and offer good value for
their service- but there are even more providers of merchant
accounts that charge excessive fees and have hidden expenses
that you were not aware of when agreeing to use their service to
accept credit cards online.
Fees range from per transaction fees (usually a percentage or a
few cents on each card processed) to monthly or annual
maintenance fees that can range from a few dollars to a few
hundred dollars.
Online Businesses Need Merchant Accounts
Online merchant accounts are crucial to having a successful
online business venture. Consider it from the eyes of a
customer: if you were on a website, looking to buy a widget,
would you want to take the time to mail a check or money order,
or do you plan on making a purchase right then with your debit
or credit card? Most people don’t want to take the time to
write and mail a check or money order for an online purchase-
not having the ability to accept credit or debit cards will
severely hurt your business as an online merchant.
As the merchant, credit and debit cards make your life easier,
as well. You get your money much faster than waiting for a
customer to write and mail a check or money order; and you don’t
have to wait for the payment to clear the bank before you can
mail out their purchase. Credit card payments offer you payment
within a day or two of the customer putting in the card details.
Deciding if a Merchant Account is Worth the Fees
So are the fees that are paid for merchant accounts worth the
value the accounts provide your business? It all depends on the
type of business you are operating and the volume of sales you
process on a given month, as well as the merchant account
provider you choose to go with. Merchant account providers are
not a one-size-fits-all solution for every business, and you
really need to do a little research before selecting a provider.
Consider the per transaction fee, the application fee, monthly
maintenance fee, set up fee, and any annual membership charges
you must pay. Do you have to purchase or lease any special
equipment? Is the software for processing online credit card
payments included in the service, or is that an additional fee?
Once you have that information for a few different merchant
account providers, you can determine what you believe your
credit card sales will be each month. This may be difficult to
do, but make your best estimate based on your current level of
sales and the idea that people typically spend more with a
credit card than they do with cash.
Determine what fees you’ll pay on your estimated amount of
sales each month, and see if it makes sense to pay for a
merchant account. As mentioned previously, if your plan is to
operate an online business- you really need a way to accept
credit card payments online in order to become successful.
About the Author: This article has been provided courtesy of
Creditor Web, http://www.creditorweb.com .
Source: http://www.isnare.com
Monday, July 23, 2007
Merchant Services
Find The Best Merchant Account
By Dane Collins
Do you know where to find the best merchant account? If so, you
probably already have one. If not, maybe it’s time to find out.
A merchant account can open the door to e-commerce and position
your company for unprecedented growth. The chief benefit sought
by many business owners is the ability to process credit card
payments. Studies suggest that people who pay with plastic tend
to shop often and spend more. You can take advantage of this
trend with a merchant account from a reliable lender.
Plenty of well-known or highly ranked banks and financial
institutions offer what some consider as the best merchant
account. Since not all of them can be the best, however, it’s
really up to the client—that’s you—to decide which account plan
will best help your business to grow. Much will depend on the
fees involved with various services. For example, some lenders
charge application fees while others do not. Other lenders
expect you to pay annual membership fees. It is a good idea to
check out the price lists at each lender’s site or to discuss
these with an account representative before signing a contract.
Some lenders are known for implementing a terrific credit
processor with a combination terminal and printer. Others might
be more widely recognized for their ability to support an
Internet site that accepts credit payments. However, you might
be more interested in a telephone ordering system with credit
card payment options that will facilitate customer access to
goods and services.
Whatever your credit processing needs, the best merchant
account is the one that will help your company develop its
potential. You need a company that is not too far above you to
treat your business as a valuable client. You also want a lender
with helpful customer support personnel who are available to
answer questions and provide guidance when needed. You don’t
want to wait on the telephone for 15 and 20 minutes for someone
to take you off hold. Nor do you want to have fees increased
unexpectedly so that your company’s budget must strain to meet
payments.
The best merchant account is the one that you can trust to
protect your company’s interests. You need a dependable provider
who can offer quality equipment and reliable support or
maintenance if needed. Your lender should be able to offer
reasonable account fees and secure transmission on all customer
transactions. When you look good, your lender looks good, and
the customer benefits most from this type of positive win-win
relationship.
To find the best merchant account, you may want to ask other
business owners to recommend a lender they have worked with. Or
you can browse testimonials on the Internet or in chat rooms.
Never sign up with a merchant account lender who seems
suspicious or about whom you know little. Your business is too
valuable to take chance on losing all with an unknown
underwriter who may be here today and gone tomorrow, so hold out
to find the very best merchant account.
About the Author: Dane Collins is with Merchant Digital
http://www.merchantdigital.com a nationally recognized merchant
account provider. Start accepting credit cards today:
http://www.merchantdigital.com
Source: http://www.isnare.com
By Dane Collins
Do you know where to find the best merchant account? If so, you
probably already have one. If not, maybe it’s time to find out.
A merchant account can open the door to e-commerce and position
your company for unprecedented growth. The chief benefit sought
by many business owners is the ability to process credit card
payments. Studies suggest that people who pay with plastic tend
to shop often and spend more. You can take advantage of this
trend with a merchant account from a reliable lender.
Plenty of well-known or highly ranked banks and financial
institutions offer what some consider as the best merchant
account. Since not all of them can be the best, however, it’s
really up to the client—that’s you—to decide which account plan
will best help your business to grow. Much will depend on the
fees involved with various services. For example, some lenders
charge application fees while others do not. Other lenders
expect you to pay annual membership fees. It is a good idea to
check out the price lists at each lender’s site or to discuss
these with an account representative before signing a contract.
Some lenders are known for implementing a terrific credit
processor with a combination terminal and printer. Others might
be more widely recognized for their ability to support an
Internet site that accepts credit payments. However, you might
be more interested in a telephone ordering system with credit
card payment options that will facilitate customer access to
goods and services.
Whatever your credit processing needs, the best merchant
account is the one that will help your company develop its
potential. You need a company that is not too far above you to
treat your business as a valuable client. You also want a lender
with helpful customer support personnel who are available to
answer questions and provide guidance when needed. You don’t
want to wait on the telephone for 15 and 20 minutes for someone
to take you off hold. Nor do you want to have fees increased
unexpectedly so that your company’s budget must strain to meet
payments.
The best merchant account is the one that you can trust to
protect your company’s interests. You need a dependable provider
who can offer quality equipment and reliable support or
maintenance if needed. Your lender should be able to offer
reasonable account fees and secure transmission on all customer
transactions. When you look good, your lender looks good, and
the customer benefits most from this type of positive win-win
relationship.
To find the best merchant account, you may want to ask other
business owners to recommend a lender they have worked with. Or
you can browse testimonials on the Internet or in chat rooms.
Never sign up with a merchant account lender who seems
suspicious or about whom you know little. Your business is too
valuable to take chance on losing all with an unknown
underwriter who may be here today and gone tomorrow, so hold out
to find the very best merchant account.
About the Author: Dane Collins is with Merchant Digital
http://www.merchantdigital.com a nationally recognized merchant
account provider. Start accepting credit cards today:
http://www.merchantdigital.com
Source: http://www.isnare.com
Friday, July 20, 2007
Merchant Services
Merchant Accounts
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Marcus_Peterson]Marcus Peterson
An account where merchants can accept credit card payments is known as a merchant account. Merchant accounts can be acquired through credit card companies, banks, or any other payment processor. A merchant wanting to take credit card payments must have a merchant account.
There are three major forms of merchant accounts. One is the retail merchant account. This account generally offers the lowest transaction fees, but often comes with stringent rules. Retail merchant accounts mostly require credit card sales be done with the "card present." In other words, the card has to be swiped through a credit card terminal for the transaction to take place. Retail merchant accounts are usually linked with restaurants, small hotels and grocery stores. Retail merchant accounts are not suited for merchants who want to conduct business through the Internet or the mail.
Mail Order Telephone Order (MOTO) accounts generally charge higher transaction rates; these accounts are used when the credit cards cannot be physically utilized. In this case, merchants process the payments by entering the customer’s credit card data onto a personal computer, or through a standard web browser, where they can process the transaction on the payment service provider's website.
Internet merchant accounts are quite similar to MOTO accounts in that the credit card need not be physically used. However, these transactions can only be done through the Internet. Merchants with Internet accounts employ a payment service gateway or a virtual terminal to process credit card transactions.
It is imperative to choose the appropriate form of merchant account for the business you are conducting. Also, it is wise to carefully go through the terms of service of the providers, as many charge a fortune and have strict rules. [http://www.z-MerchantAccounts.com]Merchant Accounts provides detailed information on Merchant Accounts, Credit Card Merchant Accounts, Internet Merchant Accounts, About High Risk Merchant Accounts and more. Merchant Accounts is affiliated with [http://www.merchantservices-web.com]Internet Merchant Services.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marcus_Peterson http://EzineArticles.com/?Merchant-Accounts&id=251460
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Marcus_Peterson]Marcus Peterson
An account where merchants can accept credit card payments is known as a merchant account. Merchant accounts can be acquired through credit card companies, banks, or any other payment processor. A merchant wanting to take credit card payments must have a merchant account.
There are three major forms of merchant accounts. One is the retail merchant account. This account generally offers the lowest transaction fees, but often comes with stringent rules. Retail merchant accounts mostly require credit card sales be done with the "card present." In other words, the card has to be swiped through a credit card terminal for the transaction to take place. Retail merchant accounts are usually linked with restaurants, small hotels and grocery stores. Retail merchant accounts are not suited for merchants who want to conduct business through the Internet or the mail.
Mail Order Telephone Order (MOTO) accounts generally charge higher transaction rates; these accounts are used when the credit cards cannot be physically utilized. In this case, merchants process the payments by entering the customer’s credit card data onto a personal computer, or through a standard web browser, where they can process the transaction on the payment service provider's website.
Internet merchant accounts are quite similar to MOTO accounts in that the credit card need not be physically used. However, these transactions can only be done through the Internet. Merchants with Internet accounts employ a payment service gateway or a virtual terminal to process credit card transactions.
It is imperative to choose the appropriate form of merchant account for the business you are conducting. Also, it is wise to carefully go through the terms of service of the providers, as many charge a fortune and have strict rules. [http://www.z-MerchantAccounts.com]Merchant Accounts provides detailed information on Merchant Accounts, Credit Card Merchant Accounts, Internet Merchant Accounts, About High Risk Merchant Accounts and more. Merchant Accounts is affiliated with [http://www.merchantservices-web.com]Internet Merchant Services.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marcus_Peterson http://EzineArticles.com/?Merchant-Accounts&id=251460
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Merchant Services
Merchant Credit Card Services
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Alison_Cole]Alison Cole
Studies have shown that you can increase your business sales manifold if you accept credit card payments from your customers. This is because most people are not like to carry cash around, and so using their debit card or credit card is their preferred mode of payment. Suppose, you own an online store where people can make orders by the click of the mouse. It follows naturally that you should be also in a position to accept credit card payments online. Then there may be situations where the people would prefer to make their orders by phone. There are companies that give a toll free number and the people can place their orders and give their credit card information based on voice prompts.
To accept credit card payments, you need to have an online merchant account with any financial institution, bank, or acquiring institutions. These institutions will deposit the money accepted through a website into your account. Apart from getting a merchant account, you must also get a payment gateway. As the name itself suggests, the payment gateway is a gateway, actually a code, which processes and validates the credit card information by sending the information provided to the credit card company and gets an accept or decline message. On getting the accept message, the gateway then transmits the amount from the website to the merchant account.
Address verification is the most important aspect of credit card services, as it is essential to fight against credit card fraud. Some credit card companies ask for the CID or the credit card identification digits.
Software such as the IC Verify (DOS winpopup), PCAuthorize (Windows), or MacAuthorize (Mac) These software are required to process the credit cards.
As a merchant, you can accept credit card information on your own website or on the website of the acquiring institutions, with whom you have your merchant account. These institutions charge a nominal fee for their services, but the increase in sales is well worth the investment. [http://www.MerchantServices-Web.com]Merchant Services provides detailed information about merchant services, e-commerce merchant services, high risk merchant accounts, internet merchant services and more. Merchant Services is the sister site of [http://www.e-TelecomAudits.com]Telecom Audits Info.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alison_Cole http://EzineArticles.com/?Merchant-Credit-Card-Services&id=144902
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Alison_Cole]Alison Cole
Studies have shown that you can increase your business sales manifold if you accept credit card payments from your customers. This is because most people are not like to carry cash around, and so using their debit card or credit card is their preferred mode of payment. Suppose, you own an online store where people can make orders by the click of the mouse. It follows naturally that you should be also in a position to accept credit card payments online. Then there may be situations where the people would prefer to make their orders by phone. There are companies that give a toll free number and the people can place their orders and give their credit card information based on voice prompts.
To accept credit card payments, you need to have an online merchant account with any financial institution, bank, or acquiring institutions. These institutions will deposit the money accepted through a website into your account. Apart from getting a merchant account, you must also get a payment gateway. As the name itself suggests, the payment gateway is a gateway, actually a code, which processes and validates the credit card information by sending the information provided to the credit card company and gets an accept or decline message. On getting the accept message, the gateway then transmits the amount from the website to the merchant account.
Address verification is the most important aspect of credit card services, as it is essential to fight against credit card fraud. Some credit card companies ask for the CID or the credit card identification digits.
Software such as the IC Verify (DOS winpopup), PCAuthorize (Windows), or MacAuthorize (Mac) These software are required to process the credit cards.
As a merchant, you can accept credit card information on your own website or on the website of the acquiring institutions, with whom you have your merchant account. These institutions charge a nominal fee for their services, but the increase in sales is well worth the investment. [http://www.MerchantServices-Web.com]Merchant Services provides detailed information about merchant services, e-commerce merchant services, high risk merchant accounts, internet merchant services and more. Merchant Services is the sister site of [http://www.e-TelecomAudits.com]Telecom Audits Info.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alison_Cole http://EzineArticles.com/?Merchant-Credit-Card-Services&id=144902
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Merchant Services
Merchant Credit Card Terminals
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Kent_Pinkerton]Kent Pinkerton
Merchant credit card terminals are electronic devices offering fast, low-cost means to authorize and process credit card transactions. They are very commonly used in retail stores and restaurants. Most merchant credit card terminals accept all major credit, debit, and private-label cards offering low-cost credit card authorization, check guarantee, and data capture for a range of retail applications.
A terminal to process credit cards is a great investment to your business. Most merchant credit card terminals support Internet-based services such as e-mail, electronic signature, interactive electronic coupons, on screen advertising, cash management reporting, and e-commerce. They make transactions more convenient, faster, and accurate for both customers and merchants.
At first, merchant credit card processing terminals verify your customer's card information. Then they withdraw money for the purchase from the customer?s account and deposit it directly into your merchant account. The most important units of merchant credit card terminals are card readers with a small keypad and display. They require power supply and can communicate through a telephone line. Modern terminals are powered by batteries and can communicate wireless or over the Internet. They come in several sizes and prices.
There are many types of merchant credit card terminals: traditional terminals (with or without printers), wireless terminals, and virtual or software-based terminals. Merchants with a permanent place of business need a basic card reader terminal. In this case, the terminal is placed right on the counter where all transactions take place. For businesses that constantly change locations, a wireless credit card processing terminal is a good choice. It is suitable for merchants who are always on the go.
Millions of merchant credit card terminals ship annually and the majority have the same basic functions and features. It can only be used in combination with a merchant account that processes credit card transactions. Businesses already using credit card terminals need to buy extra equipments to maintain additional services such as debit card transactions and issuing and accepting gift cards. A number of terminals also support additional forms of payment such as electronic bank transfers and phone cards. [http://www.e-CreditCardTerminals.com]Credit Card Terminals provides detailed information on Credit Card Terminals, Credit Card Terminal Systems, Wireless Credit Card Terminals, Credit Card Processing Terminals and more. Credit Card Terminals is affiliated with [http://www.i-CreditCardProcessing.com]Credit Card Processing Software.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kent_Pinkerton http://EzineArticles.com/?Merchant-Credit-Card-Terminals&id=353177
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Kent_Pinkerton]Kent Pinkerton
Merchant credit card terminals are electronic devices offering fast, low-cost means to authorize and process credit card transactions. They are very commonly used in retail stores and restaurants. Most merchant credit card terminals accept all major credit, debit, and private-label cards offering low-cost credit card authorization, check guarantee, and data capture for a range of retail applications.
A terminal to process credit cards is a great investment to your business. Most merchant credit card terminals support Internet-based services such as e-mail, electronic signature, interactive electronic coupons, on screen advertising, cash management reporting, and e-commerce. They make transactions more convenient, faster, and accurate for both customers and merchants.
At first, merchant credit card processing terminals verify your customer's card information. Then they withdraw money for the purchase from the customer?s account and deposit it directly into your merchant account. The most important units of merchant credit card terminals are card readers with a small keypad and display. They require power supply and can communicate through a telephone line. Modern terminals are powered by batteries and can communicate wireless or over the Internet. They come in several sizes and prices.
There are many types of merchant credit card terminals: traditional terminals (with or without printers), wireless terminals, and virtual or software-based terminals. Merchants with a permanent place of business need a basic card reader terminal. In this case, the terminal is placed right on the counter where all transactions take place. For businesses that constantly change locations, a wireless credit card processing terminal is a good choice. It is suitable for merchants who are always on the go.
Millions of merchant credit card terminals ship annually and the majority have the same basic functions and features. It can only be used in combination with a merchant account that processes credit card transactions. Businesses already using credit card terminals need to buy extra equipments to maintain additional services such as debit card transactions and issuing and accepting gift cards. A number of terminals also support additional forms of payment such as electronic bank transfers and phone cards. [http://www.e-CreditCardTerminals.com]Credit Card Terminals provides detailed information on Credit Card Terminals, Credit Card Terminal Systems, Wireless Credit Card Terminals, Credit Card Processing Terminals and more. Credit Card Terminals is affiliated with [http://www.i-CreditCardProcessing.com]Credit Card Processing Software.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kent_Pinkerton http://EzineArticles.com/?Merchant-Credit-Card-Terminals&id=353177
Friday, July 13, 2007
Merchant Account
Internet Merchant Accounts
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Seth_Miller]Seth Miller
A merchant account enables one to accept credit card payments. There are different kinds of merchant accounts, and Internet merchant accounts are one of them.
Such accounts can be used only for online transactions. To process credit card payments one has to use a payment service gateway. These kinds of gateways are now part of most business webhosting packages. They can be customized to cater to the requirements of merchants. The transaction fee charged by Internet accounts is higher than the retail and Mail Order-Telephone Order (MOTO) accounts.
While operating an Internet merchant account, security is an important issue. The nature and volume of business determines whether you need an Internet merchant account or not. One should read and understand the terms and conditions for operating this account carefully, before accepting them.
If you have $100, you can easily open an Internet merchant account; if you are paying more than this amount then you are being overcharged. Internet merchant accounts provide an account holder the ability to process transactions anywhere in the world. You can do it while traveling.
An Internet merchant account can be opened in a few minutes by filling out a form which is available online. It gets activated within seconds. Earlier, when online merchant accounts were not available, it used to take at least a few days and a few hundred dollars to open a merchant account. But the advent of the Internet merchant account has revolutionized the concept of merchant accounts. Even small businesses can afford to open such accounts. If you have a problem in operating your Internet merchant account, you can use the technical support made available by your banker.
But before you go for an online merchant account, you must find out whether you actually need it. Businesses dependent on online transactions generally find it beneficial. It is better to have a website before one opens an Internet merchant account. [http://www.e-InternetMerchantAccounts.com]Internet Merchant Accounts provides detailed information on Internet Merchant Accounts, Free Internet Merchant Accounts, Ecommerce Internet Merchant Accounts, Internet Merchant Credit Card Accounts and more. Internet Merchant Accounts is affiliated with [http://www.e-CommerceMerchantAccounts.com]International Ecommerce Merchant Accounts.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Seth_Miller http://EzineArticles.com/?Internet-Merchant-Accounts&id=247687
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Seth_Miller]Seth Miller
A merchant account enables one to accept credit card payments. There are different kinds of merchant accounts, and Internet merchant accounts are one of them.
Such accounts can be used only for online transactions. To process credit card payments one has to use a payment service gateway. These kinds of gateways are now part of most business webhosting packages. They can be customized to cater to the requirements of merchants. The transaction fee charged by Internet accounts is higher than the retail and Mail Order-Telephone Order (MOTO) accounts.
While operating an Internet merchant account, security is an important issue. The nature and volume of business determines whether you need an Internet merchant account or not. One should read and understand the terms and conditions for operating this account carefully, before accepting them.
If you have $100, you can easily open an Internet merchant account; if you are paying more than this amount then you are being overcharged. Internet merchant accounts provide an account holder the ability to process transactions anywhere in the world. You can do it while traveling.
An Internet merchant account can be opened in a few minutes by filling out a form which is available online. It gets activated within seconds. Earlier, when online merchant accounts were not available, it used to take at least a few days and a few hundred dollars to open a merchant account. But the advent of the Internet merchant account has revolutionized the concept of merchant accounts. Even small businesses can afford to open such accounts. If you have a problem in operating your Internet merchant account, you can use the technical support made available by your banker.
But before you go for an online merchant account, you must find out whether you actually need it. Businesses dependent on online transactions generally find it beneficial. It is better to have a website before one opens an Internet merchant account. [http://www.e-InternetMerchantAccounts.com]Internet Merchant Accounts provides detailed information on Internet Merchant Accounts, Free Internet Merchant Accounts, Ecommerce Internet Merchant Accounts, Internet Merchant Credit Card Accounts and more. Internet Merchant Accounts is affiliated with [http://www.e-CommerceMerchantAccounts.com]International Ecommerce Merchant Accounts.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Seth_Miller http://EzineArticles.com/?Internet-Merchant-Accounts&id=247687
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Merchant Services
Merchant Account Service Providers
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Alison_Cole]Alison Cole
A merchant account service provider is an organization with the ability to set up a merchant account on a business’ behalf. The most common providers are banks. However, the truth is that banks are not comfortable with transactions that take place without the physical presence of a credit card.
When credit card information is received through telephone, Internet or mail order, there is little evidence that the data is valid or that the customer is allowed to use the card. This very possibility for fraud is why banks characteristically need a big security deposit before it issues a merchant account ID.
Banks are also hesitant to issue merchant accounts to businesses with no credit history or, for that matter, businesses with poor credit history. Also, there may be other criteria which smaller businesses may find difficult to carry out.
Generally, several banks regard Internet-based businesses as being too risky and do not offer Internet merchant accounts. Banks also have stringent rules regarding chargebacks (credit card payments disputed by customers), and can actually terminate a merchant account if chargebacks go over a specific percentage of total transactions.
However, there are third-party Internet merchant account service providers that are less strict than banks. These service providers will simply take the business information and establish an account.
They allege to have high frequency of qualifying their clients despite the nature of the business - even though some will not handle adult sites and gambling - and most do without a security deposit. A retailer unable to meet the demands of the bank would have no alternative but use these sorts of services.
There are a plethora of services available, so it becomes imperative to research and compare each service thoroughly. [http://www.e-MerchantAccountProviders.com]Merchant Account Providers provides detailed information on Merchant Account Providers, Internet Merchant Account Provider, Merchant Account Service Providers, Become a Merchant Account Provider and more. Merchant Account Providers is affiliated with [http://www.e-FreeChat.com]Free Webcam Chat.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alison_Cole http://EzineArticles.com/?Merchant-Account-Service-Providers&id=272614
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Alison_Cole]Alison Cole
A merchant account service provider is an organization with the ability to set up a merchant account on a business’ behalf. The most common providers are banks. However, the truth is that banks are not comfortable with transactions that take place without the physical presence of a credit card.
When credit card information is received through telephone, Internet or mail order, there is little evidence that the data is valid or that the customer is allowed to use the card. This very possibility for fraud is why banks characteristically need a big security deposit before it issues a merchant account ID.
Banks are also hesitant to issue merchant accounts to businesses with no credit history or, for that matter, businesses with poor credit history. Also, there may be other criteria which smaller businesses may find difficult to carry out.
Generally, several banks regard Internet-based businesses as being too risky and do not offer Internet merchant accounts. Banks also have stringent rules regarding chargebacks (credit card payments disputed by customers), and can actually terminate a merchant account if chargebacks go over a specific percentage of total transactions.
However, there are third-party Internet merchant account service providers that are less strict than banks. These service providers will simply take the business information and establish an account.
They allege to have high frequency of qualifying their clients despite the nature of the business - even though some will not handle adult sites and gambling - and most do without a security deposit. A retailer unable to meet the demands of the bank would have no alternative but use these sorts of services.
There are a plethora of services available, so it becomes imperative to research and compare each service thoroughly. [http://www.e-MerchantAccountProviders.com]Merchant Account Providers provides detailed information on Merchant Account Providers, Internet Merchant Account Provider, Merchant Account Service Providers, Become a Merchant Account Provider and more. Merchant Account Providers is affiliated with [http://www.e-FreeChat.com]Free Webcam Chat.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alison_Cole http://EzineArticles.com/?Merchant-Account-Service-Providers&id=272614
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Merchant Account
Minimum Credit Card Payments To Rise
By Charles Essmeier
For years, major credit card companies have allowed cardholders
to make minimum payments of 2% of the outstanding balances on
their credit cards. Having customers pay the minimum doesn’t
reduce the balance by very much, but when the 18-30% interest
rates that many credit cards charge is applied, the result is a
profitable ones for the banks that issue credit cards. A balance
of $1000 can take nine years to pay off at 20% interest if the
borrower only pays the minimum due each month.
Clearly, it is not in the best interests of consumers to pay
the minimum every month. But tens of thousands of Americans do
just that, carrying huge balances and paying the minimum every
month. The average household now carries $10,000 in credit card
debt; for many people, paying the minimum is all they can
manage. Due to changes in Federal law, several major credit
card issuing banks will soon raise the minimum amount due to
4%. This might seem like a small increase, but if you are
already deep in debt and paying the minimum amount, this could
cause your payments to double. If you have a $10,000 balance
and you are paying $200 per month, you will soon need to come
up with $400 instead. Many people will find this impossible to
do, as they are already paying as much as they can. What
solutions are available?
The usual common sense rules of credit card use apply here.
Stop using your credit cards. See if you can consolidate your
debt on another credit card with lower interest. See if you can
cut out some unnecessary expenses in order to free up some more
money to pay your balance. Consider a home equity loan to
consolidate your debt. Call your card issuing bank and see if
they can work out repayment plan or lower your interest rate.
There are numerous solutions available, but card holders need
to be aware that the minimum payment is rising, and it isn’t
going to come back down. By charging a 4% minimum, the credit
card issuing banks are hoping that consumers will pay off their
debt a bit sooner and that fewer consumers will find themselves
in a situation where filing for bankruptcy is the only
solution. And once October comes around, even filing for
bankruptcy will be more difficult. Credit card holders with
large balances on their accounts should give considerable
thought to reducing their debt now, as payment options and
requirements are going to be more strict from now on.
About the Author: ©Copyright 2005 by Retro Marketing. Charles
Essmeier is the owner of Retro Marketing, a firm devoted to
informational Websites, including http://www.End-Your-Debt.com,
a site devoted to debt consolidation and credit counseling, and
http://www.StructuredSettlementHelp.com, a site devoted to
information regarding structured settlements.
Source: http://www.isnare.com
By Charles Essmeier
For years, major credit card companies have allowed cardholders
to make minimum payments of 2% of the outstanding balances on
their credit cards. Having customers pay the minimum doesn’t
reduce the balance by very much, but when the 18-30% interest
rates that many credit cards charge is applied, the result is a
profitable ones for the banks that issue credit cards. A balance
of $1000 can take nine years to pay off at 20% interest if the
borrower only pays the minimum due each month.
Clearly, it is not in the best interests of consumers to pay
the minimum every month. But tens of thousands of Americans do
just that, carrying huge balances and paying the minimum every
month. The average household now carries $10,000 in credit card
debt; for many people, paying the minimum is all they can
manage. Due to changes in Federal law, several major credit
card issuing banks will soon raise the minimum amount due to
4%. This might seem like a small increase, but if you are
already deep in debt and paying the minimum amount, this could
cause your payments to double. If you have a $10,000 balance
and you are paying $200 per month, you will soon need to come
up with $400 instead. Many people will find this impossible to
do, as they are already paying as much as they can. What
solutions are available?
The usual common sense rules of credit card use apply here.
Stop using your credit cards. See if you can consolidate your
debt on another credit card with lower interest. See if you can
cut out some unnecessary expenses in order to free up some more
money to pay your balance. Consider a home equity loan to
consolidate your debt. Call your card issuing bank and see if
they can work out repayment plan or lower your interest rate.
There are numerous solutions available, but card holders need
to be aware that the minimum payment is rising, and it isn’t
going to come back down. By charging a 4% minimum, the credit
card issuing banks are hoping that consumers will pay off their
debt a bit sooner and that fewer consumers will find themselves
in a situation where filing for bankruptcy is the only
solution. And once October comes around, even filing for
bankruptcy will be more difficult. Credit card holders with
large balances on their accounts should give considerable
thought to reducing their debt now, as payment options and
requirements are going to be more strict from now on.
About the Author: ©Copyright 2005 by Retro Marketing. Charles
Essmeier is the owner of Retro Marketing, a firm devoted to
informational Websites, including http://www.End-Your-Debt.com,
a site devoted to debt consolidation and credit counseling, and
http://www.StructuredSettlementHelp.com, a site devoted to
information regarding structured settlements.
Source: http://www.isnare.com
Monday, July 9, 2007
Merchant Services
Merchant Account Services
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Alison_Cole]Alison Cole
Check out any store and you will find that people no longer find it viable to make payments in cash. The preferred mode of payment is the debit card or the credit card. No matter what your business, the best way to stay ahead is to give the customers the ease of making the payment in the mode they choose. This means if they don’t want to pay cash, you must have the provisions to accept credit card payments. In fact studies have shown that accepting credit payments can increase your sales manifold. To accept credit card payments, you will need an online merchant account with a bank, financial institution, or acquiring institutions. All these institutions charge a minimal amount of fees for their services, but then the fee is well worth the improvement in your business.
Your financial or acquiring institution should be able to provide a number of services. First and foremost they should be able to provide you personalized services in setting up your account. Your merchant account should have facilities for online trading, as also taking orders on the phone.
Now, suppose your business is an online store. This means, your customers can make orders merely by the click of a mouse. They can make their payments online through credit card. For this, there will be a form in which they will submit their details including that of their credit card. To accept online payment, you can link your account to any of the Internet gateway solution providers, which include Verisign, Orbital, or Fast Transact. You can link your order forms to these gateway companies, who will then process the transactions.
Then there is the phone line processing services. That means the customers can dial a toll free number, and provide the requisite information based on the voice prompts.
Another service is the POS (Credit card service), which enables you to take orders over the phone and fax and process them through a terminal machine.
You also have the option of a computer software program that can store your customer’s details, as these are beneficial for recurring payments. [http://www.MerchantServices-Web.com]Merchant Services provides detailed information about merchant services, e-commerce merchant services, high risk merchant accounts, internet merchant services and more. Merchant Services is the sister site of [http://www.e-TelecomAudits.com]Telecom Audits Info.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alison_Cole http://EzineArticles.com/?Merchant-Account-Services&id=144901
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Alison_Cole]Alison Cole
Check out any store and you will find that people no longer find it viable to make payments in cash. The preferred mode of payment is the debit card or the credit card. No matter what your business, the best way to stay ahead is to give the customers the ease of making the payment in the mode they choose. This means if they don’t want to pay cash, you must have the provisions to accept credit card payments. In fact studies have shown that accepting credit payments can increase your sales manifold. To accept credit card payments, you will need an online merchant account with a bank, financial institution, or acquiring institutions. All these institutions charge a minimal amount of fees for their services, but then the fee is well worth the improvement in your business.
Your financial or acquiring institution should be able to provide a number of services. First and foremost they should be able to provide you personalized services in setting up your account. Your merchant account should have facilities for online trading, as also taking orders on the phone.
Now, suppose your business is an online store. This means, your customers can make orders merely by the click of a mouse. They can make their payments online through credit card. For this, there will be a form in which they will submit their details including that of their credit card. To accept online payment, you can link your account to any of the Internet gateway solution providers, which include Verisign, Orbital, or Fast Transact. You can link your order forms to these gateway companies, who will then process the transactions.
Then there is the phone line processing services. That means the customers can dial a toll free number, and provide the requisite information based on the voice prompts.
Another service is the POS (Credit card service), which enables you to take orders over the phone and fax and process them through a terminal machine.
You also have the option of a computer software program that can store your customer’s details, as these are beneficial for recurring payments. [http://www.MerchantServices-Web.com]Merchant Services provides detailed information about merchant services, e-commerce merchant services, high risk merchant accounts, internet merchant services and more. Merchant Services is the sister site of [http://www.e-TelecomAudits.com]Telecom Audits Info.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alison_Cole http://EzineArticles.com/?Merchant-Account-Services&id=144901
Friday, July 6, 2007
Merchant Account
Merchant Accounts
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Marcus_Peterson]Marcus Peterson
An account where merchants can accept credit card payments is known as a merchant account. Merchant accounts can be acquired through credit card companies, banks, or any other payment processor. A merchant wanting to take credit card payments must have a merchant account.
There are three major forms of merchant accounts. One is the retail merchant account. This account generally offers the lowest transaction fees, but often comes with stringent rules. Retail merchant accounts mostly require credit card sales be done with the "card present." In other words, the card has to be swiped through a credit card terminal for the transaction to take place. Retail merchant accounts are usually linked with restaurants, small hotels and grocery stores. Retail merchant accounts are not suited for merchants who want to conduct business through the Internet or the mail.
Mail Order Telephone Order (MOTO) accounts generally charge higher transaction rates; these accounts are used when the credit cards cannot be physically utilized. In this case, merchants process the payments by entering the customer’s credit card data onto a personal computer, or through a standard web browser, where they can process the transaction on the payment service provider's website.
Internet merchant accounts are quite similar to MOTO accounts in that the credit card need not be physically used. However, these transactions can only be done through the Internet. Merchants with Internet accounts employ a payment service gateway or a virtual terminal to process credit card transactions.
It is imperative to choose the appropriate form of merchant account for the business you are conducting. Also, it is wise to carefully go through the terms of service of the providers, as many charge a fortune and have strict rules. [http://www.z-MerchantAccounts.com]Merchant Accounts provides detailed information on Merchant Accounts, Credit Card Merchant Accounts, Internet Merchant Accounts, About High Risk Merchant Accounts and more. Merchant Accounts is affiliated with [http://www.merchantservices-web.com]Internet Merchant Services.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marcus_Peterson http://EzineArticles.com/?Merchant-Accounts&id=251460
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Marcus_Peterson]Marcus Peterson
An account where merchants can accept credit card payments is known as a merchant account. Merchant accounts can be acquired through credit card companies, banks, or any other payment processor. A merchant wanting to take credit card payments must have a merchant account.
There are three major forms of merchant accounts. One is the retail merchant account. This account generally offers the lowest transaction fees, but often comes with stringent rules. Retail merchant accounts mostly require credit card sales be done with the "card present." In other words, the card has to be swiped through a credit card terminal for the transaction to take place. Retail merchant accounts are usually linked with restaurants, small hotels and grocery stores. Retail merchant accounts are not suited for merchants who want to conduct business through the Internet or the mail.
Mail Order Telephone Order (MOTO) accounts generally charge higher transaction rates; these accounts are used when the credit cards cannot be physically utilized. In this case, merchants process the payments by entering the customer’s credit card data onto a personal computer, or through a standard web browser, where they can process the transaction on the payment service provider's website.
Internet merchant accounts are quite similar to MOTO accounts in that the credit card need not be physically used. However, these transactions can only be done through the Internet. Merchants with Internet accounts employ a payment service gateway or a virtual terminal to process credit card transactions.
It is imperative to choose the appropriate form of merchant account for the business you are conducting. Also, it is wise to carefully go through the terms of service of the providers, as many charge a fortune and have strict rules. [http://www.z-MerchantAccounts.com]Merchant Accounts provides detailed information on Merchant Accounts, Credit Card Merchant Accounts, Internet Merchant Accounts, About High Risk Merchant Accounts and more. Merchant Accounts is affiliated with [http://www.merchantservices-web.com]Internet Merchant Services.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marcus_Peterson http://EzineArticles.com/?Merchant-Accounts&id=251460
Wednesday, July 4, 2007
Merchant Account
Accept Credit Card Merchant Account
By Shane Penrod
If you’re looking to expand your business, you can soon accept
credit card merchant account payments by applying for a
merchant services account. Many lenders and financial
institutions are eager to provide this account to responsible
entrepreneurs who seek to provide credit card payment options
at their business. Whether you sell products from your home,
travel around to provide consulting or training services, or
conduct business solely over the Internet, a merchant services
account can help move your company into the e-commerce arena.
When you are ready to accept credit card merchant account
payments for your goods or services, start by shopping for an
established banker or lender that can offer you a merchant
services account. Look for a company that has been in business
for several years and enjoys a good reputation. You may want to
check with the Better Business Bureau to ensure that the company
is not running a scam and that it can provide as well as
maintain the benefits it offers. When you locate two or three
companies that you might want to work with, compare their
terms, prices, and equipment options. These can vary widely, so
first have an idea of what your company and customers need.
Don’t try to bite off more than you can chew by taking on too
much debt at first for equipment you may never or seldom use.
Instead, stay focused on your primary objective, which may be
as basic as processing credit card payments from customers who
stop by your restaurant for a meal. Only when you identify a
real need for additional services should you consider extending
your credit and your budget to buy these things, which might
include a pager, an e-check and debit processor, or a Website
credit payment processor.
If your business continues to grow and you want to accept
credit card merchant account payments on a wider scale, you can
set up a company Website to promote your company and offer
credit card processing options. A Website will let customers
visit any time it is convenient for them to do so, and you
don’t have to maintain a staff person on call to answer
questions. Just add an email option to the site, and your
clients can send questions, orders, or suggestions to you
directly, in addition to making credit card payments on goods
purchased at the Website. The site may include a product or
service description, price list, FAQs, and other relevant
details that will help answer customers’ questions and clear
the way for them to order online. Many people prefer this
shopping method to paying in cash or in person.
Accepting credit card payments can cost as little as a few
cents per transaction or an overall low percentage rate each
month. There may be additional fees, whoever, so be sure to ask
before signing a contract. Inquire about a domain name
registration, hosting fees, and site maintenance service terms.
Then get ready to watch as profits climb when you learn how to
accept credit card merchant account payments online.
About the Author: Shane Penrod is the founder of
Merchant-Account-Quotes.com Specializing in allowing merchants
the ability to shop and compare multiple quotes from national
merchant account providers. For free quotes on merchant account
rates and fees, please go to
http://www.merchant-account-quotes.com
Source: http://www.isnare.com
By Shane Penrod
If you’re looking to expand your business, you can soon accept
credit card merchant account payments by applying for a
merchant services account. Many lenders and financial
institutions are eager to provide this account to responsible
entrepreneurs who seek to provide credit card payment options
at their business. Whether you sell products from your home,
travel around to provide consulting or training services, or
conduct business solely over the Internet, a merchant services
account can help move your company into the e-commerce arena.
When you are ready to accept credit card merchant account
payments for your goods or services, start by shopping for an
established banker or lender that can offer you a merchant
services account. Look for a company that has been in business
for several years and enjoys a good reputation. You may want to
check with the Better Business Bureau to ensure that the company
is not running a scam and that it can provide as well as
maintain the benefits it offers. When you locate two or three
companies that you might want to work with, compare their
terms, prices, and equipment options. These can vary widely, so
first have an idea of what your company and customers need.
Don’t try to bite off more than you can chew by taking on too
much debt at first for equipment you may never or seldom use.
Instead, stay focused on your primary objective, which may be
as basic as processing credit card payments from customers who
stop by your restaurant for a meal. Only when you identify a
real need for additional services should you consider extending
your credit and your budget to buy these things, which might
include a pager, an e-check and debit processor, or a Website
credit payment processor.
If your business continues to grow and you want to accept
credit card merchant account payments on a wider scale, you can
set up a company Website to promote your company and offer
credit card processing options. A Website will let customers
visit any time it is convenient for them to do so, and you
don’t have to maintain a staff person on call to answer
questions. Just add an email option to the site, and your
clients can send questions, orders, or suggestions to you
directly, in addition to making credit card payments on goods
purchased at the Website. The site may include a product or
service description, price list, FAQs, and other relevant
details that will help answer customers’ questions and clear
the way for them to order online. Many people prefer this
shopping method to paying in cash or in person.
Accepting credit card payments can cost as little as a few
cents per transaction or an overall low percentage rate each
month. There may be additional fees, whoever, so be sure to ask
before signing a contract. Inquire about a domain name
registration, hosting fees, and site maintenance service terms.
Then get ready to watch as profits climb when you learn how to
accept credit card merchant account payments online.
About the Author: Shane Penrod is the founder of
Merchant-Account-Quotes.com Specializing in allowing merchants
the ability to shop and compare multiple quotes from national
merchant account providers. For free quotes on merchant account
rates and fees, please go to
http://www.merchant-account-quotes.com
Source: http://www.isnare.com
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