Merchant Accounts

Yes, sole proprietors can get a merchant account without forming an LLC. Learn what underwriters check, SSN vs EIN, the documents you need, and how to apply.

A card-not-present transaction is any card payment made without the physical card at checkout, like online, phone, or recurring charges. Learn how CNP payments work, what they cost, and how to accept them safely.

How long does it take to get a merchant account? See realistic timelines for low-risk and high-risk businesses, what underwriters check, and a checklist to speed up approval.

Credit card processing fees run about 1.5% to 3.5% per sale. See Visa's published interchange rates, the four pricing models, a worked example and seven ways to pay less.

How payment processing works, step by step: who is involved, authorization, clearing, settlement and funding, where fees come from and why payments get declined.

How to get a merchant account step by step: business basics, documents, website requirements, comparing providers, underwriting, timelines and costs.

Payment facilitator vs merchant account: learn how PayFacs and dedicated merchant accounts differ on onboarding, pricing, fund holds, and control, and when to switch.

A merchant category code (MCC) is the four-digit code that tells card networks what your business does. Learn how MCCs are assigned, how they affect rates and risk review, and how to check yours.

Merchant account underwriting is the bank's risk review before you can accept cards. Learn what underwriters check, the step-by-step process, documents to prepare, and how to avoid delays.

Learn how to sell digital products step by step: choosing and pricing a product, delivery, payments, policies, chargeback prevention and costs.