How To Accept Credit Card Payments: Our Expert Guide [2024]

According to the 2016 Diary of Consumer Payment Choice study, customers who pay in cash spend an average of $22 per transaction, while card users spend $122. As we move toward an increasingly digital economy, it’s not surprising that consumers are choosing quick, easy, and convenient purchasing methods to keep up.

To accept credit cards, your business will need to set up a merchant account or use a payment service provider to manage the process. However, it’s not always easy to tell if a payment processor will be a good choice for your business. Many use confusing marketing tactics and aren’t transparent about what you’ll get for your money. Before you start getting payment processing quotes, you’ll need to know what to expect so you don’t waste your time and money on a processor that doesn’t work for you.

I’ve been researching credit card processors for years, so I know there’s a good deal of financial, legal, and technical jargon you’ll need to understand before you can find the best deal for your business.

When you’re ready to get started, my top recommendation is Stax1. You’ll get all the payment software you need included in your monthly fee, and Stax charges no markup on interchange rates – just a small transaction fee.

How Does Credit Card Processing Work?

No matter how you accept card payments, each transaction will follow the same basic steps.

1. The customer inputs their payment information during a transaction. The card reader or payment gateway captures that information and forwards it to the payment processor. This data is then forwarded to the card network.
2. The business’s payment processor communicates with the card’s issuing bank. The bank will check there are sufficient funds or enough credit available to complete the transaction. In addition, the bank and the payment processor will perform fraud detection checks.
3. The transaction is approved. The payment processor instructs the issuing bank to release funds to the business’s merchant account.

How you capture payment information will depend on the payment method used. These are typically split into two groups: card-present (CP) and card-not-present (CNP) transactions.

Card-Present Transactions

In a card-present transaction, the customer’s card has to physically interact with a point-of-sale (POS) device to transfer payment information. So, these payment methods include:

• EMV/dip/chip-and-pin. The customer inserts a chip card into a card reader and enters a PIN number.
• Swipe. Customers swipe the magnetic stripe on their card and input their signature on a card reader or sign a receipt to confirm their identity.
• Tap/contactless. The customer taps their card on a card reader. Both the card and reader must be contactless-enabled.
• Near-field communication (NFC). Near-field communication allows customers to use their smart device to transfer payment information from a digital wallet to a card reader in the same manner as tapped payments.
• Pre-authorized payment. Also referred to as a deferred payment, this allows you to capture a customer’s payment information and hold funds in their account for (typically) up to 5 days. You can then run the transaction when the service has been provided.

Card-present transactions are considered less risky by payment processors. That’s because the customer has the payment card and some kind of authorization to prove that they own it, such as a PIN number or signature matching the back of the card. That’s not to say that card-present transactions can’t be fraudulent, but the chance of fraudulent in-person payments is significantly lower than for payments made remotely.

Point-of-Sale (POS) Devices

1 To accept payments in person, you’ll need point-of-sale (POS) hardware. These devices include:

• Card terminals and PIN pads
• Cash drawers
• POS terminals
• Mobile card readers

Card-Not-Present Transactions

Card-not-present transactions are any transactions where the customer’s card doesn’t physically interact with the point-of-sale device. You may see these payment types referred to as e-commerce or remote transactions. Card-not-present payment methods include:

• Payment gateways. The customer inputs their card information into a secure form on your website or a third-party checkout page.
• Digital wallets. Wallets like Google Pay, Apple Pay, and PayPal offer one-click checkout buttons. This allows customers to pay for their online purchases without having to input their card information into your website.
• Virtual terminals. The customer gives you their card information (typically over the phone) that you then input into a virtual terminal.
• Recurring payments. The customer pays a set amount to your business on a regular basis. They will use their card for the first purchase, but after that, payments will be taken automatically until the service is canceled or the payment period ends.

On top of these options, some payment processors allow you to accept cryptocurrency. This is typically done via an app or payment gateway that uses a unique QR code generated for that purchase.

Card-not-present transactions are usually paid at a higher rate due to the increased rate of fraud.

Payment Software

You’ll need to use payment software to accept card-not-present transactions. The most commonly used software tools are:

• Payment gateways/virtual terminals
• E-commerce platforms
• Mobile point-of-sale (mPOS) apps
• Invoicing and billing software
• Shopping cart integrations

Fraud Detection Checks

Banks and payment processors will run specific checks to ensure that the transaction is genuine. The checks used will depend on each business. In general, banks use machine learning and AI to check if the transaction is something a legitimate customer would do.

Payment processors will use multiple checks to detect fraud. The two most common are Address Verification System (AVS) and Card Verification Value (CVV).

AVS checks that the billing address submitted by the customer matches the data that the bank has on file. CVV checks that the payer has access to the payment card by asking the customer to input a three-digit number found on the back of the payment card.

Credit Card Processing Legal Requirements

It doesn’t matter how many transactions you process – if you accept card payments, you have certain legal requirements you need to fulfill. The main one you need to be aware of is the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI-DSS, or PCI). This is a set of standards that merchants and payment processors have to abide by to keep payment data secure.

As a merchant, you will have to complete a yearly Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ) to maintain compliance. There are multiple questionnaires in use, and the one you’ll have to fill out will depend on how you accept and store payment information. In addition, you may need to undertake additional network scans and assessments if you process a large number of transactions.

Because of this, I recommend that you use a payment processor that offers PCI compliance support, particularly if you’re a new business and you’re not sure which questionnaire you need to complete. Our top processor Stax guides you through the compliance process via an easy-to-use dashboard plus reliable support1 if you need extra guidance.

Other Financial Data Protection Regulations

Depending on your industry and location, you may have to comply with other data protection regulations. The two most common are the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

While credit card processing is exempt from HIPAA regulations, healthcare businesses will need to ensure that their payment processor offers HIPAA-compliant software or can connect HIPAA-compliant software to their software suite.

In addition, businesses that process card payments from EU citizens must be GDPR-compliant, regardless of where the business is based. Not all payment processors are GDPR-compliant. If you accept payments from EU citizens, we recommend Payment Depot – it’s GDPR-compliant and has a stellar track record1 for data protection and security.

Credit Card Processing Fees Breakdown

Credit card processing fees fall into two distinct categories: those charged by card networks, and those charged by payment processors.

Card Network Fees

Card network fees are charged per transaction, and payment processors don’t have any control over these fees. The amount will depend on the network, card type, and payment method. You’ll pay these fees through your payment processor.

• Interchange rate. This is charged as a percentage of each sale. Interchange rates typically range from 1.4% – 3.5%.
• Transaction fee. On top of the interchange rate, you may be charged a flat fee of a few cents per transaction. You won’t be charged this fee with every card network or card type. Typical transaction fees range from 15¢ – 22¢.

Payment Processing Fees

These fees will depend on the payment processor you choose and its payment model. Processing fees are charged in addition to the card network fees listed above. Per-transaction fees are typically determined by payment method.

• Interchange markup. This is charged as a percentage of each sale. On average, you can expect to pay around 2% – 4%. Not every processor charges a separate markup – this depends on the processor’s pricing model. For example, Stax charges a 0% markup on interchange rates, which can save you up to 40% on your overall processing fees1.
• Transaction fee. You may also need to pay an additional flat fee of a few cents per transaction. On average, you can expect to pay an extra 10¢ – 30¢ depending on the payment method and processor’s payment model.
• Monthly fee. Most payment processors charge a monthly fee to use their service. Most processors charge around $10/month, though subscriptions subscription-style processors like Stax and Payment Depot tend to charge considerably more in exchange for 0% markup on interchange rates.
• Monthly minimum. Some processors charge a monthly minimum, which is a cumulative amount of transaction fees you need to meet each month. If you don’t meet your monthly minimum, you’ll have to pay the remaining balance on your bill.
• PCI compliance fee. This is an ongoing monthly or annual fee. Not every processor charges these fees separately. Stax, for example, includes PCI compliance in its monthly fee1.
• PCI non-compliance fee. You’ll typically be fined an average of $20 – $30 for each month your business isn’t PCI compliant.
• Chargeback fee. If a customer raises a chargeback dispute against your business, your payment processor will charge you a fee. Most processors will refund this fee if you win the dispute.

On top of these fees, most processors will offer additional services like payment software or faster payouts that incur extra fees. What processors charge for, and how these fees are structured, will vary.

Pricing Models

Fees aren’t always charged in the same way. These are the most common pricing models you’ll come across.

• Subscription-style. A single monthly fee, a 0% markup on interchange rates, and a small flat transaction fee of a few cents.
• Interchange-plus. An interchange markup and transaction fee on each sale, plus a small monthly fee to use the processor’s service. Some processors, like Leaders Merchant Services, let you negotiate for the lowest rates possible1.
• Flat rate. A single rate per transaction (regardless of the customer’s payment method), plus a small monthly fee.
• Tiered pricing. Per transaction fees based on one of three different rates (qualified, mid-qualified, and non-qualified) that are dependent on the transaction’s level of risk. You’ll also have to pay a monthly fee.
• Cash discount. By offering a discount to customers who pay with cash, you can cover your credit card processing costs by incorporating them into your baseline prices. This effectively passes these costs on to your card-paying customers without adding a surcharge. You’ll still have to pay a monthly fee.

Contracts vary in length and complexity between payment processors, and not every payment processor uses contracts. On top of that, you may have to pay an early termination fee if you leave your contract early. These fees vary – some processors don’t charge them and others only charge them conditionally.

How to Choose a Credit Card Processor

The first thing you need to do when choosing a credit card processor is analyze your business’s transaction history (or, if you’re a new business, any financial predictions). Specifically, you’ll need to get an idea of your business’s transaction volume, transaction size, and monthly income.

You’ll also need to decide what payment methods you need to offer. Almost every modern payment processor will offer options for in-person, online, mobile, and over-the-phone payment processing. Determining which options you need ahead of time will make it easier to narrow your choices when it comes to choosing a processor.

If you’re looking for suggestions, take a look at our top 3 payment processors in 2024. We’ve found that almost all businesses will benefit from one of these three options, so they’re a good place to start when you’re comparing payment processors.

How to Start Processing Credit Cards

If you’ve never processed credit cards and want to get started, don’t worry – any reputable payment processor will make the process as easy as possible for new merchants.

1. Apply for a Merchant Account

How you apply, the documentation you need, and the application process can vary between processors. Most applications will be processed over the phone, but many processors will allow you to start the application process online.

To apply for a merchant account, you’ll usually need the following documentation:

• Previous payment processing statements
• ID documents
• Employer Identification Number (EIN)

2. Set Up Your E-Commerce Software

Once you’re accepted for a merchant account, the first thing you’ll likely receive is access to your e-commerce software. This should already be connected to your merchant account, so all you need to do is integrate it with the software tools you already use.

There are two ways to do this. The first – and easiest – is to use pre-built integrations, which are usually offered by your payment processor or software. You can also build custom integrations using the software’s developer toolkit. This is more time-intensive and requires development experience, but it’s sometimes necessary if there aren’t any pre-built integrations that work for your business.

Stax provides a wide range of integrations1 and developer tools (complete with documentation) to help you create a custom solution.

3. Set Up Your Virtual Terminal

Your virtual terminal should already be connected to your merchant account by your payment processor. Depending on your virtual terminal, you may find it helpful to integrate it with your existing payment software tools so you can quickly import customer details and inventory.

4. Set Up Your POS Devices

If you’ve received hardware from your processor (whether free, leased, or purchased), then this should arrive pre-connected to your merchant account. You’ll also receive a detailed setup guide, either within the device’s packaging box or via email. It’s worth noting that the level of setup will depend on your chosen device.

If you’d rather purchase POS devices second-hand or from a third-party supplier, then you’ll have to reprogram them to work with your payment processor. Almost any non-proprietary device can be reprogrammed, with the exception of Clover devices. You can’t reprogram your POS devices yourself – you’ll have to call your payment processor and arrange for them to be reprogrammed.

In addition, you’ll need to set up your mPOS app and card reader if you’re taking payments on the go. To do this, download the mPOS app provided by your payment processor and follow the steps on the screen. The app will also show you how to connect your mPOS card reader.

5. Start Taking Payments!

When you start taking payments, your transactions will be held in a “batch” until they’re “closed” (the authorization codes have been sent to the customer’s bank). Authorization codes will typically be stored in your payment software and, in most cases, batch settling is as easy as submitting them through your software dashboard. However, some processors may still require you to settle batches from your POS device.

Make sure you add batch settling to your end-of-day cash-out process. You typically have to settle transactions within 24 hours of authorization, as some processors and card networks will charge higher rates if you don’t.

Our Top 3 Recommended Credit Card Processing Services

Are you prepared to commence accepting card payments? Our expert team spent months conducting reviews of payment processors and comparing them to the competition to identify the top options available in today’s market. Let’s introduce you to the three key choices you should be aware of.

1. Stax: Significant Savings for High-Volume Businesses1

It’s no secret that we love Stax, and we have plenty of reasons why. On top of offering savings of up to 40%1 versus traditional interchange-plus processors, Stax provides all the software you need to take payments, manage your business, and grow your bottom line. This makes it ideal for established, high-volume businesses that process over $5,000/month.

You can choose between three pricing tiers starting at $99.00. On top of your monthly fee and transaction interchange fees, you’ll pay a 0% interchange markup and 15¢ per transaction (both online and in person). While there are some other unavoidable costs (like chargeback fees), the upside is a greatly simplified monthly bill. You also won’t be locked into any long-term contracts.

New merchants can also opt to receive a free terminal from three great options, which is ideal if you want to try out a POS device without the commitment of a purchase or lease. And, if you’ve already got POS devices, you won’t have to buy a whole new set of hardware – Stax can reprogram 90% of third-party devices.

2. Payment Depot: Low-Cost Subscription-Style Processing for Medium Businesses1

If you’ve got a high-volume business but Stax’s plans are currently outside of your budget, Payment Depot’s an ideal alternative. Payment Depot can save you hundreds of dollars each month1 thanks to its low-cost subscription-style pricing. While you won’t get the same all-in-one software that Stax offers, you’ll still get a payment gateway, e-commerce software, and pre-built integrations included in your monthly fee.

In addition, Payment Depot offers unparalleled data security. Your merchant account will be protected by a 24/7 risk monitoring team that proactively notifies you of any changes in bank policy and known fraud methods. Payment Depot isn’t just PCI-compliant, either – it’s GDPR-compliant and integrates with HIPAA-compliant software.

Our only complaint is that it doesn’t offer any built-in PCI-compliance support. However, it does offer 24/7 technical support via email or phone, so there will always be someone on hand to help you become PCI compliant.

3. Leaders Merchant Services: Budget-Friendly Rates for Small Businesses1

Leaders Merchant Services (LMS) is one of the best interchange-plus payment processors for growing businesses. In exchange for signing a long-term contract, you’ll be rewarded with some of the lowest per-transaction rates1 in the industry.

If you’ve been turned away from other payment processors, it’s worth considering LMS. It has a 98% approval rate and, in most cases, can onboard new merchants within 24 hours of being approved. It’s also worth giving LMS a chance to beat your current processing rates – it’ll give you a $200 gift card if it can’t at least meet the fees you’re paying.

You’ve also got plenty of options to customize your pricing based on your budget. LMS has a low monthly fee of ~0.15% + $0 (though this is negotiable) and charges additional fees per month on extra tools like a payment gateway or loyalty cards. While this pricing scheme often costs larger businesses more money each month, smaller businesses with limited software needs will save money overall with LMS.

Does Your Business Need to Accept Credit Cards?

With current trends demonstrating that customers are choosing to pay with cards instead of cash the majority of the time, most businesses will benefit from accepting credit card payments. However, setting up a merchant account isn’t as straightforward as the processing industry’s marketing would have you believe.

Our expert reviewers have spent hundreds of collective hours researching the payment processing industry and individual companies to find the best options for you and your business. Our regularly updated list of the top 10 credit card processors in 2024 has an option to suit every type and size of business.

FAQ

How can I accept credit card payments as an individual?

If you don’t have a registered business, you’ll only be able to take credit card payments with a payment services provider like PayPal or Stripe. These aren’t a bad solution for one-off payments, but they’re not ideal if you need to accept payments regularly. They cost significantly more than most merchant account providers, and they don’t verify user identities at signup, so account holds and terminations are common.

For a more affordable and reliable service, check out the top 10 credit card processing companies in 2024.

How do I manually take credit card payments?

You’ll usually need to use a virtual terminal to manually input credit card information. In some cases, you may be able to key in credit card information on a POS device or mobile app too.

How much does it cost a business to accept credit cards?

The overall cost of credit card processing varies depending on your chosen payment processor and the payment model it uses. However, with an interchange-plus payment processor, you can expect to pay 2% – 4% on each transaction, plus a small transaction fee and monthly fee (on top of card network fees).

How can I accept a credit card payment without a machine?

There are multiple ways to accept card payments without a machine. The first is to use a payment gateway, which you can integrate with an e-commerce store, digital invoicing software, or other tools to allow customers to pay you remotely. You can also use a virtual terminal to manually input card information. On top of that, you can download a mobile point-of-sale (mPOS) app that will allow you to take payments on the go without a card machine.