Why Your Processor Can Raise Rates Without Telling You
Most merchant agreements include a clause that lets the processor increase fees at will. Here's where to find it and what to do about it.
The Real Cost of Accepting Amex — And When It's Worth It
American Express has a reputation for being expensive. But the gap has narrowed, and refusing Amex might cost you more than accepting it.
What Is Interchange — And Who Actually Sets Your Rates?
Interchange is the biggest chunk of what you pay to accept cards. Here's who controls it, how it's calculated, and why your processor can't lower it.
Level 2 and Level 3 Data: How B2B Merchants Cut Interchange by Half
If you sell to businesses or government agencies, sending additional transaction data can slash your interchange rate. Here's how.
PIN Debit vs. Signature Debit: The Cost Difference Nobody Talks About
The same debit card can cost you two different rates depending on whether the customer enters a PIN. Here's which is cheaper and why.
Batch Processing Explained: Why Closing Your Batch Daily Saves Money
Every day you don't close your batch is a day you're paying higher interchange rates. Here's the fix.
Early Termination Fees: The Clause Your Processor Hopes You Forget
Some processors lock you in with ETFs of $500 or more. Here's how to spot them before you sign and how to get out if you're already stuck.
How to Actually Negotiate Your Processing Agreement
Your merchant agreement isn't a take-it-or-leave-it contract. It's a first offer. Here's how to push back on the terms that cost you money.
Card-Present vs. Card-Not-Present: Why Your Online Sales Cost More
The same card can cost you two different rates depending on whether it's physically present at checkout — and the gap can be 40% or more.
Monthly Minimums: The Processor Fee Nobody Warns You About
A monthly minimum sounds harmless — until you realize it's a guaranteed floor on your processing cost, regardless of how little business you actually do.