Credit Card Processing Buyer's Guide

Credit card processing for small businesses introduction

When Western Union first gave charge cards to their best customers in 1914, it was little more than a gimmick. Back then, no one would have guessed that over $1.9 trillion would be charged in the U.S. in 2011. Even as US consumers cut their credit card spending during the recession years, they continued to use their cards in an increasing number of ways.

The increase in online transactions is a major contributor to that expansion, as is the increasing usage of credit cards on two opposite ends of the purchasing spectrum: in large business-to-business transactions, and for very small retail purchases. Some businesses that wouldn't have dreamed of accepting credit cards a few years ago are forced to reconsider: even a $4 purchase at the coffeeshop is now fair game.

When it's time to choose a small business credit card processing service, though, it's easy to get overwhelmed. The pitches can be confusing, especially for small businesses who have never accepted credit cards before, and some providers can be overly aggressive. Even for businesses who have accepted credit cards for years, it can be tough to compare competing offers to evaluate whether you can save some money by switching to a new provider. This BuyerZone Credit Card Processing Buyer's Guide can help you make the right decision, though. In it, you'll learn:

• how to choose a merchant account provider for your company
• some common bait-and-switch tactics to avoid
• what you can expect to pay
• how to negotiate with providers

Once you have all the information you need, use our free request for credit card processing price quotes service to connect with multiple merchant services providers.