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Frequently Asked Questions
Can't I just go to my bank to set up a merchant account?
Probably, however, while many banks and credit unions offer merchant services to their customers, most simply out-source their merchant services to a processor like International Card Systems. Banks are in the business of earning interest on accounts and loans, not processing credit card transactions. They typically offer all sorts of value-added services such as payroll services, roadside assistance services and more with the intention of being able to earn more loyalty from their clients. Banks share revenue with whatever 3rd party processor that they partner with too, which means that many times you will pay more with a bank because of undisclosed "middle-man" costs.
There are no real advantages to going through your banking institution for merchant processing services as long as you make sure that you are dealing with a reputable company. As a matter of fact, aside from the cost benefit of going direct with a processor like American Association of Merchants, you will probably receive better service with your merchant account. Bank staff and tellers are ill-equipped to handle terminal hardware issues and they don't have direct access to your transaction data. If you call your bank, they will typically re-route your call to the actual processor which actually delays getting the assistance you need.
How do I apply for services with International Card Systems?
Just click the link for our no obligation online application above and we will contact you to complete your application. The online application should only take you about 5 minutes to complete.
How long does the approval process take?
Once we have collected all of the necessary application documents, we approve most account within 1 business day. Once your merchant account is approved we will contact you and schedule your installation.
Do you ever raise your processing fees?
If you are set up on an interchange pass-through pricing structure, you will never see an increase in the markup that we are charging you for our processing services. You will, however, be passed through any increases, decreases, or cost changes that are the result of new industry regulations or changes made to the fee structures by Visa, Mastercard and the other card networks. If you are processing with us on a tiered pricing structure, we always do our best to ensure that any increases are passed along to you for only the approximate amount of the actual increase in cost. We will always notify you in writing prior to changing any of the fees that you will pay.
What business types are accepted?
We accept most all business types with the exception of online adult related businesses and a few other select business types.
If I have bad credit, operate a "High Risk Business" or have no processing history, will I be accepted?
In most cases, we can accept just about anyone with less than stellar credit, little or no processing history or a high risk business type. With our Tier II program we can underwrite high risk and bad credit accounts 95% of the time. Our Tier II accounts are required to be set up with some minimal additional fees and in some cases we may need to bill processing fees daily instead of monthly, or require that the deposit timeframe be longer than the standard 24-48 hour window. For some high risk large ticket merchants we may also require a reserve account to offset the potential risk in the event of a chargeback or customer dispute.
Do I need a business license?
We generally need to collect a copy of your business license or resellers certificate. If you are a sole proprietor we can generally accept a photocopy of a drivers license or state ID in lieu of a business license.
Do I need a business checking account?
If you are a corporation, LLC or partnership then we require a business checking account. Sole proprietors can use a personal checking account or a business checking account.
What types of credit cards will I be able to accept?
You can accept all major credit cards. If you do not wish to accept American Express or ATM debit cards that is completely up to you.
How will I get my money?
After you settle your terminal you can expect the funds to be electronically deposited into your checking account within 2 business days. Funding time can depend on multiple factors, including the banking institution that you have your account with.
How do you bill me for your services?
Typically we bill our clients once per month for their previous months processing fees. The fees are collected electronically from your bank account at the beginning of the month.
How can I review my fees?
We send out detailed statements each month via USPS mail. Additionally, we provide online reporting capability and you can download an exact PDF copy of your paper statement any time you wish.
Is there a telephone number that I can call if I need help with my account?
Absolutely! International Card Systems provides in-house toll-free customer service and technical support 24 hours per day. We handle all of our customers ourselves from our headquarters in Calverton, New York U.S.A.
Will I be able to get in-person assistance with setting up my account and with any technical issues?
Yes! We have local field representatives nationwide that will be glad to help you set up your credit card terminal to process with us. We can also provide in-person technical support whenever necessary.
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