amspcs
503 posts since
Oct 18, 2007
4.
Re: Merchant services for start up business Aug 9, 2008 12:06 AM
I won't cast a vote since I'm obviously biased, being in the merchant services business. However,
the consensus so far seems to be 'yes' which, quite frankly in this day and age, is no surprise. Folks in the 21st century pay with plastic...it's as simple as that. So if you're thinking you can do without processing at first and add it later, forget it. If your customers don't see convenient payment options during the first visit, there won't be a second chance...you know what they say about first impressions.
What are your concerns about credit card acceptance as a start-up? Are you worried about the expense and/or start up costs? Contrctual commitments? Other?
If so, here are a few thoughts. Start out simple with a 'starter' program. That means something with little or no startup fees and no long term commitment, so that when you graduate from 'starter' status, you can shift seamlessly into a more sophisticated product. The trade-off for some of the starter benefits here would be slightly higher discount rates, but since you are a start-up which means very low volume that shouldn't be of consequence since we're talking about max $2-3 per month if that.
I can speak to you about a processing product which the folks who run this forum should like since it's a program underwritten by a sales agent for Bank of America. All you need is a computer with internet connection which will function as a simple POS system--no credit card machines, printers etc. to worry about. OR, we can even set you up the old fashioned way for starters using just your phone for obtaining credit card authorizations. Fees are minimal with no long term contract, so it's an ideal way to get started with a processing program without locking yourself in long term.
Also, before you delve into the arena of credit card processing, go to school a little and learn about it.
We offer an informational site with glossary, FAQ's and so on, no hard sell. Take a few moments and browse our site, the address appears below.
AMSPCS
amspcs@juno.com
www.MerchantServices-help.com
1-877-689-1691
