payment processing

Holiday shoppers making more purchases with credit cards

Johnson City, TN —

     I spoke with mall store managers and they say the number of people applying and using credit cards during the holiday shopping season increases, and there’s a strategy behind that practice.

     Alana Stout, Assistant Manager at the Gap in the Mall at Johnson City says, “We do see a few more applying at Christmas just to get the deals that we have.”

     according to first data, a payment processing company, holiday shopping spending usually slows between Black Friday and the week before Christmas, but this year, that was not the case.

First data reports that more people made purchases this year during that time…and that more people were willing to use their credit cards for those purchases

     Stout also says, “Several of the customers pay a lot more with credit cards than cash.  I see a lot less cash now.”

     Financial analyst report, that new lower application standards have caused the increase in credit card usage as more people now have cards. Enticement from stores, with special sales and cash back clauses for those who use their cards, shoppers are all to eager.

     Holiday shopper Catie Fenley says, “I use my credit card during the holidays because I end up saving money.  I usually get cash back from certain stores. and it kind of gives me some leeway”

     Analysts predict credit card usage will only continue to increase, causing credit card debt to continue to grow.

    

Holiday shoppers making more purchases with credit cards

Credit Card Processing For Your Business Needs

Are you in the market to find a credit card processing company for your business? Are you unsure what feature to look for? Are you not quite sure what you even need? While finding a company that will be a perfect fit can be done, you will need to investigate and compare multiple companies until you find the one that is right for you. Here is a look at the areas that you will want to consider.

Comparing The Cost

Credit card processing fees vary from company to company. It can be a challenge trying to figure out exactly what it is you will be paying for processing services. Companies can charge a variety of fees including an initial contract fee, monthly service fee, per transaction fee, minimum transaction fee and more. Your best bet, especially if you are a new or smaller business is to avoid companies that have monthly minimums, transaction minimums, etc. Usually the most inexpensive contract will be one that offers an interchange plus pricing contract.

Customer Service

Next, you will want to look for a company that offers superior customer service. Before signing a contract make sure you check out the company’s customer service line. Additionally, you may want to ask around to other businesses that use the company to see how they rate the customer service. In most instances, you will want to choose a company that offers around the clock support, provides initial training and is quick to respond to your questions and needs.

Read The Fine Print

When you are deciding between different companies make sure you always read the fine print of every contract. Some companies may claim to have the best rates but when you read the fine print you may find you don’t qualify for the best rates. Many times to get the best rates you need to have a super high volume, a minimum amount of transactions per month and more.

Other Things To Look For

As you are comparing processing companies here is a list of other things you may also want to consider:

Can I lease equipment? If so, how much does it cost? Many times buying your own equipment is a better option, but you will still want to compare.

How long will it take for me to get my funds? This can vary greatly from one company to the next. It is usually ideal to find a company that has a turnaround time of 24 to 48 hours.

What fraud protection measures will be provided? Credit card fraud is a serious issue today and you will want to make sure the credit card processing company you choose takes fraud very seriously and has fraud protection measures in place.

Do they offer technical support? Especially if you are renting equipment, you will want to make sure the company you choose offers technical support around the clock. You never know when your equipment might decide not to work and you will want to be back up and running as soon as possible.

Want to find out more about credit card processing, then visit ePayment Solutions site on how to choose the best credit card merchant services for your needs.

Choose The Best Rates For Small Business Credit Card Processing

Today ecommerce has been redefined by credit card. In fact almost all internet shoppers are using their plastic to purchase items over the internet. This has become a universal way to pay. In fact consumers from around the world have a credit card. If a business doesn’t have one, most likely they would lose their customers and will not garner enough sales that will make them successful. They also wouldn’t look professional if they don’t have a credit card processing. With this kind of tool, a business would appear to be credible and customers would rely on them in terms of security.

If your small business is not accepting credit card, their competition will surely do it. You don’t want to be left behind. There are many benefits of accept credit card transactions. If a small business owner is able to facilitate credit card transactions, they can now compete with large companies. Because of the competition, providers will now offer a much affordable rates for this kind of service. As merchant, one should be careful because most of the processors have tactics that not straightforward particularly in terms of pricing. There are rates that are charged which sometimes hidden and hard to understand.

There are fees that could be added after a few months. Another tactic is that they would have a new rate that is higher than what is quoted. It is also best if the merchant would see if there is a cancellation fee. This is important in case you are not satisfied with their service. There are some providers that might charge thousands of dollars for this. Remember that rates vary depending on several factors. However it is the same in terms of processing fees. The rates shouldn’t change a bit from what is quoted in the website of the provider.

Any changes in rate would certainly make an impact on the cash flow of small business. A merchant looking for a credit card processing provider should be knowledgeable on pricing and charges that accompanies that services he or she is applying for. This information would be useful in a lot of ways because can be able to compare and go for a competitive rate. Make sure to go with a processor that is willing to explain everything that includes their services and pricing. The rates should be clear from the start. As a merchant, it doesn’t hurt to ask questions.

One should also understand the terms and condition before signing a contract. Avoid a company that will not bother to explain their services in detail. Don’t go for the one taking time to deal with you. As a business owner, it is ideal to research on the provider and make sure that they have a good reputation. Go for the one that place emphasis on their customer service. Remember that your business relies on how effective their customer service is in case they would be problems or issues. You don’t want to lose any customer because of technical problems.

Need a merchant account? Not all merchant account providers are created equal. They would be a strong alliance in building your business. Do your research and choose the best merchant account provider for your business.

Want to find out more about small business credit card processing, then visit ePayment Solutions site on how to choose the best credit card processing for your needs.