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Credit Processing - Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How long does it take to set-up an account?
A. We approve the vast majority of our submitted applications in under 48-hours. The process is simple:

Q. How do I get paid?
A. Credit card sales are deposited directly into your checking account.

Q. How long does it take for the funds to be transferred to my account?
A. 24-48 hours which is standard for all processors.

Q. Do I need a business checking account?
A. If your business operates as a corporation, yes, a business account is required. If your business is a sole proprietorship or partnership, the only requirement is that the individual or partners' name(s) must be on the check.

Q. When the terminal/software dials out for approval, am I charged any long distance or communication fees?
A. No, communication is all done on a toll free line.

Q. If I purchase equipment, how is the terminal shipped?
A. You choose the desired shipping method.

Q. Will I have 24-hour customer support?
A. Absolutely. We provide quality support for our customers is a top priority. Regardless of time zone, you will have 24-7 access to technical support.

Q. What if my terminal breaks down?
A. Customers maintaining a merchant account with us have the following warranty: We will replace malfunctioning equipment free of charge for one year. After one year has expired customers can utilize our replacement program. If it is determined that the terminal needs repairs, a replacement terminal will be sent within 24-hours. The replacement terminal will be the same model as the terminal being replaced. The terminal will be shipped to you programmed with your merchant account and ready for use. The replacement terminal will have passed thorough diagnostic tests assuring reliability, and will also carry a 6-month warranty. You only pay the shipping and handling charges. This charge will be billed directly to your account. A call tag will be issued for the terminal needing repairs. The terminal requiring repairs will not be returned.

Q. Do I need a dedicated phone line?
A. No. Terminals have dual phone jacks. This gives you the ability to connect the terminal and other peripheral equipment (modem, phone, fax) to one line.

Q. Who installs the terminal?
A. We do not use outside sales' representatives. By doing this we can greatly reduce the price you, the merchant, must pay. The terminal installation process is very simple. You also receive toll free assistance and instructions

Q. Do I receive training?
A. When you receive the terminal you will find diagramed directions and the 800 number to our merchant training center. You will receive step by step instructions to give you the desired comfort level.

Q. How do I sign up for American Express and Discover Card?
A. American Express (no set up fees) - We will send you an application form for American Express unless otherwise requested. American Express requires separate approval. Upon approval, we will internally activate the account. All you do is sign the forms. The rates will vary depending on business type and average sale amount. The following is the rate range you can expect. (Rates and fees for American Express are subject to change).

Retail - Average sale $150 or less = 3.25%
Average sale $150-249 = 3.10%
Average sale $250+ = 2.95%
Internet/Mail/Telephone order - $0- $4,999 total annual volume = $5.00 per month, flat fee.
$5,000 or higher annually volume = 3.5%

Discover Card (no set up fees)
We will forward your request directly to Discover. A Discover representative will contact you and discuss their program. Once a merchant number has been issued by Discover, we will add it to your file.

Q. What types of merchants do you not accept?
A. Adult, Internet Gambling, Escort Services, Illegal Activities of any kind, Collection Agencies, Check Cashing Establishments.

Q. What credit card types may I accept?
A. You will be set up to process all Visa and MasterCard transactions. You have the option to accept Debit & Travel & Entertainment cards, which include American Express, Discover, Fuelman, Fleet Cards, Voyager, Wright Express. If you already have an account with American Express & Discover, your relationship never changes. We can use your existing merchant number, so if you own an exising business, keep the numbers handy along with your business license and a voided business check.

Q. How long will it take me to complete the online application?
A. We ve designed our short online application with your busy schedule in mind. But before you begin, you will need to gather necessary information. Provided you have all of the information on hand, you can complete the application in about 15 minutes.
You will need a copy of your Business License, a copy of a Voided Business Check, and any existing Amex/ Discover Merchant Numbers.

Q. Am I required to have a physical storefront to process credit cards?
A. This is not a requirement. We deal with many business that process cards over the internet, phone, catalogs, and even through our mobile networks.

Q. Will I need additional equipment?
A. If you already own a terminal, it can probably be reprogrammed. You may want to upgrade your existing equipment through our equipment solutions section at the top. We will be happy to answer any questions you have regarding equipment by contacting us.

Q. What type of bank account do I need?
A. You will need a business checking account. If you are a Sole Proprietor, you can use your personal account. Your bank must allow this account to be credited and debited via ACH methods. If you just started a business and have a Temporary Check with no name, we will need a letter from the bank, we have representatives standing by to help you through this simple process.

Q. What happens after my application is approved?
A. After we approve your application, we will send you an email that confirms your approval and contains your assigned Merchant ID number. You will also receive an email explaining your real-time setup (if you are using one of our systems). Note: You or your e-commerce provider will need to perform a small amount of configuration when setting up your real-time processing environment. You will receive a Welcome Packet by mail that explains this process in more detail.

Q. How quickly can I begin processing credit cards once my application is approved?
A. 99% of all merchants are approved within 48 business hours from the time we have your application/agreement. At this point you can begin your e-commerce integration and initiate credit card processing thereafter. If you order a machine, it should arrive within 5-7 Business days.

Q. How will I get paid for credit card transactions?
A. Your designated checking account will be credited for Visa/MasterCard transactions within 2 business days of batch submission. All American Express and/or Discover transactions will be deposited by American Express and/or Discover.

Q. Is my application information secure?
A. Yes, your application information is encrypted and secured.

Q. Who will review the information on my application?
A. Our merchant underwriting and activation group will review your application. The information you provide is kept confidential.

Q. Who do I contact if I am having problems with the application?
A. If you are having difficulty with any of the requested application data or are experiencing technical problems while completing the application, please call our new client support center. Phone representatives are available to assist you Monday - Friday between the hours of 9 am and 6 pm.

 

 

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Sage Payment Solutions is a registered ISO/MSP of Harris N.A.