Questions to Ask Your Processor: Making the Right Decision

Questions to Ask Your Processor: Making the Right Decision

From Did I remember to lock the front door? to Where did I leave my keys? we all ask hundreds of questions every day. Some are of a personal nature, others business oriented. The most important questions help us gain valuable information that can solve problems and make our lives easier. The following are some of the most important questions you should ask your payment processor to ensure you are receiving the best return on your investment, and that you are safely operating within industry standards. 2

Q & A 1 How can I lower my costs? Simply shopping for the lowest discount rate (the amount charged per transaction typically between 1.5 and 3 percent of the transaction) may not be the best strategy. Ask about all charges, such as different rates for debit or non-qualified transactions, monthly statement fees, maintenance fees or annual fees. These can add up, and sometimes the fees charged by a low discount rate processor can end up costing more than those fees charged by a provider with a higher discount rate. Sometimes simple processing changes can make a big difference, such as ensuring transactions are batched and settled within established timeframes, making sure POS devices and software are properly encoding transactions, or taking advantage of special programs. Your processor should be able to help you make sure you are qualifying for the best rate possible. 2 Would you look at a competitor s bid? Giving your processor the opportunity to examine a competitor s bid not only lets them know you are an informed business owner. It also gives them the chance to explain how their services compare to the bid you ve received. Your processor should offer an apples-to-apples comparison that explains whether or not the bid you ve received is superior, and if your processor should cut you a better deal. 3 Do you understand my business? Just as you wouldn t call a plumber to fix your electricity, why consult a processor who knows nothing about your business? Your processor should understand your business model and what drives your industry, and offer suggestions to help you succeed. 4 What is PCI DSS and how does it apply to me? PCI Data Security Standard (DSS) is a set of security requirements established to protect cardholders account data from fraud. It was developed by the PCI Security Standards Council, which includes American Express, Discover Network, Mastercard Worldwide and Visa. For business owners, the standard requires that all hardware and software coming into contact with cardholders data must be PCI DSS compliant. The risk of noncompliance includes massive fines, a loss of reputation and potential bankruptcy. All processors should be PCI DSS compliant, and should be able to determine your compliance level. 3

5 Will you help me become PCI compliant? It can be painful to establish PCI DSS compliance, but because of the risks, it is very necessary. Your processor should be able to help you achieve compliance, or guide you to a specialist who can ensure you meet industry requirements. 8 How long has your company been in the business? Longevity, experience and success tend to go hand-in-hand. Look for a processor with a proven track record, and the knowledge to help you meet your business goals. Be able to determine your compliance level. 6What are you doing for me? In addition to securely and accurately outlining payment needs, your processor should represent your interests at all times not when new regulations have been enacted, but when regulations are in the discussion stage. Your processor should be active in the payments industry, with a hand in shaping the future. 7 How does pricing affect me? All processors pay the same rates to the credit card associations to move transactions. Both Visa and Mastercard post interchange rates on their websites. The differences lie in the extras a processor offers such as 24/7 customer service, a dedicated representative, flexible equipment rental, industry involvement, years of experience and sponsoring bank association. Your processor should be able to explain where all of the costs originate, and how funds are paid to each of the parties involved. 9 How long have you (your processor s customer representative) been in the business? Employee tenure can be just as important as a processor s longevity. Your customer representative should understand the industry and your business. You also deserve consistency the ability to talk to the same person or persons whenever you call. Explaining your business situation to a new person every time you make a call is not taking your best interests into account. 10 If I m not happy with you, is there a termination fee? Make sure you understand all aspects of your agreement, and if you have questions, ask. Some processors charge a termination fee if you leave them early. Others provide a probationary period during which you can determine if their services are a good fit. Read the fine print and don t be afraid to ask about contract language you don t understand. 4

11 Is customer service available when I need it? Many businesses today operate 24/7, and the last thing they need is a processing problem outside of customer service hours. Ensure customer service representatives are available during your business hours, not your processor s. 12 What type of provider are you? Not all processors are created equal. Some processors are actually brokers that act independently, selling services for a portfolio of providers. Others are Independent Service Organizations (ISOs) that provide services, but depend on the infrastructure of other processors to handle transactions. A few processors own the infrastructure, but rely on partnerships with banks to complete the transaction cycle; other processors are owned by banks that maintain their own infrastructure and ties to the card associations. 13 Should I lease, rent or purchase equipment? The answer depends on your needs. Some processors require business owners to purchase equipment from them. Others require businesses to lease equipment for a set period and charge a penalty for opting out before the agreement ends. Renting equipment month-to-month, with no penalty for changing equipment, is often the best option for businesses. 14 Are you a green processor? Green processors typically offer online monitoring and reporting to eliminate paper statements and postage costs. Online monitoring via a secure website gives you the ability to get a real-time snapshot of your account, including whether or not transactions have cleared. It is especially helpful when your cash flow requires precise monitoring. Processors may also have special industry expertise. Some focus on retail, some on brick-and-mortar operations and others on Internet-based processing. It is important to find a processor that has experience in your industry and that is willing to take the time to provide the services you need to succeed. 5

To learn more: contact 888.845.9457 or visit tsys.com. twitter.com/tsys_tss facebook.com/tsys1 linkedin.com/company/tsys 2017 Total System Services, Inc. TSYS is a federally registered service mark of Total System Services, Inc. All rights reserved. TSYS Merchant Solutions SM is a registered ISO/MSP of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Walnut Creek, CA; Synovus Bank, Columbus, GA, and First National Bank of Omaha, Omaha, NE. TSYS Business Solutions SM is a registered ISO/MSP of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Walnut Creek, CA; Synovus Bank, Columbus, GA; and Deutsche Bank, New York, NY for Visa and Mastercard transactions only. TS6903e