How Does eCommerce Check Out Work?

Ecommerce Checkout Flow– Every big or small brand is now taking their business online due to the boost in the e-commerce industry. This means, along with the physical store, every merchant now wants to have an online store as well. This is a good idea for a merchant to expand and increase his revenue. However, not everyone is good at handling the e-commerce business on their own. This is because of the competition and lack of guidance.

What Is ECommerce CheckOut?

It is a designed interface and a customer must go through it to purchase an item. As soon as the customer clicks on the checkout button the process starts. Generally, it contains steps like entering personal details including name, address and contact information. Other than that, the customer will be asked to choose the mode of payment and enter details depending on the model chosen.

For example: If a customer chooses to make the payment using the credit card then he will be asked to enter the credit card processing details depending on the company’s norms.

Once the checkout is completed successfully, the customer will be notified regarding the recent purchase using the contact information provided by him.

How Does ECommerce Checkout Work?

From the customer’s point of view, the checkout process is as easy as entering the details and getting the products. However, for a merchant, the checkout process is a whole different story.

An ECommerce checkout process is the flow of valuable data that needs to be processed carefully at every step. Generally, a customer goes through following steps during an ECommerce Checkout Flow:

• After liking a product or service, the customer clicks on the “Add to Cart” button.
• Then the customer is directed to the cart where the confirmation is asked whether the customer wants to “proceed to checkout” or go back to “continue shopping”.
• Once clicked on “proceed to checkout”, the user will be asked whether the customer wants to checkout “as a guest” or “sign-in”.
• After choosing the desired method, the customer will be asked to enter the details.
• Finally, “place your order” will pop up on the screen.
• After clicking on this button, a customer needs to make the payment by choosing the desired mode.
• Once the customer successfully completes the payment, he will receive confirmation of the purchase.

Get more information about eCommerce checkout work.
Contact us@ +1 (888) 622-6875.
Also, you can Email _ info@merchantstronghold.com

Retail Merchant Account | Credit Card Processing

It is obvious that having a credit card present when the transaction is being processed will reduce the chances of fraud. But there are other variables as well that should be considered when going for a retail merchant account.

One example can be the Volume of Transaction and Average Ticket Size. Consider someone is selling jelly beans or any other product at a mall. The sale of this business will relatively be moderate having low average ticket size. If someone purchases a couple of dollars of beans, then there won’t be any big risk to the merchant.

Chargebacks and product returns will not be the concern of the business owner. But if the average ticket size increases, the risk of chargeback and product return will also increase. If the price of the product is high, means customers value the quality of the product. Retail Merchant account in this situation can save you because you will be safe from frauds and high risk. With the point of sale software by Merchant Stronghold, retailers will accept payments safely and securely.

Hence, we provide quality services and support to the merchants and their customers. Getting a merchant account is just the first step towards success. Merchant Stronghold has a safe, secure, and quick processing architecture that is best in the world. Start your Merchant Application Today!

Best Retail Products and Services

Credit card acceptance is the major factor that can lift up your business. There is a wide range of payment solutions that merchants can choose from. We provide all the services that will help business owners succeed in their industry. Here are some of the benefits that most merchants can expect by using our services:

• Customer Service: Quality Customer Support that is ready to look into your queries anytime
• Set Up: Easy and Solid Set Up, Accept Payment 24/7
• Daily Funding: Next Day Batch Settlement
• Online Portal: Merchants can view their online activities and access dedicated platform that gathers information regarding business activities.

PAYMENT GATEWAY COMPETITION IN ONLINE BUSINESSES

The eCommerce and online business in recent years have developed great payment gateways and side-by-side the ease of shopping too. Building the shopping platforms and integration of payment source has also simultaneously developed. A study subjects online commerce to reach $5.8 trillion by 2022-that would be more than 6 times the figure for brick and mortar sales shops. There is a steady growth in the cash flow of online transactions in contrast to the old school method. Most important drivers in the growth of eCommerce are the ease and security of paying online.

HERE ARE THE MOST POPULAR PLATFORM OR PAYMENT GATEWAYS GLOBALLY:

Authorize.Net: It has a huge base of more than 370,000 merchants for streamlining fast and secure transactions. It doubles as a virtual POS solution and supports wide interface integrations on big and small online businesses. A wide range of PSPs worldwide also trusts it.

Stripe: Stripe is an online payment processor, which is designed especially for small online businesses. It has a vast selection of integrations, features and transparent pricing schemes. It is a convenient platform for accepting credit card via online channels. It can handle all the backed processes involved in online payments like security and automated features.

PayPal: PayPal is built on the technology that enables users to accept credit cards as well as process mobile and retail credit cards. It is great for global companies, accepts 25 currencies from 200 countries and territories. PayPal can be integrated with shopping carts, CRM solutions, eCommerce platforms, and accounting tools to propagate the operations

Amazon: This payment gateway comes from the eCommerce giant Amazon, which is prepared for both Amazon merchants and customers. It’s very easy, reliable and a rapid platform. This gateway works more in an ecosystem-based model. With this, you can attract new as well as repetitive customers. You can even improve customer loyalty with their already inclined recurring payment options and offers.

Braintree: Merchants in more than 40 countries are using this payment gateway worldwide. It has access to a total of 130 global currencies. It offers global eCommerce tools to let companies build their own features on the platform and scale the businesses around the world. It has an interface that is best for customizability, making it great for new users.

Getting Cheapest Payment Gateway Is Not Good For Your Business

Cheapest Payment Gateway – Today there are so many options available to choose for payments; bank transactions, credit/debit card payments for your business. It can become very difficult to choose from the options available. However, the truth is not all payment gateways are reliable for your business. If you are a merchant who is setting up a new business and will be dealing with daily transactions then it is very important for you to have full knowledge of the suitable payment gateway for your business. There are a lot of points to consider while choosing the right payment gateway.

You might find a “cheaper” payment services provider, but there could be hidden charges too. You might choose a cheaper payment gateway, but choosing the cheapest one is not always the best option.

WHY THE CHEAPEST PAYMENT GATEWAY IS NOT THE BEST ONE FOR YOUR BUSINESS?

Cheapest payment gateway does not always deliver as they promise. They use different tactics to entice merchants. These could be very problematic for the health and reputation of your company.

Cheap Payment Gateway usually puts attractive advertisements with lowest pricing rates and other services to attract potential clients, but there come hidden fees with it.

If you want to expand your business and sell your products and services globally, some payment gateways will charge higher fees when you sell in other currencies.

Cheapest payment service providers may give you a headache due to lack of proper secure payment service. However, with the best payment gateways, you will not have to worry about PCI compliance, anti-fraud tools, and security issues.

The cheapest payment gateway cannot be an outstanding service provider. If some fraudulent transaction or something unexpected happens, they will fail to resolve your problem quickly or they may charge a very high fee for the assistance with it.

Most payment service providers hold your credit card data hostage. For example, you have several thousands of credit card details of customers that you may not be able to transfer. Now, in case you want to switch to other payment providers, you might not have the option of retrieving this data and take with you. In that case, you will have to ask all these customers to fill their information again and could cost you a lot of money in attrition and in the process you might lose the trust of your customers.

Cheapest payment gateway offers only one or two payment services, requiring you to hire your own vendors, maintain multiple relationships with other online security providers.

Hence, for the security and growth of your business, choose the “right” payment gateway instead of the “cheapest” payment gateway.

In case you want to know more, you can always get in touch with Merchant Stronghold. You can contact us through email or phone number +1 (888) 622 – 6875and talk to our experts at any time of the day.

What are the Reasons to Add Authorize.net Payment Gateway on WooCommerce Store

Here are few reasons why you should get the Authorize.net Payment Gateway on your WooCommerce Store.

• Security and Support
• Easy Configuration
• Extension Management
• net eCheck Support

We will discuss these points in detail. You should also know about the system requirement for Authorize.net.

An Authorize.Net account

PHP 5.3+ (You can see this under WooCommerce > Status)

SECURITY AND SUPPORT

When the customers have the assurance that making transaction is safe, they are more likely to purchase the services. Authorize.net offers the security to both the customer and merchant by its payment gateway.

They keep the customer’s information and details safe

Also, Authorize.net offers a reliable and secure atmosphere to make payments

You can also access 24/7 support of Authorize.net

Moreover, for the 1st year, you get the premium support and updates

Your business website will remain up and active with Authorize.net payment services.

EASY CONFIGURATION

You can install Authorize.net by visiting the WooCommerce plugin. Then go to the Payment settings and add Authorize.net Payment Gateway on WooCommerce Store. Once you have added it, you can start the configuration.

• After that, you need to visit Authorize.net on your browser.
• Login to your merchant account using the username and password.
• Then you need to go to the API Login at the Settings page.
• Use this API login credentials to use the Authorize.net account on the Website.
• Once you add the extension to the WooCommerce or the Website, you can manage the extensions.

EXTENSION MANAGEMENT

There are a number of extension settings and customization options available. It will take another article, to discuss all of the services. But here is the brief of available extensions.

• Enable/Disable the Gateway
• Title and Description of the Payment Gateway
• Card Verification Menu (CVV/CV2)
• Transaction Type and Accepted Card Type
• Option to add the API Login ID and Transaction key.

Finally, save the settings to add Authorize.net Payment Gateway on WooCommerce Store. After that, you will be able to customize the various settings provided by the plugin.

If you are looking for an expert to guide you to choose the best payment gateway then feel free to contact Merchant Stronghold at +1 (888) 622 – 6875. We provide specialized assistance with high-risk business management and merchant card processing.

Alternative Credit Card Payment Methods

Alternative Payment Methods: Methods that are used as an alternative to credit card payments. It is also referred to as CNP (Card Not Present) situations. The card and single mode of payment on your checkout page will not help you, only rob you of your customers by turning them down for the payment.

Let’s take an example;

Situation 1 (Without alternative payment methods) - 

So, John is on your checkout page, he has already selected your product. 

He tries to pay by his credit card. 

Error: Card Declined. Please contact your bank for more information. 

Retries

Error……

John abandons the order and goes away.

Situation 2: (With alternate payment methods.)

John tries and retries. Failed…

The third time, his eyes spot Pay using PayPal/Amazon option and he decides to go for it.

Before you know, the payment goes through.

Your new customer is equally proportionate to more revenue.

Alternate Payment Methods | Increased Sales:

The customers just need their product they want to check out very quickly and seamlessly, due to the competition you can lose your customer if you do not have a quick gateway or alternate payment method.

Take PayPal for example, the Express Checkout feature and cutting-edge technology have gathered wide popularity for PayPal as well as the merchant. Now, PayPal has become a widely known alternate method of payment for most of the merchants.

If you have a similar question or more, get an expert at Merchant Stronghold at the toll-free number +1 (888) 622 – 6875. We also provide other merchant processing services and high-risk merchant services.

How to get rid of poor merchant underwriting

Effects of Poor Merchant Underwriting

Your high-risk business may suffer from one or the other reason even without in-depth analysis and these are:

Incorrect Limit: You should set limits for your business as per requirement. It should not be too high or too low, as both will put your business at risk. Limits lower than required will hinder the regular processing of transactions. As a result, it may constrict the flow of cash or timely payments from the customer. If a limit is too high, this may lead to unexpected fraudulent charges.

Hidden Fee: An additional fee is there if the volume exceeds the limit. However, even if you have set your limit, some providers let it exceed without notification. And they also charge you with a penalty.

Downgrades: Once your high-risk merchant account is set, you are inclined to transaction downgrades if certain required features and security measures are not set along with the account. Although, setting up these features will cost you more. But it will help you in long run and enable smooth processing of transactions.

What Providers Check

Industry Type: Risk is in every kind of business but the level of risk varies from business to business. Few businesses are less likely to fraud and chargebacks as compare to others. Higher the level of risk, higher the amount of documentation.

Return Policy: Businesses that indulge in shipping products are risky because there are chances of non-delivery of product, wrongly delivery or delivery of the broken product that might result in chargebacks.

Business History: If you are not new in the market and have applied for a merchant account, underwriting will involve reviewing of your credit history as well as chargeback history (to know chargeback ratio) before approving or rejecting your application.

Financial Stability: To check the financial stability, underwriting may include your bank statement and credit. This is very important for the businesses while applying for a new merchant account, as it directly affects the decision of underwriting approval.

Advantages Of Mobile Payment For Transportation Service

If you are traveling to big cities, local commute (taxi or car) is the option most of us would

like to opt for. Your taxi driver may only accept cash payment which may cause you trouble like no cash, shortage of change, security issues etc. So it is better to use cashless payment methods, especially if you are related to the transportation industry.



Advantages

Mobile payment has many advantages over the traditional method of payment i.e. cash payment. When you are in the transportation industry, there is a lot of cash flow on daily basis, which most of the time is with the drivers as they are on road, providing services. It is not possible for the drivers to come back to the main station to deposit cash after every trip. So he has to carry cash along with him all day long until he is off duty. Due to which they become a target and may end up in unfortunate incidences (robbery). It is best to use a mobile payment method for security purposes, better services, and greater revenue. Let us discuss a few of the advantages of mobile payment in detail:

Effectiveness

It is very common for a customer to not have the exact amount or a change with him, resulting in wastage of time in arranging the difference for the customer. When you accept the payment through mobile, it merely takes 20-30 seconds to swap the card and get the customer’s signature. This will increase the effectiveness of transportation service and time saved can be utilized in serving the next customer, resulting in greater revenue.

Convenience

In today’s world, the flow of virtual money is more than hard cash. People like to use credit/debit cards instead of paper money. It is easy to carry, convenient and a secure way of making payments. The transportation industry is rapidly growing, which increases the demand for multiple payment methods for the customer’s convenience and safety. Most of the customers availing transportation services prefer making the mobile payment rather than paper money, as it is the most convenient.

Control

If you have more than one driver i.e. multiple drivers, it becomes important as well as tedious to control and manage funds effectively. You need to find out an organized way to watch your money. By using credit card processing, you will be able to keep an eye on payments made by clients, what each driver earned, everything you want to know with the help of an online merchant portal.

CONCLUSION

Apart from these three advantages, there are many more advantages of using mobile payments. The above-listed advantages help service providers to manage his/her business more efficiently, increase profitability as well as provides security. With the help of such payment processors, payment is directly deposited into the merchant account, so there is no chance of losing a payment.

What is Credit Card Processing & How does it work?

Credit card processing is not a new concept. Everyone claims to know the process: swipe the card, hit the button and the transaction is complete in a blink. But do you really know the process? Do you think that it is as simple as it seems? It actually is a much more complex procedure than what you witness. The fact is swiping the card and signing the recipe is the first and the last step of the procedure. In between lays multiple steps that include more than one person working invisibly for the customer to complete that particular transaction.

Let us understand the transaction process in just three steps

STEP 1: AUTHENTICITY

At the point of sale, a cardholder gives the card to the merchant to swipe the card on POS terminal to make a payment.

Credit card details are sent to the acquiring bank, which forwards the same to the credit card network

Authorization request includes credit card number used for the payment, expiration date, billing address, card security code and the payment amount.

Credit card network clears the payment and a request is sent to the issuing bank for authorization.

STEP 2: AUTHENTICATION

When the issuing bank receives the authorization request, it validates the credit card number, checks the availability of the funds in the cardholder’s account, verifies the billing address and validates Card security code (CVV number).

It is up to the issuing bank whether to approve or deny the request. When they make a decision, it sends back the suitable response through a proper channel (credit card network and acquiring bank).

Once the merchant receives the authorization, the customer is provided with the receipt at the completion of the sale.

STEP 3: CLEARING AND SETTLEMENT

In the clearing stage, the transactions get the post to the cardholder’s monthly billing statement and in the merchant’s statement.

For settlement, service provider routes the batched information to the association member, which in turn forwards all the approved transactions to the corresponding issuing bank.

The merchant sends all the approved authorizations in a batch to the acquiring bank by EOD.

The merchant account gets credited for the cardholder’s purchases by the acquiring bank (minus merchant discount rate). At this time, the issuing bank posts the transaction information to the cardholder’s account. The cardholder receives the statement and bill is paid off.

Then the issuing bank transfers the funds (minus interchange fee, which is shared with the credit card network) within 1-2 days. Then the credit card network pays from the remaining funds to acquiring bank as well as the acquiring processor.

What are the benefits of E-Check

Benefits of E-Checks

Let’s take a look at some amazing benefits of E-checks.

COST-EFFECTIVE

Pricey credit card networks can be avoided with the use of ACH as transaction fee is comparatively low. There is no limit on the transaction amount. If any merchant, looking for a cost-effective processor to accept large payments, ACH is where your search ends.

FUNDS

In traditional paper check method, it might take days to process a check whereas it is not the same with e-checks. Via E-checks funds get transferred faster and more conveniently.

RECURRING PAYMENTS

If a business is working on memberships or subscriptions, it is wise to choose the ACH electronic network rather than the traditional method.

IDEAL FOR SUBSCRIPTION-BASED BUSINESSES

There are many benefits to choosing E-checks for subscription-based businesses. Some of them go as follows:

AUTOPAY

Irrespective of a canceled credit card, ACH payment processing makes sure that the customer does not miss payments. Credit card numbers may change rapidly but it is very rare that the account details of the customer will change. With the use of ACH payment processor, it becomes easy to avoid payment gaps.

SAVE MONEY

Business can save a huge amount of money by long-term subscriptions. With electronic payments, network exchange fee is not applicable, which in turn helps the merchant to save a lot.

EASY & SECURE

In addition, it is easy to initialize online e-check payments. A merchant can create a simple and secure form as per the customer’s convenience. Autopay feature can be set within minutes that avoid extra work of writing checks every month.

REWARDS

With the use of ACH, savings are amazing, which can be available to attract new customers while retaining old ones. Schemes like an incentive for customers, rewards, discount offers or cash offers help businesses attract more customers.

WHO GETS BENEFIT

As a result, there are 8 types of businesses that enjoy benefits the most from E-check payments.

1. Membership Businesses

2. Schools

3. Non-profit Organization

4. A business accepting bulk payments

5. Online subscription-based businesses

6. Retail Businesses

7. Insurance Companies

8. High-Risk Merchants

Credit Card Payment Processing Services for Apparels Stores

Painless Payment Processing Service

When we talk about payments, the first thing that a merchant would expect is a secure and uncomplicated payment processor. But it is common to come across certain complications like wrong entry, human error, duplicate authorization etc. While dealing with these issues, it is also important to take care of data security and compliance. So choosing a payment processor that simplifies these complexities rather than increasing the mess is a highly important decision that every merchant has to take.

Payment Processor for Apparels Store

Three things that your payment processor should fulfill are:

1. Connect from anywhere

2. Connect to any payment

3. Connect via the device of your choice

It is important for the merchant to choose a payment processor that provides a comfortable payment experience to his/her customer so that you can win customers trust as well as his loyalty. It is important to understand what your requirements are while choosing a payment processor. Few “must haves” are:

FLEXIBLE PAYMENT PROCESSOR

Payment processor should work in favor of your business and customer, both. It should be well integrated, should reflect the working of the business (how business operates), type of payment accepted and back-end system. A highly integrated system works as a lifeline for the merchant and the business.

SCALABLE

Payment processor should be able to cop up with the growth of the business, else merchant will end up in wasting a lot of time, resources and money in the up gradation of payment processor.

SUPPORTIVE

There are times when things do not work as planned. Choose a payment processor provider that is by your side when needed. The provider should be available either by phone or through email or live chat whenever needed.

FINAL WORDS

We at Merchant Stronghold are a leading provider of payment processing services. We have a long list of happy customers who are engaged in the apparel industry and hence, we can do the same for you! Our team understands the unique needs of various industries including clothing and they are the best professionals to meet your business needs.

Protect Your Online Business With Cyber Security

Cyber Security for Online Business

Thе Internet аllоwѕ businesses оf аll sizes аnd frоm аnу location tо reach nеw аnd larger markets аnd рrоvidеѕ opportunities tо work mоrе efficiently bу uѕing computer-based tools.

Whеthеr a business iѕ thinking оf adopting cloud computing оr juѕt uѕing email аnd maintaining a website, cybersecurity ѕhоuld bе a раrt оf thе plan. Theft оf digital information hаѕ bесоmе thе mоѕt commonly reported fraud, surpassing physical theft.

Evеrу business thаt uѕеѕ thе Internet iѕ responsible fоr creating a culture оf security thаt will enhance business аnd consumer confidence. Thе Small Biz Cyber Planner 2.0 iѕ аn online resource tо hеlр small businesses create customized cybersecurity plans.

Cyber Security tips to Protect your Online Business

Broadband аnd information technology аrе powerful factors in small businesses reaching nеw markets аnd increasing productivity аnd efficiency.

However, businesses nееd a cybersecurity strategy tо protect the thеir оwn business, thеir customers, аnd thеir data frоm growing cybersecurity threats.

• Train employees in security principles:
• Protect information, computers аnd networks frоm cyber-attacks:
• Prоvidе firewall security fоr уоur Internet connection:
• Create a mobile device action plan:
• Make backup copies оf important business data аnd information:
• Control physical access tо уоur computers аnd create user accounts fоr еасh employee:
• Secure уоur Wi-Fi networks:
• Employ bеѕt practices оn payment cards:
• Limit employee access tо data аnd information, limit authority tо install software:
• Passwords аnd authentication:

A secure network iѕ a robust network. Cyber-attacks саn hарреn in minutes аnd аrе оftеn vеrу hаrd tо detect. Make ѕurе thаt уоu tаkе аll essential steps tо prevent a security breach.

What are the difference between Payment Gateway and Payment Processor

Payment Gateway vs Payment Processor

Payment Gateway – A Gateway that simply allows the merchant to access the e-commerce market by allowing the transaction. This is an online point-of-sale for the business. You just need to have a merchant license and merchant account. Then you can get a payment gateway for your business.

Payment Processor – As the name suggests, they process the transactions by exchanging data between merchant and bank. Also, a payment processor will also provide credit card machines and other equipment you use to accept credit card payments.

There are some processors who provide the payment gateway services as well. Also, you choose from the various payment processors and payment gateway service provider, depending on your demand.

How to Choose Credit Card Processing with Payment Gateway?

Comparing and then choosing the credit card processor for your business can be beneficial for your business. Here is a guide that you can use to choose the best credit card processing with a payment gateway.

A Processor that Offers Business Specific Services

• What is the size of your business and your monthly transaction value? This can help you choose your chargeback limit according to the need.
• Does your business require mobile processing? Or online transactions? If yes, then look for your Payment Processor to fulfill your demands first.
• Read the contract very well and then sign the papers after a complete evaluation.

A Service Provider with 24/7 Support

• Credit Card Processing with Payment Gateway is your necessity.
• But make sure you get sufficient support as well.
• And do check the services provided by the payment processors in the case of disputes and chargebacks.
• This means the Payment service provider should also offer a good support in case of an issue.

Ask for Additional Fees and Other Service Charges

• Do not forget to ask the details related to the Service Fees.
• This includes the additional fees, PCI Compliance, and other charges.
• Also, compare these charges of various Credit Card Processing with Payment Gateway to choose the under budget service.

If you need help while choosing a payment processor then you can contact Merchant Stronghold. We will provide you with an expert to guide you in the right direction and get your up and running in 24 hours.

Merchant Stronghold also provides the assistance with high-risk business and merchant accounts. Call us at the toll-free number+1 (888) 622 – 6875 or access the 24/7-email support now.

Credit Card Payment Processing for Apparels Stores

Payment Processor for Apparels Store

Three things that your payment processor should fulfill are:

1. Connect from anywhere

2. Connect to any payment

3. Connect via the device of your choice

It is important for the merchant to choose a payment processor that provides a comfortable payment experience to his/her customer so that you can win customers trust as well as his loyalty. It is important to understand what your requirements are while choosing a payment processor. Few “must haves” are:

FLEXIBLE PAYMENT PROCESSOR

Payment processor should work in favor of your business and customer, both. It should be well integrated, should reflect working of the business (how business operates), the type of payment accepted and back-end system. A highly integrated system works as a lifeline for the merchant and the business.

SCALABLE

Payment processor should be able to cop up with the growth of the business, else merchant will end up in wasting a lot of time, resources and money in the up gradation of payment processor.

SUPPORTIVE

There are times when things do not work as planned. Choose a payment processor provider that is by your side when needed. The provider should be available either by phone or through email or live chat whenever needed.

Painless Payment Processing Service

When we talk about payments, the first thing that a merchant would expect is a secure and uncomplicated payment processor. But it is common to come across certain complications like wrong entry, human error, duplicate authorization etc. While dealing with these issues, it is also important to take care of data security and compliance. So choosing a payment processor that simplifies these complexities rather than increasing the mess is a highly important decision that every merchant has to take.

FINAL WORDS

We at Merchant Stronghold are a leading provider of payment processing services. We have a long list of happy customers who are engaged in the apparel industry and hence, we can do the same for you! Our team understands the unique needs of various industries including clothing and they are the best professionals to meet your business needs.

How To Handle Your Credit Card Information

Keep your customer’s data safe with these useful tips.

Five tips for proper handling the credit card information of your customer.

Approved Software Use

When a merchant uses POS (Point of Sale) terminal, mobile running payment processor software or swipe machine to conduct transactions, as a merchant it is your duty to make sure that your hardware, as well as software, is PCI Compliant. There are many applications and card readers available that come with security loopholes.

Genuine Service Provider

You can avail services of a reputed service provider to install credit card processing software, manage credit card processing as well as credit card storage for your business. Service provider includes:

SaaS (Web-based software)

IVR phone services

It might also include companies to which the merchant outsources payment-processing functions. Through extensive testing of these service providers, you can make sure that they are trustworthy. Qualified Security Assessor (QSA) who performs a comprehensive audit of policies, procedures and the system of the service providers does this type of testing. You can only use PCI DSS Validated service provider as a part of a contract signed.

Storage of Sensitive Information

Payment processing regulations specifically prohibit the storage of credit card security code or any data contained in the magnetic strip of a credit card. Although you may have business reasons for storing credit card information. The card security number is in place to know whether a user of the card over the phone or internet has the possession. But if the security code is stolen, this approach will not work. In the magnetic stick, which is on the backside of the credit card, track data is stored. This contains the information on the account that is otherwise don’t show on the card. This data assists with authentication and the card cannot be fake.

Encrypted Electronic Storage

For recurring payment authorization or mail order authorization, the merchant might have to store credit card number. If such sensitive data is there as paper documents, you should keep it in a secure place. If you process recurring transactions, you can also store credit card number via electronic storage.

What is Credit Card Processing & How To Works?

Let us discuss the working of credit card processing in detail.

Key Players

CARDHOLDER

There are two types of cardholders

1. Who repays full credit card balance?

2. Who pays only a portion of balance and rest accrues interest?

MERCHANT

It is a vendor who sells product or services. The job of a merchant is to accept payment through a card, send the card information to the issuing bank and request payment authorization.

MERCHANT’S BANK

It is also known as acquiring the bank and is responsible for sending an authorization request to the issuing bank through a proper channel followed by communicating the response of the issuing bank to the merchant.

SERVICE PROVIDER

Also known as acquiring processor is a third party entity that works as an arm of the merchant’s bank. It provides service or device that allows the merchant to accept credit card for payment and also sends the credit card details to the credit card network and further sends back payment authorization to the acquiring bank.

CREDIT CARD NETWORK

Also referred to as Association member, operates the network to facilitate the credit card payment process, worldwide and administrate interchange fees. Credit card network receives details of credit card payment from the service provider and forwards the request for authorization to the issuing bank. In return, it sends a response of the issuing bank to the service provider. Some of the examples of the credit card network are Visa, MasterCard, and American Express.

ISSUING BANK

Also called the credit card issuer is a financial institution that provides the customer with a credit card, which is involved in the transaction. After receiving the authentication request from credit card network, the issuing bank either approves it or declines it.

If you're looking payment gateway service to accept credit card transaction for your online business. you're in the right place. Merchant Stronghold is providing reliable credit card processing services. To know more information for contact us @ +1 (888) 622-6875. You have a query about this go to our site and leave it.

Reasons To Denied Your Credit Card Applications

Let’s now discuss various possible reasons for declination of application for credit card processing :

Age

Your age is another factor for the denial of your request. If you are under 18, the issuer will not accept your request, as it is not the legal age. Your age is another factor for the denial of your request. If you are under 18, the issuer will not accept your request, as it is not the legal age.

Incomplete Application Form

If you don’t complete the application form completely or correctly, it can lead to denial. So it is better to apply for credit card processing online as it will not submit your request until and unless all the fields are full.

Loan Balance

If you want to apply for credit card processing, make sure that you pay your loan balance regularly if any. When you apply for credit card processing, your credit history is checked and if it is negative, the bank or the processor will hesitate to accept your request to avoid risk.

Healthy Credit Balance

It is good practice to keep your credit balance healthy. In other words, you should only use a portion of the credit available instead of using it to the fullest. Healthier the credit card score more are the chances of approval.

Inquiries on Credit Report

It is advisable not to apply for many credit cards or credit cards processing, especially in short span of time; this may lead to declining application. Lesser is your credit inquiries; better are the chances of getting your next approval when you would apply.

TMF or Matchlist

If you are on Match list or get as a TMF merchant it would be a big reason for not getting approval for your Credit Card Processing Account.

Don’t Fulfill the Minimum Requirement

Your request rejection can be due to not fulfilling minimum requirement like you don’t have an SSL secure and PCI compliant website. Or you have rejection by any card brand processor, or any Data compromise investigations was there for you and your business.

As a conclusion, you need to make sure before applying for a credit card processing and get ready, you choose a payment service or merchant service provider who can proactively help you with this.

Credit Card Processing for Document Preparation Services Business

The best credit card processor for your business is one that comprehends, accepts and acknowledges Document Preparation Services Business [MCC 7276]. It's critical to be set up with the Correct Acquiring Bank to Underwrite such business and issue Document Preparation Services a payment gateway. Merchant Stronghold works with businesses, learn in their requirements and suitable credit card processor will also be budget friendly and won’t enforce restrictions just because your organization is small. Here are some of our credit card processing benefits:

Online Virtual Terminal and API Technology

It is an easy online solution that is used worldwide. It doesn’t ask you to pay a setup fee, you can start processing right away. There are multiple checkout systems that you can integrate into your document preparation service website. It is packed with features and options that can be tailored to suit your business. Stronghold offers the flexible credit card for all type of business with high and low sales. We have a budget-friendly price and is best suited for document preparation services. It is designed especially for startups and small-scale businesses. We also offer additional services like multi-currency account, extend credit to customers, and 24 hours support.

Secure Credit Card Processing for MCC 7276

It is one of the fast and easy ways to accept credit cards offering credit card processing gateways and related services. If you operate in either retail, mail order, e-commerce, or telephone order, Merchant Stronghold is a suitable solution for your business.

Merchant Stronghold: Our methodology

To offer the best credit card solution, we start by asking questions from business owners about their previous experience. We also ask what business they like and dislike and whether they will recommend to others.

We create a list of options that will be suitable for your document preparation services. We also look closely at reputable similar businesses to find what they are using. When research is completed, Stronghold is able to provide the best possible credit card solution. Accept Payment Anytime, Anywhere.

MasterCard is Bringing New Cards with Fingerprint Sensors & Eye Scanning Features

Mastercard is holding converses with banks in the U.K. about offering biometric payment cards to market.

The Mastercard firm has been testing cards with inbuilt fingerprint scanners, which are utilized to check customers' identities.

This is expected to replace the use of passwords and accelerate the process of making payments online and contactless transactions in-store.

A representative for the organization affirmed to CNBC on Monday that it was talking with banks about launching the biometric cards.

"The utilization of passwords to authenticate somebody is woefully outdated, with consumers forgetting them and retailers facing abandoned shopping baskets," said Ajay Bhalla, leader of global enterprise risk and security at Mastercard.

"In payments technology, this is something we're surrounding as we move from cash to card, secret key to the thumbprint, and past to creative advances, for example, computerized reasoning. It's far less demanding to verify with a thumbprint or a selfie, and it's more secure as well."

The push toward biometrics echoes a more change occurring in the payments industry at this moment. In January, the European Union implemented the Second Payment Services Directive (PSD2), a regulation aimed at speeding up transactions and giving third-party firms access to banks' customer information so that they can build better products.

Under the new guidelines, customers are required to affirm their identity every five times after they have made a contactless payment. Mastercard said the biometric tech is at present being trialed in South Africa. Visa — Mastercard's main rival — is likewise trying biometric cards in Cyprus.

PSD2 has put banks and major money financial services providers under extreme strain to enhance their digital capacity and open up their information to outside developers. Banks are treasure troves with regards to financial data, compiling immense amounts on a regular basis.

Moving towards biometric types of payment like fingerprint sensors and eye-scanning tech — TSB, for example, said last year it wants to be the primary European bank to roll out iris authentication — to make payments less complex is likewise anticipated that would enhance money related security and handle extortion.

Point-Of-Sale: How to choose your Small-Business Payment Processing Solution?

The point-of-sale system you choose can factor into whether your business develops or not.

Not very many retail organizations - even little ones- still utilize an old-school mechanical cash register. There is essentially an excessive number of simple-to-use digital solutions that will integrate accepting credit cards with some level of record-keeping.

The challenge for the small business owner, in any case, is that payment or point-of-sale (POS) system differ significantly in capacity and cost. There are extremely economical arrangements that take payments and ring up items based on the codes associated with their price tags. A small business owner could likewise pick a POS that tracks inventory over various areas and the internet.

Before picking a POS, you should choose what your necessities are currently and they might be going forward. You may know precisely what you need, or you may choose a system that can develop with you.

Know Your Necessities

Buying a system that can track inventory requires that you input things that you as of now have and new ones as they arrive. On the off chance that you know you're not going to do that, at that point you might not have any desire to spend the cash required to include that type of feature.

In addition, while having meandering sales representatives look at customers out from their smartphones may appeal to you, consider whether it bodes well for your business. Permitting that type of transaction may enable more theft (since it becomes difficult to know who has paid). It likewise has less sense in a business where customers often pay with cash.

Buying a POS is a major decision. Take as much time as is needed and test the same number of as you think you have to before choosing what's appropriate for you.

Merchant Stronghold Provide POS Software services

Verifone VX520 POS hаѕ аll these сараbilitiеѕ and much more. This mаkеѕ it an idеаl point of ѕаlе solution for your Small Business. With Verifone VX520 POS, itеmѕ саn quickly bе рut intо invеntоrу. Dеtаilѕ such аѕ the price (соѕt), dаtе rесеive, mаrk-uр, mаrgin, ԛuаntitу, and description аrе аll available fоr еасh itеm. When prospective buуеrѕ hаvе ԛuеѕtiоnѕ, any infоrmаtiоn that wаѕ there оn the itеm can be easily ассеѕѕ juѕt bу ѕсаnning the рrоduсt.

Cоmрlеtе rероrtѕ are available tо rеviеw invеntоrу lеvеlѕ, invеntоrу value, sales history. Or virtually any аѕресt оf inventory and ѕаlеѕ infоrmаtiоn that is available on thе ѕtоrе роint оf ѕаlе system. In a multi-store еnvirоnmеnt, each ѕtоrе location can have “livе-timе” ассеѕѕ tо invеntоrу information from store tо ѕtоrе. Buyers that аrе looking for a ѕресifiс itеm саn bе there, Whеn that item is рrеѕеnt аt оnе оf уоur other stores.