Credit Card Processing
All Credit Card Processing Articles
Expert guides, reviews, and comparisons
Payment Gateway vs Payment Processor vs Acquirer
A payment gateway encrypts and routes data, a processor moves transactions across card networks, and an acquirer...
What Is a Merchant Account
A merchant account holds card transaction funds before they reach your bank. Learn how merchant accounts work, the...
How Credit Card Processing Works
Every card transaction passes through four parties and three phases before funds reach your account. Here is how the...
ISO Agent vs Direct Processor: Know Who You're Actually Signing With
Learn who actually holds your merchant account when you sign through an ISO or agent. Protect your business by...
Warning Signs You're Being Overcharged on Processing
Six warning signs reveal whether you're overpaying on credit card processing fees. Learn what reasonable effective...
Tiered Pricing Disguised as Interchange-Plus
Some processors sell interchange-plus pricing that isn't actually pass-through. Learn to spot enhanced, bill-back, and...
Junk Fees on Processing Statements and How to Remove Them
Learn to spot merchant services junk fees on your processing statement and get them removed. Covers every common charge...
The "Free Credit Card Processing" Claim: What It Really Means
Free credit card processing shifts fees to your customers through surcharging or cash discounts. Learn how it really...
Auto-Renewal Traps in Processing Contracts
Processing contracts often auto-renew unless you cancel within a narrow window. Learn how evergreen clauses work and...
Liquidated Damages Clauses in Processing Contracts
Liquidated damages clauses in processing contracts can cost thousands when you switch providers. Learn how they're...
Early Termination Fees: How to Negotiate Them Out
Credit card processing early termination fees are negotiable. Learn the three ETF structures, pre-signing negotiation...
Equipment Leasing vs Buying: The Real Cost Difference
A merchant services equipment lease can cost $2,400 to $5,760 for a terminal worth $300 to $600. Here is how the real...