This very simple site explains how to find an inexpensive merchant account and related payment processing issues in clear, accurate terms.

So what is the first step?

STOP!

You must ...

• STOP assuming you need a merchant account
• STOP assuming you will get the best deal online
• STOP assuming you will get unbiased advice

... and ...

• START getting the facts right

Here are the basic steps to getting an inexpensive merchant account:

#1 Do you need one?

If you are selling online and just starting out, you probably don't need a merchant account of your own.

Merchant accounts come with a variety of fees that can easily gobble up your earnings. If you are selling a higher volume, these fees aren't a concern.

If you are selling a lower volume, or lower priced goods, you should consider a third-party processor. Someone else, like Paypal, owns the merchant account and allows you to use it. There are, of course, pros and cons to consider closely. Here is an article that discusses this further.

#2 Go local

If you do need your own merchant account, go to your local banker first.

If you are selling offline from a traditional storefront, have higher volume or simply prefer having your own merchant account, the place to start is local banks, preferably one you and/or your business has a relationship with.

You won't see this advice much online and that is too bad. While banks have their drawbacks, they put a face on your account, offering you a place to start if you have questions or problems (and you will have questions and problems).

#3 Go online

3. Compare merchant account providers online to see who gives you a better deal.

Don't just stop at the local bank. If they offer you a merchant account, see if you can find a better offer online. If you need merchant services your bank can't provide, or can't get approved for one, go shopping online.

Each merchant account service will evaluate your business differently and may offer you a better deal. You may lose the personalized service of a bank, but you may not mind. Again, there are plenty of pros and cons to either route and it depends to some extend on the type of account (online, retail, mobile, etc.) you are considering.

The advice here is for any merchant, from newbies to those who have been around the block a few times.

Yes, you can find an inexpensive merchant account that is right for your business! (and yes, inexpensive IS a relative term.)

---------

If you are...

... starting a business and want to accept payments (like credit cards) on your website and/or at your storefront...

... looking to enable your existing business to accept real-time payments...

... overpaying or unhappy with your current payment processing services...

...then this site will help you find an inexpensive merchant account by doing what Mama always told you to do...

SHOP AROUND.

Really. It's a simple dogma you'll see preached over and over on this site.

Get to know all things about merchant accounts and payment processing. Learn what banks, merchant account providers and third-party processors are all about. Talk to other merchants. Read reviews and recommendations.

Shop, compare, learn.

This site will help by breaking down the various options and showing you how to compare them and find an inexpensive merchant account option that works for you.

I have thrown together a list of some of my favorite online payment processing services I call the Cream of the Crop. Consider it only a starting point. In fact, if this is all greek to you, start with the basics.

I have also written and collected several articles on key aspects of payment processing and how to find an inexpensive merchant account that I think you'll find helpful. Use the links at left or below to learn more.

And I'm always writing (In fact, if there's a specific issue you'd like to see addressed on the site, please don't hesitate to contact me).

So sit back, grab a cup of coffee, and enjoy the site. Who knows? You might even learn something (... no promises!)

Best wishes,
Joshua B.

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OK, enough chatter. Let's get to it...

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