When you open a new business it is very important for you to learn about merchant accounts. A merchant account is what is used to process credit cards through your location and receive deposits of these transactions in your bank account.
Merchant services are extremely useful for new businesses and online businesses because they can enable the owner to process credit cards as a method of payment. Most customers prefer to pay with their credit card because it’s easier, faster and will allow them to defer their payments if they choose to. In the online business world, credit cards are vital. Online businesses can go international with the help of a merchant account.
You can get merchant services from companies called merchant service providers. They can be independent or linked to certain banks or financial institutions. Still, you need to know that certain types of merchant service providers are good for small businesses. For example, if you have a home business, meaning that you run it from your home, you may not want to seek your merchant services from banks because they will turn you down on the grounds that your business is not stable. For this scenario, go to an independent sales organization or to a financial institution because these companies are much more flexible.
If you are just starting your business, choose a credit card selling credit card processing processor that will offer you low rates. Usually, independent processing companies have special rate options for new businesses that will allow them to get set up to accept credit cards with little out of pocket expense.
Business owners also need to know how a merchant service account works. These companies that offer such services survive because they charge a small percentage of all the credit card payments received. If you have an online business, it is better to inform people that you have a merchant account and they will not be charged extra for making a payment online. Also, make sure that all payments are secured. A merchant account can also set you up with a secure and certified way to receive payments. Clients can place their order by completing an order form or they can use the gateway option. The latter will transfer all of the client’s vital info to the processor so that he can accept and make the transaction. The most preferred method is the shopping cart because it automatically calculated all the purchases. It is easy for both the client and the merchant processor.
Your best option is always to go with a merchant service provider that will offer you a competitive price and will be there to service your account. Do your research and you will surely find a provider that will fit your needs.
Beacon Payments specializes in setting up credit card processing accounts, gift and loyalty card programs and small business cash advances. We provide fully customized programs for all of our clients and help them use our products to promote their business. In addition we are one of the few credit card processors in the country who allows small to medium businesses to process credit cards on an interchange plus price system.