Guide to Setting up a Merchant Account

Get System Savvy

Fuzzy about how merchant account credit card processing works? Want to know how to apply for merchant account services and a merchant bank account? Let the big three show you.

I recommend: Visa, MasterCard and American Express all have super helpful small biz sites to walk you through the basics of accepting credit cards and can help with setting up a merchant account for your retail business, restaurant, website or just about any type of business you may operate.

Compare Rates and Options

BuyerZone is good for comparison shopping/price quotes on credit card processing services, including merchant account providers that can offer you an international merchant account, high risk merchant account, mastercard or visa merchant account.

I recommend: Request a quote at BuyerZone.com and learn more about how to accept credit cards at your business. This is a good place to compare fees and look for a low cost merchant account

Small Volume? Get This Quick Solution from QuickBooks

QuickBooks has a brand new off-the-shelf credit card processing solution that simplifies the merchant account set up process at a low cost.

I recommend: Buy the QuickBooks Credit Card Processing Kit at Office Depot or details here.

Go Mobile

Accept credit card and debit card payments anywhere, anytime with handheld wireless technology for your merchant account.

I recommend: Cardservice International, and Authorize.net, both industry leaders in offering merchant account services, have complete wireless solutions.

Put PayPal Power in Your Corner

PayPal offers a full range of low-cost payment solutions great for online businesses, including "Virtual Terminal" service that lets you accept credit card payments online.

I recommend: Signup and info at PayPal.

Tap Association Member Discount Deals

Many industry, professional or other small business associations offer credit card payment solutions and merchant account processing as a member benefit.

I recommend: The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) has negotiated discount merchant account services with Solveras Payment Systems; the National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE) offers a merchant account deal through National Processing Co. (NPC).

Apply for a Merchant Account at Your Bank

Major banks serving small business offer credit card processing services of all kinds, including online business merchant accounts.

I recommend: The small business divisions at Bank of America and Wells Fargo are two top choices.

Add Electronic Gift & Loyalty Features

Scrap those paper gift certificates and customer loyalty punch cards and let your credit card processor boost business with electronic gift cards and customer loyalty rewards.

I recommend: Solveras Payment Systems offers an electronic gift and loyalty program customized to your business.