Small business owners can take their business to the next level with credit card processing services. Businesses that accept credit cards tend to increase their sales and profits. It not only helps the merchant, but the buyer as well.Most people are online these days. A website to showcase your products or services is a great start for ant small business. You can promote and build your brand 24 hours a day. But, you can still run a successful business, and accept credit card payments online— with or without a website.
If you run a cash only business, the following steps can help you on your way to accepting credit cards.
First, find a merchant account provider that will create a payment processing solution to fit your business’ needs. A virtual merchant account for online credit card processing can expand your business and ease the process.
Below are ways to accept credit card payments without adding a credit card machine.
- Virtual Terminal – Authorize, capture and settle orders with your personal computer, Internet connection and USB card reader. No need to purchase special credit card machines or processing software.
- Payment Gateway – Merchant uses an Internet connection to log in to a secure remotely-hosted (browser based) website app and process transactions 24/7 in real time.
- E-commerce Shopping Cart – An integrated payment gateway to process the transaction. The shopping cart on your website allows your visitors to browse your inventory, select items and then connect to the payment gateway to complete the transaction at check out time. This is where billing and shipping information is entered along with credit card information to complete the transaction.
Risks of credit card fraud and identity theft is an ongoing concern. All merchants who handle credit card data must maintain a secure transaction environment. PCI compliance is cost effective, and although it may seem daunting , it does not require much effort at all. Your merchant services provider can answer all of your questions about secure processing.
Compliance is the first line of defense when it comes to secure processing and its value is worth the small price.
PCI compliance helps protect your business and your cardholding customers from security breaches. A merchant account provider that offers a Data Breach Security Program can help to protect your business from losses associated with a suspected or actual breach.
If you want an e-commerce merchant account or virtual merchant account so you can start accepting credit cards, look for a Better Business Bureau Accredited merchant account provider. Always associate your business with merchant services you can trust.
