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# Merchant Cost Consulting

Lower Credit Card Processing Fees

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## Posts

- [Why Isn’t American Express Accepted at More Places?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/where-american-express-accepted/) - Find out why American Express isn't accepted at every business. We look at the Amex acceptance rate in the US and internationally, breaking down the reasons.
- [Complete Guide to Amex Interchange Rates](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/the-complete-guide-to-amex-interchange-and-processing-fees/) - How Amex interchange works, Amex direct vs. OptBlue rates, and why American Express fees are so different from other networks.
- [American Express Direct vs OptBlue](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/understanding-merchant-amex-options-direct-vs-optblue/) - Compare Amex OptBlue vs. Amex Direct. Learn the differences between Amex OptBlue rates and Amex Direct rates, and find out how to save money on Amex processing.
- [Shift4 Payments: Rate Increases, Fees, and Updates (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/shift4-rate-increases-fees-updates/) - Shift4 Payments fees for credit card processing. Find the latest updates for Shift4 Payments and find out how much it costs to process credit cards with Shift4.
- [Visa FANF Fee: Merchant Guide (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-fanf-fee/) - What is Visa FANF Fee? Use this guide to find out everything about the fixed acquirer network fee charged by Visa, including what it is and how it's calculated.
- [Visa Digital Commerce Service Fee Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-digital-commerce-service-fee-explained-2024/) - How much Visa's Digital Commerce Service Fee costs and what types of transaction categories and merchants it applies to. Plus new rate increase.
- [Heartland Payment Systems Review (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/heartland-payment-systems-review/) - Get our insider take on Heartland for payment processing, including its pros, cons, contract terms, and how to get hidden fees removed from your statement.
- [Heartland Payments Rate Increases, Fees, and Updates — 2026](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/heartland-global-payments-rate-increases-fees-updates/) - The latest news and updates for Heartland Payment Systems, including rate increases, new fees, and other relevant payment processing information for merchants.
- [PNC Merchant Services Rate Increases, Fees, and Updates (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/pnc-merchant-services-fees/) - The latest fees and updates for PNC Merchant Services. Stay up to date with announcements and rate increases if you're using PNC Bank to process payments.
- [Global Payments Rate Increases, Fees, and Updates (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/global-payments-integrated-formerly-openedge-rate-increases-fees-and-updates/) - We break down the latest Global Payments Integrated fees for credit card processing. See updated surcharging rules, fines, fees, and Global Payments rates here.
- [Clearent Review: Pros, Cons, and Fee Comparison (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/clearent-review/) - Our insider take on Clearent's payment processing services, including a closer look at Clearent's fees and reporting using real statements from our clients.
- [Stripe Review: Pros, Cons, and Pricing Comparison (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/stripe-review/) - We break down everything you need to know about Stripe for payment processing, including real examples of pricing and contracts from our clients using Stripe.
- [EVO Payments Rates and Fee Updates](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/evo-payments-interchange-rates-fee-updates/) - The latest EVO Payments updates, news, rate increases, and fees for credit card processing. Find out how much it costs to use EVO Payments for card acceptance.
- [Illinois Credit Card Surcharging Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/illinois-credit-card-surcharging-laws/) - Everything you need to know about the credit card surcharging laws in Illinois, including a closer look at the surcharge limits and new interchange laws.
- [Visa/Mastercard Interchange Fee Settlement: Everything You Need to Know](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-mastercard-interchange-fee-settlement/) - Disclosure: This page is for informational purposes only and is NOT legal advice. We are just presenting facts associated with the settlement, and we are in no way making suggestions or recommendations. PaymentCardSettlement.com is the ONLY court-authorized website for this case. Refer to that website or consult with an attorney for more information. Merchants that
- [Elavon Rate Increases, Fees, and Updates (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/elavon-rate-increases-fees-and-updates/) - See the latest Elavon credit card processing fees, news, and updates. Find out how to lower Elavon fees and Elavon pricing without switching processors.
- [Discover Interchange Rates (2026 Update)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/discover-interchange-rates/) - The latest Discover interchange rates, effective April 17, 2026. See all the new interchange fees without a login or verification code from your acquirer.
- [Elavon Payment Processing Review (Pros, Cons, Fees)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/elavon-review/) - Get the inside scoop on Elavon for payment processing. Take a closer look at Elavon's pros, cons, and fees for credit card processing based on our experiences.
- [North (American Bancard) Payment Processing Rates - 2026](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/north-american-bancard-interchange-rates/) - See a full history of North American Bancard's rate increases for its credit card processing services, so you can stay informed on the latest fees.
- [Fiserv Credit Card Processing Fees and Updates (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/credit-card-processing-rate-increases-first-data-fiserve/) - Stay up to date with the latest Fiserv (formerly First Data) credit card processing fees. Find out how to save money on Fiserv (First Data) processing rates.
- [Fullsteam Review: Pros, Cons, Pricing & Statement Audit](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/fullsteam-review/) - Our insider take on Fullsteam for payment processing, including fees that aren't published anywhere else and a closer look at how to read Fullsteam's reports.
- [Fullsteam Payments Rate Increases and Updates (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/fullsteam-payments-rate-increases-and-updates/) - See the latest Fullsteam Payments rates and payment processing fees. We break down every Fullsteam rate increase and update for merchants using Fullsteam.
- [Shift4 Merchant Services Review (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/shift4-review/) - Find out if you're overpaying to accept credit cards from Shift4 Payments in our in-depth review and fee breakdown of this payment processor.
- [Visa ISA Fee Explained (International Service Assessment)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-isa-fee/) - Complete analysis of Visa's ISA (International Service Assessment) Fee, including what it is, how much it costs, when it gets charged, and who pays it.
- [PayJunction Review: Processing Fees & Insider Take (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payjunction-review/) - Get our take on PayJunction, including a closer look at its processing fees, standout features, real statements, and how to negotiate the best possible rate.
- [PayPal Review For Credit Card Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/paypal-review/) - Our complete review of PayPal's credit card processing services, including PayPal fees and our insider take of how PayPal compares to other payment processors.
- [Gravity Payments Review: Pricing and Statement Audit (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/gravity-payments-review/) - Our insider take on Gravity Payments, including the pros and cons of this payment processor with a detailed look at its fees and full statement audit example.
- [Rectangle Health Review: Pros, Cons, Processing Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/rectangle-health-review/) - Our insider take on using Rectangle Health for payment processing. Find out what we like, what we don't, and take a closer look at fees from real statements.
- [Does Credit History Impact Merchant Account Approval](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/does-credit-history-impact-merchant-account-approval/) - Bad credit can impact your ability to get a loan or a line of credit. But does your credit history matter when you’re applying for a merchant account? Whether you’re thinking of applying for a new merchant account, you’re awaiting the results of an application, or you’re looking for answers after a rejection, this guide
- [Credit Card Refund Fees (Merchant Guide)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/are-you-paying-a-credit-card-refunds-fee/) - Learn how credit card refunds work and see if you're paying a credit card refund fee. Find out how to avoid refund transaction fees & save money on processing.
- [What is a Virtual Terminal?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/what-is-a-virtual-terminal/) - Discover everything you need to know about virtual terminals for payment processing. Find out what is a virtual terminal and how virtual terminals work.
- [Credit Card Authorization Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/credit-card-authorization-explained/) - What merchants need to know about credit card authorizations, including how they work, authorization holds, why they fail, and difference between settlement.
- [Adyen Review: Payment Processing Fees and Insider Take](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/adyen-review/) - Our expert take on Adyen's payment processing services, including its fees, statement analysis, and comparison to other similar providers on the market.
- [Merchant Discount Rate Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/merchant-discount-rate/) - The merchant discount rate (MDR) is not a discount. It's a fee that merchants pay to processing companies as a percentage of a credit or debit card transaction.
- [What is a Merchant Consultant?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/what-is-a-merchant-consultant/) - The ability to accept credit card payments is an absolute must in today’s world. But credit card processing is a complex subject—without thousands of different fees to navigate. Credit card transaction fees can add up quickly. With average credit card processing fees ranging anywhere from 2% to 3.5% per transaction, businesses are paying tens of
- [Toast Review: Payment Processing (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/toast-review/) - Our in-depth review of Toast and Toast POS for payment processing. We break down how Toast's processing fees stack up against other processors in this space.
- [Terminated Merchant File (TMF) & MATCH List: How to Get Off](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/tmf-match-list-payment-processing/) - Navigating the TMF/MATCH list can feel like a daunting task for merchants. Many businesses don’t even know about the Terminated Merchant File (TMF) or MATCH list until they’ve been told they’re on it. This often catches merchants off guard since they’re not notified when they’re placed on the TMF or MATCH list—and they only find
- [Clearent Rate Increases, Fees, and Updates](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/clearent-rate-increases-fees-and-updates/) - Everything you need to know about Clearent fees and rate increases for payment processing. We cover the latest updates and changes to Clearent's merchant fees.
- [B2B Payment Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/b2b-payment-processing/) - Everything you need to know about B2B payment processing and how to get lower B2B credit card processing rates for your business using a B2B payment gateway.
- [Vanco Interchange Rates (Processing Fee Increases and Updates)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/vanco-interchange-rates/) - See the latest Vanco fees for credit card processing, ACH payments, text payments, chargeback fees, PCI compliance fees, Amex transactions, and more.
- [10 Facts About Digital Payments and E-Wallets](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/credit-card-processing-ewallets-and-digital-payments-facts/) - The top 10 facts, statistics, and trends for digital payments and e-wallets that every business needs to know. Learn more about digital payment processing here.
- [Paya Rate Increases, Fees, and Updates](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/paya-rate-increases-fees-and-updates/) - See the latest Paya rates and fees for credit card processing. We break down the latest Paya updates and rate increases for merchants accepting card payments.
- [Credit Card Decline Codes](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/credit-card-decline-codes/) - List of credit card decline codes so you can find the reason why your credit card transaction was declined and how to fix it. Learn more about card decline codes.
- [What is a Chargeback? Ultimate Guide to Chargebacks](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/credit-card-merchant-fees-chargebacks/) - Everything you need to know about chargebacks, including chargeback fees, chargeback codes, types of chargebacks, and how to prevent chargebacks.
- [High Risk Credit Card Processing and Merchant Account Rates](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/about-high-risk-credit-card-processing/) - Compare high risk merchant account rates, high risk merchant account fees, and learn how to obtain high risk merchant services for your business.
- [Credit Card Merchant Fees - Ultimate Guide](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/why-do-merchant-fees-exist/) - Everything you need to know about merchant fees in credit card processing. This guide covers the different types of merchant fees and answers merchant fee FAQs.
- [Credit Card Networks Explained (and How They Work)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/understanding-credit-card-networks/) - Credit card networks help power the global economy. Millions of credit card transactions are processed every day—all of which would be impossible without the card networks. From small businesses to ecommerce giants and everything in between, credit card networks help funnel sales into organizations of all different shapes and sizes. As a merchant, it’s important
- [How to Lower Credit Card Processing Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/the-complete-guide-to-lowering-credit-card-merchant-fees/) - Everything you need to know about lower credit card processing fees. Find out how to save money on credit card processing in 5 steps with our in-depth guide.
- [Venmo Fees and PayPal Fees (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/paypal-and-venmo-fees-rate-increases-and-updates/) - The latest Venmo fees and PayPal fees. Discover the latest news and updates from Venmo and PayPal and how they affect business and consumer accounts.
- [Average Credit Card Processing Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/average-credit-card-merchant-fees/) - Compare the average credit card processing fees, merchant credit card fees, and average credit card transaction fees for Visa, Amex, Mastercard, and Discover.
- [List of Credit Card Processing Companies 2026](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/list-of-credit-card-processing-companies/) - Discover the best credit card processing companies for your business. Compare pricing, features, interchange fees, and contract terms to get the best deal.
- [Greyfinch Review: Payment Processing and Rates](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/greyfinch-review/) - Our insider take on Greyfinch's payment processing services, including its rates and all the insights you need to negotiate the best deal for your practice.
- [Ohio Credit Card Surcharge Laws](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/ohio-surcharge-laws/) - Everything you need to know about the credit card surcharging laws in Ohio, including what's legal, what's not, and what's required to remain compliant.
- [Florida Credit Card Surcharge Rules](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/florida-surcharge-laws/) - Find out whether it's legal or illegal to surcharge credit card transactions in Florida. We break down state laws and federal rulings that impact regulations.
- [Tennessee Surcharge Laws](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/tennessee-surcharge-laws/) - Everything you need to know about the credit card surcharge laws in Tennessee, including what's legal, what's illegal, and other relevant laws that apply.
- [PNC Merchant Services Review: Pros, Cons, and Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/pnc-merchant-services-review/) - Our insider take on PNC Merchant Services. We break down the pros, cons, and fees to look out for if you're using PNC Bank for credit card processing.
- [Bank of America Merchant Services Fees and Updates](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/bank-of-america-merchant-services/) - Find out how much it costs to use Bank of America Merchant Services for payment processing. See the latest interchange rates and fees from BOA in this guide.
- [Credit Card Fraud Statistics (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/credit-card-fraud-statistics/) - The latest credit card fraud statistics. See 35+ mind-blowing US credit card fraud stats, global credit card fraud stats, and ecommerce fraud stats in 2026.
- [Versapay Review: Fees and Insider Take](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/versapay-review/) - A complete breakdown of Versapay for payment processing, including fees, examples from real merchant statements, and an application showing a quoted rate.
- [Debit Card Processing Fees (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/debit-card-processing-fees-explained/) - Compare debit card processing fees for your business. See how a debit card transaction fee can change based on the debit method, card network, bank, and more.
- [Colorado Credit Card Surcharge Laws](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/colorado-surcharge-laws/) - A complete breakdown of Colorado's surcharge laws, including what's legal, what's illegal, and the exact steps merchants must take to surcharge credit cards.
- [EVO Payments Review (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/evo-payments-review/) - Get our insider take on EVO Payments, including its pros, cons, and pricing breakdown for credit card processing. You won't find this information anywhere else.
- [QuickBooks Payment Processing Review: Pros, Cons and Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/quickbooks-payment-processing-review/) - We breakdown everything you need to know about using QuickBooks for payment processing, including pros, cons, fees, and our insider tips to help you save money.
- [Credit Card Surcharge Laws by State (Updated For 2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/credit-card-surcharge-laws-by-state/) - A complete break down of credit card surcharging laws in all 50 states. Use this guide to quickly find out if surcharging is legal or illegal in your state.
- [MCC Codes List - Merchant Category Codes](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/merchant-category-codes-mcc-for-payment-processing/) - Everything you need to know about merchant category codes (MCC). Explore MCC codes for ecommerce, MCC for online retailers, and find out your MCC code.
- [Worldpay Rate Increases, Fees, and Updates (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/credit-card-processing-rate-increases-worldpay-fis/) - Explore every new Worldpay price increase and Worldpay credit card processing fees. See our tips to help lower Worldpay fees and keep interchange rates low.
- [12 Ways to Accept Online Payments](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/ways-to-accept-online-payments/) - The most popular ways to accept online payments. Find out the best ways to get paid online based on your business type, sales channel, and customer base.
- [Biggest Credit Card Scams to Look Out For in 2026](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/biggest-credit-card-scams/) - Find out how to spot a credit card scam. This guide breaks down the most common types credit card scams and includes tips on how to protect yourself from fraud.
- [Mastercard MC Digital Enablement Fee: What it is and How Much it Costs](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/mastercard-mc-digital-enablement-fee/) - Read this guide if you found the MC Digital Enablement Fee or MC DB/Prepaid Digital Enablement Fee on your credit card processing statement.
- [Worldpay Review - Fees & Insider Take](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/worldpay-review/) - Our insider analysis and review of Worldpay for credit card processing. We break down Worldpay's pros, cons, and fees while sharing real stories from merchants.
- [Toast Rate Increases and Fee Updates](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/toast-credit-card-processing-rate-increases-and-updates/) - Toast Payment fees and rate updates for credit card processing. If you're using Toast or planning to use Toast to accept payments, use this guide as a resource.
- [CardConnect Fees and Updates For Payment Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/cardconnect-fees-and-updates-for-payment-processing/) - Discover the latest CardConnect rates for payment processing. We break down CardConnect fees, updates, and rate increases for credit card processing.
- [Texas Surcharge Rules For Credit Card Transactions](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/texas-surcharge-laws/) - Is it legal for businesses to add a surcharge fee in Texas? State law says no, but federal court ruling says it's unenforceable. Read this guide to learn more.
- [CardConnect Review: Pros, Cons, and Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/cardconnect-review/) - Our insider take on CardConnect, including its pros, cons, and fees for payment processing. We also take a closer look at a real CardConnect merchant contract.
- [Cayan Merchant Services Review](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/cayan-review-2024/) - If you're using Cayan to accept payments, use this review to identify bogus fees on your statements and cost-saving opportunities. Get our insider take.
- [Chase Paymentech Review (Pros, Cons, Fees)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/chase-paymentech-review/) - Get our insider take on Chase Paymentech. Find out the pros, cons, fees, and everything else you need to know about Chase Payment Solutions for your business.
- [Braintree Review: Pricing and Insider Take](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/braintree-review/) - Our insider take on Braintree's payment processing services, including pricing information and details that you won't find anywhere else on the web.
- [PatientNow Fees and Updates For Payment Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/patientnow-payment-processing-fees/) - See the latest rate increases, updates, and payment processing fees from PatientNow. If you're using PatientNow to process payments, you need to read this guide.
- [Lightspeed Processing Rates, Increases, and Updates (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/lightspeed-payment-processing-rates/) - Discover the latest news, processing fees, and rate increases from Lightspeed. If you're using Lightspeed POS for retail or restaurant, you need to read this.
- [Kansas Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/kansas-surcharge-laws/) - Find out if it's legal to add a surcharge fee to credit card transactions in Kansas. We explain how surcharging laws in Kansas have changed over time.
- [Top 11 Payment Processing Trends to Watch in 2026](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/10-payment-trends-dominating/) - The latest trends and statistics in the world of payment processing. Our research identifies what's trending up in 2026 and why it's important for your business.
- [Minnesota Credit Card Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/minnesota-credit-card-surcharge-laws/) - Minnesota updated its surcharge laws and disclosure rules. We break down what's changed, and clarify what's legal and illegal for surcharging credit cards.
- [Bank of America Merchant Services Review: Pros & Cons (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/bank-of-america-merchant-services-review/) - Get our insider take on Bank of America Merchant Services for payment processing, including its pros, cons, fees, and a closer look at real BOA statements.
- [New York Credit Card Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/new-york-surcharge-laws/) - Surcharging credit card transactions is legal in New York, but with strict contingencies. Use this guide to find out what's legal and what's not.
- [Stripe Payment Processing Rates (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/the-complete-guide-to-stripe-credit-card-processing-rates-and-fees/) - Compare Stripe interchange rates to other processors. Learn how Stripe works and how to negotiate Stripe credit card processing fees.
- [Georgia Credit Card Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/georgia-surcharge-laws/) - A closer look at Georgia's surcharge laws for credit and debit card transactions, including what's legal, what's illegal, and differences for convenience fees.
- [Bluefin Processing Rates, Increases, and Updates (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/bluefin-processing-rates-increases-and-updates/) - Find the latest credit card processing fees from Bluefin. Use this guide to stay informed on Bluefin's rate increases and payment processing updates.
- [TSYS Payment Processing Review: Pros, Cons, Fees (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/tsys-review-2024/) - The ultimate TSYS merchant services review for credit card processing. Learn more about TSYS pros, cons, rates, fees to look out for, and if you should switch.
- [Rectangle Health Rate Increases, Fees, and Updates (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/rectangle-health-rate-increases-fees-and-updates/) - Rectangle Health rates and fees to accept Visa, Mastercard, Amex, and Discover. The latest fees and updates to process credit card payments with Rectangle Health.
- [New California Credit Card Surcharge Rules Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/california-surcharge-laws/) - Everything you need to know about California's new credit card surcharging laws, including what's legal and illegal for businesses.
- [Chase Payment Solutions Rate Increases & Updates](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/chase-paymentech-rate-increases-fees-and-updates/) - The latest updates, changes, and fees for Chase Paymentech and Chase Merchant Services. See how these changes impact your credit card processing rates.
- [Mastercard Interchange Rates (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/mastercard-interchange-rates/) - See the latest Mastercard interchange rates and fees. Explore categories like large ticket interchange, restaurant interchange, retail interchange, and more.
- [Visa Interchange Rates (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-interchange-rates/) - The latest Visa interchange rates and fees for credit card processing. See all the updates to Visa interchange rates and how much it costs to accept Visa cards.
- [Fiserv Review: Pros, Cons, and Fees to Look Out For (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/fiserv-review/) - Our insider take on Fiserv, including its pros, cons, and real examples from merchant statements that highlight Fiserv's fees that you need to look out for.
- [Wells Fargo Merchant Services Rates and Updates (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/wells-fargo-merchant-services-rates/) - Stay informed on the latest rate increases and fee updates from Wells Fargo Merchant Services. We publish all the new rates before they're released publicly.
- [Credit Card Assessment Fees Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/credit-card-merchant-fees-assessment-fees/) - Credit card merchant fees are always changing. As a business, it’s important to understand how all credit card merchant fees work, and which processing fees are negotiable. Understanding credit card merchant assessment fees is crucial because they’re intended to be non-negotiable costs imposed by the card networks. Yet so many processors “pad” assessment fees as
- [TSYS Credit Card Processing Fees and Rate Increases](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/credit-card-processing-rate-increases-tsys/) - Explore the latest TSYS credit card processing fees, updates, and important news from this payment processor. Learn more about TSYS (Global Payments) fees.
- [Tokenization in Payment Processing (How it Works)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/the-process-of-tokenization/) - The process of tokenization in payment processing explained with real use cases and examples for merchants processing credit cards with network tokens.
- [What is Cardholder Data? (and Why it Matters)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/what-is-credit-card-processing-cardholder-data/) - The importance of cardholder data in payment processing for security, PCI compliance, and getting optimized rates for credit card acceptance.
- [ACH vs. Wire Transfer: What's the Difference?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/ach-vs-wire-transfers-for-payment-collection/) - What is a wire transfer? What is ACH? Learn the differences between ACH vs. wire transfers to see which money transfer option is right for your business.
- [What is a Rolling Reserve in Payment Processing?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/what-is-a-rolling-reserve/) - Everything you need to know about rolling reserves in payment processing, including how they work, how much they cost, and how to deal with rolling reserves.
- [PCI Compliance Requirements (12 Requirements of PCI DSS)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/pci-compliance-requirements/) - Our in-depth guide on the 12 payment compliance standards set by the PCI DSS Council, including action steps to comply. Use this checklist for PCI compliance.
- [What is the Visa Base II Transmission Fee?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-base-ii-transmission-fee/) - Everything you need to know about the Visa Base II Transmission Fee, also known as the Visa System File Transmission Fee, including the cost and how to spot it.
- [Surcharging vs. Cash Discounts in Credit Card Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/credit-card-processing-surcharging-vs-cash-discounts/) - Differences between credit card surcharges and cash discounts, including what's legal and the better option for your business to save money on merchant fees.
- [Interchange Downgrades & How to Avoid Them](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/most-common-interchange-downgrades/) - Everything you need to know about interchange downgrades and how they work. Compare the latest interchange downgrade fees from Visa and Mastercard.
- [OpenEdge Review: Fees and Insights For Payment Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/openedge-review/) - We break down everything you need to know about OpenEdge including fees and real statement examples. We also expose how they inflate assessment fees for profit.
- [Breeze Payment Processing Review](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/breeze-payment-processing-review/) - Get our insider take on Breeze's payment processing services, including a breakdown of fees and a comparison with similar processors for orthodontics practices.
- [Connecticut Surcharge Laws](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/connecticut-surcharge-laws/) - Find out if it's legal or illegal to surcharge credit card transactions in Connecticut. We cover all scenarios, including penalties for non-compliance.
- [Global Payments Review: Pros, Cons, Fees & Statement Audit](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/global-payments-review/) - See our insider take on Global Payments Integrated with an analysis of its pros, cons, and rates. We also show you how to spot bogus fees on your statement.
- [What to do When Your Payment Processor Increases Rates](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/what-to-do-when-your-processor-increases-rates/) - Find out what to do when your credit card processor increases your rates. You can negotiate, fight back, and get lower rates by following this 5-step guide.
- [Bluefin Review - Payment Processing (2025)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/bluefin-review/) - Our insider take on Bluefin payments, including its pros, cons, fees, and pricing for credit card transactions. Find out if Bluefin's giving you a good deal.
- [What is a Convenience Fee and Should You Charge One to Customers?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/convenience-fees/) - Learn what a convenience fee is and how to legally charge one. Compare the differences between convenience fees, surcharges, and service fees, with examples.
- [PAN Masking for PCI Compliance: A Beginner's Guide](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/pan-masking-pci-compliance/) - Everything you need to know about PAN masking for credit cards and debit cards and how it relates to PCI DSS requirements. Guide for beginners and merchants.
- [How to Cancel Your Merchant Account For Free](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-to-cancel-merchant-account/) - Find out the easiest way to terminate your merchant account for free, including some alternative options to save money on payment processing without cancelling.
- [Payment Processing Industry News — January 2025](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-january-2025/) - Find out what's trending in the payments world this month with the latest newsworthy headlines, including rate increases, partnerships, and new technology.
- [How to Read Your Merchant Processing Statement (With Examples)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-to-read-merchant-processing-statements/) - Find out how to read, audit, and truly understand your monthly merchant statements for credit card processing to identify fees and cost savings opportunities.
- [11 Reasons Why Businesses Should NOT Surcharge Credit Cards](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/why-not-surcharge-credit-cards/) - All the reasons why merchants should avoid surcharge programs, and why you should think twice before you add a surcharge fee to your credit card transactions.
- [Payment Processing Industry News — November 2024](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-november-2024/) - To help you keep pace with the latest news in the payments space, I’ve compiled a monthly roundup of the latest headlines. Here’s what’s happening this month: Processor Rate Increases Three major processors announced rate hikes in November: QuickBooks is increasing its rate cap on ACH transactions from $5 to $10, effective 12/2/24. This applies
- [ISO vs. ISV in Payment Processing: Key Differences Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/iso-vs-isv-differences/) - We break down the differences and roles of ISOs (Independent Sales Organizations) and ISVs (Independent Software Vendors) in the world of payment processing.
- [Payment Processing Industry News — December 2024](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-december-2024/) - A summary of the latest news stories and headlines from the payments industry in December 2024, including rate increases, surcharge laws, partnerships, and more.
- [Can You Block a Company From Charging Your Credit Card?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/block-company-charging-credit-card/) - Learn more about the scenarios when you can block a business from charging your credit card, debit card, and bank account. Plus steps on how to block charges.
- [Payment Processing Industry News — October 2024](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-october-2024/) - Our monthly roundup of trending news stories and headlines in the payments space, including card network interchange updates and rate increases from processors.
- [Preauthorization Fees Explained (For Credit Card Processing)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/preauthorization-fees-explained/) - Understand how preauthorization works in credit card processing, when merchants pay a fee for preauthorizations, and how to find these fees on your statement.
- [15 Signs of Credit Card Fraud for Merchants (With Examples)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/signs-of-credit-card-fraud-for-merchants/) - Top signs of credit card fraud that merchants need to be aware of to ensure you don't process a fraudulent transaction. Online and in-person fraud examples.
- [Square vs Merchant Account: Key Differences Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/square-vs-merchant-account/) - We break down the key differences between using Square or a traditional merchant account for payment processing so you can determine which one is right for you.
- [Payment Processing Industry News — August 2024](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-august-2024/) - See what's happening in the payments industry. We highlight new rate increases from payment processors, acquisitions and partnerships, and other breaking news.
- [Visa Account Name Inquiry (ANI) Fee Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-account-name-inquiry-fee/) - Everything you need to know about Visa's Account Name Inquiry (ANI) Fee, including how it works and how much it costs. Find out if you're overpaying here.
- [American Express OptBlue Rates in Canada](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/american-express-optblue-rates-canada/) - A closer look at the wholesale discount rates charged to processors for merchants participating in the American Express OptBlue program in Canada.
- [Interchange Fees vs. Assessment Fees: What’s the Difference?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/interchange-vs-assessments/) - We break down key differences between interchange fees and assessments, including how they work and who pays them, with real examples from monthly statements.
- [Visa Credit Voucher Fee Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-credit-voucher-fee/) - Everything you need to know about the Visa Credit Voucher Fee and Visa Base II Credit Voucher Fee, including what it is, how much it costs, and real examples.
- [Payment Processing Industry News — September 2024](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-september-2024/) - Get the latest news stories from the payments space, including rate increases, partnerships, and new technology. Stay informed on what's happening this month.
- [Mastercard Acquirer License Fee Explained (and 2025 Rate)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/mastercard-acquirer-license-fee/) - Everything you need to know about the Mastercard Acquirer License Fee, also known as the MC License Fee or Mastercard ALF, including how much it costs.
- [Wells Fargo Merchant Services Review (and Rates) for 2025](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/wells-fargo-merchant-services-review/) - See the pros and cons of using Wells Fargo Merchant Services for payment processing and see interchange-plus rates that aren't published anywhere else online.
- [What is the Wholesale Credit Card Processing Rate?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/wholesale-credit-card-processing-rate/) - Find out how much the wholesale rate is in payment processing and compare these costs to other types of fees, like interchange plus pricing for credit cards.
- [What is Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) and How Does it Work?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/what-is-buy-now-pay-later-bnpl/) - See how Buy Now Pay Later works for your business, BNPL fees, and BNPL providers. Learn more about the pros and cons of BNPL for merchants and consumers alike.
- [Chargeback Time Limits For Cardholders and Merchants (Ultimate Guide)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/chargeback-time-limits/) - Find out how long you have to file a chargeback for a disputed transaction, and how long merchants have to respond. Rules for Visa, Mastercard, Amex & Discover.
- [Payment Processing Industry News — July 2024](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-july-2024/) - See what's trending in the world of payments. We highlight the latest rate increases from major processors, new strategic partnerships, and other breaking news.
- [Visa Never Approve Fee Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-never-approve-fee/) - Find out how why you're being charged a Visa Never Approve Fee and how to avoid this fee for non-compliance. Everything you need to know.
- [Can Businesses Accept P2P Payments? (Venmo, Zelle, Cash App)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/p2p-payments-for-business/) - Find out if your business can use P2P payment platforms like Venmo, Zelle, and Cash App to get paid. We break down the rules for each, and provide alternatives.
- [Shop Pay vs. Shopify Payments: Key Differences Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/shop-pay-vs-shopify-payments/) - Understand the key differences between Shop Pay and Shopify Payments so you can determine what's right for your Shopify Store. See examples, use cases, & fees.
- [Oklahoma Surcharge Laws](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/oklahoma-surcharge-laws/) - Find out if it's legal or illegal to surcharge credit card transactions in Oklahoma. We break down the rules so you can remain compliant.
- [How to Spot Padded Assessment Fees in Payment Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-to-spot-padded-assessment-fees-in-payment-processing/) - Learn to audit your credit card processing statements to see if your payment processor is taking advantage of you by padding or inflating your assessment fees.
- [Mastercard KB Transaction Fee Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/mastercard-kb-tran-fee/) - Do you see Mastercard KB TRAN FEE on your credit card processing statement? Find out what this means and how much it should cost you.
- [Payment Processing Industry News – May 2024](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-may-2024/) - Find out what's happening in the world of payment processing with the latest headlines and biggest news stories of the month.
- [Amex Card Not Present Fee Explained (Amex CNP Surcharge)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/amex-card-not-present-fee/) - Find out if your credit card processor is charging you correctly for the Amex CNP Fee, also known as the American Express Card Not Present Surcharge Fee.
- [What is an Aggregated Merchant Account?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/what-is-aggregated-merchant-account/) - In-depth guide on merchant aggregators, including pros, cons, fees, and examples. We also compare aggregate accounts to PayFacs & traditional merchant accounts.
- [Payment Processing Industry News — June 2024](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-june-2024/) - All of the biggest headlines and news stories in the payment processing world. See what's trending and what industry leaders are talking about this month.
- [American Express Assessment Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/american-express-assessment-fees/) - A complete breakdown of every Amex assessment fee, including the name, rate, and description of each. Use this guide to make sure you're not being overcharged.
- [What is an Issuing Bank?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/what-is-issuing-bank/) - An issuing bank is a financial institution that issues credit or debit cards to consumers, acting as an intermediary between card networks and cardholders.
- [11 Valid Reasons to Dispute a Credit Card Charge](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/valid-reasons-dispute-charge/) - Find out when it's appropriate to dispute a charge on your credit. This guide covers all the valid reasons to dispute a charge and scenarios when it's not.
- [How Long Do You Have to Dispute a Credit Card Charge?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-long-do-you-have-to-dispute-credit-card-charge/) - US law gives consumers 60 days from the statement date to dispute a charge. Visa, Mastercard, Amex, and Discover extend it to 120 days of the transaction date.
- [How to Find Your Merchant ID in PayPal](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-to-find-paypal-merchant-id/) - Find out how to locate your PayPal merchant ID and learn more about how PayPal secure merchant IDs work for PayPal business accounts.
- [Charge Card vs. Credit Card: What's the Difference?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/charge-card-vs-credit-card-whats-the-difference/) - Discover the 5 key differences between charge cards and credit cards. We break them down in this guide so you can find out exactly how a charge card works.
- [Payment Processing Industry News - March 2024](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-march-2024/) - Our team here at Merchant Cost Consulting is always keeping our finger on the pulse in the payments world. Whether it’s a processor increase or a card network update, new technology, or an acquisition, we compile the biggest stories each month to share with our readers. Here’s a summary from March: Fullsteam Payments to Increasing
- [9 Signs You're Overpaying For Credit Card Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/signs-you-overpay-for-credit-card-processing/) - Discover the tell-tale signs and red flags that you're paying too much to accept credit and debit cards. Find out if you're overpaying and what to do about it.
- [The Real Winners of the Visa/Mastercard Interchange Settlement](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/real-winners-of-visa-mastercard-interchange-settlement/) - Visa and Mastercard have agreed to pay $5.54 billion in as part of a class action lawsuit. But you'll be surprised to learn who the real winners are here.
- [Payment Processing Industry News - April 2024](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-april-2024/) - We pride ourselves on providing our readers with all of the biggest headlines in the payments space. From rate increases to mergers, acquisitions, and other headlines, we’re always trying to keep you informed about the latest happenings in the industry. Here’s what we dug up in April: Adyen’s Report Finds $429 Billion in Fraud Losses
- [Everything You Need to Know About Payment Reversals (and How to Avoid Them)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-reversals/) - Prevent costly payment reversals associated with authorization reversals, refunds, and chargebacks. Learn more about payment reversals and what they mean for you.
- [What is the Visa Transaction Integrity Fee?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-transaction-integrity-fee/) - The Visa Transaction Integrity Fee (TIF) is a $0.10 fee charged on US Visa Debit or Visa Prepaid cards that fail to meet CPS qualification. Learn more here.
- [Discover Interchange Qualification Matrix](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/discover-interchange-qualification-matrix/) - Use our simple Discover Interchange Qualification Matrix tables to quickly identify the categories and interchange pricing levels for your Discover transactions.
- [Payment Processing Industry News - October 2023](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-october-2023/) - Beyond helping companies save money on credit card processing, our team here at Merchant Cost Consulting is constantly keeping our eye on all the latest news, updates, new fees, rate increases, partnerships, industry trends, and everything else in the payments world. Here are some of the biggest stories and noteworthy insights from October. Fullsteam Payments
- [How Do Card On File Transactions Work?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-card-on-file-transactions-work/) - In today’s modern world, businesses are constantly looking for ways to improve the customer experience. Streamlining the checkout process is just one example of this—and card-on-file transactions help make this possible. The cool part about keeping credit and debits on file is that it benefits consumers and businesses alike. On the one hand, customers like
- [How Does Apple Pay Work?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-apple-pay-works/) - Understanding how Apple Pay works and how to use it is essential for consumers and businesses alike. Apple users get a quick and convenient way to pay for goods and services using their Apple devices, and merchants can broaden their payment acceptance methods to accommodate customer preferences. This guide covers everything you need to know
- [Payment Processing Industry News - November 2023](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-november-2023/) - Part of helping businesses save money on credit card processing means keeping our ear to the ground on all news in the payments world. Every month, we recap some of the biggest headlines, noteworthy announcements, and otherwise interesting news in the industry. Here’s a summary of what happened in November. Cyber Week 2023 Trends and
- [What is Payment Processing and How Does it Work?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/what-is-payment-processing/) - The term “payment processing” is something that sounds relatively straightforward. Yet there are so many nuances and components that happen behind the scenes for payment processing to work. Payment processing makes it easy for merchants to get paid and for consumers to purchase goods or services. Funds change hands in fractions of a second through
- [15 Payment Processing Tips and Best Practices](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/15-payment-processing-tips-and-best-practices/) - Our experts share pro tips for credit card processing that will save your business money, help you stay compliant, and improve the customer experience.
- [How to Become PCI Compliant](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-to-become-pci-compliant/) - Find out how to become PCI compliant in just 3 simple steps. Learn the basics of PCI compliance, including PCI compliance levels, PCI DSS laws, and SAQ forms.
- [Payment Processing Industry News - December 2023](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-december-2023/) - As the year comes to a close, we’re still keeping a close eye on the latest happenings in the payments space. This month, we’ve highlighted some new partnerships, new technologies, expansions, and some noteworthy changes to expect in 2024. Here’s a recap of the biggest stories: Amazon to Drop Venmo Payments in January 2024 Effective
- [Payment Processing Industry News - January 2024](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-january-2024/) - We’re just a few weeks into the new year, but payment processing headlines are already making a big splash. This month, we’ve highlighted new rate increases, new laws, and other noteworthy updates worth your attention. Here’s a summary of the biggest stories from January: EVO Payments Increases Discount Rates Up to 1% EVO Payments recently
- [Do You Need a Merchant Account For Shopify?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/do-you-need-a-merchant-account-for-shopify/) - Find out if you need a merchant account for your Shopify site. We explain how to get paid on Shopify with a merchant account or without one via Shopify Payments.
- [Visa Surcharging Rules](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-surcharging-rules/) - Everything you need to know about Visa's surcharging policy for credit cards, including what's legal and what's illegal at the state and federal levels.
- [Payment Processing Industry News - February 2024](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-february-2024/) - For a short month, February has still been buzzing with news and updates in the payment processing world. From new fees and rate increases to expansions, new technology, and partnerships, here’s a summary of the biggest news stories we’ve seen this month: New Fees, Rate Increases, and Program Changes Card networks and processors both announced
- [Payment Processing Terms: A Quick Reference Guide](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-terms/) - Payment processing terms defined and explained. We cover all the terms related credit card processing and provide quick links to additional resources.
- [How Recurring Payments Affect Credit Card Processing Rates](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-recurring-payments-affect-credit-card-processing-rates/) - Setting up recurring payments has become a popular and profitable way for businesses across multiple industries to generate ongoing revenue. Recurring payments are often seen as a win-win for merchants and customers alike, as they eliminate the need for the customer to provide payment details every month. Despite the benefits, recurring payments aren’t always priced
- [Payment Processing Industry News (August 2023)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-august-2023/) - As always, our team here at Merchant Cost Consulting keeps a close eye on the payment processing world. From new interchange rates to technology updates and beyond, we strive to keep our readers informed with the most relevant payments information. Let’s dive deeper into the biggest news from the past month. Mastercard Announces New Network
- [15 Reasons Credit Cards Get Declined](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/reasons-credit-cards-get-declined/) - If your business accepts credit cards, you’re going to process some transactions that get declined. But understanding why credit cards decline will help you handle the situation appropriately. Credit card declines can be embarrassing for customers—and more often than not, the decline reason is no fault of their own. This guide covers everything you need
- [Payment Processing Industry News - September 2023](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-september-2023/) - In addition to helping businesses save money on credit card processing, the Merchant Cost Consulting team is always keeping a close eye on everything in the payments world. From rate changes to new fees, technology updates, and relevant partnerships, it’s our goal to provide our readers and customers with newsworthy insights into our industry. Here’s
- [ACH Return Codes Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/ach-return-codes-explained/) - ACH return codes identify why the bank or ACH operator returned an ACH payment. Every ACH code begins with the letter “R” followed by a two-digit number—such as R07 or R09. With ACH return codes, it’s easier for financial institutions to quickly communicate why an ACH payment failed to process. ACH codes are standardized and
- [Card Present vs. Card Not Present Transactions](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/card-present-vs-card-not-present-transactions/) - On the surface, the difference between “card-present” transactions and “card-not-present” transactions may seem obvious—the card was either present when the payment was processed or it was not. But the differences between card-present and card-not-present payments are a bit more complex. The presence or absence of a physical card at the time of purchase has a
- [Top 11 Hidden Fees in Payment Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/top-11-hidden-fees-in-payment-processing/) - Credit card processing fees are simply part of doing business in the modern era. If you want to provide your customers with a smooth and convenient way to pay for goods or services, then you’re going to pay processing fees to accept card payments—there’s just no way around it. With that said, you do have
- [Types of Payment Gateways Explained and Compared](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/types-of-payment-gateways-explained-and-compared/) - Payment gateways connect businesses with payment processors to facilitate online transactions. This is a necessary payment technology for ecommerce websites, as it’s required to accept credit cards, debit cards, and other digital payment methods. But not every payment gateway is created equally. In fact, there are several different types of payment gateways to choose from—each
- [10 Reasons Why Merchant Account Applications Get Denied](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/reasons-merchant-account-applications-get-denied/) - Applying for a merchant account is exciting, as it’s a crucial step for accepting payments and processing credit cards. But some merchant account applications get rejected, which can be frustrating and confusing for businesses. Whether you’re applying for a new merchant account and want to ensure it gets approved, or you’ve submitted a merchant account
- [Early Termination Fees in Payment Processing Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/early-termination-fees-explained/) - If you try to close a merchant account, you might be surprised to learn that you owe an early termination fee. This is a common cancellation fee in merchant agreement contracts, yet so many business owners overlook it when applying for a merchant account. This in-depth guide explains everything you need to know about early
- [Everything You Need to Know About Liquidated Damages in Payment Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/liquidated-damages-in-payment-processing/) - The term “liquidated damages” is something a merchant never wants to see or hear. Generally speaking, there are two instances where liquidated damages come into play—when you’re signing a merchant agreement and when you’re trying to cancel a merchant account. If you see a liquidated damages clause in a new merchant agreement prior to signing,
- [Payment Processing Industry News (July 2023)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-july/) - The month of July has been a busy month in the world of payment processing and fintech. We’ve seen new technology, processing rate increases, significant acquisitions, and more. Our team here at Merchant Cost Consulting diligently monitors these changes to ensure we keep our readers informed on what’s happening. Here’s a closer look at some
- [What is a Qualified Processing Rate?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/what-is-a-qualified-processing-rate/) - Qualified processing rates refer to the merchant fees that a business pays for a specific type of credit card processing, known as tiered or bundled pricing. Depending on the merchant account agreement and fee structure, the qualified rate is one of the three possible tiers that a transaction can fall into—with mid-qualified and non-qualified as
- [What is FedNow? Federal Reserve Payment System Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/what-is-fednow/) - Platforms like Venmo and PayPal have transformed the world of instant payments from one person to another. While these services are designed for peer-to-peer (P2P) payments, the Federal Reserve wanted to create a similar instant payment system for banks. That’s where FedNow comes into play. With FedNow, participating banks and credit unions in the United
- [Card Payment Industry News and Updates](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/card-payment-industry-news-and-updates/) - The payment processing world is constantly changing. From new technology to government regulations and brand-specific updates, it seems there’s a newsworthy update every day. As a business owner, CFO, ISV, or anyone else tied to the payment processing industry, it can be tough to keep track of all these events and stories. Here at Merchant
- [Payment Processing Industry News & Updates (February 2023)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-updates-february-2023/) - Our team at Merchant Cost Consulting always keeps a close eye on the latest news and updates in the world of payment processing. We want to keep you informed as well, so we summarized the most noteworthy news and announcements from last month in this article. Amazon and Stripe Expand Global Partnership Amazon and Stripe
- [How Do You Avoid Merchant Fees?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-do-you-avoid-merchant-fees/) - Whether you’re selling products or services, expenses are simply a natural part of doing business. But the cost of merchant fees can add up quickly—sometimes exceeding 3% or even 4% of your gross sales. Rather than simply accepting these costs as an expense necessary for your business, there are steps you can take to avoid
- [How Much Does Square Credit Card Processing Cost?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/square-credit-card-processing-costs/) - Square credit card processing starts at 2.6% + $0.10 per transaction for most businesses. But the exact price you’ll pay to use Square depends on a wide range of factors, including the transaction environment, business type, and plan you sign up for. We created this guide to clarify Square’s pricing and credit card processing costs
- [What is a Merchant Services Provider?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/what-is-a-merchant-services-provider/) - A merchant service provider (MSP) offers the hardware, software, and infrastructure that businesses need to accept credit cards, debit cards, and electronic payment transactions. They also store payment information, keep cardholder data safe, and help businesses maintain PCI compliance. Some merchant providers offer additional technology for POS systems, accounting integrations, business analytics, invoice collection tools,
- [How Do You Calculate Processing Rates?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-do-you-calculate-processing-rates/) - Processing rates can get out of control if you’re not keeping a close eye on them. But monthly statements can be complex and difficult to read, making it tough for businesses to truly understand what they’re actually paying to accept card payments. The cost for credit and debit card processing varies per transaction. So the
- [What Are Processing Fees?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/what-are-processing-fees/) - Understanding processing fees is crucial for businesses that accept card payments—as these fees have a direct impact on your bottom line. This in-depth guide aims to provide business owners with a thorough understanding of processing fees, their components, and strategies to minimize them. By the end of this blog post, you'll be better equipped to
- [Credit Card and Payment Processing Industry News](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/credit-card-and-payment-processing-industry-news/) - The world of payment processing and fintech is constantly changing. From upgraded features to new technology, acquisitions, and more, there’s a lot to keep track of. Our team here at Merchant Cost Consulting always has our ear to the ground when it comes to payment industry news. To keep our readers informed, we want to
- [What is the Cheapest Way to Accept Credit Card Payments?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/what-is-the-cheapest-way-to-take-card-payments/) - Accepting card payments can be costly for many businesses. With average credit card processing fees ranging from 1.70% to 2.50% per transaction, card payments can take tens or even hundreds of thousands from your bottom line annually. But eliminating credit and debit cards as a payment method simply isn’t an option for the vast majority
- [Can You Pass Merchant Fees to Customers?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/can-you-pass-merchant-fees-to-customers/) - Credit card processing fees are a pain for merchants. Merchant fees cost businesses more than $100 billion per year—and that’s just in the United States. If you’re reading this right now, there’s a good chance you’re paying tens of thousands annually in merchant fees. Some of you are spending upwards of $250,000+ on merchant fees
- [What is Interchange Plus Pricing?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/what-is-interchange-plus-pricing/) - Interchange plus pricing is commonly used by credit card processors to determine the per-transaction rates paid by merchants. But it’s just one of several different contract structures that businesses might be presented with when they’re signing up for credit card processing—and it’s one of the most complex. Complexity aside, interchange plus pricing is typically the
- [Who Pays for Credit Card Fraud?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/who-pays-for-credit-card-fraud/) - More than 65% of all credit card holders have fallen victim to fraud at one point in their lives. Credit card fraud in the US resulted in roughly $5.72 billion in losses last year alone. The rate at which credit card fraud has grown in recent years is alarming. But with billions in losses, this
- [Is it Legal to Charge a Minimum For Credit and Debit Card Purchases?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/is-it-legal-to-charge-a-minimum-for-credit-and-debit-card-purchases/) - Many businesses wonder if they can legally impose minimum purchase amounts on customers paying with credit or debit cards. The short answer—yes, and no. If certain conditions are met, the federal government allows merchants to set minimum purchase amounts for credit card transactions. But minimum purchase amounts for debit card transactions are not allowed. Before
- [Payment Processing For ISVs (Independent Software Vendors)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-for-isvs-independent-software-vendors/) - Learn how to scale international payment processing and find a global credit card processing solution for ISVs (independent software vendors).
- [Why Field Service SMEs Need Mobile Payment Solutions](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/why-field-service-smes-need-mobile-payment-solutions/) - Field service management (FSM) is crucial for all organizations with employees operating on job sites. The importance is amplified at scale for larger organizations, like small-to-mid-sized enterprises and beyond. While most businesses with field service technicians prioritize modern software for things like ticket support, fleet management, real-time communication, and more, many lack the right tools
- [Payment Gateways vs. Merchant Accounts: Differences Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-gateways-vs-merchant-accounts-differences-explained/) - The world of credit card processing is filled with different terms. If you’re not an expert in this space (most business owners aren’t), then it can be a bit confusing to keep track of the different terminologies and concepts. This guide will clear the confusion between two key components of credit card processing—payment gateways and
- [Transparent Payment Policies For Doctors, Dentists, and Healthcare Professionals](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/transparent-payment-policies-for-doctors-dentists-and-healthcare-professionals/) - Patient care is obviously a top priority for everyone in the healthcare industry—that goes without saying. But if you run your own practice, you know first hand that there’s a business side to healthcare. At the end of the day, someone needs to pay for the services you’re offering. From yearly checkups to routine blood
- [Visa and Mastercard Network Fee Increases, Changes, and Updates](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-and-mastercard-network-fee-increases-changes-and-updates/) - Visa and Mastercard are two of the most popular credit card networks worldwide. As a merchant, it’s important for you to understand when Visa and Mastercard make fee changes at the network level. These changes will have a direct impact on your credit card processing rates. We put together a quick timeline that shows a
- [How to Lower American Express Merchant Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-to-lower-american-express-merchant-fees/) - Find out how to reduce your Amex merchant fees and processing rates. Use the proven tips in this guide to save money on credit card processing today.
- [What is a Payment Service Provider?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/what-is-a-psp-payment-service-provider/) - The ultimate guide to payment services & payment service providers. See the differences between payment services, payment gateways, & online payment methods.
- [What is an Internet Merchant Account?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-to-find-an-internet-merchant-account/) - Everything you need to know about internet merchant accounts, including how internet merchant accounts work & what internet merchant accounts do for ecommerce.
- [NFC Credit Card Processing Payments ](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/nfc-credit-card-processing-payments/) - The credit card processing industry is constantly evolving. New technology, consumer habits, and other trends all play a factor here. As a merchant, it’s your responsibility to keep an eye on these trends and updates to ensure you’re offering customers as many payment options as possible. Not only will this help improve customer satisfaction, but
- [Recurring Credit Card Processing Payments vs Recurring Invoices](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/recurring-credit-card-processing-payments-vs-recurring-invoices/) - Getting paid on an ongoing basis from the same customer is a dream for businesses across all industries—especially when you can put those payments on autopilot. Recurring credit card processing payments, whether it’s monthly, quarterly, bi-annually, or annually, have that steady revenue that can help your company scale. However, not all recurring revenue is the
- [PayPal Credit Card Processing Rate Increase for Merchants](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/paypal-credit-card-processing-rate-increase-for-merchants/) - PayPal Credit Card Processing Rate Increase for Merchants PayPal announced that it would increase the amount it charges merchants for each transaction, resulting in a spike in its stock value. The credit card processing fee increase is pretty staggering. Below is what PayPal is changing to their credit card processing rates: In
- [Mastercard is phasing out magnetic stripes on its cards starting in 2024](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/mastercard-is-phasing-out-magnetic-stripes-on-its-cards-starting-in-2024/) - Per TheVerge.com, MasterCard is looking to phase these out starting in 2024. If you do not have EMV equipment, this will be a problem for you... Mastercard is phasing out magnetic stripes on its cards starting in 2024 Mastercard is phasing out the use of magnetic stripes on its credit and debit cards over
- [Amazon partnership with Affirm's buy now, pay later](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/amazon-partnership-with-affirms-buy-now-pay-later/) - PUBLISHED FRI, AUG 27 20214:30 PM EDTUPDATED SAT, AUG 28 20212:33 PM EDT Kate Rooney@KR00NEY KEY POINTS Affirm’s buy now, pay later checkout option will be available to certain Amazon customers in the U.S. starting Friday with a broader rollout in the coming months. The partnership will let Amazon customers split purchases of $50
- [Payment Service Directive PSD2](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-service-directive-psd2/) - Payment Service Directive PSD2 regulates electronic credit card processing services in Europe. The regulation was enacted to increase innovation and ultimately enhance the security of payments in Europe. With PSD2, there is strong evidence that APIs (application program interfaces) are extremely important in the world of financial services. As a merchant, it’s important to understand
- [Restaurant POS Credit Card Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/restaurant-pos-credit-card-processing/) - The restaurant industry has its fair share of challenges. A major challenge being restaurant POS credit card processing. Restaurant POS credit card processing has been a top priority for restaurant owners looking to lower their credit card processing fees. Whether you’re opening a new restaurant or you’ve been running one for a while, I’m sure
- [What to Know About Opening a New Merchant Account](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/what-to-know-about-opening-a-new-merchant-account/) - In today’s day and age, every business must be able to access credit cards and debit cards. This statement holds true for startups, small businesses, and companies operating across all industries. But before you can start accepting credit cards, you must first open a merchant account. This can feel like a daunting task, especially for
- [4 Methods For Virtual Payment Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/4-methods-for-virtual-payment-processing/) - It’s no secret that the world has gone digital. As a result, virtual payment processing has become a must-have feature for businesses across every industry. More and more Americans are using credit cards and debit cards to pay for goods and services on a daily basis. But their preferences and the way they use those
- [Wireless Credit Card Processing Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/15858/) - Wireless credit card processing is a must when a fast and smooth checkout experience is top priority for a business. Surveys show that 84% of consumers say the checkout experience plays an important role in where they shop which directly correlates to an efficient wireless credit card processing experience. 39% of consumers said they’ve walked
- [MCC Attending 2022 NESPA Conference in Atlantic City](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/mcc-attending-2022-nespa-conference-in-atlantic-city/) - We’re excited to announce our attendance at the 2022 Northeast Spa & Pool Association (NESPA) conference held in Atlantic City this year. Stop by our booth for your chance to win a surprise gift valued over $300! Here’s what you need to know: What: The Pool & Spa Show When: January 25-27, 2022 Location: 1
- [Level 2 and Level 3 Credit Card Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/level-2-and-level-3-credit-card-processing/) - Everything you need to know about Level 2 and Level 3 credit card processing. Learn how to save money on Level 2 interchange and Level 3 processing rates.
- [Credit Card Authorization Codes For Payment Processing (Ultimate Guide)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/the-ultimate-guide-for-credit-card-processing-authorization-codes/) - This in-depth guide covers everything you need to know about credit card authorization codes and why you need them to process transactions.
- [What is a Merchant Account and How Does it Work?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/what-is-a-merchant-account/) - Discover what is a merchant account and find out how merchant accounts work. Learn how to open a merchant account in 5 steps to accept credit and debit cards.
- [Acquiring Banks vs Issuing Banks in Credit Card Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/acquiring-banks-vs-issuing-banks-in-credit-card-processing/) - Discover the difference between an acquiring bank vs. issuing bank. This in-depth guide explains the acquirer's role and importance for merchant accounts.
- [What is a Merchant ID?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/understanding-what-a-merchant-id-is/) - Learn more about merchant IDs, how they work, why you need a Merchant ID to accept credit cards, and how to find your Merchant ID number.
- [5 Common Myths About Credit Card Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/5-common-myths-about-credit-card-processing/) - There are lots of misconceptions about accepting credit cards. This is especially true for startups, small businesses, and companies that are new to accepting plastic as a payment method. Credit cards are the most used payment method in the United States, according to a 2020 survey of POS (point-of-sale) transactions. Fewer consumers are carrying cash,
- [How To Lower Credit Card Processing Fees with CardRates.com](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-to-lower-credit-card-processing-fees-with-cardrates-com/) - How To Lower Credit Card Processing Fees with CardRates.com Maintaining the services of a credit card payments processor is essential for businesses in nearly every industry. And companies often accept whatever rates and fees the processing companies charge them as the cost of doing business. CardRates.com interviewed our very own, Matt Rej, to discuss the
- [Credit Card Processing Features to Look For](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/credit-card-processing-features-to-look-for/) - Credit card processing companies come in all different shapes and sizes. Like any product or service, some are undoubtedly better than others. But if you’re business is new to accepting credit cards, it can be challenging to differentiate the good from the bad. That’s why we created this guide. The following ten credit card processing
- [Credit Card Processing Rate Increases Heartland](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/credit-card-processing-rate-increases-heartland/) - Credit Card Processing Rate Increases Heartland If you are a merchant or a business who is using Heartland, now Global Payments, as your credit card processing company, be on the lookout for this credit card processing rate increase which was put into effect for July 1, 2021 by the Accel Debit Network. This
- [Does Business Size Matter in Credit Card Processing?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/does-business-size-matter-in-credit-card-processing/) - Credit card processing is not a one-size-fits-all solution. There are many factors at play, including industry, business type, credit card processing plan, sales volume, and more. Depending on the scenario, business size can also play a large role in your credit card processing plan. The size of your company could even impact your credit card
- [How to Accept Credit Card Payments Over the Phone](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-to-accept-credit-card-payments-over-the-phone/) - I’ve recently encountered many business owners facing the same problem—they don’t know how to accept credit card payments over the phone. Some of these organizations improperly take phone payments, leading to higher credit card processing fees, more chargebacks, and increased risks for the business. Companies in nearly every industry have a need for credit card
- [How to Detect and Prevent Credit Card Fraud](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-to-detect-and-prevent-credit-card-fraud/) - Ecommerce has made it easier than ever for merchants and consumers to conduct business online. Unfortunately, cybercriminals and thieves can also steal without leaving their houses. Credit card fraud has become somewhat of an epidemic. According to a recent report, 56% of Americans have been victims of online fraud. While enhanced hardware and EMV chip
- [10 Tips to Prevent False and Fraudulent Chargebacks](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/10-tips-to-prevent-false-and-fraudulent-chargebacks/) - Chargebacks have become somewhat of an epidemic for merchants. Consumers across all industries contact their credit card companies to initiate payment reversals for various reasons. While some of these chargeback reasons can be justified, many are done so incorrectly. Unfortunately, even chargebacks that were filed at no fault of your own can be harmful to
- [Rolling Reserves Explained (Complete Guide)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/rolling-reserves-explained-complete-guide/) - As you’re shopping around for a credit card processor, you might come across the term “rolling reserves.” Whether it was mentioned by the sales agent or discovered in your contract, it’s an unpleasant surprise. Rolling reserves are not ideal for merchants. But for some of you, this will be unavoidable. If you’re not sure how
- [Visa and Mastercard to Delay Merchant Account Increase](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-and-mastercard-to-delay-merchant-account-increase/) - Visa and Mastercard, the two biggest card issues worldwide, are postponing credit card fee increases for yet another year. The two organizations initially planned to hike up credit card processing fees for merchants back in April of 2020. But amidst a global pandemic that impacted businesses of all shapes and sizes, the changes were pushed
- [8 Ways to Process Credit Card Processing Payments Online](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/8-ways-to-process-credit-card-processing-payments-online/) - Ecommerce trends are at an all-time high. We’re living in an era where consumers expect businesses to be online. So regardless of your industry, product, or service offering, you need to have a digital presence with the ability to process online payments. From traditional B2C retailers to restaurants, dentists, B2B SaaS, legal services, and everything
- [How to Collect On-Time Payments With Field Service Workers](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-to-collect-on-time-payments-with-field-service-workers/) - Operating a business with field service workers is no easy task. Between scheduling appointments, assigning the right technician to the right job, and taking care of your vehicles, there are countless responsibilities to keep track of. But at the end of the day, your business needs to get paid for the services rendered. Whether you’re
- [Questions to Ask Payment Processing Companies](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/7-questions-to-ask-your-payment-processor/) - Find out what questions to ask credit card processing companies and merchant services providers. These payment processing questions help keep your costs low.
- [What is Secure Remote Commerce (SRC)?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/what-is-src-secure-remote-commerce/) - Everything you need to know about secure remote commerce and how it works. Find out more about Mastercard SRC, Visa SRC, Amex SRC, and Discover SRC.
- [How Refunds Impact Credit Card Processing Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-refunds-impact-credit-card-processing-fees/) - Do credit card processors charge for refunds? Yes. Read this guide to find out everything you need to know about credit card refund fees.
- [PIN vs. Signature Debit (Interchange Rates Compared)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/pin-or-signature-debit/) - Compare PIN debit interchange rates and signature debit rates for 2023. Everything you need to know about PIN vs. signature debit processing costs.
- [B2B Fraud Prevention: Payment Processing For B2B Ecommerce](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/b2b-fraud-prevention-payment-processing-for-b2b-ecommerce/) - Payment processing fraud happens across every industry and business type. It doesn’t discriminate based on size or business model. But fraud in the B2B ecommerce space is something that needs to be taken extremely seriously. Fraudsters understand that B2Bs operate with high ticket transactions. Instead of stealing one item from multiple online stores, scammers have
- [Credit Card Processing Fees: Transactional, Recurring, and One-Off](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/credit-card-processing-fees-transactional-recurring-and-one-off/) - Credit card processing fees can be complicated. For those of you who have been accepting card payments for a while, you’ve probably noticed that your monthly bill fluctuates substantially. These varying costs can make it difficult to predict what you owe each month. A surprisingly high bill from your processor could put your business in
- [ACH Payment Processing For Ecommerce Businesses](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/ach-payment-processing-for-ecommerce-businesses/) - When it comes to shopping online, most consumers have grown accustomed to using credit cards and debit cards to complete the purchase process. PayPal and digital wallets like Google Pay or Apple Pay are popular options as well. But some customers may want to use ACH payments for ecommerce transactions. If you’re looking to add
- [8 Ways to Get the Lowest Possible Credit Card Processing Rates](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/8-ways-to-get-the-lowest-possible-credit-card-processing-rates/) - Credit card processing fees can add up quickly. These seemingly small percentage rates can cut into your profit margins. At the end of the year, tens of thousands of dollars could be lost due to credit card processing costs. While these rates will never drop to zero, there are certain ways that you can guarantee
- [How to Prepare For Cashless Payments](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-to-prepare-for-cashless-payments/) - It’s no secret that our modern society has been moving away from cash. Between credit cards, debit cards, digital wallets, and online transactions, there are plenty of alternative payment options for consumers to use. As a merchant, it’s important for you to recognize these trends, especially in the COVID-19 era. Now, more than ever before,
- [Is Surcharging During COVID-19 Right For Your Business?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/15113/) - COVID-19 has changed the way we live in 2020. Businesses across all industries have been impacted in one way or another, some more than others. From government-mandated shutdowns to increased safety and cleanliness protocols, these changes have directly impacted the bottom line of countless organizations. Whether you’ve lost revenue or had to spend extra money
- [How to Increase Credit Card Authorization Rates](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-to-increase-credit-card-authorization-rates/) - Credit card authorization rates are essential for organizations of all shapes, sizes, and industries. This is especially true for ecommerce businesses, where customers may not have another payment option to fall back on. Unfortunately, credit card authorization rates are often overlooked by merchants and processors alike. It’s just not discussed as much as other aspects
- [Level 2 and 3 Credit Card Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/level-2-and-3-credit-card-processing/) - There are lots of misconceptions out there about accepting business credit cards. Some people will tell you that these cards are expensive to process. But in reality, there are steps you can take to lower your credit card processing rates for B2B transactions. Regardless of your business size or industry, you can qualify for better
- [ACH Transfers For B2B Payment Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/ach-transfers-for-b2b-payment-processing/) - Some of you have probably used ACH at one time or another in your personal life. But what about for payment acceptance in your B2B? For those of you who want to give your business customers the opportunity to pay for goods and services via ACH transfer, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll break
- [Chargebacks vs. Refunds: What’s the Difference?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/chargebacks-vs-refunds-whats-the-difference/) - The terms “chargebacks” and “returns” are often used interchangeably. However, these two events are very different from each other. Neither are great for businesses, but chargebacks are significantly worse. So if you’re getting lots of chargebacks and treating them the same as a refund, it’s costing you extra money and potentially damaging your merchant account.
- [Payment Collection Methods For Doctors, Dentists, and Health Care Services](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-collection-methods-for-doctors-dentists-and-health-care-services/) - With so many advancements in the medical field, it’s surprising to see how many practices are still using outdated payment processing methods. Patient care is obviously the top priority for doctors, dentists, orthodontists, surgeons, and other healthcare providers. But beyond that care, you need to consider the total patient experience. How important is the payment
- [Why Amex Isn’t Universally Accepted](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/why-amex-isnt-universally-accepted/) - As an American Express cardholder, it can be frustrating when you go to pay for something only to hear the words, “we don’t accept American Express here.” This is something that happens to me all of the time. Amex is known for providing exceptional customer service and a wide range of benefits to members. So
- [The Complete Guide to eCheck Payment Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/the-complete-guide-to-echecks-for-payment-processing/) - The word “check” doesn’t seem to fit into today’s digital world filled with contactless payment methods, EMV chip technology, digital wallets, electronic payments, and cryptocurrencies. Checks are an outdated payment acceptance method—I’m not going to dispute that. Some of you probably don’t even accept checks from customers, and if you do, I’m willing to bet
- [Text to Pay SMS Payments - Ultimate Guide](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/text2pay-text-to-pay-contactless-payments/) - Text payments have been gaining traction for quite some time now. But the trend has skyrocketed in the past few years. Businesses across all industries have recognized the importance of touchless payments for credit card processing. According to Mastercard, 79% of cardholders worldwide are using some form of contactless payments. Another study found that 51%
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- [Payment Advice to Boost B2B Sales](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-advice-to-boost-b2b-sales/) - Every company, including B2Bs, should always be looking for ways to reduce costs, increase revenue, and boost sales. Selling online has changed the way that B2Bs operate in the modern era. With online ordering and payment processing, B2Bs across the globe have been able to drastically improve the efficiencies of outdated processes. Whether you’re new
- [Will COVID-19 Push Contactless Payments Into Mainstream?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/will-covid-19-push-contactless-payments-into-mainstream/) - The coronavirus global pandemic has forced businesses across all industries to change the way they operate. This is especially true for retailers, restaurants, and organizations with a physical presence. Adding marks on the floor to enforce social distancing, increasing sanitation routines, and restricting store capacities are just a few of many measures that businesses are
- [Achieving Payment Compliance](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/achieving-payment-compliance/) - Every business that accepts credit cards must follow specific regulations. Failure to comply with these rules can be a costly mistake for your organization. For example, a GDPR violation can range up to €20 million ($21.79 million), or 4% of the company’s global annual revenue from the previous year, whichever is higher. To protect your
- [Increasing Margins on Cross-Border Sales](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/increasing-margins-on-cross-border-sales/) - Processing international credit card sales is a crucial component of growth in the ecommerce space. That’s one of the most appealing aspects of selling online—your customers can be anywhere with internet access. With that said, credit card processing fees are increasing. Merchants that sell goods internationally have been disproportionately affected by these increases. Between rising
- [Cost of Rising Ecommerce Sales](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/cost-of-rising-ecommerce-sales/) - Shopping online has been trending upward for years now. New market demands have created an even sharper spike for ecommerce sales in 2020. Even industries that traditionally have catered toward in-person selling have been forced to shift gears and sell online. If your business has been able to survive the changing landscape and turbulent waters
- [6 Ways COVID-19 Will Change Credit Card Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/6-ways-covid-19-will-change-credit-card-processing/) - To say that COVID-19 has changed the way we do business would be a drastic understatement. Every industry has been impacted in one way or another. The credit card processing industry is no exception. Any merchant accepting credit cards, whether online, in-person or both, needs to be aware of how coronavirus will change the credit
- [What to Know About IC Optimization and Processing Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/what-to-know-about-ic-optimization-and-processing-fees/) - Credit card processing fees can be a tough pill to swallow. While the vast majority of merchants in 2020 understand the importance of accepting credit cards, most of them don’t realize that they can save money on credit card processing. Every transaction isn’t assessed with the same interchange rate. The fees vary on a wide
- [How to Fight and Prevent Chargebacks](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-to-fight-and-prevent-chargebacks/) - Chargebacks occur when a customer disputes a credit card charge directly with the card network or issuing bank. In many cases, cardholders file disputes because they have fallen victim to fraud. But it’s also common for consumers to file chargebacks for legitimate purchases. This is concerning and frustrating for merchants, especially for chargebacks that fall
- [NFC Payments (Ultimate Guide) - How to Accept NFC Mobile Payments](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/what-to-know-about-nfc-payments/) - NFC payments have been trending upward in the payments processing industry for the past few years. As some of you know, near field communication (NFC) is the technology behind mobile payment processing. With contactless payment trends on the rise. Many organizations rely on contactless mobile payments and NFC to process credit card transactions. If you’re
- [Guide to Manually Keyed Transactions Credit Card Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/guide-to-manually-keyed-transactions-when-to-use-and-how-to-avoid/) - Explore the differences between manually keyed transactions vs. swipe transactions and find out how to manually enter credit card numbers on machines.
- [How CFOs Can Fight Friendly Fraud](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-cfos-can-fight-friendly-fraud/) - Friendly fraud is one of the biggest challenges faced by businesses today. With eCommerce trending upward in recent years, friendly fraud has become a growing concern for larger organizations. What exactly is friendly fraud? It occurs when a consumer disputes a legitimate transaction with their credit card company. This ultimately results in a credit card
- [Credit Card Processing Rate Increases March 2020](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/credit-card-processing-rate-increases-march-2020/) - Credit Card Processing Rate Increases March 2020 This is the beginning of a new era to reveal how credit card processing companies are adding hidden fees, downgrading interchange rates, and implementing surcharges to charge businesses more than they should be. This credit card processing rate increase series will also showcase card brand changes (Visa, MasterCard,
- [Level 2 Credit Card Processing Rates](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/level-2-credit-card-processing-rates/) - Every credit card transaction has data attached to it. The processing level refers to how much information is provided during the transaction. If you’re a B2B organization that accepts credit card payments from corporate customers, business accounts, commercial credit cards, and government agencies, Level 2 (or Level II) credit card processing can give you access
- [Credit Card Processing: Security Best Practices For Ecommerce](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/credit-card-processing-security-best-practices-for-ecommerce/) - Security for credit card processing on ecommerce websites is a crucial, yet often overlooked aspect of selling products online. As the owner, operator, or CTO of an ecommerce business, data protection and security should be your top priority of processing payments online. Not only do you need to take precautions to safeguard consumer information, but
- [Accepting Mobile Payments For Credit Card Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/accepting-mobile-payments-for-credit-card-processing/) - We’re living in an era where mobile devices are seemingly glued to the hands of every person on the planet. Everyone has a smartphone within an arm’s reach. As a merchant, you need to understand that consumers want to use their smartphones for everything, including paying for goods and services. It’s time to adapt. Every
- [Difference Between Credit Card Processors and Acquiring Banks](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/difference-between-credit-card-processors-and-acquiring-banks/) - Understand the difference between merchant acquirers and payment processors, and find out why you need both to process payments for your business.
- [Merchant Acquirer Fees Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/understanding-acquiring-bank-fees/) - Everything you need to know about merchant acquirer fees and the acquiring bank's role in credit card processing. See how to lower your merchant acquiring fees.
- [How to Optimize Debit Card Routing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-to-optimize-debit-card-routing/) - Most merchants are under the assumption that their routing systems are optimal. That’s because credit card processors have sold them on the concept of dynamic routing. However, if you take the time to truly assess your debit card processing, you’ll quickly discover there are ways to save money. For a merchant, optimal debit card routing
- [Credit Card Processing Rate Increases: Vantiv-Worldpay-FIS](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/credit-card-processing-rate-increases-vantiv-worldpay-fis/) - Credit Card Processing Rate Increases: Vantiv-WorldPay-FIS January 2020 This is the beginning of a new era to reveal how credit card processing companies are adding hidden fees, downgrading interchange rates, and implementing surcharges to charge businesses more than they should be. This credit card processing rate increase series will also showcase card brand changes (Visa,
- [Credit Card Processing Rate Increases: Global Payments](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/credit-card-processing-rate-increase-global-payments/) - Credit Card Processing Rate Increases: Global Payments January 2020 This is the beginning of a new era to reveal how credit card processing companies are adding hidden fees, downgrading interchange rates, and implementing surcharges to charge businesses more than they should be. This credit card processing rate increase series will also showcase card brand changes
- [Credit Card Processing Rate Increases: North American Bancard](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/credit-card-processing-rate-increases-north-american-bancard/) - Credit Card Processing Rate Increases: North American Bancard January 2020 This is the beginning of a new era to reveal how credit card processing companies are adding hidden fees, downgrading interchange rates, and implementing surcharges to charge businesses more than they should be. This credit card processing rate increase series will also showcase card brand
- [Fraud Scoring Methods For Large-Scale Ecommerce Websites](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/fraud-scoring-methods-for-large-scale-ecommerce-websites/) - Fraud scoring is one of the best ways to help large ecommerce merchants detect and prevent credit card fraud online. Leveraging the right fraud scoring tools can also help minimize your risk of chargebacks. There are several different components to consider when developing a fraud scoring method. Certain instances or events could raise suspicion, but
- [Discover Chargeback Reason Codes Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/discover-chargeback-reason-codes-explained/) - Our ultimate Discover merchant chargeback guide contains all Discover chargeback reason codes with an in-depth explanation. Find out what your chargebacks mean.
- [Mastercard Chargeback Reason Codes Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/mastercard-chargeback-reason-codes-explained/) - Use this Mastercard chargeback reason codes list to understand what your Mastercard chargeback reason codes mean and find out if you can dispute them.
- [Amex Chargeback Codes Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/amex-chargeback-reason-codes-explained/) - Find out what your American Express chargeback reason code means, how to resolve it, and learn how to avoid Amex chargebacks in the future.
- [Visa Chargeback Codes Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-chargeback-reason-codes-explained/) - Visa chargeback codes explained. Explore different Visa chargeback reason codes and find out how to prevent chargebacks with Visa transactions.
- [Credit Card Verification Service For International Orders](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/card-verification-for-international-orders/) - Learn how a credit card verification service can help you with international address verification. Compare verifications including AVS, IP address, and more.
- [7 Credit Card Processing Fraud Prevention Tactics For Merchants](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/7-credit-card-processing-fraud-prevention-tactics-for-merchants/) - Credit card processing fraud is a major problem for business owners. Fraudulent card transactions can lead to chargebacks. Data breaches can result in customer information being compromised and create a negative perception of your company. If you accept credit cards, you need to understand fraud prevention best practices, regardless of your business type or industry.
- [Common POS Systems For Restaurants](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/the-best-pos-systems-for-restaurants/) - Modern technology has changed the way that restaurants conduct business. We’ve traded in ordering pads and pens for computer networks and advanced POS software. While there are plenty of popular POS systems on the market today, not all of them are made for businesses in the food service industry. The best restaurant POS systems do
- [8 Ways to Get Your Funds Fast From Payment Processors](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/8-ways-to-get-your-funds-fast-from-payment-processors/) - Cash flow is crucial to the success of any business. For most merchants, the majority of incoming cash comes from credit card processing sales. But giving your customers the ability to pay for goods or services with a credit card doesn’t mean you’ll get funded instantly. In most cases, there is a gap between the
- [Visa Is Planning the Biggest Changes to Swipe Fees in a Decade](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-is-planning-the-biggest-changes-to-swipe-fees-in-a-decade/) - Visa Is Planning the Biggest Changes to Swipe Fees in a Decade Visa is planning the largest to changes to interchange fees in nearly a decade. Pending on your business type this could be good news or bad news. Higher rates are in plan for transactions on e-commerce sites, while retailers in certain services categories,
- [Beginner’s Guide to EMV Chip Cards](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/beginners-guide-to-emv-chip-cards/) - Early EMV technology has been around for more than two decades. However, the rollout of EMV chip cards and terminals didn’t migrate to the United States until 2012. Over the last several years, EMV has slowly become the new-norm in credit card processing. At first, the transition was a bit messy. There was a mix
- [Interchange Downgrades: How to Avoid Them](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/interchange-downgrades-how-to-avoid-them/) - Interchange Downgrades: How to Avoid Them Any company accepting credit cards is likely familiar with interchange fees. If you’re not or you need to brush up on your knowledge, check out our complete guide to interchange fees and rates. In the simplest possible terms, interchange is one of the main costs associated with processing a
- [Interchange Fees Increasing April 2020](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/interchange-fees-increasing-april-2020/) - The payment processing world is going through some significant changes. Effective April 2020, the interchange fees (also known as swipe fees) for the major card networks will have some adjustments. Visa sent a document that outlined the proposal to banks. The report has the biggest interchange structural changes that we’ve seen in a decade. All
- [EMV Fallback Fees Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/emv-fallback-fees-explained/) - What is EMV fallback? Use this guide to understand EMV fallback fees, avoid EMV fallback transactions, and save money on credit card processing.
- [How to Get Discounted Credit Card Processing For Nonprofits](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-to-get-discounted-payment-processing-for-nonprofits/) - Can you get free credit card processing for nonprofits? Use this guide to learn more about reduced credit card processing fees for nonprofit organizations.
- [What is EMV Compliance? (Ultimate Guide)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/what-is-emv-compliance/) - Understand EMV compliance, how it works, why it matters, and EMV compliance laws. Follow these 3 quick steps to ensure your business is EMV compliant.
- [How to Prevent Merchant Account Holds & Processing Freezes](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-to-prevent-payment-processing-funds-on-hold/) - An unexpected stoppage in your payment processing procedure can be troublesome for a business owner. From withheld funds to processing freezes or account terminations, these instances can be potentially devastating. Credit card processing companies put funds on hold for a variety of reasons. If this happens, money received from credit card transactions won’t be transferred
- [Credit vs. Debit Transactions: What's the Difference?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/the-difference-between-credit-and-debit-transactions/) - Learn how credit card transactions work, how debit card transactions work, and discover the differences between credit and debit transactions.
- [Beginner’s Guide to Credit Card Surcharging](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/beginners-guide-to-credit-card-surcharging/) - Surcharging has been a hot topic lately for consumers and merchants alike. Some small business owners implement a surcharge to save money on credit card processing. What is a surcharge? In short, it’s an extra fee added to a credit card transaction to cover the costs of accepting the customer’s card. If a consumer wants
- [The Complete Guide to Interchange Fees and Rates](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/the-complete-guide-to-interchange-fees-and-rates/) - Learn more about interchange fees and how interchange works. See the latest interchange fees, rates, and updates from credit card networks and processors.
- [What is a Payment Gateway? (and How it Works)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/what-is-a-payment-gateway/) - A payment gateway enables businesses to accept payments online. Read this guide to learn more about how payment gateways work and exactly what they do.
- [Credit Card Processing Deceptive Tactics](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/credit-card-processing-scams-to-look-out-for/) - Credit card processing sales representatives use numerous tactics to try and win over your business. Some of these tactics are transparent, while others are extremely deceptive. The point of this blog is to go over a few tactics that we have recently been hearing about in the industry. If you ever run into any sales
- [Switching Credit Card Processing Companies Is Rarely Cost Effective](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/switching-credit-card-processing-companies-is-rarely-cost-effective/) - Switching credit card processing companies can be a nightmare for many different reasons. Some of the main reasons people look to switch credit card processing companies are because of issues with pricing, equipment, customer service, or reporting. Below are some examples in the credit card processing industry that showcase the headaches merchants and businesses have
- [Credit Card Processing Fees Complete Guide - Merchant Cost Consulting](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/credit-card-processing-fees-complete-guide-merchant-cost-consulting/) - Understanding how credit card processing fees truly work and what goes into them some consider to be the 8th wonder of the world. Our 2019 complete credit card processing fee guide showcases everything you need to understand and evaluate to lower your credit card processing fees. Here is how we get the credit card processing
- [EMV Chip Card Terminal Common Questions](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/do-you-really-need-an-emv-chip-card-terminal/) - "Do I really need to be EMV Compliant" is a question we tend to receive almost daily." The point of this blog is to understand what it means to be EMV Compliant and discuss whether it's essential for merchants to accept chip cards. We will also touch base on some credit card processing fees that
- [Best eCommerce Credit Card Processing: Stripe vs Braintree vs PayPal](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/stripe-vs-paypal-vs-braintree-which-is-the-best-payment-provider/) - "I am currently looking at using Stripe, Braintree or PayPal as my payment platform and wondering which vendor is the best" is a question we always receive here. To make an informed decision about which payment platform may be the best for your business you'll first need to understand what each platform offers. The point
- [Commonly Used POS Software For Small Business](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/commonly-used-pos-software-for-small-business/) - Point of sale (POS) software facilitates transactions for your small business. Modern POS systems have replaced clunky cash registers and hand-written receipts. Choosing the right POS solution for your business will dramatically improve the customer experience while boosting your efficiency on the back-end. The capabilities of POS software today are impressive. You can find POS
- [How to Choose a POS System For Your Small Business](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-to-choose-a-pos-system-for-your-small-business/) - How to Choose a POS System For Your Small Business Choosing the right POS software for your small business is a significant decision. Point of sale systems represent the moment when you get paid by your customers. You don’t want to rush into something so important, and you definitely don’t want to switch POS providers
- [PIN Debit Networks](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/pin-based-debit-card-routing-complete-guide/) - Discover everything you need to know about PIN debit networks and how they work. Compare the differences of a PIN debit networks list.
- [Learn To Lower Credit Card Merchant Fees Without Switching](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/without-switching-merchant-processors-learn-to-lower-credit-card-merchant-fees/) - Yes, negotiating credit card merchant fees with your current processor is a real thing. Just like negotiating other contracts with vendors, credit card processing companies are no different. Credit card merchant fees are listed on the statement that is sent to the business each month. These fees can range anywhere from an interchange rate, discount
- [Five Tips To Lower Your Credit Card Merchant Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/5-tips-to-lower-your-credit-card-merchant-fees/) - There are 5 essential steps you want to take to lower your credit card merchant fees. Step One: Ensure a credit card processing rate increase has not occurred Sounds simple, but the rates and fees can be so complex. Review your original contract or review statements from 6 months prior to cross reference your current credit
- [The Credit Card Processing Ecosystem Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/14054/) - There first step to lowering your credit card merchant fees is to understand how the credit card processing ecosystem works, the players in the credit card processing industry, and understanding which part of the ecosystem you can approach to lower your credit card merchant fees. Having this information helps you alleviate wasted time approaching providers
- [The Credit Card Merchant Fee Pricing Structures](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/the-credit-card-merchant-fee-pricing-structures-your-processor-doesnt-want-you-to-know-about/) - Credit card merchant quotes can be very deceiving as a lot of quotes out there are "Teaser" rates. They rope you in with what looks to be great pricing, little to a business's knowledge that the pricing is terrible and you end up paying 3.5% in credit card merchant fees per month. You want to
- [The How To Negotiate Your Credit Card Merchant Fees Guide - Merchant Cost Consulting](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/the-how-to-negotiate-your-credit-card-merchant-fees-guide-merchant-cost-consulting/) - How To Lower Credit Card Merchant Fees (Visa, MasterCard, Discover) Credit card merchant fees are daunting, confusing, and obnoxious to say the least. Identifying which credit card processing fees are mandatory vs a mark up cost can be difficult, and finding the correct ways to lower your credit card merchant fees without having to switch processors is
- [What Is Interchange Plus Pricing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/interchange-plus-pricing-and-how-it-affects-credit-card-merchant-fees/) - Within credit card processing, there are 6 different pricing structures out there, most of which are deceptive pricing traps and what we call teaser rates. More about the different pricing structures here. There is one credit card processing pricing structure I do want to talk about, one that alleviates the deception and keeps all credit
- [Credit Card Processing Contracts](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/credit-card-merchant-contracts-and-what-to-be-aware-of/) - Credit Card Merchant Contracts and What To Be Aware Of I know it goes without sayings, and a lot of you may roll your eyes at this next statement, but ALWAYS READ YOUR MERCHANT SERVICE CONTRACTS when it comes to picking a new credit card processing company or renewing an agreement. It sounds silly, but
- [How Does A Credit Card Merchant Fee Audit Work?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-does-a-credit-card-merchant-fee-audit-work/) - What is a credit card merchant fee audit? How does a business know if a credit card processing company is really offering the lower credit card merchant fees it is promising? In the Payment’s industry, a credit card processing company’s main goal is to allow a business to accept credit card payments, but at a
- [Level Two and Level Three Data Chart](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/level-2-and-3-data-chart-understanding-how-much-to-pay-on-b2b-transactions/) - Before diving into Level 2 and 3 pricing, if you are not familiar with the credit card processing standard fees we highly suggest reading our credit card processing guide to familiarize yourself with this difficult industry first. That being said, if you already have a good understanding of the basics of credit card processing this
- [Level Two and Level Three Credit Card Processing Rates](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/b2b-transactions-level-2-and-level-3-credit-card-processing-rates/) - You most likely have been told that business credit cards are expensive (which can be the case) and there is not much you can do about interchange rates (not the case). That is not always true, there are steps you can take to lower the actual interchange rates you are paying to the card brands
- [Negotiate Credit Card Merchant Fees Complete Guide](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/do-not-change-merchant-providers-and-learn-to-lower-credit-card-merchant-fees/) - The biggest headache businesses incur when it comes to accepting credit cards are the credit card merchant fees they pay every single month. Whether your a mom and pop shop or a fortune 500 company, credit card merchant fees are due at the end of every month, and the exact fees you pay can be
- [Credit Card Merchant Fees - Discount Rate](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/credit-card-merchant-fees-discount-rate/) - Most businesses are aware how complex credit card merchant fees can be. Other than the credit card transaction fees a business incurs, there is also the Discount Rate which co exists with them. The discount rate is simply the profit over the interchange rates a business is charged. Unlike interchange fees, the discount credit card
- [Credit Card Merchant Fee Guide On Surcharging](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/credit-card-merchant-fees-guide-for-surcharging/) - Credit card surcharging is allowed when it comes to passing along the credit card merchant fees to a business’ customers. Firms are allowed to impose credit card merchant surcharges on credit card purchases made on Visa and MasterCard under a court settlement that took effect in January 2013. Here is the U.S. Merchant Class Settlement MasterCard
- [Credit Card Merchant Fees - Transaction Fees and Authorization Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/credit-card-merchant-fees-transaction-fees-and-authorization-fees/) - Everything you need to know about authorization fees, AVS fees, and credit card transaction fees. Find out how to save money on credit card processing.
- [PCI Compliance Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/pci-compliance-fees-legit-or-junk/) - Learn more about PCI compliance fees, how to stay PCI compliant, and how to avoid a bankcard PCI fee on your credit card processing statement.
- [Costly Mistakes That Increase Credit Card Merchant Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/3-costly-mistakes-that-can-increase-credit-card-processing-costs/) - Outlined below are three of the biggest mistakes companies make when accepting credit card payments. Not being PCI Compliant - Failing to be PCI Compliant can be extremely expensive for a business. These monthly costs can range anywhere from an extra $29.00 a month upwards of $2,000 a month. Becoming PCI compliant can be a
- [Average Credit Card Processing Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/average-credit-card-processing-fees/) - The question we get most here is what's the average credit card processing fee I should be paying? The answer to that question really depends on numerous factors including business type, different cards and how the cards are being processed. To give you a quick general answer the average credit card processing cost for a
- [How To Lower Credit Card Merchant Fees and Pricing Structures](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-to-lower-credit-card-merchant-fees-and-pricing-structures/) - Learn how to lower credit card merchant fees without the headache of switching from your current provider.
- [Audit Your eCommerce Credit Card Processing Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/audit-your-ecommerce-credit-card-processing-fees/) - Without switching providers, lower your eCommerce credit card processing costs.
- [Information To Lower Credit Card Processing Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/information-you-need-to-lower-credit-card-processing-fees/) - Before you lock yourself into another 4 year contract or the wrong pricing structure, you must first understand how credit card processing works, which fees are negotiable, and learn the pros and cons of the numerous pricing structures that are in the merchant service industry. How Credit Card Processing Works: On a very high level,
- [How To Lower Your Credit Card Merchant Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/our-process-to-lower-your-merchant-fees/) - Merchant Cost Consulting does a free initial audit of a business’s last 3 merchant service statements and presents the potential savings they can obtain for a client. It showcases how much you are overpaying in merchant fees every month and the money that can go directly in your pocket without changing credit card processing companies.
- [Frequently Asked Questions About Reducing Credit Card Processing Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/frequently-asked-questions-about-reducing-credit-card-processing-fees/) - Most businesses do not understand what a cost reduction firm actually is, especially within merchant services. A lot of credit card processing companies disguises themselves as a cost reduction firm, detailing they can lower your credit card processing fees BUT you have to SWITCH to their processing company, software, and system to obtain any savings.
- [Lowest Credit Card Processing Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/do-certain-credit-card-processing-companies-have-lower-rates/) - A question we get a lot here at MCC is do certain credit card processing companies offer lower rates than others. The answer to that question can be fairly confusing. While some credit card processing companies tend to offer better pricing than others it really depends on how the business is setup. At the
- [Negotiable Credit Card Processing Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/a-few-credit-card-processing-fees-that-are-negotiable/) - In the world of credit card processing it can be difficult to actually understand which fees are negotiable and which fees are not. The credit card processing companies want you to believe the bulk of the fees they have no control over. This can be true but also can be deceptive to actually understand what
- [Why American Express can charge more than Visa or MasterCard](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/why-american-express-can-charge-more-than-visa-or-mastercard/) - Anyone who owns or runs a business that accepts credit cards is aware that AMEX charges merchants significantly higher fees than the other card brands. There are a few reasons for this but an average sale can range around 3% while for the others it is usually around 2%. This is why a lot of
- [How To Read Your Credit Card Processing Fees Correctly](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-to-read-your-credit-card-processing-fees-correctly/) - Overview: There are numerous deceptive sales and reporting tactics credit card processing companies purposely misplace, hide, or perceive in a different way to confuse a merchant. It can be frustrating for a business, especially when you have trust in a bank or processor, to handle transactions such as accepting credit cards and you cannot figure
- [Credit Card Processing - Deceptive Sale Tactics](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/a-few-crazy-sales-tactics-we-have-seen-merchant-service-reps-make/) - The world of credit card processing is designed to be a deceptive and lucrative industry. There are hundreds of different tactics sales representatives will use in order to onboard an account or keep an account on their books. Just because an outside sales agent answers your phone calls and tells you your business is priced
- [Best Credit Card Processing Rates](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/a-few-tricks-to-obtain-the-best-credit-card-processing-rates/) - How can I obtain the best credit card processing rates with so many vendors out there? In order for your business to obtain the best credit card processing rates it is imperative to do a significant amount of research prior to even shopping around. The biggest trend we see is a business owner will google
- [April 2019 Interchange Fee Updates](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/april-2019-interchange-fee-increase-and-decreases-you-should-be-aware-about/) - Every credit card and debit card that is circulating in the world have an Interchange Rate associated with it. Each rate is different, pending on the type of card. Example, Business cards, rewards cards, government cards, purchasing cards, debit cards, etc.. Every April and October, Visa/Mastercard adjust their interchange rates, for the good or
- [How To Significantly Lower Credit Card Merchant Fees Without Switching](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/do-not-switch-merchant-service-providers-if-you-want-to-significantly-lower-credit-card-merchant-fees/) - Don't Switch. Save More. Stress Less.
- [Lower Credit Card Merchant Fees And Identify Surcharges](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/lower-credit-card-merchant-fees-and-identify-surcharges/) - It's already known that merchant service companies make a profit by adding a service markup to the rates and fees they charge businesses to accept credit cards. What at times seems to be the 8th wonder of the world, is what exactly is that markup cost? To lower credit card merchant fees, it is never
- [What to Know About Switching Merchant Services](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/what-to-know-about-switching-merchant-services/) - Every business wants to save money on credit card processing. So if you feel like you’re paying high rates and there’s room to cut costs, switching merchant services providers may sound like a viable option. However, switching merchant services is rarely a good idea—and it often costs more than sticking with your current provider. There
- [Vantiv seals $10.4 billion merger with Worldpay](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/vantiv-seals-10-4-billion-merger-with-worldpay/) - If you've been using Worldpay, you're now actually using Vantiv. Watch out for hidden fees, downgrades, and surcharging due to the merger of these two companies! U.S. credit card processing company Vantiv agreed on Wednesday to buy Worldpay, the U.K.'s largest payment processing company, for £8 billion ($10.4 billion). Worldpay said that for each
- [Want to Lower Credit Card Processing Fees?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/want-to-lower-credit-card-processing-fees/) - Merchant Cost Consulting’s mission is to help businesses lower credit card processing fees without a business changing merchant service companies. MCC alleviates hidden fees and pricing traps while exposing unethical and overpriced merchant processing companies. Countless merchant account statements have been analyzed and thousands of clients have received lower credit card processing fees because of
- [Shoutout to the Marcum Retail Symposium @marcumllp for hosting an awesome event out in L.A. ️ this week! . . . It was an honor to be invited, network, and educate with top retail professionals ‍ about the deceptive merchant service industry. savings](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/shoutout-to-the-marcum-retail-symposium-marcumllp-for-hosting-an-awesome-event-out-in-l-a-️-this-week-it-was-an-honor-to-be-invited-network-and-educate-with-top-retail-professionals/) - [igp-video src="" poster="https://merchantcostconsulting.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/shoutout-to-the-marcum-retail-symposium-@marcumllp-for-hosting-an-awesome-event-out-in-l.a.-️-this.jpg" size="large"] Shoutout to the Marcum Retail Symposium @marcumllp for hosting an awesome event out in L.A. ️ this week! . . . It was an honor to be invited, network, and educate with top retail professionals ‍ about the deceptive merchant service industry. savings View on Instagram
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- [Interchange Fee Increase April 2019](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-mastercard-increased-fees-for-processing-transactions-in-april/) - As of April, 2019 Visa and Mastercard have increased fees for processing transactions. Make sure to double check your processing statement for last month. A lot of the credit card processing companies try and use this as an excuse to increase their fees as well. Some of the changes relate to interchange fees. Interchange fees
- [New Yorkers are furious over sneaky credit card surcharges](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/new-yorkers-are-furious-over-sneaky-credit-card-surcharges/) - Before implementing a surcharge on your customers it is very important to understand your customer base. As many business owners are recently finding out, while surcharging may seem like a good tactic at first, a large chunk of their customer base is no longer coming back. Below are some quotes in regards to what has
- [What You Need to Know About Switching Merchant Services](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/what-you-need-to-know-about-switching-merchant-services/) - At the end of the day, there really is no significant difference between various credit card processing companies. All of these processing companies are essentially setup the exact same way, the higher the rates and fees the more money they are making. The more the fees increase over time the better off they are.
- [Stop Overpaying On Credit Card Merchant Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/overpaying-on-merchant-services-will-switching-providers-help-the-cause/) - If you think that you are currently being over charged to accept credit cards.. you are probably right. The difficult thing about this is that if you look to switch from your current provider to another provider in order to save, you will continue to be over charged. The higher these processing companies can set
- [Three Main Components To Credit Card Merchant Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/3-of-the-major-components-of-credit-card-processing-costs/) - Below are the three major components of credit card processing costs. They consist of assessments, markups or discount charges and interchange fees. Assessments - these are charges the card brands collect for each transaction. Depending on the card brand, these fees typically range from 0.11% - 0.15%. They will also charge additional costs
- [Global Payments and TSYS agree to $21.5 billion merger](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/global-payments-and-tsys-agree-to-21-5-billion-merger/) - If you are using TSYS, you will soon be using Global Payments. Watch out for hidden fees, downgrades, and surcharging due to the merger of these two companies! The financial-technology merger frenzy continued on Tuesday, as Global Payments Inc. officially announced a $21.5 billion all-stock deal for Total System Services Inc. The deal is
- [Interchange Fee Increases April 2019](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/april-2019-interchange-fee-increases/) - The card brand companies tend to increase interchange costs a couple times a year. In the month of April, all four of the major card brands increased the costs in various categories. For a complete breakdown of all the interchange fees that have increased as of April 2019 follow the link below. It is also
- [Visa and Mastercard Push Back Interchange Fee Changes](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-and-mastercard-push-back-interchange-fee-changes/) - Visa and Mastercard Push Back Interchange Fee Changes Visa and MasterCard have announced all credit card interchange fee adjustments for merchants will be pushed back from April to mid-July, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While the timeframe has changed for the roll out the fees that will change are remaining the same. We wrote a
- [Dangers of Auto Enrollment Fees in Payment Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/auto-enrollment-fees-dangers/) - How processors use auto-enrollment programs to charge merchants extra for services they never signed up for. Find out how to opt out and get refunded.
- [Amex Support Fee (Shift4) - Legit or Junk?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/amex-support-fee/) - A closer look at Shift4's Amex Support Fee, including how much it costs and why this junk fee should be removed from your account (plus how to do it).
- [2026 Interchange Updates (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Discover)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/2026-interchange-updates/) - Important network updates at the interchange level that take affect throughout 2026, plus more changes from Visa, Mastercard, Amex, and Discover.
- [Amex’s New $3M OptBlue Threshold Impact on Direct Agreements](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/amex-optblue-threshold/) - Amex raised its OptBlue threshold from $1M to $3M. See what the change means for Direct agreements, eligibility, costs, and potential savings.
- [Amex OptBlue Rates & Interchange Qualification (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/amex-optblue-rates/) - See the latest Amex OptBlue interchange rates by industry, tier, and transaction type. Updated and accurate Amex interchange rates effective April 2026.
- [Genius for Worldpay: Watch Out for the Upsell](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/genius-pos-worldpay-merchants/) - What to do if your bank offers you Genius POS in addition to your merchant services. Find out if you actually need it or if it's not worth the cost.
- [Should You Upgrade POSitouch to Shift4 Dine?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/should-you-upgrade-positouch-shift4/) - What to do if you're using POSitouch (Shift4) and get offered an upgrade. And how to use this as a negotiation tactic for lower processing rates with Shift4.
- [SkyTab POS Review & Insider Pricing Insights (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/skytab-pos-review/) - In-depth SkyTab restaurant POS review, including how the pricing works behind the scenes, how Shift4's role works in the process, and comparison to Toast.
- [Weave Payments Review (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/weave-payments-review/) - Our insider take on Weave Payments & Billing, with pros, cons, pricing, and how Weave works on the backend with Stripe for payment processing.
- [Moneris Review: Pros, Cons, Payment Processing Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/moneris-review/) - Our insider take on Moneris for credit card processing, including pros, cons, fees, real statements from clients and rates you won't see published anywhere else.
- [Payment Processing News Today: August 2026 (Global, Toast, PNC, Fiserv and more)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-news-today-august-2026/) - Roundup of the biggest merchant-focused headlines in the payment processing space from August 2026.
- [How SingleOps Integrated Payments Works (and What it Actually Costs)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/singleops-payments-integration/) - A closer look at what's happening behind the scenes with Single Payments powered by ProPay (a Global Payments company), and the setups impact on merchant fees.
- [Q2 2026 Payment Processor Earnings Trends](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/q2-2026-payment-processor-earnings-trends/) - Toast, Fiserv, FIS, Global Payments, and Block reported 2Q26 earnings. See the biggest trends, results, and merchant takeaways from the latest calls.
- [Check Statements for Digital Commerce Fee Adjustments](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/digital-commerce-service-fee-adjustments/) - Visa Digital Commerce Service Fee adjustments are hitting merchant statements now. Here's what it means, why it happens, and how to check your account.
- [Amex Direct Merchant Processing Statement Audit](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/amex-direct-merchant-processing-statement-audit/) - How to read and audit your American Express Direct merchant agreement statements, also known as the Amex Merchant Financial Activity Statement (MFAS).
- [Why the Biggest Brands in the US Don’t Surcharge Credit Cards](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/americas-largest-companies-dont-surcharge/) - Ever wonder why big brands like Walmart, Costco, and Apple don't surcharge credit cards while everyone else does? This post breaks it down.
- [How Toast’s US Adyen Deal Affects Restaurant Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/toast-us-adyen-deal-restaurant-processing-rates/) - Toast added Adyen to list of acquiring partnerships in the US. Restaurants may be able leverage this to negotiate better rates on Toast Payments.
- [LMN Pay Switched to Stripe: Should You Migrate?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/lmn-pay-stripe-migration/) - LMN Pay runs on Stripe Connect as of March 2026. Read this before you migrate to ensure it's the right setup for your landscaping business.
- [A Closer Look at Fiserv’s New Merchant Statements](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/fiserv-new-merchant-statements/) - How to read your new Fiserv merchant statement, and how to separate your processor's negotiable markup from mandatory network fees.
- [World Cup Chargebacks Are Hitting Merchant Statements Now](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/world-cup-chargebacks/) - True cost and merchant impact of chargebacks coming in the months after this global event, and how a spike in chargeback ratio affects your account.
- [Worldpay Transaction Risk Fees: Legit or Negotiable?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/transaction-risk-fees/) - Processor Transaction Risk Fees from Worldpay explained, including how much they cost, how to calculate your rate, and why they're negotiable.
- [Agilysys Payment Processor Integrations Reviewed & Compared](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/agilysys-payment-processor-integrations-reviewed-compared/) - Our take on every processor that integrates with Agilysys hospitality software, including its impact on your cost and how to keep your current provider.
- [FraudSight Fees for Global Payments and Worldpay Merchants](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/fraudsight-fees-global-payments-worldpay/) - Global Payments and Worldpay merchants may be auto-enrolled in FraudSight. Learn the fees, free-trial terms, how to opt out, and whether you need it.
- [Are Credit Card Processing Rate Increases Universal?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/processor-rate-increases-not-universal/) - Credit card processing rate increases aren’t always applied to every merchant. Learn how to spot targeted increases and when to negotiate them.
- [11 Things Your Processor Doesn’t Want You to Know](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/things-your-processor-doesnt-want-you-to-know/) - Secrets that will help you save money on credit card processing. With this knowledge, you can level the playing field with your processor.
- [Do Liquor Stores Need High Risk Payment Processing?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/alcohol-payment-processing-high-risk/) - Do liquor stores really need high-risk payment processing? See when alcohol merchants warrant higher rates, and when processors are simply overcharging.
- [BlueSnap Review: What Merchants Should Know](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/bluesnap-review/) - Read our BlueSnap review covering its PayFac model, Payroc acquisition, pricing, integrations, contract terms, and what merchants should know.
- [American Express Compelling Evidence (Merchant Guide)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/amex-compelling-evidence/) - Learn how Amex compelling evidence works, which disputes qualify, what documentation merchants need, and how to build a stronger response to chargebacks.
- [How to Fight (and Win) Recurring Billing Chargebacks](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-to-fight-and-win-recurring-billing-chargebacks/) - Dealing with a high chargeback ratio for your SaaS or subscription-based business? Learn how to win those disputes and prevent recurring billing chargebacks.
- [Visa (F3Q26) & Mastercard (2Q26) Earnings Highlights for Merchants](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-and-mastercard-earnings-highlights-for-merchants/) - Visa (F3Q26) and Mastercard (2Q26) both reported earnings last week. Here's a merchant-focused breakdown of what actually matters from both calls.
- [How to Read Your Worldpay Merchant Statement](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/worldpay-merchant-statement-audit/) - What to look for on your monthly merchant services statement from Worldpay, and how to identify the fees that you should actually be paying vs. other fees.
- [New Jersey Credit Card Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/new-jersey-credit-card-surcharge-laws/) - In-depth explanation of New Jersey's new credit card surcharge laws, including what's legal and what's illegal with real examples for merchants and consumers.
- [PayPal 2Q26 Highlights: Is Stripe Buying PayPal?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/paypal-2q26-highlights-and-stripe-offer/) - Key highlights from PayPal's latest earnings call, and what CEO Enrique Lores had to say about PayPal getting acquired by Stripe.
- [Nuvei Review: Pricing, Fees to Watch & Statement Audit](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/nuvei-review-pricing-statement-audit/) - In-depth review of Nuvei for payment processing, including pricing options, fees to watch out for, and a real statement audit comparing two real Nuvei accounts.
- [Why So Many Nuvei Transactions Are Non-Qualified](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/nuvei-tiered-non-qualified/) - Nuvei classifies 68.4% of credit card categories as non-qualified under tiered pricing. See why merchants pay more and how to avoid it.
- [Payment News Today: July 2026 (Stripe, PayPal, Square, Shif4, Fiserv)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-news-today-july-2026/) - Roundup of the biggest news in payment processing from July 2026, including new fees, new laws, new payment products, acquisitions, and more.
- [Merchant Account Periodic Review: What to Expect](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/periodic-review-merchant-account/) - Received a merchant account review notice? Learn why processors request certain documents and how to handle periodic reviews of your payment processing account.
- [Why States Are Banning Debit Card Surcharges](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/state-level-debit-card-surcharge-bans/) - Debit card surcharges were already prohibited nationwide? See why some states are passing new debit card surcharge laws focused on actual enforcement.
- [Planet Payments & Protel PMS Review for Hotels](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/planet-payments-protel-pms-review/) - Review Planet Payments and Protel PMS for hotels, including payment processing options, integrations, pricing, and ways to reduce merchant fees.
- [Best Payment Processors for Sage Software (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/sage-software-integrated-payment-processing/) - Integrated credit card processing options compared for Sage products, including Sage Intacct, Sage 100, Sage 300, Sage 50, Sage X3, and Sage 50 Contractor.
- [Straight-Through Processing (STP) for B2B Virtual Card Payments](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/straight-through-processing-stp-b2b-virtual-card-payments/) - Learn more about STP (straight-through processing) and how it works for suppliers and B2B merchants accepting virtual card payments from customers.
- [Is a 2% Credit Card Processing Rate Possible?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/2-percent-credit-card-processing-rate/) - See what a 2.18% effective rate looks like on a real credit card processing statement, and how you can get this rate too without switching processors.
- [Why Your Level 3 Interchange Savings Disappeared](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/lost-level-3-interchange-savings/) - Used to qualify for Level 2 or Level 3 interchange rates but no longer do? Learn why those savings disappeared and what merchants can do to recover them.
- [Check Fraud Risks for B2B Merchants [2026 Data]](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/check-fraud-risks-b2b-merchants/) - See the hidden risks and costs of accepting paper checks, plus safer payment alternatives for B2B merchants. Data-backed insights on check fraud in 2026.
- [Visa Verifi Merchant Guide - Updated for 2026](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-verifi-merchant-guide/) - Learn how Visa Verifi works, including Order Insight, RDR, CDRN, pricing, VAMP impact, and the most important merchant updates for 2026. Is it worth getting?
- [Bridge Payments Review: Pricing and How it Works](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/bridge-payments-review/) - Learn how Bridge Payments works, what it costs, which practice management systems it integrates with, and how Rectangle Health handles processing.
- [Chargeback Ratio: Why it Matters and Affects Merchant Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/chargeback-ratio-matters/) - How processors use your chargeback ratio to set merchant account rates and contract terms, and how you can use your ratio to negotiate lower fees.
- [Mastercard Underpenetrated Verticals Program Rates (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/mastercard-underpenetrated-verticals-program-rates/) - See Mastercard's Underpenetrated Verticals Program rates for Canadian merchants, including eligibility, MCC codes, interchange discounts, and savings examples.
- [Best NetSuite Payment Processors Reviewed (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/best-netsuite-payment-processors/) - What's the best integrated payment processor for NetSuite? The answer might surprise you. Here's the full list of processors supported by NetSuite.
- [Fiserv Debit Network Sale Could Raise Merchant Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/fiserv-debit-network-sale/) - Fiserv is exploring the sale of one of its debit card networks. While acquisitions in the payments space aren’t uncommon, network sales are extremely rare and can create a ripple effect industry-wide. What makes this story so significant is that the largest US banks are on the list of potential buyers. If a big bank
- [Stripe Account Frozen? What to Do if Funds Are on Hold](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/stripe-account-frozen-funds-on-hold/) - Stripe froze your account or put your funds on hold? Learn why it happened, what to do first, and how to get your money quickly without disrupting operations.
- [Visa Commercial Enhanced Data Program (CEDP) Fees Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-commercial-enhanced-data-program-cedp-fees/) - Everything you need to know about Visa's new Commercial Enhanced Data Program (CEDP) fees for merchants processing Level 3 data on business and commercial cards.
- [Visa CEDP Rates (2026 Update)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-cedp-rates/) - Visa increased its CEDP rates less than a year after launching the Commercial Enhanced Data Program. See the latest rates here.
- [Illinois IFPA Delayed: July 1, 2026 Update](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/illinois-ifpa-delayed/) - Illinois IFPA did not take effect on July 1, 2026. Here’s why the interchange fee law was delayed again and what merchants should know.
- [Celerant Payment Processing Providers Compared](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/celerant-payment-processing-providers-compared/) - Our reviews of the credit card processors that integrate with Celerant's retail and POS software. Find out the pros and cons of each, and which is best for you.
- [Shift4 Regulatory Assurance Fee (RAF) Breakdown](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/shift4-regulatory-assurance-fee-raf/) - My insider take on Shift4's Regulatory Assurance Fee (RAF), and why there's more to this $325 per device annual charge than meets the eye.
- [The Truth About Annual Fees in Payment Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/annual-fee-payment-processing/) - Why it's worth taking a closer look at the annual fees charged by your payment processor every year, including how much you should actually be paying and why.
- [Louisiana Surcharge Laws: Credit vs. Debit (2026 Update)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/louisiana-surcharge-laws/) - Everything you need to know about Louisiana's credit card surcharge laws, including compliance tips, best practices, and maximum allowable surcharge fees.
- [Payment News Today: June 2026 Roundup (Shift4, Fiserv, Visa, Square)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-news-today-june-2026/) - Roundup of payment stories from June 2026, including processor rate increases, new fees, CEO changes, M&A, new payment products, court rulings, and more.
- [Mastercard Wholesale Travel Merchant Fees Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/mastercard-wholesale-travel-program-merchant-fees/) - Why Mastercard Wholesale Travel fees appear on merchant statements, including the MC Wholesale B2B Acquirer Fee and Commercial B2B Travel Fee for virtual cards.
- [Retrieval Request (Inquiry) vs. Chargeback: Merchant Guide](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/retrieval-request-vs-chargeback/) - Credit card inquiries, also called retrieval requests, can become chargebacks if mishandled. See the deadlines, what to send, and reason codes by network.
- [Should You Issue a Refund After Receiving a Chargeback?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/refund-after-chargeback/) - Should you refund a customer after a chargeback? Learn why merchants can end up paying twice and what to do when a dispute has already been filed.
- [Versapay NetSuite CEDP Compliance in 7 Steps](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/versapay-netsuite-cedp-compliance/) - Using Versapay with NetSuite? Visa CEDP updates required to qualify for reduced rates, including bundle version, payment profiles, scripts, and enhanced data.
- [roommaster PMS Payment Processing: What Hotels Should Know](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/roommaster-payment-processing/) - Review roommaster payment processing costs, how ValPay and Adyen fit into the setup, and why hotels may be paying more than they realize.
- [Visa Mastercard Settlement Update: June 2026](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-mastercard-settlement-update-june-2026/) - A federal judge preliminarily approved the revised Visa Mastercard settlement. See what changed, what’s pending, and what merchants should do now.
- [How Adyen Acquisitions Could Signal Higher Processing Rates](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/adyen-acquisitions-signal-rate-increases/) - Adyen has agreed to spend $1.2+ billion in acquisitions across two deals announced just 50 days apart from each other. Both are set to close on July 1, 2026, and they each push the company into new revenue models that sit right alongside the payments product. For a processor that I’ve respected over the years,
- [Fiserv’s CEO is Out: Merchant Impact](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/fiserv-ceo-steps-down/) - If you're a merchant using Fiserv for credit card processing, this latest CEO change could have a major impact on your payment processing rates. What to know.
- [Lightspeed vs. Toast Restaurant Payment Processing Compared](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/lightspeed-vs-toast/) - Deep-dive comparison on Toast vs. Lightspeed for restaurants, looking beyond the obvious feature overlaps and focusing on long-term payment processing costs.
- [No Longer a High Risk Merchant? Don't Switch Processors](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/lower-high-risk-merchant-account-rates/) - Not as high risk as you used to be? Don't switch processors. Learn how to get your merchant account reviewed and negotiate lower high risk processing rates.
- [PayFabric Review: Pricing, Fees, and What to Expect](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payfabric-review/) - PayFabric can simplify ERP payment processing, but merchants should understand the fees, pricing model, and processor relationship first. Our insider take.
- [Shift4 Annual Service and Maintenance Fee Explained (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/shift4-annual-service-maintenance-fee/) - Shift4 introduced a new Annual Service and Maintenance Fee to select accounts. Here's what you need to know about it and how much it costs.
- [7 Ways Processors Make Statements Harder to Understand](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/why-processing-statements-are-confusing/) - Learn why credit card processing statements are so confusing and how processors make it harder to spot hidden fees, markup, and true costs.
- [Infrastructure Upgrade Fee: Cost and How to Get Rid of It](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/infrastructure-upgrade-fee/) - Everything you need to know about the Infrastructure Upgrade Fee on your merchant account statement, including how much it should cost and if it's legit or junk.
- [Tiered Credit Card Processing (Why You Should Avoid It)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/tiered-payment-processing/) - Everything you need to know about tiered credit card processing, including how it works, why it costs more, & how to get rid of it without switching processors.
- [Lightspeed Payments POS Credit Card Processing Review](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/lightspeed-payments-pos-review/) - Our insider take on Lightspeed POS and and Lightspeed Payments, including a fee breakdown, costs of bring your own processor, and real statement example.
- [Does Visa CEDP Apply to Your Business? Exclusions Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-cedp-eligibility-exclusions/) - Does Visa CEDP apply to your business? Here's how to tell, including which card types are eligible, which MCCs are excluded, and key exceptions.
- [Locked Into Processing Contract? You Have Options](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/locked-in-processing-contract-options/) - "Locked in" to a merchant agreement doesn't mean you're stuck. Mid-contract options to save money on credit card processing without switching providers.
- [Payment News Today: May 2026 (Fiserv, FIS, Elavon, Clover)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-news-today-may-2026/) - A roundup of the biggest payment processing news stories from May 2026, including processor rate increases, new products, earnings results, crypto and more.
- [Key Takeaways for Merchants from 1Q26 Processor Earnings](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/key-takeaways-1q26-processor-earnings/) - Breakdown of the latest quarterly earnings from Fiserv, PayPal, Toast, and Global Payments. What these results say about upcoming changes to merchant fees.
- [Debit Card Interchange Rates (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/debit-interchange-rates/) - Latest debit card interchange rates by network: Accel, Interlink, NYCE, Maestro, Jeanie, AFFN, Culiance, PULSE, SHAZAM, and Star.
- [Mews Hotel Payment Processing Fees Breakdown](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/mews-hotel-payment-processing-fees-breakdown/) - The true cost of using Mews Hotel PMS to process credit card transactions, including how money moves behind the scenes and where you can cut costs to save.
- [Hidden Cost of Value-Added Services (VAS)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/value-added-services-vas-costs/) - How to identify legitimate value-added services vs. junk fees on your merchant account. Differences between VAS from card networks and credit card processors.
- [WorkWave Payments Integrated Credit Card Processing Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/workwave-payments-integrated-processing/) - What's really happening behind the scenes when you sign up for integrated payment processing via WorkWave Payments, with all of your options compared.
- [ChiroTouch Credit Card Processing Costs Compared (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/chirotouch-credit-card-processing/) - Find out which payment processors integrate with ChiroTouch practice management software and how each option impacts your costs. Cheapest provider revealed.
- [How to Avoid VAMP Penalties and Fraud Dispute Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/avoid-vamp-penalties-fraud-dispute-fees/) - More merchants are being hit with VAMP penalties and fees under the new Visa Acquirer Monitoring Program rules. Here's how to stop those fraud and dispute fees.
- [How to Tell If Your Processor's CEDP Compliance Is Legit](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/cedp-compliance/) - Find out if your processor is actually submitting accurate Level 3 data to Visa to qualify for CEDP rates or credits. What real CEDP compliance loos like.
- [Visual Matrix PMS Payment Processing Integrations Compared](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visual-matrix-payment-processing-integrations-compared/) - How to accept credit cards in Visual Matrix PMS, comparing all three integrated payment processors for the hotel management software: Elavon, Shift4, Fortis.
- [What Rate Creep Looks Like in Payment Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/rate-creep-payment-processing/) - How credit card processors increase your rates over time without you realizing it. The true costs of rate creep on merchant fees, and what to do about it.
- [Get Interchange-Plus Pricing Without Switching Providers](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/interchange-plus-without-switching-providers/) - There’s a common misconception among merchants on flat-rate credit card processing: they think the only way to get on interchange-plus is by changing providers. This is almost never true. In most cases, you can get off flat-rate pricing (or tiered, or whatever non-transparent and highly marked up structure you’re stuck on) without changing processors at
- [WebRezPro Integrated Payments: Credit Card Processing Guide](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/webrezpro-integrated-payments-guide/) - Breakdown and cost comparison of credit card processors, POS systems, and payment gateways that integrate with WebRezPro. And how to keep your current provider.
- [9 Expensive Mistakes That Increase Payment Processing Costs](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/expensive-mistakes-increase-payment-processing-fees/) - Merchants make common mistakes that cause them to overpay on credit card processing. Here's how you can avoid them, fix errors, and cut merchant fees ASAP.
- [North (American Bancard) Payment Processing Review](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/north-american-bancard-payment-processing-review/) - Our in-depth review of North American Bancard, including our insider take on its payment processing services with fees and examples from real client statements.
- [What is North’s PCI Plus Program? (and What it Really Costs)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/north-pci-plus-program/) - A breakdown of North's PCI Plus program: what the service includes, how the tiers work, and what merchants are actually paying every month in PCI Plus fees.
- [SpotOn Payment Processing: Fees and Rate Increases (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/spoton-fees-rate-increases/) - Latest rate increases and payment processing fee updates from SpotOn, and cost comparison between flat-rate pricing vs. interchange-plus with real statements.
- [Visa and Mastercard Just Reported Earnings: Merchant Impact](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-mastercard-earnings-merchant-impact/) - What merchants should be paying attention to after Visa and Mastercard reported quarterly earnings. Key takeaways from Visa F2Q26 and Mastercard 1Q26 results.
- [How to Qualify for Visa CEDP Rates (2 Ways)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-to-qualify-cedp-rates/) - How to become a verified merchant for Visa CEDP rates, and how you can still qualify for CEDP savings while the verification process is paused.
- [Maestro PMS Credit Card Processing Options Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/maestro-pms-credit-card-processing/) - Full breakdown of every credit card processor that integrates with Maestro PMS, including the ways you can integrate your provider and how that impacts costs.
- [Payment News Today: April 2026 (Visa, Fullsteam, PayPal, Discover and more)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-news-today-april-2026/) - Roundup of the biggest payment industry news stories from April, including interchange updates from Visa/MC/Discover/Amex, processor rate increases, and more.
- [Visa Base II Network Access Fee (2026 Rate)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-base-ii-network-access-fee/) - Everything you need to know about Visa's Base II Network Access Fee, including how much it costs, when it gets charged, who pays it, and if you're overpaying.
- [High Merchant Satisfaction Scores Don't Always Mean Fair Rates](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/merchant-satisfaction-doesnt-mean-fair-pricing/) - JD Power ranked the top payment processors from merchant satisfaction scores for 2026. But that doesn't mean these processors are the cheapest or even the best.
- [10 Risks of Switching Credit Card Processors](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/risks-of-switching-credit-card-processors/) - Thinking of switching payment processors? Don't switch yet. Hidden risks can be expensive and you can typically save money without changing anything.
- [Harbortouch POS & Payment Processing: Hidden Costs Revealed](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/harbortouch-pos-payment-processing/) - Harbortouch POS requires Shift4 for payment processing. Learn how it impacts your rates, hidden fees, and how to negotiate lower costs.
- [Elavon Fees Merchants Need to Watch Out For](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/elavon-merchant-fees-to-watch-out-for/) - A closer look at negotiable Elavon fees that you can get removed from your statements to save thousands of dollars on credit card processing, with real examples.
- [Visa Resolve Online (VROL) Merchant Guide [2026]](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-resolve-online-vrol/) - Visa Resolve Online (VROL) explained for merchants. Learn how disputes work, what they cost, and how to manage chargebacks more effectively.
- [Elavon Non-Qualified Volume Fee Explained and How to Remove It](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/elavon-non-qualified-volume-fee/) - Everything you need to know about Elavon's OTHR NQ VOL FEE (non-qualified volume fee), including what it costs, when it applies, and how to get rid of it.
- [9 Merchant Fees That Sound Legit But Aren't](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/fees-that-sound-legit-but-arent/) - How to find out if a merchant fee is mandatory or invented by your processor. Top examples of non-legit fees can be negotiated and removed from your statement.
- [MICROS POS Review and Payment Processing Breakdown](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/micros-pos-review/) - What's happening behind the scenes with Oracle MICROS POS, and how it impacts your fees. Read this before you buy MICROS or switch providers.
- [Deadline for Discover Merchant Settlement: File by May 18](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/discover-settlement/) - Everything you need to know about the $1.225 billion Discover class action settlement for interchange misclassification that overcharged merchants for 17 years.
- [Shift4 Daily vs. Monthly Billing: Fees and Options Compared](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/shift4-daily-vs-monthly-billing/) - Should you continue paying Shift4's rising Month End Billing Fee or switch to daily billing to eliminate it? This post breaks down all options and costs.
- [How to Handle 6 Common Problems With Your Payment Processor](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-to-handle-payment-processor-scenarios/) - The right and wrong ways to handle scenarios with your credit card processor based on our experience with rate increases, new fees, negotiations, and more.
- [Cloudbeds Payment Processing Options Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/cloudbeds-payment-processing/) - A closer look at all the credit card processors that integrate with Cloudbeds for hotels, including costs and best options. Plus how to keep your own processor.
- [Should You Switch Processors for Integrated Payments?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/switch-processors-integrated-payments/) - Find out if it's worth changing your payment processor to get integrated credit card processing. And what to do if your current provider isn't supported.
- [7 Shift4 Fees Quietly Costing Merchants Thousands](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/shift4-merchant-fees/) - If you're using Shift4 for payment processing, see if you have these 7 fees on your statement. You could be overpaying by thousands every month.
- [11 Negotiation Levers to Lower Processing Rates](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/negotiate-lower-processing-rates/) - The best ways to get leverage on your credit card processor to negotiate lower merchant fees, based on our proven experience and success stories.
- [Briostack Integrated Credit Card Processing Guide](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/briostack-integrated-credit-card-processing-guide/) - Our insider take on using integrated payments with Briostack and how to ensure you get the best deal for your pest control or lawn care business.
- [Amex Acquirer Transaction Fee Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/amex-acquirer-transaction-fee/) - A closer look at the American Express Acquirer Transaction Fee, including how much it costs, when it applies, how to spot it, and real statement examples.
- [OpenAI Kills Instant Checkout: What it Means for Merchants](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/openai-instant-checkout-chatgpt/) - OpenAI announced the end of Instant Checkout in ChatGPT, shifting its agentic commerce efforts into product discovery instead of payments and checkouts.
- [Storable Review: Payment Processing Fees & Insider Take](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/storable-review-payment-processing/) - Our insider take on Storable's payment processing service for self storage unit facilities, including a complete breakdown of its fees, pricing, pros, and cons.
- [Payment News Today: March 2026 (Visa, Amex, Stripe, Shift4 and more)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-new-march-2026/) - Roundup of the biggest news in the payments space. Stories from Visa, American Express, Stripe, Shift4, Global Payments, Mastercard, Elavon, Rectangle Heath, and more.
- [How Processor Increases Hide Behind Interchange Updates](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/processor-rate-increases-interchange-updates/) - Credit card processors often use card network adjustments from Visa and Mastercard to justify rate increases, which is misleading. Here's how to spot it.
- [Visa CEDP Verification Paused, But You Can Still Save on Interchange](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-cedp-verification-pause/) - How unverified merchants can still qualify for savings under Visa's Commercial Enhanced Data Program, even while the verification process remains paused.
- [Mastercard International Assessment Fees (Legit vs. Junk)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/mastercard-international-assessment-fees/) - Mastercard's International Acquirer Program Support Fee vs. International Cross Border Fee, and why most merchants pay both assessments for 1.45% total.
- [Visa VAMP (Acquirer Monitoring Program) - Why Merchants Should Pay Attention](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-vamp-acquirer-monitoring-program/) - Everything you need to know about the new Visa Acquirer Monitoring Program (VAMP), including new ratios for 2026 and how these changes can impact your fees.
- [What is Elavon’s Monthly Billing Fee? (and How to Lower It)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/elavon-monthly-billing-fee/) - How Elavon's Monthly Billing (MDCT MONTH DCNT) Fee works, what it costs, why they charge it, and how to get it lowered without switching to daily billing.
- [Avimark Vet Software and Payment Processing Review](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/avimark-vet-software-payment-processing-review/) - How integrated payment processing works via Avimark vet practice from Covetrus with our insider take on who's actually handling transactions behind the scenes.
- [Best Vet Software for Payment Processing Flexibility (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/vet-software-payment-processing/) - Compare 11 vet and pet software tools based on credit card processing flexibility. Learn which ones support your own processor and how to avoid costly setups.
- [Mastercard First Party Trust Program Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/mastercard-first-party-trust-program/) - How Mastercard's First Party Trust Program works to fight friendly fraud and chargebacks, how merchants can participate, and data submission requirements.
- [Storable Integrated Credit Card Processing (3 Options Compared)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/storable-integrated-payments/) - Detailed breakdown and comparison of the three different integrated credit card processing options from Storable, including what's happening behind the scenes.
- [International Card Handling Fees Cost More Than You Think](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/international-card-handling-fee/) - Elavon's International Card Handling Fees can cost your business thousands of dollars in overages on foreign-issued transactions. Here's how to get rid of it.
- [Visa Compelling Evidence 3.0 Merchant Guide (CE3.0)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-compelling-evidence-ce30/) - New rules for Visa CE3.0, and how the updated Compelling Evidence regulations can help merchants win disputes and prevents chargebacks from friendly fraud.
- [ezyVet Integrated Credit Card Processing (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/ezyvet-integrated-credit-card-processing/) - A full breakdown of the integrated credit card processing options within ezyVet's veterinary practice management software, and how those options affect rates.
- [Can You Use Credit Card Terminal With Another Processor?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/can-you-use-credit-card-terminal-with-another-processor/) - Find out if your credit card machine can be used with another payment processor. Square, Toast, Clover, Verifone, Ingenico, SkyTab, Stripe, PAX, and more.
- [Fiserv's New Execs and What it Means for Merchants](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/fiservs-new-execs-merchant-fee-impact/) - Fiserv's latest executive hires could translate to consequences for merchants, including higher rates and new fees. Read on to find out why.
- [Shift4 Simple Change Pricing Breakdown & Why it Costs More](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/shift4-simple-change-pricing/) - How Shift4's "simple change" pricing really works and why it costs more than interchange-plus pricing. Plus real statement examples and how you can save money.
- [Sam's Club Point of Sale by Clover: Insider Take (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/sams-club-clover-pos/) - What's really going on behind the scenes with Sam's Club POS by Clover, how it affects your merchant fees, and whether it's actually cheaper than alternatives.
- [Rectangle Health Outage Offers Rare Negotiating Opportunity](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/rectangle-health-outage/) - How you can leverage the Rectangle Health outage to secure better payment processing rates without switching providers. Newest updates on Rectangle going down.
- [Earnings Roundup: Toast, Fiserv, Adyen, Global, PayPal, Jack Henry and More](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/earnings-roundup-feb-26/) - Key insights from the latest payment processor earnings calls, including a summary of the most important numbers, strategies, and how it impacts merchants.
- [NaVetor Integrated Payment Options Compared and Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/navetor-integrated-payment-processing/) - Insider take and costs compared for integrated card processing in NaVetor's vet practice management software, Global Payments, Gravity Payments, and Patterson.
- [Payment News Today: February 2026 (Shift4, Rectangle, PayPal, Visa and more)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-today-february-2026/) - My roundup of the biggest stories in the payment industry from February 2026, covering names like Visa, Rectangle Health, Shift4, PayPal, Adyen, Starbucks, and more.
- [Cheapest Credit Card Processors (4 Real Examples)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/cheapest-credit-card-processors/) - Some of the cheapest credit card processors we've seen using real statement examples from our clients, and how to get the cheapest credit card processing rates.
- [DaySmart Vet Integrated Payment Processing: Full Breakdown](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/daysmart-vet-integrated-payment-processing/) - A closer look at DaySmart Vet's payment processing capabilities, including the actual processor responsible for handling your transactions behind the scenes.
- [Payment Gateway vs. Virtual Terminal](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-gateway-vs-virtual-terminal/) - Key differences between virtual terminals and payment gateways, including when to use each one and what types of businesses need both. Side-by-side comparison.
- [Do You Need a Backup Payment Processor?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/do-you-need-a-backup-payment-processor/) - Thinking of getting a backup payment processor or working with multiple credit card processors? Read this first to see if it makes sense for your business.
- [Are Credit Card Surcharge Fees Worth It? The Data Says No](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/are-credit-card-surcharge-fees-worth-it/) - Surcharge fees aren't worth it. The latest 2026 data shows that businesses surcharging credit card transactions are losing customers in the process.
- [Top Merchant Services Providers Ranked (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/top-merchant-services-providers/) - A closer look at the top merchant services providers and payment processors, and why popular processors aren't always the best options to consider.
- [IDEXX Neo Veterinary Payment Processing Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/idexx-neo-integrated-payment-processing-explained/) - What's really happening behind the scenes with Neo Payments, IDEXX Payments, Fiserv, Clover, CardPointe, and CardConnect with Neo Vet Practice Management.
- [Rectangle Health Payment Processing Alternatives](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/rectangle-health-alternatives/) - With the recent Rectangle Health outage, customers are looking for options. These are the best payment processing alternatives if you want to switch providers.
- [Effective Rate vs. Discount Rate in Payment Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/effective-rate-vs-discount-rate/) - Key differences between discount rate and effective rate in credit card processing, and why tracking your effective rate is important for getting a good deal.
- [Why Transparency is So Rare in Payment Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/transparency-in-payment-processing/) - The importance of transparency on merchant statements for getting a fair rate, and why it's so rare for processors to actually do this (with real examples).
- [EZFacility Integrated Payments: How it Works & Cost](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/ezfacility-integrated-payments/) - What's really happening behind the scenes when you set up integrated payment processing from EZFacility's club management software, & how it impacts your fees.
- [Important Update for PayPal and Braintree Merchants](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/paypal-braintree-merchant-updates/) - How PayPal's latest quarterly earnings can have a trickle-down affect to merchant fees in 2026, which includes merchants using Braintree for payment processing.
- [How Your Business Type Affects Merchant Services Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-business-type-affects-merchant-services-fees/) - A look at how your processor sets credit card merchant fees based on your business type, plus what you can control to save money vs. what's out of your hands.
- [GuestSuites Integrated Payments for Hotels: What to Know](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/guestsuites-integrated-payments-for-hotels/) - Our insider take on GuestSuites payment processing for hotels and resorts. We review the processor behind the scenes so you know how to get the best rate.
- [True Costs of Per-Item & Per-Transaction Fees for Merchants](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/per-item-per-transaction-fees/) - Per-item and per-transaction fees may not seem like much, but if you're processing a high volume of small-ticket sales, they could triple your effective rate.
- [Latest Visa & Mastercard Earnings: Key Takeaways for Merchants](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-mastercard-earnings-key-takeaways-for-merchants/) - How Visa and Mastercard earnings results from January 29, 2026 directly impact merchant's and merchant processing fees. Highlights and key takeaways explained.
- [BarVision Integrated Payment Processing: What to Know](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/barvision-integrated-payment-processing/) - How integrated payment processing works from BarVision, including supported processors, POS software, and how to get the best rate on credit card processing.
- [Payment News Today: January 2026 (Global, Worldpay, Elavon, Chase and more)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-january-2026/) - With the first month of 2026 nearly in the books, here’s my roundup of the biggest stories in the payment space from January: Worldpay Officially Merged With Global Payments We’ve been following this story closely since the deal was first announced in April of last year. And on January 12th, Global Payments officially completed its
- [Network Security & Compliance Merchant Fee: Legit or Junk?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/network-security-compliance-fee/) - What merchants need to know about Network Security & Compliance fees that's being charged on your monthly processing statement from Global, TSYS, Cayan, EVO.
- [How to Evaluate Credit Card Processors: 8 Factors](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-to-evaluate-credit-card-processors/) - What really matters when evaluating and comparing different payment processors for your business, and how to find the best option for your specific needs.
- [What's Hiding in "Other Fees" on Merchant Statements](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/other-fees-on-merchant-statement/) - A closer look at the "Other Fees" on your merchant statement can reveal hidden charges from your credit card processor that they hope you won't notice.
- [Annual Merchant Fee Increases Cost More Than You Think](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/real-cost-of-annual-merchant-fee-increases/) - Annual rate increases have become the norm in credit card processing. But the real costs add up quickly. We take a closer look at the math and debunk myths.
- [What Worldpay Merchants Need to Know About the Global Payments Merger](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/what-worldpay-merchants-need-to-know-about-global-payments-merger/) - If you're using Worldpay to accept credit cards, your account just got acquired by Global Payments. Here's what's changing and what you can do to prepare.
- [Payroc Statement Audit and Pricing Review](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payroc-statement-audit-pricing-review/) - Section-by-section breakdown of Payroc's monthly merchant processing statements that show why transparency is key during audits and how their pricing compares.
- [Global Payments Officially Completed its Worldpay Merger](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/global-payments-worldpay-merger-complete/) - Latest details form the Global Payments acquisition of Worldpay, and how merchants will likely be affected as Global prioritizes investor ROI.
- [8 Global Payments Merchant Fees to Watch Out For](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/global-payments-fees-to-watch-out-for/) - These 8 merchant fees from Global Payments are likely cost you thousands of dollars per month. Here's how to spot them, and what you can do about it.
- [How Cornerstone Payments Works (Integrated Vet Software)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/cornerstone-payments-integrated-veterinary-software/) - My insider take on Cornerstone Payments from IDEXX. If you're using Cornerstone Vet software, read this to understand your credit card processing structure.
- [How Processing Volume Impacts Merchant Discount Rates](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/processing-volume-merchant-rates/) - How to leverage your processing volume as a negotiating tool to get lower rates on credit card merchant fees, and how your processor uses this to set rates.
- [Why Debit Card Merchant Fees Are Increasing in 2026](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/debit-card-merchant-fees-increasing/) - How Capital One's merger with Discover is ultimately going to cost merchants more money when accepting debit cards, and what you can do about it.
- [US Bank Merchant Services Review: Fees & Insider Take](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/us-bank-review/) - Our insider take on US Bank's payment processing and merchant services, including its pros, cons, pricing, and real US Bank statement examples from our clients.
- [Paya Review: Pros, Cons, Fees & Insider Take](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/paya-review/) - Our insider take and full review of Paya's payment processing solutions, including its pros, cons, fees, contract terms, and other credit card processing info.
- [Authorize.net Review - Pros, Cons, Pricing, and Alternatives](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/authorize-net-review/) - Our insider take on Auth.net's payment gateway and virtual terminal. We break down Authorize.net's pros, cons, prices, and compare it to alternative providers.
- [ModMed Pay Review: Pros, Cons, Pricing & Statements](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/modmed-pay-review/) - Full review and insider take of ModMed Pay's payment processing services, including its pros, cons, fees, pricing, real statement examples from their customers.
- [Fortis Payment Processing Review Review](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/fortis-payment-processing-review-review/) - Fortis review for credit card processing, including pros, cons, pricing, fees to look out for, statement examples, and our insider take on its payment services.
- [Utah Credit Card Surcharge Laws](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/utah-credit-card-surcharge-laws/) - Utah's credit card surcharge laws explained, including disclosure requirements for merchants, maximum allowable surcharges, and how Utah's laws have changed.
- [New Hampshire Credit Card Surcharge Laws (Updated)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/new-hampshire-surcharge-laws/) - Learn more about New Hampshire's surcharge laws, including what's legal, what's illegal, and how New Hampshire's surcharging laws differ from nearby states.
- [Maryland Credit Card Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/maryland-surcharge-laws/) - A closer look at the credit card surcharge laws in Maryland, including what's legal, what's illegal, maximum allowable surcharge, and possible changes ahead.
- [Arizona Credit Card Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/arizona-surcharge-laws/) - An in-depth look at Arizona's credit card surcharge laws, including what's illegal, illegal, the maximum allowable surcharge in AZ, and exceptions to the law.
- [Payment News Today: December 2025 (Visa, Mastercard, FIS, PNC and more)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-industry-news-december-2025/) - Roundup of the biggest payment industry news stories and headlines that merchants should know about in December 2025.
- [Maine Credit Card Surcharge Laws](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/maine-credit-card-surcharge-laws/) - A closer look at Maine's credit card surcharge laws, including exceptions and how merchants and consumers in Maine can navigate these rules.
- [Arkansas Credit Card Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/arkansas-credit-card-surcharge-laws/) - A closer look at the credit card surcharge laws in Arkansas, so you can see what's legal and differences between surcharges, convenience fees, and service fees.
- [New Mexico Credit Card Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/new-mexico-credit-card-surcharge-laws/) - Everything you need to know about the credit card surcharge laws in New Mexico, including what's legal, what's illegal, and how businesses can stay compliant.
- [Planet DDS Cloud 9 Integrated Payments Review](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/planet-dds-cloud-9-review/) - Our insider take on Cloud 9's integrated payments for orthodontists, including how to get better rates with Planet DDS Pay, Global Payments, and Worldpay.
- [Nebraska Credit Card Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/nebraska-surcharge-laws/) - Find out what's legal and illegal when it comes to credit card surcharge fees in Nebraska, including how to stay compliant and alternatives to consider.
- [WaveOrtho Payment Processing Review](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/waveortho-review/) - WaveOrtho is an orthodontic practice management solution that combines everything from imaging to patient communication and treatment planning into a single source of truth. Orthodontists can also integrate the software with third-party payment processors, allowing them to accept credit card payments within the practice management interface. Our experience with WaveOrtho comes from helping our clients
- [Michigan Credit Card Surcharge Laws (and Tax Rules)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/michigan-credit-card-surcharge-laws/) - A closer look at Michigan's credit card surcharge laws, including special rules for gas stations and how surcharge fees at taxed in Michigan.
- [Mastercard NABU (Network Access and Brand Usage) Fee](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/mastercard-nabu-fee/) - Full explanation of Mastercard's Network Access and Brand Usage (NABU) Fee, including how much it costs, when it applies, examples, and how to spot overcharges.
- [Pennsylvania Credit Card Surcharge Rules](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/pennsylvania-surcharge-laws/) - The latest rules and regulations for credit card surcharge fees in Pennsylvania, including recent legislation that's making its way to changing surcharge laws.
- [TopsOrtho TopsPay Payment Processing (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/topsortho-topspay-review/) - Our insider take on TopsOrtho and TopsPay for integrated payment processing, including its pros, cons, key features, and alternative practice management tools.
- [Vermont Credit Card Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/vermont-surcharge-laws/) - A complete guide to Vermont's credit card surcharge laws, including what's legal, illegal, new laws and legislation, and how to remain compliant in Vermont.
- [Ortho2 Payment Processing Review: Pros, Cons, Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/ortho2-review/) - Our insider take on Ortho2 and its integrated payment processing, including pros, cons, pricing, and more info on Edge Cloud, Imaging, Animations, and inVisit.
- [Indiana Credit Card Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/indiana-surcharge-laws/) - Full breakdown of the credit card surcharge laws in Indiana, including what's legal, illegal, maximum allowable surcharges, and potential law changes.
- [Delaware Credit Card Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/delaware-surcharge-laws/) - Everything you need to know about Delaware's credit card surcharge laws, including what's legal, what's illegal, and maximum allowable surcharge amounts.
- [Nevada Credit Card Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/nevada-credit-card-surcharge-laws/) - A full explanation of the credit card surcharge laws in Nevada, including what's legal, what's illegal, maximums, examples, and penalties for non-compliance.
- [Priority Payments Review: Pros, Cons, and Fees (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/priority-payments-review/) - Our insider take on Priority Payments, including pros, cons, and Priority Payments rates from real merchant statements that we've audited for our clients.
- [Rhode Island Credit Card Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/rhode-island-surcharge-laws/) - A detailed breakdown of Rhode Island's credit card surcharge laws, including what's legal, what's illegal, and a compliance checklist for Rhode Island merchants.
- [Critical Payment Security Key Updates & Deadlines](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-security-key-updates/) - Updates and deadlines for payment security keys, including when 1408-bit keys expire, extended deadlines 1984-bit keys, and action items for merchants.
- [Idaho Credit Card Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/idaho-surcharge-laws/) - In-depth guide on Idaho's credit card surcharge laws. What merchants and consumers need to know, and best practices for adding surcharge fees legally in Idaho.
- [Montana Credit Card Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/montana-surcharge-laws/) - Full explanation of Montana's credit card surcharge laws, including what's legal, illegal, maximum allowable surcharges, and how state laws differ from federal.
- [Tyler Technologies Payment Processing Review (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/tyler-technologies-review/) - Our insider take on Tyler Technologies and TylerPay for integrated payment processing, with examples and strategies to lower your Tyler payment processing fees.
- [Oregon Credit Card Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/oregon-surcharge-laws/) - A full explanation of Oregon's credit card surcharge laws, including what's legal, what's illegal, and the maximum allowable surcharge fees in Oregon.
- [OrthoFi Payment Processing Review: Pros, Cons & Fees (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/orthofi-review/) - Our insider take on OrthoFi with a focus on its integrated payment processing software, including pros, cons, transaction costs and supported processors.
- [Dolphin Practice Management Review (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/dolphin-practice-management-review/) - Our insider take on Dolphin Practice Management, specifically for its integrated payment processing options with Global Payments, Breeze, and Rectangle Health.
- [Iowa Credit Card Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/iowa-credit-card-surcharge-laws/) - Everything merchants and consumers need to know about credit card surcharge laws in Iowa, including what's legal, what's illegal, and maximum allowable fees.
- [Massachusetts Credit Card Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/massachusetts-credit-card-surcharge-laws/) - Full explanation of the credit card surcharge laws in Massachusetts, including what's legal, what's illegal, exceptions, and alternatives to surcharging in MA.
- [Virginia Credit Card Surcharge Laws (New Update)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/virginia-surcharge-laws/) - Everything you need to know about the credit card surcharge laws in Virginia, including the new disclosure requirements that went into effect on July 1, 2025.
- [SoftDent Payment Solutions Review 2026](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/softdent-practice-management-payment-solutions-review/) - A closer look at SoftDent from Sensei and Carestream Dental, including its pros, cons, pricing, and our insider take on its integrated payment processing.
- [Curve Dental Review: Pros, Cons & Payment Processing (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/curve-dental-review/) - Review of Curve Dental practice management software, including its pros, cons, and our insider take on its credit card payment processing capabilities.
- [Washington State Credit Card Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/washington-surcharge-laws/) - Latest surcharge laws in Washington state, including what's legal, illegal, tax considerations, examples, and how Washington's government handles surcharges.
- [North Carolina Surcharge Laws (Updated With New Bill)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/north-carolina-surcharge-laws/) - North Carolina's credit card surcharge laws, including a history of its legislature and the current status of a House Bill 13 that may go into effect in 2026.
- [NaVetor Veterinary Payment Processing Review (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/navetor-review/) - Pros, cons, and pricing of NaVetor's veterinary practice management software, including our insider take on its integrated payment processing capabilities.
- [Kentucky Credit Card Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/kentucky-credit-card-surcharge-laws/) - Breakdown of credit card surcharge fee laws in Kentucky, including what's legal, what's illegal, maximum allowable surcharge fee, and disclosure requirements.
- [West Virginia Credit Card Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/west-virginia-surcharge-laws/) - A closer look at West Virginia's credit card surcharge laws and what these laws mean for both merchants and consumers alike, including maximum allowable fees.
- [Open Dental Payment Processing Review (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/open-dental-payment-processing-review/) - Our insider take on Open Dental's integrated payment processing that uncovers exactly what's happening behind the scenes when you're accepting credit cards.
- [Wisconsin Credit Card Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/wisconsin-credit-card-surcharge-laws/) - The latest surcharge laws in Wisconsin that merchants and consumers need to know. Find out what's legal, what's illegal, and maximum allowable surcharge fees.
- [ServSuite by FieldRoutes Payment Processing Review](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/servsuite-fieldroutes-payment-processing/) - Our insider take on ServSuite's integrated payment processing capabilities with Global Payments and you can save money without switching providers.
- [North Dakota Credit Card Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/north-dakota-surcharge-laws/) - North Dakota's surcharge laws explained, including what's legal, what's illegal, disclosure requirements, and maximum allowable surcharge fees in North Dakota.
- [Oryx Dental Payment Processing Review (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/oryx-dental-payment-processing-review/) - Our insider take on your integrated payment processing options with Oryx Dental practice management software, including bogus fees to watch out for.
- [Alabama Credit Card Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/alabama-surcharge-laws/) - Surcharge laws in Alabama explained, including the maximum allowable surcharge fees, when surcharging is illegal, and tax implications for surcharges.
- [Dentrix Payment Processing Review (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/dentrix-payment-processing-review/) - Our insider take on Dentrix practice management payment processing options, including Dentrix Pay, Dentrix Ascend Pay, and Dentrix Enterprise Pay with Worldpay.
- [Missouri Credit Card Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/missouri-surcharge-laws/) - Full explanation of Missouri's surcharge laws and rules about connivance fees, including maximum allowable fees, disclosure laws, debit cards, and exceptions.
- [Vetspire Payment Processing Review (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/vetspire-payment-processing-review/) - Our insider take on Vetspire's payment processing options, including how they work with Vetspire Pay, CardConnect, Fiserv, Worldpay, Stripe, and Square.
- [South Carolina Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/south-carolina-surcharge-laws/) - Everything businesses need to know about South Carolina's credit card surcharge laws, including how they changed over time and what's ahead.
- [ServiceTitan Payment Processing Review (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/servicetitan-review/) - How ServiceTitan's payment processing really works behind the scenes and how much your business should be paying to accept credit cards through the platform.
- [Wyoming Credit Card Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/wyoming-surcharge-laws/) - Everything you need to know about Wyoming's credit card surcharge laws, including details about special laws for cash discounts that only apply in Wyoming.
- [Eaglesoft Dental Payment Processing Review](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/eaglesoft-dental-payment-processing-review/) - Review of Eaglesoft from Patterson Dental, including its pros, cons, and our insider take on its card payment processing that's powered by Global Payments.
- [Alaska Credit Card Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/alaska-credit-card-surcharge-laws/) - A closer look at Alaska's credit card surcharge laws and why businesses in Alaska may want to think twice before surcharging their customers.
- [South Dakota Surcharge Laws (2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/south-dakota-surcharge-laws/) - Full breakdown of South Dakota's credit card surcharge laws, including what's legal, what's illegal, maximum allowable surcharges, and disclosure requirements.
- [Storage Commander SC Pay Merchant Services Review](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/storage-commander-sc-pay-merchant-services-review/) - Full breakdown of how Storage Commander's merchant services work, including the pros, cons, and pricing of SC Pay as your integrated payment processor.
- [How Earnings Calls Predict Payment Processing Rates](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/how-earnings-calls-predict-payment-processing-rates/) - Your payment processor's next quarterly earnings results may telegraph an upcoming rate increase to your merchant account. Here's how to spot it and stop it.
- [Integrated Payments vs. Embedded Payments](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/integrated-payments-vs-embedded-payments/) - Key differences between integrated payments and embedded payments from the merchant's perspective, including when it makes sense to use each one.
- [STORIS Integrated Payment Processing Review](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/storis-review/) - Comparison of STORIS integrated payment processors, including differences between Shift4, Fiserv, Clover Connect, CardPointe, Adyen, PayPal, and Tender Retail.
- [Surcharge vs. Cash Discount, Dual Pricing, Convenience Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/surcharge-vs-cash-discount-dual-pricing-convenience-fees/) - Full comparison of surcharge fees, cash discounts, dual pricing programs, convenience fees, and service fees. Customers pay more with credit cards for them all.
- [Hawaii Credit Card Surcharge Laws](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/hawaii-surcharge-laws/) - Clarification of Hawaii's credit card surcharge laws, and why so many sources on the web have it wrong. Including maximum allowable surcharge fees in Hawaii.
- [Mindbody Payment Processing Review (and Options Explained)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/mindbody-payment-processing-review/) - Our insider take on what's really happening behind the scenes when you set up integrated payment processing through Mindbody Payments and rates you should pay.
- [Card Brand Fees: Merchant Payment Processing Guide](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/card-brand-network-fees/) - Everything you need to know about card brand fees in payment processing. Also known as card network fees, card association fees, and assessment fees.
- [Visa Zero Dollar Verification Fee Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-zero-dollar-verification-fee/) - Guide to Visa's Zero Dollar Verification Fee, including how much it costs, when it gets charged, real examples, and differences between Zero Floor Limit Fee.
- [How Much Are Merchant Account Fees?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/merchant-account-fees-cost/) - Find out how much merchant account fees cost and how much you should be paying compared to what your processor is actually charging you to accept card payments.
- [Mississippi Credit Card Surcharge Laws (Updated for 2026)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/mississippi-surcharge-laws/) - Full breakdown of Mississippi's surcharge laws, and how they're different for private businesses compared to government bodies and public sector entities.
- [PestPac Payment Processing Review (and How it Works)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/pestpac-review/) - Insider scoop on PestPac's integrated payment processing for pest control businesses dealing with WorkWave Payments, Worldpay, Adyen, & Global on the backend.
- [What to Expect When Your Payment Processor Gets Acquired](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/what-to-expect-payment-processor-gets-acquired/) - Practical steps for businesses to take take after finding out their payment processor is getting acquired or merging with another company, including a timeline.
- [VETport Payment Processing Review](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/vetport-review/) - Our take on VETport's integrated payment processing capabilities including detailed insights about the supported processors for veterinary practice management.
- [Should You Use Multiple Payment Processors?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/using-multiple-payment-processors/) - Pros and cons of businesses using multiple payment processors, and why it rarely makes sense for most businesses to have more than one credit card processor.
- [Payment Processing Industry News — November 2025](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-november-2025/) - A summary of the biggest news stories and headlines in the payment processing industry from November 2025, including rate increases, partnerships, and earnings.
- [Pass Through Fees in Credit Card Processing: Ultimate Guide](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/pass-through-fees-guide/) - How pass through fees work in payment processing, including real examples and clearing up common misconceptions about what pass through fees are not.
- [TSYS Transaction Network Access Fee - Legit or Junk?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/transaction-network-access-fee/) - A closer look at TSYS Transaction Network Access Fee and why you shouldn't be paying it. Including real TSYS statement examples, true costs, & how to remove it.
- [Real Costs of B2B Virtual Credit Card Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/b2b-virtual-card-processing/) - Understanding how B2B virtual credit card processing works for B2B merchants accepting virtual card transactions from their customers.
- [OpenEdge Check Fees: What They Are and How to Lower Them](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/openedge-check-fees/) - What is an OpenEdge Check Fee on your Global Payments statement? We'll show you how to get this fee reduced by 50% to save money on credit card processing.
- [Can You Surcharge B2B Transactions?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/b2b-surcharge-guide/) - B2B surcharge laws explained and our take on why surcharging credit card transactions doesn't make sense for B2Bs (plus money-saving surcharge alternatives).
- [Breaking Down the $38 Billion Visa/Mastercard Settlement](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/breaking-down-the-visa-mastercard-settlement/) - Our insider take on the new Visa/Mastercard settlement, and why things likely won't change for most businesses (despite it sounding like a good deal on paper).
- [How to Lower Restaurant Credit Card Processing Fees](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/lower-restaurant-credit-card-processing-fees/) - Why restaurant payment processing is so expensive and what you can do to lower your restaurant's credit card processing costs (without switching providers).
- [Stop Overpaying for High Risk Credit Card Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/stop-overpaying-for-high-risk-credit-card-processing/) - Understand why high risk credit card processing costs more and use our proven tips to get lower rates from your current provider, even with a high risk account.
- [Payment Processing Industry News — October 2025](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-october-2025/) - A roundup of the latest news stories, rate increases, and noteworthy headlines in the payment processing space from October 2025.
- [Global VPN Fee - Legit or Junk? (Payment Processing)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/global-vpn-fee/) - A closer look at the Global VPN fee from Global Payments, TSYS, and other processors to learn exactly what it is, how much it costs, and if it's legit.
- [Understanding Mastercard’s Undefined Authorizations](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/mastercard-undefined-authorization/) - Learn what Mastercard’s Undefined Authorizations are, why they’re being phased out, and how to avoid costly Transaction Processing Excellence Fees.
- [Automatic Interchange Optimization is Over: What to Do Now](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/automatic-interchange-optimization/) - Visa is cracking down on automatic interchange optimization. Find out what this means if you're submitting Level 2 and Level 3 card data to optimize CEDP rates.
- [Mastercard Transaction Processing Excellence Fee Program](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/mastercard-transaction-processing-excellence-fees/) - Everything you need to know about Mastercard's Transaction Processing Excellence (TPE) Program and the fees charged to merchants for improper authorizations.
- [October 2025 Interchange Updates: What’s New for Merchants](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/interchange-updates-2025/) - The latest interchange updates in October 2025 from Visa and Mastercard, including new rates, updated fees, and changes to NYCE PIN debit transaction fees.
- [Is Costco Payment Processing Really Cheaper for Merchants?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/costco-payment-processing/) - Our insider take on Costco's merchant services, including the actual prices you pay and how it compares to other payment processing options for your business.
- [Why You Should Never Switch Payment Processors](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/should-you-switch-payment-processors/) - Thinking about switching payment processors? Read this guide first to learn why it's rarely cheaper to switch providers, and why it usually costs more.
- [Are Customers Still Required to Sign Credit Card Receipts?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/credit-card-receipts-signature-requirements/) - Find out if your business needs to collect signatures on receipts when a customer pays using a credit card, plus other receipt rules to ensure compliance.
- [Analytics Reputation Management Fee - Legit or Junk?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/analytics-reputation-management-fee/) - Our insider take on the Analytics Reputation Management Fee on merchant account payment processing statements from Global Payments, TSYS, OpenEdge, Cayan, EVO.
- [How Are Interchange Rates Calculated? (With Examples)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/calculate-interchange-rates/) - Learn how to calculate interchange fees for credit and debit card transactions for your business, plus examples and average interchange rates by card network.
- [Payment Processing Industry News — September 2025](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-september-2025/) - A roundup of the biggest news headlines in the payment processing space from September 2025, including rate increases, acquisitions, and new products.
- [Random Fees on Merchant Processing Statement? What to Do](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/random-merchant-processing-fees/) - What to do if you find random fees on your credit card processing statement. Use this guide to distinguish between legit charges and junk fees on your account.
- [Government & Public Sector Payment Processing Savings Tips](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/government-payment-processing-savings-tips/) - Find out how government agencies can cut payment processing fees. Our proven tips and insider strategies to help public sector entities reduce processing costs.
- [Mastercard Safety Net Acquirer Fee Explained (with Examples)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/mastercard-safety-net-acquirer-fee/) - An in-depth breakdown of Mastercard's Safety Net Acquirer Fee, including how much it costs, who pays it, and why Mastercard charges it (with real examples)
- [What Are Embedded Payments? How it Works and Use Cases](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/embedded-payments/) - The ultimate guide on embedded payments, including how it works, pros, cons, use cases, costs, and a direct comparison between embedded and integrated payments.
- [Visa Authorization Misuse Fee Explained (Misuse of Auth Fee)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-authorization-misuse-fee/) - What to do about Visa's misuse of authorization fee on your merchant statement and how to ensure it's legit and verify you're paying the correct amount.
- [How to Lower Your B2B Credit Card Processing Costs](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/reduce-b2b-payment-processing-costs/) - Learn how to save thousands of dollars every month on B2B payment processing with our proven tips to reduce your costs on B2B credit card acceptance fees.
- [OrthoTrac Practice Management and Payment Processing Review ](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/orthotrac-carestream-review/) - Our insider take on OrthoTrac Practice Management software by Carestream Dental, with a specific focus on its integrated payment processing options and costs.
- [What’s a Good Rate For High Risk Credit Card Processing?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/good-rate-high-risk-processing/) - Find out if you're getting a good deal on high-risk processing or if your high-risk merchant account provider is ripping you off. Plus how to save money on it.
- [Payment Processing Industry News — August 2025](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-august-2025/) - A roundup of the latest news headlines for August 2025, including rate increases, strategic partnerships, new products, and a summary of key earnings results.
- [Is No Fee Credit Card Processing Legit? What You Need to Know](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/no-fee-credit-card-processing/) - Our insider take on no-fee or zero-cost payment processing, and why it's not actually free. Learn the pros, cons, and alternatives to see if it's legit for you.
- [Why Businesses Should Never Lease a Credit Card Machine](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/never-lease-credit-card-terminals/) - Should you lease or buy your credit card terminals? This guide explains why equipment leases are always a bad idea, and shows other ways to save money instead.
- [FTC Junk Fees Law: What it Means For Credit Card Surcharging](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/ftc-junk-fees-law-credit-card-surcharging/) - A simple guide on the latest FTC junk fee rule on unfair and deceptive Fees, including practical examples, and implications for credit card surcharge fees.
- [Risk Assessment Fees in Payment Processing Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/risk-assessment-fees-in-payment-processing/) - A full explanation of Risk Assessment Fees in credit card processing, the costs and real statement examples from Global Payments, TSYS, and Worldpay junk fees.
- [PetExec Payment Processing Review (What Users Need to Know)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/petexec-payment-processing-review/) - Our insider take on PetExec's integrated payment processing solution, including a direct comparison to Gingr and how users should navigate the new gateway fee.
- [Gingr Payments Review (Insider Take & PetExec Comparison)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/gingr-payments-review/) - Our insider take on Gingr Payments for integrated payment processing in Gingr software, including its fees and direct comparisons to CardConnect and PetExec.
- [Monthly Minimum Fees in Payment Processing Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/monthly-minimum-fees/) - A guide to help you understand monthly minimum fees on your payment processing account, including how they're calculated, examples, and how to avoid them.
- [Refunds vs. Reversals in Payment Processing: Key Differences](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/refunds-vs-reversals/) - The differences between refunds and authorization reversals in credit card processing, including how they both work, fees, total costs, and business impacts.
- [Settlement Funding Fee - Legit or Junk? (Payment Processing)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/settlement-funding-fee/) - Everything about the Settlement Funding Fee from Global Payments, TSYS, Heartland, EVO, and OpenEdge on your monthly merchant processing statement.
- [mPower Beverage POS Review: Pros, Cons & Payment Processing](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/mpower-beverage-pos-review/) - In-depth review of mPower Beverage's POS software, including its pros, cons, pricing, and our insider take on the integrated payment processing solution.
- [Payment Processing Industry News — July 2025](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-july-2025/) - Round up of the biggest headlines in the payments space from July 2025, including new fees, rate increases, new products, strategic partnerships, and more.
- [How Stablecoins Are Shaking Up the Payments Industry](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/stablecoins-payments-industry/) - How stablecoins work in the payments space, including benefits, use cases, and real examples from players like Visa, Mastercard, Fiserv, PayPal, and JP Morgan.
- [9 Surcharging Alternatives: Save Money & Keep Your Customers](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/surcharging-alternatives/) - Top alternatives to credit card surcharges businesses should consider before implementing a surcharge program. Save money without passing costs to customers.
- [Are Credit Card Processing Fees Tax Deductible?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/credit-card-fees-tax-deductible/) - Find out what credit card fees you can write off on your taxes, and how the rules vary between businesses vs. individuals. Plus other tips to maximize savings.
- [Visa Non-Qualified Consumer Credit Fee Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/visa-non-qualified-consumer-credit-fee/) - Everything you need to know about Visa's non-qualified interchange rate, including how it differs from other types of non-qualified fees and how to avoid them.
- [Payment Processing Industry News — June 2025](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-june-2025/) - A roundup of the biggest news stories and updates in the payment processing industry. From rate increases to new products, surcharge laws, and acquisitions.
- [Should Your Business Use a PayFac For Credit Card Processing?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payfac-payment-facilitator-for-payment-processing/) - Everything you need to know about how PayFacs (Payment Facilitators) work in payment processing, including examples, pros, cons, and cost comparisons.
- [Mastercard Flex Program (MFP) Fee Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/mastercard-flex-program-fee/) - Everything you need to know about Mastercard's new Flex Program Fee, including how much it costs and what types of businesses need to pay for it.
- [Mastercard Credential Continuity Program (CCP) Fee Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/mastercard-credential-continuity-program-ccp-fee/) - Everything you need to know about Mastercard's CCP Fees, including how much it costs, when it's charged, and steps you can take to avoid this fee altogether.
- [Payment Processing Industry News — May 2025](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-may-2025/) - A roundup of the biggest news stories in the payments space so businesses can keep pace with what's trending in the world of credit card processing.
- [Huntington Bank Merchant Services Review (2025)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/huntington-bank-merchant-services-review/) - Our insider take on Huntington Bank's credit card processing services, including its pros, cons, rates, fees, and examples from real merchant statements.
- [Pros and Cons of Surcharging](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/surcharging-pros-cons/) - Our insider take on the pros and cons of surcharging credit card transactions so merchants can decide if adding a surcharge fee makes sense for their business.
- [How Flat Rate Credit Card Processing Eats Into Your Profits](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/flat-rate-credit-card-processing-eats-profits/) - A closer look at the true costs of flat-rate credit card processing, and why it's costing businesses tens of thousands of dollars in overpayments every year.
- [Payment Processing Industry News — April 2025](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-april-2025/) - April has been a wild month in the payments space. Between major merger announcements, product updates, global expansions, and $100M+ bids, there’s been a lot to keep track of. Fortunately for you, I’ve rounded up the biggest stories this month so you can stay informed. Global Payments is Acquiring Worldpay Global Payments announcing its plans
- [Global Payments Acquires Worldpay: What This Means for Merchants](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/global-payments-acquires-worldpay/) - Everything you need to know about the Global Payments acquiring Worldpay from FIS and GTCR, including the purchase specifics and how it can impact your rates.
- [Global Payments Outrageous Fees Exposed: Are You Being Ripped Off?](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/global-payments-outrageous-fees-exposed/) - A closer look at two merchants being ripped off by Global Payments with real examples from those statements, and how to find out if you're being ripped off too.
- [Payment Processing Industry News — March 2025](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-march-2025/) - A roundup of the latest news stories and headlines in the payments industry, including rate increases, new technology, mergers, and acquisitions.
- [9 Scenarios When Credit Card Surcharging Makes Sense](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/scenarios-when-credit-card-surcharging-makes-sense/) - Find out if surcharging credit card transactions is the right decision for your business. We cover the most common scenarios when it makes sense to surcharge.
- [What Are Integrated Payments? The Ultimate Guide](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/integrated-payments/) - A full explanation of integrated payments, including how it works, benefits, and real-world examples of how businesses leverage integrated payment solutions.
- [Network Tokens Explained: A Merchant’s Guide to Secure Payments](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/network-tokens-explained/) - Everything you need to know about network tokens and how they work for payment processing, including key security benefits for merchants and future trends.
- [Payment Processing Industry News — February 2025](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/payment-processing-industry-news-february-2025/) - Highlights of the biggest news stories in the payments space for this month, including a key summary of each headline in our latest payments news roundup.
- [Visa Acquirer Processing Fee Explained](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/acquirer-processing-fee/) - Everything you need to know about the Acquirer Processing Fee, including what it is, how much it costs, and real examples of the fee on merchant statements.

## Pages

- [Homepage](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/) - MCC can help your business lower credit card processing fees. Get a FREE audit & analysis and find out how much you can save in credit card fees.
- [Blog](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/blog/) - BLOGLatest Blog PostsCredit Card Merchant FeesDangers of Auto Enrollment Fees in Payment ProcessingSep 08, 2026·10 min readPayment ProcessingAmex’s New $3M OptBlue Threshold Impact on Direct AgreementsSep 05, 2026·9 min readPayment ProcessingGenius for Worldpay: Watch Out for the UpsellSep 03, 2026·8 min readPayment Software ReviewShould You Upgrade POSitouch to Shift4 Dine?Sep 02, 2026·8 min readIndustry NewsPayment
- [Partners](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/) - PARTNERSMCC PartnersBecome a PartnerHospitality Financial and Technology ProfessionalsMembers of the Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals Can Save Big on Merchant Service Fees...Read more ->APCIAmerican Pharmacy Cooperative, Inc. (APCI) Members can Save Big on Merchant Service Fees Without Changing...Read more ->Independent Animal Hospital AssociationIndependent Animal Hospital Association (IAHA) Members can Save Big on Merchant Service Fees
- [Leadership](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/about-us/leadership/) - HomeLeadershipMCC Leadership TeamLinkedIn | EmailTony BolducCo-FounderWith over a decade of experience in payment processing, Tony co-founded MCC in 2016 to help businesses eliminate unnecessary processing fees. He combines deep industry knowledge with a results-driven approach, leading MCC's operational strategy and client service initiatives. Under his leadership, MCC has helped thousands of businesses optimize their processing
- [Referral Program](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/referral-program/) - REFERRAL PROGRAMRefer a FriendMCC is happy to compensate our friends who help us grow. We reward all successful referrals with paid commissions or savings on our services. If you want to learn more about how it works you can simply fill out the information below to start earning!Learn MoreAre You Paying Too Much on Your
- [Testimonials](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/testimonials/) - TESTIMONIALSMCC TestimonialsBelow are some common industries, business types and use cases where Merchant Cost Consulting has lowered credit card fees. However, whether you fit neatly into one of these categories or not, MCC can help lower your business credit card processing fees.“MCC has been a great vendor in our group, and has saved many members
- [Monitoring](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/how-it-works/monitoring-auditing-credit-card-merchant-fees/) - HomeHow it worksMonitoringMonthly Monitoring and Audit ServiceGet Free AnalysisProtect Your Savings With Ongoing Statement MonitoringOur service includes monthly statement monitoring to ensure your processor honors the restructured deal. Many credit card processors try to sneak new hidden fees and inflated rates into statements to make up for the profits they lost during the negotiation. We
- [Frequently asked questions](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/merchant-services-provider-faq/) - HomeFrequently asked questionsFrequently Asked QuestionsHow does the free merchant statement audit work?All you need to do is submit your monthly credit card processing statements online. One of our experts will get back to you within 1-2 business days with the results, and we’ll let you know how much you can save without switching providers. The
- [About us](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/about-us/) - ABOUT USWe Help Businesses Lower Credit Card Processing Costs—Without Switching ProvidersAbout MCCFounded on PurposeMCC was founded by industry veterans who were tired of seeing processors overcharge merchants. After decades of working in the payment space, we decided to use our insider knowledge for a different purpose—advocating for merchants and helping businesses optimize their processing rates.
- [How it works](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/how-it-works/) - HOW IT WORKSSave Money on Credit Card Processing in 3 Simple Steps1Review2Restructure3monitorAs your merchant consultant, we handle every step of lowering your payment processing costs. You keep your current processor and existing operations while we negotiate better rates and protect savings on your behalf.1. ReviewWe Audit Your Statements to Find Every Possible Cost Savings OpportunityOur
- [Contact Us](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/contact/) - 21 Batchelder Street, Boston, MA 02119. (833) 622-7283
- [Switching credit card processing companies](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/switching-credit-card-processing-companies/) - Save Big on Merchant Service Fees Without Switching Credit Card Processing CompaniesSwitching credit card processing companiesSwitching credit card processing companies can be one of the biggest mistakes businesses make when trying to lower credit card processing fees. Without having to switch merchant service providers, banks or equipment, Merchant Cost Consulting reduces your merchant service costs
- [Review](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/how-it-works/credit-card-processing-company-audits/) - HomeHow it worksReviewSavings Start With a FREE Analysis of Your Credit Card Processing StatementsGet a Free AuditA Detailed Look at Your True CostsMost businesses are overpaying for credit card processing. Processors do everything they can to maximize THEIR profits—not yours, which is why we find savings in 96% of our statement audits. Our industry experts
- [Solutions](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/industries/) - SOLUTIONSSpecialized Solutions For Every BusinessWe help merchants in every industry save money on credit card processing. Here are some of the most common business types that we work with. But even if your industry isn’t listed below, we can still help you lower your payment processing fees. AutomotiveHospitality & HotelsHealthcareE-commerceFood & BeverageNon-profitRetailB2B BusinessesGovernment / MunicipalityOther
- [Restructure](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/how-it-works/restructure-credit-card-fees/) - HomeHow it worksRestructureRestructure Credit Card Processing FeesGet Free AnalysisKeep Your Provider, Lower Your RatesMost sales reps set up unfavorable terms when opening your account—it’s how processors maximize their profits. We re-negotiate these terms directly with your provider, securing wholesale rates and eliminating unnecessary fees. With thousands of successful negotiations under our belt, we know exactly
- [Case Studies](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/case-studies/) - CASE STUDIESProven Results, Millions in Savings.Every client is unique, but they all have one thing in common—they were paying too much for credit card processing. See how we’ve helped businesses across every industry reduce costs without switching providers. Merchant Cost Consulting helped Fix Auto save $300 per month without switching providers or changing any of its
- [Book a consultation](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/book-a-consultation/)
- [Homepage](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/homepage-2/)

## Case Studies

- [Snap Kitchen](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/case-study/snap-kitchen/) - HomeCase StudiesSnap KitchenSnap KitchenCLIENT:Snap KitchenIndustry:HospitalityCustomer StorySnap Kitchen is a Texas-based meal service with 49 locations. They offer ready-made meals, sides, beverages, and desserts for in-person pickup and direct-to-consumer delivery in 15 states. Customers can even find Snap Kitchen in select Whole Foods locations.With multiple revenue streams, Snap Kitchen reached more than $45+ million in annual
- [MaxTool](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/case-study/maxtool/) - HomeCase StudiesMaxToolMaxToolCLIENT:MaxToolIndustry:Ecommerce Customer StoryMaxTool is an ecommerce retailer that sells name-brand tools, outdoor power equipment, automotive tools, and home goods equipment. They started as a small catalog company nearly four decades ago, but MaxTool has become an industry leader in the online tools space—carrying products from popular brands like DeWalt, Stanley, Bosch, Honda, and more.With
- [Fix Auto](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/case-study/fix-auto/) - HomeCase StudiesFix AutoFix AutoCLIENT:Fix AutoIndustry:AutomotiveCustomer StoryFix Auto is a Chicago-based automotive shop that specializes in collision repair services.Like most businesses, a large volume of Fix Auto’s revenue comes from credit and debit cards. For this service, they rely on WorldPay—the second-largest direct processing company in the world.ProblemFix Auto’s processing rates had been rising for years.
- [Village Orthodontics](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/case-study/village-orthodontics/) - HomeCase StudiesVillage OrthodonticsVillage OrthodonticsCLIENT:Village Orthodontics Industry:HealthcareCustomer StoryVillage Orthodontics is a three-location orthodontics practice located in Maryland. Founded in 2003, the practice provides a wide range of orthodontics services ranging from clear braces to metal braces, surgical orthodontics, diode laser treatments, and more. They work with patients of all ages, as young as seven and up
- [Rosewood Hotel Group](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/case-study/rosewood-hotel-group/) - HomeCase StudiesRosewood Hotel GroupRosewood Hotel GroupCLIENT:Village Orthodontics Industry:HealthcareCustomer StoryRosewood Hotel Group is a renowned international hotel management company boasting a diverse portfolio of 41 hotels spanning 19 countries. The portfolio contains five distinct brands under the Rosewood Hotel umbrella, each embodying its own modern and luxurious concept. This case study is specifically focused on four

## Industries

- [Government / Municipality](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/industry/government-municipality/) - HomeIndustriesGovernment / MunicipalityGovernment / MunicipalityWe help government offices and municipalities get lower rates on payment processing services—without switching providers or changing any equipment. Reduce Costs While Meeting Public Service StandardsPublic Funds Demand Maximum EfficiencyGovernment offices process a wide range of citizen payments—from utility bills and permit fees to tax payments and beyond. Each department typically operates
- [Retail](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/industry/retail/) - HomeIndustriesRetailRetailLower your credit card processing rates without switching providers.Maximize Savings On Every Swipe, Dip, and TapStill Under Contract? No Problem.Our team can help your retail establishment save money on credit card processing even if you’re locked into a contract with your current provider. There’s a good chance you’re currently overpaying to accept credit cards, especially
- [Food & Beverage](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/industry/food-beverage/) - HomeIndustriesFood & BeverageFood & BeverageReduce credit card processing fees for your restaurant without switching processors Save Thousands Without Changing SystemsThe Food and Beverage Industry Faces Unique Processing ChallengesEvery percentage point is crucial when you’re processing high-volume transactions and operating on tight profit margins. Many of our clients use integrated POS systems with backend kitchen management,
- [Non-profit](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/industry/non-profit/) - HomeIndustriesNon-profitNon-profitMaximize the impact of every donation by reducing credit card processing fees.Every Dollar Saved Supports Your CauseNonprofits Deserve BetterUnfortunately, credit card processors don’t go easy on you just because you have a nonprofit organization. While many providers advertise special rates and discounts for nonprofits, we actually find some of the most egregious billing tactics on
- [E-commerce](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/industry/e-commerce/) - HomeIndustriesE-commerceE-commerceSave money on credit card processing without changing your current gateway, processor, or software Save Thousands on Card-Not-Present TransactionsYour Payment Stack Shouldn’t Eat Into Your MarginsOnline transactions are typically subject to higher card-not-present rates. Once you factor in gateway fees and processor markups, your costs can easily start to exceed 3-4% per transaction. Most online
- [Other](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/industry/other/) - HomeIndustriesOtherOtherNo matter what type of business you have, we can help you save money on credit card processing.Better Rates For Every BusinessProcessing Fees Impact Every IndustryWe’ve helped businesses across every sector reduce their payment processing costs—and none of those companies had to switch providers or change their current operations. It starts with a free audit
- [Hospitality & Hotels](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/industry/hospitality/) - HomeIndustriesHospitality & HotelsHospitality & HotelsSave money on guest payments without switching processors.Eliminate Costly Transaction Fees TodayComplex Payment System? No Problem.Hospitality businesses typically need advanced systems and customized software integrations to handle payments from every touchpoint. From front desks to online reservations, deposits, and authorization holds, there’s a high probability your processor is artificially inflating your
- [Automotive](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/industry/automotive/) - HomeIndustriesAutomotiveAutomotiveLower credit card processing fees without switching providers or changing operations.Drive More Profits From Every TransactionHigh-Ticket Sales Deserve Lower RatesAuto businesses process some of the largest transactions across any industry. Whether you’re selling vehicles, parts, or repair services, inflated rates can eat into your profits—especially on transactions in the thousands. Our team helps ensure auto
- [Healthcare](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/industry/healthcare/) - HomeIndustriesHealthcareHealthcareOptimize payment acceptance without disrupting patient care or practice managementWe Specialize in Helping Healthcare Organizations Reduce Payment Processing CostsLower Processing Fees Across Every ChannelA lot of healthcare and dentist credit card processing companies understand that changing processors, equipment or software can be a very difficult and time consuming processing for the business. Sometimes, depending on
- [B2B Businesses](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/industry/b2b/) - HomeIndustriesB2B BusinessesB2B BusinessesIf you sell products or services to other businesses, we can help lower your credit card processing rates—without switching providers.Cost Reduction Services For B2B CompaniesLower Rates on Level 2 and 3 Commercial Card TransactionsB2B sellers can typically qualify for lower rates by automatically capturing Level 2 and Level 3 card data—but only if

## Partners

- [IATP](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/iatp/)
- [SSO](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/sso/)
- [PSMA Connect](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/psma-connect/)
- [Quality Care Pharmacies](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/quality-care-pharmacies/)
- [American Pharmacies](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/american-pharmacies/)
- [GFOAT](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/gfoat/)
- [VPMU (Veterinary Practice Managers United)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/vpmu-veterinary-practice-managers-united/)
- [EzyVet Facebook Group](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/ezyvet-facebook-group/)
- [ACA](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/aca/)
- [DiversifyRX](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/diversify/)
- [Northeast Pharmacy Service Corporation](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/northeast-pharmacy-service-corporation/)
- [Drycleaning & Laundry Institute International](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/drycleaning-laundry-institute-international/)
- [Align My Practice](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/align-my-practice/)
- [Merchandise Food](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/merchandise-food/)
- [CILS](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/cils/)
- [Wine Industry Network](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/win/)
- [DPHA](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/dpha/)
- [Nationwide Marketing Group](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/nationwide-marketing-group-2/)
- [Neaapa](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/neaapa/)
- [CFMA](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/cfma/)
- [United Pharmacy Network](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/united-pharmacy-network/)
- [Natural Stone Institute](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/natural-stone-institute/)
- [RevolutionEHR Facebook Group](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/revolutionehr-facebook-group/)
- [New England Museum Association](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/new-england-museum-association/)
- [WWA](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/wwa/)
- [NESO](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/neso/)
- [Pharmacy Owners Alliance](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/pharmacy-owners-alliance/)
- [Merchant Maverick](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/merchant-maverick/)
- [Mass Package Stores Association](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/mass-package-stores-association/)
- [NSAA](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/nsaa/)
- [Less Code](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/less-code/)
- [CCBO](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/ccbo/)
- [Select Registry](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/select-registry/)
- [CFHLA](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/cfhla/)
- [DPA Buying Group](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/dpa-buying-group/)
- [WSPC Pharmacy Community](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/wspc-pharmacy-community/)
- [Legacy Pharmacy Group](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/legacy-pharmacy-group/)
- [APCI](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/american-pharmacy-cooperative-inc/)
- [Chpa](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/chpa/)
- [Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/wisconsin-hotel-lodging-association/)
- [New England Inns & Resorts Association](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/new-england-inns-resorts-association/)
- [OrthopreneursRD](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/orthopreneursrd/)
- [White Coat Investor](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/white-coat-investor/)
- [Gemini Effect](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/gemini-effect/)
- [Hotel & Lodging Associations](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/hotel-lodging-associations/)
- [South Carolina Restaurant & Lodging Association](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/south-carolina-restaurant-lodging-association/)
- [TCIA](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/tcia/)
- [Independent Veterinary Practitioners Association](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/independent-veterinary-practitioners-association/)
- [Nevada Hospital Association](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/nevada-hospital-association/)
- [Vet Partners](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/vet-partners/)
- [Skate ISI](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/skate-isi/)
- [Sports ETA](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/sports-eta/)
- [Board Retailers Association](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/board-retailers-association/)
- [Worldwide](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/worldwide/)
- [Nation's Best Sports](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/nations-best-sports/)
- [Care Craft](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/care-craft/)
- [MSPAA](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/mspaa/)
- [National Bicycle Dealers Association (NBDA)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/national-bicycle-dealers-association-nbda/)
- [Service Alliance Group](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/service-alliance-group/)
- [Nationwide Marketing Group](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/nationwide-marketing-group/)
- [The National Association of American Wineries (WineAmerica)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/the-national-association-of-american-wineries-wineamerica/)
- [Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/hospitality-financial-and-technology-professionals/)
- [International Luxury Hotel Association](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/international-luxury-hotel-association/)
- [VSPA](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/vspa/)
- [MCAA](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/mcaa/)
- [Member Savings Program](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/member-savings-program/)
- [Unity Advantage Group](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/unity-advantage-group/)
- [ATA](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/ata/)
- [WhizBang!](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/whizbang/)
- [AMOA](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/amoa/)
- [Automotive Service Association](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/automotive-service-association/)
- [IAAPA](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/iaapa/)
- [Karlon Group](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/karlon-group/)
- [VSCPA](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/vscpa/)
- [North Carolina Restaurant & Lodging Association](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/north-carolina-restaurant-lodging-association/)
- [Texas Hotel & Lodging Association](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/texas-hotel-lodging-association/)
- [The Graphic Source](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/the-graphic-source/)
- [BrandSource](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/brandsource/)
- [Controls Group North America](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/controls-group-north-america/)
- [NACUBO](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/nacubo/)
- [Association of Marina Industries](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/association-of-marina-industries/)
- [Texas Motorcycle Dealer Association](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/texas-motorcycle-dealer-association/)
- [National Glass Association (NGA)](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/national-glass-association-nga/)
- [Catapult Grow](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/catapult-grow/)
- [AIMM](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/aimm/)
- [NAFED](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/nafed/)
- [Iowa Motorcycle Dealer Association](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/iowa-motorcycle-dealer-association/)
- [Independent Animal Hospital Association](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/independent-animal-hospital-association/)
- [HFA](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/hfa/)
- [Outdoor Industry Association](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/outdoor-industry-association/)
- [Pandion Optimization Alliance](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/pandion-optimization-alliance/)
- [NAWR](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/nawr/)
- [Brewers Association](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/brewers-association/)
- [Dental Success Network](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/dental-success-network/)
- [United Aqua Group](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/united-aqua-group/)
- [SFIA](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/sfia/)
- [NAMM](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/namm/)
- [NCAO](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/ncao/)
- [Dr. Len Tau, The Reviews Doctor](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/dr-len-tau-the-reviews-doctor/)
- [South Carolina Association of Veterinarians](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/south-carolina-association-of-veterinarians/)
- [IBPSA](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/ibpsa/)
- [AAO](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/aao/)
- [American Society of Plastic Surgeons](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/american-society-of-plastic-surgeons/)
- [Schulman Group](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/schulman-group/)
- [HIP Creative](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/hip-creative/)
- [BulletProof Dental](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/bulletproof-dental/)
- [Tennessee Hospitality & Tourism Association](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/tennessee-hospitality-tourism-association/)
- [Master Pools Guild](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/master-pools-guild/)
- [CAO](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/cao/)
- [Millennium Buying Group](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/millennium-buying-group/)
- [PCSO](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/pcso/)
- [Mari’s List](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/partners/maris-list/)

## Testimonials

- [Pool & Hot Tub Alliance](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/testimonial/pool-hot-tub-alliance/)
- [Beachcomber Hotel Group](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/testimonial/beachcomber-hotel-group/)
- [ThredUp Inc.](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/testimonial/thredup-inc/)
- [Frank Pepe](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/testimonial/frank-pepe/)
- [Mari's List](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/testimonial/maris-list/)
- [Birdies](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/testimonial/birdies/)

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## Partner Categories

- [Business Consulting](https://merchantcostconsulting.com/lower-credit-card-processing-fees/partner-category/business-consulting/)
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