Credit Card Processing. Things to Consider Before Opening an Online Merchant Account

When opening an online merchant account to make money transactions and credit card processing, one should keep in mind several important things.  Before opening an account, it is recommended to learn everything concerning credit card processing, as this will prevent you from making mistakes.

Below is a list of things you need to know about credit card processing to take all advantages of your online merchant account.

Security

To attract customers and increase sales it is necessary to persuade potential buyers that your site is secure and the percentage of frauds associated with buying process is minimal. Security of all transactions is generally provided by credit card processing software, but you can also increase your website security to reduce the most common frauds as theft of credit card numbers. It is also wise to use additional secure measures, like asking the four numbers on the front of the American Express, or numbers on the back of the visa card. This will help ensure that the customer making an order has the card in hands and thus is the owner of this card.

Fixed Rates

Before signing an agreement with any credit card processing organization, be sure to get guarantees that the fees they offer are fixed for the whole period of the service. Luckily, a majority of companies offer fixed rates. In order to avoid any misunderstandings in future, it is advisable to get information concerning fees in writing to make sure your rates will not increase. The rates can increase only if MasterCard or Visa increase their charges for credit card purchases.  

Bundled Rates

Be cautious if you are offered bundled rates. A credit card processing company may offer bundled rates claiming they will help save your money.  Unfortunately, this is not always so and depends on the products/services you offer and their average price. To find out whether or not bundles rates will be useful for your business, make a thorough research on this topic. Actually, for most businesses it costs more.

Confidence

When choosing a credit card processing company, be sure to find the one that is reliable and can satisfy your business needs. Sign an agreement only with a company you have complete confidence in. If for some reason, you do not trust a credit card processing company or feel uncomfortable with it, keep on searching until you find the most reliable one.

Credit and Debit Cards

When opening an online merchant  account, be sure to use credit card processing software that will allow you accept various debit and credit cards. It is better not limit yourself to MasterCard or Visa only. By accepting a wider variety of credit cards, as Diners Club, American Express, and also bank debit cards, you will increase sales and enhance your business.

Accept Credit and debit Cards

It is a fact that the majority of online buyers prefer paying for goods/services with their credit and debit cards. For a small percentage of people, having no credit cards or for those who mistrust the Internet, you may keep an option of sending personal checks or money orders. Just because most of people will use their card to make payments, using secure software and easy to use interface when opening an online merchant is very important.

Save Payment Information

By saving your customers’ payment information, you will increase the number of return and permanent customers. This option will help customers save time when shopping next time, as there will be no need to waste time on typing their information again.