How To Choose A Credit Card Processing Provider
Running a business successfully means making things as easy as possible for customers. And that includes offering them convenient payment methods. For this reason, choosing a credit card processing provider is going to be an important step towards your success but you want to make this decision carefully. Below are some tips that can help you make the right choice.
Reputation & Trust
First, you want to do some homework on different credit card processing providers. You need to choose a provider who has a strong, positive reputation in the industry and among other businesses. One way to determine this is to do a search online for comments about the provider. You could also talk to fellow business owners either on- or off-line. Remember that you need to trust the provider you choose so your customers will as well.
Costs & Fees
Second, you are in business to earn a profit. That means you don't want to choose a processing provider who is going to eat too deeply into your earnings. The costs do vary. For example, some companies charge start-up fees while others do not. Obviously, the latter would be the preferable choice if all things are equal. Fees can vary considerably as well. Be aware that your credit background may make it more difficult for you to negotiate reduced fees with the provider you choose.
Features
Another important factor in your choice needs to be the types of features provided by the provider. For this reason, it's a good idea starting your search with a good idea of some of the features you would like to have from your provider. For example, you may want to think about the payment gateway features you need, such as a shopping cart, e-check services, point of sale swiper, virtual terminal, recurring billing, and more.
You also want to look at which credit cards will be processed by the provider. Most companies will handle Visa and MasterCard but if you also want to accept American Express or Discover make sure your provider will be able to handle them. Remember the more payment options available for buyers the better off you will be.
Customer Support
While you want to do everything possible to please your customers, you expect similar from your credit card processing provider. That means you want to think about customer support options when looking at different providers. Generally, you want a provider that offers support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Look for e-mail support as well as a toll-free number. Fax support and live chat support are also worth considering.
Fraud Protection
In today's day and age, you need to be sure your credit card company is doing its part to protect you from fraudulent charges. Make sure you find out what steps the provider you consider will take in this direction. Be sure to look for CVV2 acceptance (the three-digit code on the back of credit cards), address verification (to prevent shipping to fraudulent addresses), and real time processing.