Reviewing the Best Merchant Account Providers

Even the most vociferous skeptic should be convinced that merchant account services are smart business — so what’s your next move? How do you sort through all the choices available?

If you’re lucky you have some business friends who already take credit cards who can offer a trusted third-party endorsement. If not, you’re going to have to devote some time to doing some homework.

On the sites of virtually every merchant account company you should be able to find a page that shows what they charge. Cost shouldn’t be the only deciding factor, but it’s obviously an area that will affect your bottom line. For example, some charge just to consider your application – the good companies waives this fee.

And pay attention to the per-transaction fee. The difference between two merchant services providers may only be a percentage point, which doesn’t seem like much until you forecast how many transactions will be processed with that extra point.

And never hesitate to talk to their references. A legitimate company will not mind letting you speak to some of their customers.