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Your Business Merchant Account

Do you have a business merchant account? If not, isn't it time

you got one? The companies you compete against for customer

business may already have this special account that allows them

to process customers' credit payments. If you are not yet doing

so, why not apply for a merchant account to help your business

grow?

A business merchant account is the best way to expand your

company's operations and conduct e-commerce without risking too

much of an investment. Simply apply for a merchant account the

way an individual would apply for a personal credit card. As

with individual applicants, a company needs to show a positive

credit history and the ability to make payments on a merchant

account at present. In addition, it cannot be involved in shady

dealings with which the underwriters might not agree. Many

lenders will let you apply online, although some charge a fee

for this. Often you will get a decision on your application

within a day or two. If approved, you can begin making

arrangements to accept credit payments in a variety of ways. Pay

attention to fees and payment terms. For example, you may be

asked to pay 15 to 25 cents per transaction. Or you could have

the choice of paying a low overall percentage rate. Some lenders

impose minimums, though, meaning you will have to pay a "bottom

line" fee no matter how many transactions you make.

Your business merchant account will let you purchase or lease a

credit card processor that can be plugged into your store. Or

you can take a wireless version with you when collecting

payments from other locations. Many business owners prefer to

use a telephone ordering and payment system. This can be

automated, reducing the need for staffing except for questions

or glitches. Customers can speak or touch-dial their credit card

numbers into the phone to process orders at their convenience.

You will need to make sure your system is fully operational at

all times and that it is customer-friendly to keep from annoying

or even driving away current or new clients.

When you utilize a business merchant account, you can receive a

printed monthly statement, discounts for other services, and

occasional other benefits as well. Being able to accept credit

card payments suggests that customers will look at you a little

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differently, knowing that you have earned an underwriter's trust

for this important role. Posting signs for accepting credit card

payments places your company in the ranks of the elite, since

many smaller or newer companies do not yet enjoy this privilege.

When you begin accepting credit card processing, you can move

away from cash-only payments or checks that can bounce. The time

saved from managing cash flow can be channeled into more

meaningful tasks.

Getting a merchant account means that you're ready to upgrade

your business, and that you are taking extra steps to

accommodate your customers. Be proud to receive a merchant

account, knowing that not everyone is approved. Handle it

responsibly, since you have much to be thankful for with your

new business merchant account.

About the author:

Dane Collins is with Merchant Digital

http://www.merchantdigital.com a nationally recognized merchant

account provider. Start accepting credit cards today:

http://www.merchantdigital.com