How to Get a Credit Card Merchant Account

If you operate a business you need a credit card merchant account to process credit card payments. There are many advantages and disadvantages to having a credit card merchant account. The cost can be prohibitive; thus shopping around for the best deal is the first step you should consider. There are several businesses that offer credit card merchant accounts, and each offers discount pricing and other special services.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Credit Card Merchant Account

1. Search for the credit card merchant account that best suits your business needs. You can use 123Vendors to locate the right credit card merchant account. The link is in the Resources section.

2. Read the fine print; be sure you are clear about the fees per transaction, monthly fees for equipment and general fees that a merchant account can charge you.

3. Set up your credit card merchant account with the provider you selected, providing the information necessary to receive shipment of your equipment--unless you are operating online only.

Tips & Warnings

• Credit card merchant accounts allow you to accept the credit cards of your choice. You can select a direct account with a credit card merchant or a third party such as PayPal, Alert Pay, or one of the others. In some cases it is cheaper to set up your credit card merchant account directly with the credit card companies, depending on whether you choose to accept more than one type of credit card or not.

References

• Home Business Magazine

Resources

• 123Vendors