Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Frequently Asked Questions for Merchant Accounts
How to get started setting up a merchant account.
A merchant account is a type of business bank account that allows a business to accept electronic payments. These payments can be processed through Credit Cards (i.e. Visa or Mastercard), Debit Cards, Gift Cards, or checking accounts (i.e. ACH, echeck, etc.).
To get one of these accounts you have to enter into an agreement with an acquiring bank that has a processing relationship with Visa and Mastercard (and other digital payment companies). One of the easiest ways to create this relationship and kickstart your payment processing journey is to use an authorized agent of an acquiring bank (LIKE US). These types of service providers are called ISOs.
Getting a merchant account can seem like a complicated process because it often includes submitting your business license, physically verifying your business location, and providing your credit score. We make it easy! Apply for your FREE QUOTE and one of our account managers will contact you ASAP. We’ll guide you through the application process to approval in as little as 24 hours.
How long will it take to approve my application?
Once we have collected all of the needed information, the approval process typically takes 4-6 business days. Accounts can occasionally be approved in less than 24 hours and sometimes take as long as 2-4 weeks. Our team always works to get your account approved as quickly as possible!
What documents will I need to open a merchant account?
Normally we require the following documents. Occasionally we will need additional information:
- A copy of your drivers license or passport to verify identity
- A voided business check or bank reference letter to confirm your account for deposits
- Proof of business which can be provided by the DBA registration, business license, articles of incorporation or articles of organization (sole proprietors do not require any of the above)
Don’t worry! We walk you through the entire process. We even double check your applications so you have the best possible chance of approval.
How much will DMS services cost me?
We work with several banks and processors worldwide, and pricing varies widely by country. Your account fees will also vary based on your own business and transaction model! For a custom, accurate quote please fill out this quick form! We promise it’s quick, has NO obligations, and will be totally worth it!
One of our account managers will contact you within 24 business hours.
What should I look for in a merchant account?
There is an old saying: “You get what you pay for.”
Lower fees and efficient processing are a give-in. In our opinion, customer service and merchant support provides the night and day difference in creating a successful relationship! We pride ourselves in direct one-on-one HUMAN interaction that you don’t have to wait forever on hold to get to. If you are looking for a personalized and reliable service, we’d be glad to talk with you about your business needs.
There is another old saying: “There is no free lunch.”
Nothing in business is free….There are real costs involved in the discount rates, transaction fees, and terminals. If a broker is offering you rates well below the average industry, we guarantee there is a catch somewhere. Are you the processing rates absorbing the cost of “free” hardware? Who will be handling the customer service if/when you have an issue?
A merchant account is a relationship with that bank and its risk managers. This relationship is one of the most important aspects of your business.
Can my startup/ brand new business be approved?
The short answer is YES!
The long answer is that banks like to see a long history of transactions, established credit history, and large bank account sums. However, when these items aren’t present, there are many different documents that can be presented to help with the merchant account approval process.
Why is there underwriting on a merchant account?
There is a risk involved with every merchant account. Credit card transactions are virtually miniature loans that banks must assume liability for.
During the application and approval process, the processor will have to pull and review your personal credit, your business model, and check the TMF list.
Do you provide services for non-USA clients?
Yes! We can place merchants from virtually any country in the world. The only countries we cannot accept merchants from are countries known for heavy chargebacks, fraud, or on the OFAC list. Click here to view our list of Prohibited Countries.
Frequently Asked Questions for
High Risk Merchant Accounts
Why is my business considered high risk?
There are many reasons why a business might be considered high risk but here are a few:
- You have too high of a chargeback ratio
- You offer recurring billing, subscriptions, or a free-trial.
- You sell high-ticket items.
- You are in an industry that has a reputation of having high fraud and chargeback rates
Keep in mind that ALL merchant accounts carry risk. Banks simply want to make sure that their time spent on paperwork and disputes is worth the return.
What is the TMF list or MATCH file?
TMF stands for “Terminated Match File” and is a list that all acquiring banks (processors) share. It’s main function is to notify processors which accounts have been previously terminated, and the reasons for that termination.
The TMF file is essentially a “blacklist” that will prevent you getting approved at any other bank.
No, you can’t get off of this list once you’re on (even if you change your business name), but there are a few things we can do to help.
What risks am I taking on when I decide to take credit cards?
Chargebacks, friendly fraud and credit card fraud — OH MY!
We know it sounds scary, but we promise the benefits of accepting diverse payment options outweigh the risks.
We have solutions to keep you AND your business safe from these risks. Get in touch!
What is a chargeback and how do I avoid them?
A chargeback happens when a customer calls their card issuing bank to dispute a transaction. Once this dispute is filed, the money is immediately withdrawn from your checking account, and credited back to the customer. At this point a notification is sent to both you and your processing bank. You’re usually not even given an advanced warning!
It IS possible to dispute a chargeback, but that can be a lengthy and exhausting process. Common reasons for chargebacks include the product not being received, a refund not being processes, a stolen card or fraud, or an accidental forgetfulness to cancel a subscription. * Click here to read a more detailed explanation of the chargeback cycle* .
We offer a variety of chargeback protection services that ensure your business is not labelled fraudulent. Learn more about those services HERE.
How can I protect myself from fraudulent transactions?
We also recommend you enroll in one of the following programs…
- Verified by Visa & MasterCard 3D Secure (VbV and 3DS)
- Fraud Scrubbing: AVS & CCV alone is not fail-proof. Bolster your confidence and bottom-line by preventing fraudulent orders before they occur
Can my startup/ brand new business be approved?
The short answer is YES!
The long answer is that banks like to see a long history of transactions, established credit history, and large bank account sums. However, when these items aren’t present, there are many different documents that can be presented to help with the merchant account approval process.
Can I refer other businesses to Durango Merchant Services?
Yes! Check out our affiliate page.
How do I access my merchant log in?
Here’s the link to log into the Durango Merchant Services Payment Gateway.