What is a merchant account?
A merchant account is simply a way for businesses to accept electronic payments from their customers. Sales are automatically deposited in to your existing business checking account.
What cards can I accept?
Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express cards are generally always setup for each merchant. Medical and dental offices are also able to accept health benefit cards such as FSA, HSA and HRA cards. Gas and other fuel services as well as some repair facilities can be setup to accept fleet cards like Voyager and Wright's Express.
How long does it take to get set up?
A new merchant account can typically be activated in one day.
How long does it take to get the money from credit card sales?
The funds from sales are deposited in your existing checking account in about 24 to 36 hours.
Are there any contracts or termination fees?
No. In most cases all of our agreements are month-to-month with no termination fees.
Are there any setup fees?
Are your rates introductory?
No. Our rates are permanent but are tied to the current interchange costs as published by the card brands. If there is a substantial change announced by Visa, MasterCard and/or Discover it is possible that your rates may be adjusted. In such a case you will be notified of the change at least 60 days in advance.
If I have need more than one machine do I need a separate account for each one?
No. You can have any number of machines or devices accessing your merchant account. The basic rule is that if the business name, address and card entry method is all the same, you only need one account. Online sales through a website are required to have a separate internet style account.
If I have 2 locations do I need a separate account for each one?
Yes. Each business location is required to have a separate merchant account.
I already have a credit card machine, can I use it with EMS?
Yes. As long as the machine is compliant with the current security standards we can usually reprogram it to work with your new merchant account.
What is EMV and do you support it?
EMV stands for Europay MasterCard and Visa which is the global standard for reading chip based cards in point of sale terminals. And yes, we provide full support for EMV enabled cards
What is PCI compliance?
PCI is the acronym for Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards. The purpose is to prevent card holder data from being compromised at merchant locations. For most privately operated retail businesses the owner/officer of each merchant is required to complete a security assessment questionnaire (SAQ) annually. So long as the business does not retain cardholder data in an electronic format, it is a very simple process.
How do I process a sale?
Simply swipe a card through your terminal or mobile reader and enter the amount of the sale.
Can I use my cell phone to accept cards?
Yes. Most modern Apple and Android smart phones can be used to accept cards. We can provide you with a card reader that either plugs in to your phone or uses bluetooth.
Do I need to open up a new bank account?
No, so long as you have a checking style account that allows us to electronically deposit your sales. We have the ability to work with every bank and credit union in the country.
What happens if my credit card machines stops working?
Simply give us a call. We provide your primary credit card device free on loan for the life of your service. Should your device ever require service we will simply send you a new one so you can keep doing business and ask you to return the other one.
Do you need my personal information?
The Patriot Act of 2001 requires all credit card processing companies to verify the identity of the owners/officers of any business with a merchant account.
Who do I call if I need help?
Simply call your personal account manager. Our account managers are well versed in handling virtually any question you may have.
Why should I do business with you?
Trustworthy and personal service are the top reasons. Unlike other providers, the personal account manager that opened your account will be the person you speak with from now on. You will not need to re-explain your situation to every person you speak with. This personal service means that when you call we already know who you are. Your personal account manager can do anything you need.
Why do businesses have to pay to accept credit cards?
Credit Card Issuers (banks) want their cardholders to actively use the cards so rather than charge their cardholders when they use the card they charge the business that accepts the card.
How do I pay your fees?
At the end of each calendar month your statement for that month will be prepared. Any fees due will be automatically deducted from your account.
