Few Tips To Choose your Merchant Service Provider

A merchant account is an account, which allows a business owner or in other words ‘merchant’ to accept payments done by the customer by various cards, debit, and credit card most of the time. Now, the problem lies in understanding how to choose the best merchant service provider. Choosing a merchant account is not an easy task, you need to be aware of the services before opting for a provider. Not every merchant account provides the same kind of service level. In this article, we will try to focus on some important factors that can help you to choose the best merchant service provider for your business.

1. Clear and Transparent Fee Rates

This is the most important thing to study before selecting a merchant account. Many a times, a provider will charge you very less processing fees to entice you to open an account with them but may charge very high fees in the name of other fees. A PCI fee is one such fee that a merchant has to pay to safeguard both merchant’s and customer’s account information. So, you need to consider all the rates and then finally choose best merchant service provider with transparent fees structure.

2. Study the Fraud Detection Program

We have seen a lot of evidence of fraud happening in the cyber world in the recent times. Fraudsters are now moving toward the small and medium-sized merchants because they are considered to be and ‘easy target’. So, one need to be aware of the data breach security program covered by the service provider.

3. History of the Merchant Account Provider

Last but not the least, you need to figure out the behavior of the merchant account provider with the proper market research. A proper market research will guide you in terms of examining the previous background of the provider. So, we hope that this article will give you a good idea on how to choose best merchant service provider for your business.

Merchant stronghold specializes in high risk and offshore merchant account. For more information on merchant services, payment gateway services, credit card and shopping cart services you can reach out to us via 24/7 email support at info@merchantstronghold.com - You can also call us at our toll-free number+1 (888) 622 – 6875.

Important Things About Terminated Merchant Files

Terminated Merchant File – Most merchants do not know about the Terminated Merchant File until they have been added to one. Once you are added to the TMF, the merchant service providers refuse your request to open a new merchant account. When the merchant does not follow the norms of business properly, owns a high-risk business and/or has a great number of chargeback in previous processing, the MasterCard can put the merchant in the Terminated Merchant File.

Match List & It’s Pros & Cons

Created and maintained by MasterCard, the MATCH list is the information of the comparatively high-risk merchants. Other networks such as Visa and American Express can also access this list or data. The MATCH stands for Member Alert To Control High-Risk.

This list has its benefits and loss that can affect a merchant and the business.

Pros of MATCH List:  

The main advantage is for the Acquiring bank.

The bank can choose not to deal with the merchant if it's MATCH List merchant.

Furthermore, it helps banks to decide whether the merchant should get the credit card processing or not, depending on their previous records.

Cons of MATCH List:

The merchant will not know that he is on the list until he changes the merchant service provider or applies for a new merchant account.

The list cannot be 100% accurate as there is always the possibility of data error.

Once added to the MATCH List, the merchant has to face consequences for the rest of his business life.

Previously, it was known by the name TMF (Terminated Merchant File). But then the rules were updated and became more comprehensive. That leads to a change in the name too.

Terminated Merchant File/ MATCH List

The Terminated Merchant File is a file or a list, in which a merchant with bad business records is put under. This list has other names as well:

MATCH – Member Alert To Control High-Risk

TMF – Terminated Merchant File

The merchant can use preventive measures to avoid getting into the Terminated Merchant File or Member Alert To Control High-Risk. You can contact Merchant Stronghold for details related to TMF or MATCH. We also have a 24/7 open toll-free number +1(888) 622-6875 for the users.

Furthermore, in this article, we will discuss the various aspects of the MATCH or TMF.

MATCH List Reason Code

How the ACH Payment Processing Saves Time and Money?

ACH Payment Processing Saves Time and Money – To maximize the profit and increase the customer, you need to choose the best business practice for the business. This includes the payment methods or payment system as well. The credit card has revolutionized the payment industries and, the security and benefits provided by the service providers have encouraged the users to these services.

How does ACH Payment Processing Save Time?

The ACH is proved to be faster than other payment modes. This is because, when using the ACH, a unique routing number is provided that initiates the transaction. The money is then taken from the customer’s account and put into the merchant’s account. It is somewhat like a paper check but faster.

Generally, the ACH takes 2-3 working days to complete, from customer’s account to the merchant account.

Same day processing is also available for the merchants.

Also, the authorization is fast and secure that is attracting many merchants.

For more information, we recommend you to contact an expert. Call at the toll-free number+1 (888) 622 – 6875 of Merchant Stronghold and get an expert to guide you.

Now we know that the ACH processing saves time. It also saves a huge chunk of money as well. When using a credit card, the merchant has to pay a fixed amount to the credit card processor to use their credit card service. The ACH removed this fixed charge because this service is between the merchant and the customer.

What are the Common Merchant Account Complaints

Every year, a plethora of complaints are registers that badly affect the business of the merchant. In this article, we have listed the Common Merchant Account Complaints and the tricks to avoid such issues in your organization. This article can help you look at both potential risks and rewards of working with a given company.

Poor Customer Service

Now your business and payment processing system cannot be perfect every time. And customer faces an issue with the management. At those times, it is the responsibility of the customer service team to provide the demanded attention to a specific topic.

But if the customer support is unable to offer the desired support then the customer has no other option but to avoid the company.

• In such a case, you need to stabilize your customer support service.
• Tracking your product and customer reviews should be evaluated.
• You should take some time to minimize the customer waiting time.
• And nobody wants to listen to the automated answering service.

Poor Agreement Management

Another complaint that is filed against the merchants is related to the agreement management. That could be related to the poor description, expensive services and many more.

• Merchants always pay more when they are renting a terminal than just to outright buying one.
• Leasing services are generally non-refundable that further leads to conflicts.
• By the time, this all leads to costing thousands of dollars to the merchant.

Misleading Sales Practice

This is one of the worst sales practices. If you wish to lead a long profitable business then never apply such things to your business.

• For a merchant, sales are very important and to increase sales they try every method.
• Some merchants try these petty methods to increase sales.
• But the customer with one bad issue can report the business of this unethical practice.
• Advertise your product as it is.
• And if you offer some discount then make sure you clear out the terms and condition to the customers properly.
• Train your sales agent properly and tell them the customer satisfaction is always the priority.

Similar Queries – Merchant Stronghold

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• Flagship merchant services complaints
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For more information and guidance you can contact Merchant Stronghold at the toll-free number +1(888) 622-6875. We have also listed more Common Merchant Account Complaints in the headlines below.

Few Things you Should Know Before You Open Merchant Bank Account

Open Merchant Bank Account – You thought about growing your business and want to start using the card transaction for your products? The first thing that you need is to Open Merchant Bank Account. And, if you are just starting with the payment processors and card transactions then the procedures can be tricky sometimes. For guidance, you need an expert or specialist.

You can get such services by calling our toll-free number +1(888) 622-6875. We at Merchant Stronghold also provide help to the high-risk merchant and their credit card processing. Furthermore, you can read this article where we are going to tell you details related to the merchant bank account.

What is a Business Bank Account? – Open Merchant Bank Account

• You can open a Business Bank Account anytime just by visiting the nearest branch. It takes hardly a few minutes to open a merchant bank account if your documents are ready and appropriate.
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• Even if you are the sole proprietor of the business, you need to create a Business Bank Account.
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• All you need is your merchant license or business license and EIN (Employer Identification Number).
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• Now, your business transaction can be carried out using this bank account.
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• Also, make sure you keep a certain amount in the account for processing fees and software fees.

How to Get the Business License?

The business license is a permit from the government or the responsible organization that allows you to sell goods and services. Depending on your geographical location, you can get a business license by providing the required documents.

• You need to provide the documents that validate your business.
• Also, provide details of your standing business.
• An underwriting and review of the business also need to be submitted.
• These business licenses generally have the expiration date. You may be required to renew the license to continue the business.
• Then after the completion of the formalities, you can get your Business License and Business License Number.

To Open a Merchant Bank Account, you need to have a business license. If you are facing trouble to get a business license of account then contact the Merchant Stronghold at the toll-free number- +1 (888) 62- 6875.

Few Points you Must know - Open Merchant Bank Account

• Know about the Merchant Account Benefits
• Choose for Online Application for Merchant Bank Account
• Know about the Merchant Account Benefits
• Ask Security and Payment Related Questions
• A Few Tips for Merchant – Merchant Stronghold

Compare The Best Payment Gateway Provider

You can follow this article to compare the Payment Gateway provider in the market. For more information, you can contact Merchant Stronghold for the assistance. Also, we can help you choose and compare Payment Gateway Provider.

Fees and Additional Fees for the Services

The transaction processing fees and other fees for the services can affect your profit. As a merchant, you should compare the payment processing fees of the services and then get the one that is required. Here are the different fees or charges that a payment gateway service provider can ask.

• Customer service fees
• Monthly fees
• Termination Fees
• Setup fees
• Batch fees
• IRS (Internal Revenue Service) fees
• Contract Fees
• Annual fees
• PCI (Payment Card Industry) compliance fees
• Statement fees

These are the list of fees that a payment gateway provider can ask. There could be more than what is available in the list above.

Security and Customer Service

When you are Comparing Payment Gateway Provider, you must check the security and customer services provided by the different service providers.

• Make sure you read the terms and conditions of the company.
• Moreover, check the support provided by the gateway service provider in case of fraud and chargeback.
• You must check the kind of security they provide.
• A security breach can affect not only the merchant but also the customer’s money.

Allowed Card and Payment Types

Types of cards and payment types should be allowed while accepting the payment to help the merchants to compare Payment Gateway provider. Here is the list of popular Card Service Providers:

Visa – MasterCard - American Express – Discover – JCB – Diner

You must choose the card acceptance according to your customers. Also, compare Payment Gateway provider depending on the majority of card payments you get.

User-Friendly or Customer Friendly

The Payment Gateway should be interactive and easy to use for the customers. That means the customers with or without technical knowledge should be able to use the Payment Services with ease.

• As most users now make their transaction using mobile phones.
• Check whether the services are available on mobile phones or not.
• Moreover, their response and the waiting time for each payment should also be taken into consideration.

We provide assistance with high-risk payment gateway, credit card processing, merchant processing services and many more. You can call us at the support number or access the 24/7 email support.

What Are The Benefits Of Opening Merchant Account With Bank

Merchant Account with Bank

If you own a small business or a large enterprise, it is necessary to open a merchant account with a bank. This is because the merchant account can provide many benefits to the merchant and customers, both.

Here are some benefits to use a merchant account for your transactions:

Better Customer Experience – The Merchant Account offers flexibility in terms of payment to the customers. They can access your services and get the products anytime they want by simply making the quick payment. This can result in an increase in customers and their satisfaction as well.

Increase in Sales – As mentioned in the above point that customer satisfaction leads to more customers. That helps your business to gain more loyal customers and increase sales. Furthermore, the merchant account handles and manages all the transactions without any issues and errors.

Accepts a wide range of payment methods – Every Customer uses a different mode of payment method as per their convenience. If you are a merchant then you should prepare your business to accept payment using various payment methods. This especially includes the credit card.

Prevent Payment Frauds – Payment frauds are common in the business. Moreover, there are many fraud tricks that can easily fool a person. But when you use a merchant account, you also get the security features provided by the bank to get genuine money for your original product and service.

To open a Merchant Account with the bank you need to understand the process or procedure. For such details, you can contact the Merchant Stronghold. Moreover, this article also includes some points that can make your decision easy while getting a new merchant account.

Frequently Asked Questions – Merchant Stronghold

• What are merchant account requirements?
• How to apply for a merchant account?
• What is a merchant account?
• Who are merchant account providers?
• How to get online merchant account instant approval?
• Should you Open Merchant Account with a Bank?
• How to open a merchant account online?
• Get chase merchant account
• Do I need a merchant account?
• What are the names of merchant accounts for small businesses?
• How to get a merchant account with bad credit?

These are some of the common questions asked by our customers related to the “Open Merchant Account with Bank”. In case you are also having similar queries then feel free to contact the Merchant Stronghold. You can access our 24/7 email support and a toll-free number to reach our technician.

How Do I Choose Best Online Merchant Account For High-Risk Business?

Choosing a merchant account provider can be confusing but with the right information, you can make a wise, informed decision. We have merchant account experts who can guide you to get the best services you want.

Best Merchant Account for High-Risk Business?

You need to lay out the demands of your business to shortlist the high-risk merchant account providers. Then out of those shortlisted service providers, choose the one that feels right. Here are some aspects of the Merchant Account that can help you shortlist good merchant account provider. 

High-Risk Business Management – A high-risk business bags number of Chargeback and Representment than other businesses. All these issues are handled by the account providers. To avoid more hassle, a merchant should get the account provider that offers efficient management for the high-risk business.

Efficient Support – The second most important requirement for the high-risk business account is the customer support. Choose a provider type that offers 24/7 support to their customers. This could help in dealing with a lot of matter in the future. Your queries will get answered quickly.

Hardware Services – Generally, the bank or merchant service provider offers the hardware equipment for the card and cashless payment. These devices can include wired credit card terminal, a wireless terminal, a POS system, or a mobile Smartphone-based system with a card reader and an application. Some of these services are free while others have some monthly charges.

Charges – While getting a merchant account you must compare the account charges of various providers. This will help you understand the market price for the service you are looking for and purchase the one with reasonable pricing.

Terms and Conditions – You must thoroughly read the terms and conditions of the service provider. Make sure you understand everything and then sign the deal. If you are unable to comprehend the policies then you can hire an expert to get you the information you seek.

For more information, feel free to contact Merchant Stronghold and get assistance to find the Best Merchant Account for High-Risk Business. Furthermore, you can contact us using the toll-free number +1(888) 622-6875 and try the 24/7 email support. We provide specialized assistance for the high-risk business, merchant account handling, and other similar services.

Open Instant Approval Offshore Merchant Account with Merchant Stronghold

Merchant Stronghold is well known for its services and fast processing system for the High-risk offshore merchant account. We have been voted #1 High-Risk merchant service provider in the year 2015 and 2016. If you are looking for the offshore account for your high-risk business, you have reached the right place. We provide hassle-free all-in-one merchant account that includes everything that a high-risk offshore merchant requires to process successfully, which includes:

• Debit card processing
• Credit card processing
• ACH Processing 
• Payment gateways
• Chargeback management services

Merchant Stronghold also provides facilities that make accepting payment way easier, these facilities are:

• POS machine service
• Virtual terminal
• Online setup

Merchant Stronghold is in the market since long and has maintained good repo by providing best services to our clients. Our commitment to excellence drives our interactions with clients, customers and each other which helped us in attaining 100% customer satisfaction rate. Following are the things that make our service better than the other players in the market:

INTEGRITY

Integrity, trust, and honesty are the foundation of everything we do as a company. We look for health and long-term relationship with our clients and not just looking for a one-time sale.

TEAMWORK

We operate as a team, sharing experiences, resources, and opportunities. We help others when they need it and ask for help when needed. As a team, we along with our clients, workout for best solution which not only meets all the current needs but also meets the need of the near future.

INNOVATION

We make every effort to translate creative and unique ideas into services, products, or processes that create value. We have a well knowledgeable and creative team which works hard to come up with new and better solutions all the time, depending upon the requirement of our client.

COMMUNICATION

We foster an environment where all associates’ voices are heard and everyone is encouraged to share their opinions. We work as a team and appreciate active participation of all our employees, encourage new ideas and irrespective of their designation, value their opinion. Not only with our team but we also respect any valuable suggestion from our client.

ACCOUNTABILITY

FAST SETUP/APPROVAL

RELATIONSHIP WITH BANKS

Let's know about Cons and Pros of Merchant Services

Professionals of High-Risk Merchant Account – Getting a "High Risk" Merchant name are not longed for. There are many businesses that are considered as a high-risk business and numerous payment processing organizations would prefer not to work with them. However, now and then, we disregard the advantages of having a high-risk business.

CONS OF HAVING A HIGH-RISK MERCHANT ACCOUNT

Now a business owner has to get a merchant account. This account is used to carry out the transactions of the merchant. Now if your company has too many numbers of chargebacks then your account will be referred to as a high-risk merchant account.

There are many reasons a merchant do not want to own a high-risk merchant account, these are:

• Excessive Chargeback Fees – The Bank already considers that the high-risk business will produce a number of chargebacks. In order to deal with the chargebacks, bank charges extra chargeback fees to deal with them in the future.
• Need to create a Merchant Account Reserve. For the high-risk business, the bank asks them to open a no-interest saving account. This is done to deal with an unexpected number of chargebacks in the future. If someday merchant is asked to pay a large sum due to a chargeback then this account will be used to pay off the customer.

If you are at risk of becoming a high-risk business due to the growing number of chargebacks in your enterprise then get an expert to assist you. Contact the Merchant Stronghold at the toll-free number for such services.

PROS OF HAVING A HIGH-RISK MERCHANT ACCOUNT

There is also a bright side to own a high-risk business. It is hard to believe but high-risk business can actually help you earn more profit than other businesses.

Pros of High-Risk Merchant Account are:

Great Earning Potential. The payment processor limits the revenue rate for the low-risk business. But the high-risk business has no limit when it comes to earning and expanding the business.

Worldwide Expansion. If you own a high-risk business then you have all the access to expand your business beyond boundaries. You can deal in any currency with the desired country.

Risky Products lead to More Profit. When you own a high-risk business account, you can sell almost anything in the market. This is one of the Pros of High-Risk Merchant Account that makes it the most profitable business.

When it comes to earning the profit, high-risk business is the best. Also, you can say the Pros of High-Risk Merchant Account is a great profit.

If you own a high-risk business and need tips to overcome chargeback in your enterprise, then you can get a chargeback specialist at Merchant Stronghold. Contact us at the toll-free number or reach us using the Skype chat.

Difference Between USA & European Merchant Account

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE US AND THE EUROPEAN MERCHANT ACCOUNTS – MERCHANT STRONGHOLD:

Pricing:

There is a huge difference in the prices between the US and the European Merchant Accounts in terms of the gateway, setup fees, and discount rates etc. The European merchant accounts are way higher in prices than the US Merchant Accounts. The cost of the US Merchant Accounts decreased due to the high competition among the US banks. Unlike US banks, there is no such competition for the European Merchant accounts which leads to a higher cost. European Banks offer their services all over the world while the US banks provide their services in the US only.

Quality:

In terms of the quality of the services, both the banks are equal. Both the US and European Merchant Accounts offering the same credit card processing services like VISA and MasterCard etc. Even though the banks are using the best credit card processing services and security services there also be a possibility of scams. The quality can be checked in terms of the time of approval, safety, and security etc. As we are all aware that a different gateway technique is used by every credit card processing service, which helps to keep the data safe. Also, there is no difference in the time of approval between both the US and the European Merchant Accounts.

Account Setup and Monitoring:

Setting up the account is very easy for both the US and European Merchant Accounts. In case of any issue, you can always connect with the support team to fix your issues. Also, account monitoring is very crucial for your high-risk merchant account. Monitoring your account may reduce the risk of data loss and many others.

Availability:

European Merchant Accounts are available for the merchants all over the world but sometimes it comes with few limitations. But the US Merchant Accounts are not available that easily. It is very difficult for merchants to sign up for the US Merchant Accounts. Unlike the US and the European e-commerce merchant account, there are many credit card processing services, which are easily available for the merchant all over the world.

In case you need any help related to your Merchant Account you may contact Merchant Stronghold Support team +1(888) 622-6875. One of the experts will provide you with the appropriate information related to your product or Merchant account. We offer 24/7 assistance for the convenience of the Merchants. In case of any issues, we will resolve it with 98% of the resolution rate. A merchant can also visit us at merchantstronghold.com for further information and assistance.