the good, the bad and the ugly
by Jackie Steed
Tips for finding the good in your merchant account. If you are one of the many merchants charging your patrons a surcharge for using a credit card, you may be exposing your business to hefty fines and penalties if you’re not following the appropriate guidelines. After a recent class-action lawsuit, the card brands have established new regulations regarding surcharging credit card payers. Charging a surcharge is allowed, but you have to make sure you’re following the stringent rules of this new regulation.
But surcharges may be the least of your worries if you’re like most merchants whose concerns are with the processing fees instead. Here are three good things you should look for in your credit card processor.
Cost – Don’t fall for “Guaranteed Lowest Costs” and “Free Equipment” promises. Low rates don’t matter if your transactions aren’t qualifying or if you are overpaying due to lack of account maintenance. Find a processor who works for you to make sure your transactions are optimized.
Customization – A cookie cutter approach to merchant services doesn’t work because no two businesses are alike. Look for a processor that will evaluate your business and work for you to customize your merchant account based on your particular business
Community – You live and work in a community and you are dedicated to its health and growth. When looking for companies that serve you, they should care about those goals as well. Find a processor that works for you and your community.
For more information please attend our monthly SBDC seminar, February 14th 9am at the Temecula Valley Entrepreneur’s Exchange, RSVP by calling (866) 509-7199 ext. 3058 as space is limited.
Jackie Steed is the Business Development Manager at The National Merchants Association (NMA), nationwide Association dedicated to reducing the unnecessary fees involved with credit card processing. As a member of The National Merchants Association you not only save on your merchant processing, but you gain a partner in business development. To find out more, visit www.nationalmerchants.org or call 866-509-7199