Zero Fee Merchant Processing – Everything You Need to Know

As businesses rely more on accepting credit card payments, they need reliable and affordable payment processing solutions. One way to achieve this is through a no fee merchant processing. This blog post will discuss everything you need to know about zero fee merchant processing, including how it works, its benefits, legal issues, and what to look for in merchant account providers. Zero fee merchant processing and no fee merchant services are merchant account solutions designed to assist complaint merchants in avoiding paying high fees when accepting credit card payments and debit card payments.

US buyers are spending more on credit card purchases than ever, and the average transaction size is over 91 dollars. This steady increase has been seen going on since 2016 and shows no signs of stopping. American shoppers enjoy splurging with their cards…and who can blame them? With the costs of accepting credit card payments continuously increasing, zero fee merchant processing by SecureGlobalPay might just be the solution you are looking for.

 

What is Zero Fee Merchant Processing?

Zero fee merchant processing is a payment processing solution that, more or less, eliminates credit card processing costs for merchants. With this model, the credit card processing fees are passed on to customers through a merchant surcharge fee or a convenience fee. The customer pays a fee for using their credit card, and the merchant pays next to nothing. This model is gaining popularity among businesses, especially small businesses, as it helps them reduce their costs and increase their profit margins.

Surcharging vs. Zero Fee Merchant Processing

Zero fee merchant processing and merchant surcharge are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. Surcharging is a legal practice that allows merchants to pass on credit card processing costs to customers. In surcharging, the merchant adds a fee to the customer’s purchase, usually as a percentage of the transaction amount. On the other hand, no fee merchant processing is a payment processing system that helps eliminate credit card processing fees for the merchant. In this model, the customer pays the fee, not the merchant.

 

How do Zero Fee Merchant Services Work?

With zero fee merchant services, the merchant partners with a payment processing company like SecureGlobalPay, which offers the zero fee merchant processing model. The payment processing company provides the merchant with the necessary equipment and software to process credit card payments. When a customer pays with a credit card, the payment processing company adds a surcharge, convenience fee, or cash discount merchant processing to the transaction amount. The customer pays the fee, and the merchant receives the full transaction amount without the majority of the processing fees deducted from the total.

 

Other Merchant Processing Services

Apart from zero fee merchant processing, merchants can use other payment processing services. Understanding merchant account fees is of utmost importance. Some of these services include:

Flat-rate payment processing

This is a payment processing model where the merchant pays a fixed percentage of the transaction amount, usually between 2.5% to 3.5%, regardless of the type of card used or the transaction amount.

Interchange-plus payment processing

This is a payment processing model where the merchant pays the interchange fees set by the credit card brands and networks, plus a markup fee set by the payment processor. This model is more transparent than flat-rate processing, as the merchant knows the exact interchange fee they are paying.

Tiered pricing processing

This is a payment processing model where the merchant pays fixed rates for different types of cards, such as debit, credit, and rewards cards. This model can be confusing and expensive, as the merchant may pay higher fees for certain types of cards.

 

Legal Issues around Zero Fee Payment Processing

When it comes to zero cost processing, several legal hurdles must be navigated. Unfortunately, certain states have unique surcharging constraints or have outlawed this practice in their jurisdiction. Despite the roadblock posed by some states, many regions actually support certain forms of surcharging as long as all rules and regulations are adhered to precisely.

Even if your state has banned surcharging, you’re not left stranded. You can still use a no-cost credit card processing solution by offering a cash discount program. Staying conscious and up to date with local regulations is essential – luckily, numerous online resources make this easy.

Additionally, SecureGlobalPay will be happy to assist in ensuring compliance with legal regulations, so you don’t have to worry about anything.

While zero fee processing elicits a spectrum of opinions, merchants and banks have long been in conflict regarding this topic. Merchants contend that they should be permitted to transfer fees onto customers, while banks adamantly disagree with the concept.

Consequently, countless legal cases on both sides of the debate have arisen in recent years.

Here’s the gist of it: Cash discount merchant processing allows merchants to help influence customers away from cards with higher processing fees. The idea is that they can incentivize people toward other payment options by allowing them to put a surcharge on cardholders’ payments. Unfortunately for merchants, banks don’t know much about this proposal and have prohibited surcharging in response.

At the time of publication, there are two states where surcharging is prohibited:

• Massachusetts
• Connecticut

Additionally, certain states have unique merchant surcharging constraints that need to be considered before registering for a no fee payment processor. Merchants should thoroughly assess the conditions in these particular states before signing up with any service provider:

• California
• Florida
• Kansas
• Maine
• New York
• Texas

 

5 Benefits of Zero Fee Credit Merchant Processing

A credit card processor can take a significant bite out of a business’s profits. Credit card processing companies charge these fees to cover the costs of processing credit card transactions. Understanding how much it costs to process credit card transactions is extremely important when deciding on a payment solution. No fee merchant processing offers several benefits to businesses.

Here are five benefits of zero fee merchant processing:

Reduce Exposure to Credit Card Payment Processing Fees

One of the primary benefits of zero fee credit card processing is that it eliminates the credit card payment processing fees that merchants would typically have to pay. This can save businesses significant money, especially those that process a high volume of credit card transactions. Businesses can avoid costly downgrade fees to help reduce costs and increase their profit margins by passing on the fees to customers.

Receive Original Prices for Products and Services

No fee merchant processing ensures that businesses receive the entire transaction amount without any processing fees deducted. This means that businesses can offer their products and services at their original prices without increasing them to cover the cost of credit card processing fees. This can make businesses more competitive and attractive to customers.

Encourage Cash Payments from Customers

By adding a surcharge or convenience fee to credit card transactions; businesses can encourage customers to pay with cash instead. Customers may want to avoid paying the extra fee and can also choose to pay with cash. This can further help businesses reduce transaction costs, as cash transactions typically have lower processing fees.

Improve Cash Flow for Businesses

Zero fee merchant processing can also improve a business’s cash flow. Since businesses receive the full transaction amount immediately, they do not have to wait for processing fees to be deducted before receiving their funds. This can help businesses manage their cash flow more effectively and improve their overall financial stability.

Increase Transparency in Transactions

No fee merchant processing can increase transparency in transactions. By disclosing the surcharge or convenience fee to customers up front, businesses can be more transparent about their pricing and avoid confusion or misunderstandings. This can help businesses build trust with their customers and enhance their reputation.

 

What to Look Out for in a Zero Fee Merchant Account

A zero fee merchant account is a type of account that allows businesses to process credit card payments without paying high processing fees. While this type of account can be a great option for businesses looking to reduce costs and increase profits, it’s important to be aware of potential pitfalls. When choosing a zero fee merchant account, businesses should consider several factors. Here are some things to look out for.

Pricing and Credit Card Processing Fees

Although no fee merchant processing help eliminate the majority of credit card processing fees for businesses, other fees may be associated with the service. For example, the payment processing company may charge monthly fees, setup fees, interchange fees, early termination fees, or any other additional fees for their services. Businesses must carefully review the payment processing statement pricing and fee structure of the zero fee merchant account before signing up.

Security Features

When choosing a zero fee merchant account, businesses must also review the security features offered by the payment processor. This includes data encryption and fraud detection technologies that help protect customer data and minimize credit card chargebacks the risk of fraudulent transactions. Businesses should ensure their chosen provider offers strong security features to keep customer information safe.

Point of Sale (POS) System Requirements

Businesses must also consider the point of sale (POS) system requirements for the zero fee merchant account. Some payment processing companies may require businesses to use specific point of sale (POS) systems and software to process transactions. Businesses must ensure that their existing POS system is compatible with the zero fee merchant account or be prepared to switch to a new one.

Customer Experience

Businesses must also consider the customer experience when using a zero fee merchant account. Adding a surcharge or convenience fee to accept credit cards may discourage customers from using their cards and may lead to negative customer feedback. Businesses must always disclose the surcharge or convenience fee clearly and transparently to customers to avoid confusion or complaints.

High Processing Thresholds

Some zero fee merchant accounts may require businesses to reach a certain processing threshold or monthly minimum service fee before the zero fee policy kicks in. This can be problematic for businesses with low processing volumes or those just starting. Make sure to choose a provider that offers a zero fee policy with no processing thresholds.

 

Which Type of Business Works Well With No Fee Merchant Services?

Zero fee merchant services have become increasingly popular among businesses of all sizes. These services allow businesses to process credit card payments without processing fees, which can help increase profits and reduce costs. However, not all businesses are a good fit for no fee merchant services.

High Risk Merchants

High-risk merchants, such as those in the adult entertainment, gambling, or merchants needing debt consolidation merchant accounts, may find it challenging to obtain traditional merchant accounts due to their higher risk of chargebacks and fraud. Zero fee merchant processing can be a viable alternative for these businesses, eliminating the need for a traditional merchant account and reducing costs.

Zero Merchant Processing for Small Businesses

Small businesses, especially those with low transaction volumes, may benefit from zero fee merchant processing. This is because credit card processing fees can be a significant burden on small businesses, and eliminating these fees can help them save money and increase their profitability. Additionally, small businesses may find it easier to implement no fee merchant processing, as they may not have to change their existing payment processing systems or software.

Enterprise-Level Business

Large businesses with high transaction volumes may also benefit from zero fee merchant processing. These businesses can save significant money and improve profitability by eliminating credit card processing fees. However, these businesses may also face challenges when implementing no fee merchant processing, as they may have more complex payment processing systems and software.

Non-Profits

Non-profit organizations are another good fit for no fee merchant services. Some of the best ways to collect money for non-profits is by accepting credit cards. These organizations rely on donations from supporters to fund their operations, and processing fees can eat into those donations. By using a zero fee merchant services provider, non-profits can keep more of the donations they receive and put those funds toward their mission.

 

Other ways to Reduce Credit Card Fees

Credit card fees can quickly add up and eat into a business’s profits. While no fee merchant services are an excellent option for reducing credit card fees, there are other ways to reduce these fees.

Implementing a Cash Discount Program

Cash discounting is a great option if you’re in an area where surcharging is not allowed or want to avoid putting fees on your customers. It’s easy – offer the common card payment options (swipe, tap, insert EMV chip) and then let them pay cash for a lower price. If you don’t mind waiting for it to process, ACH payments could be available as well.

Negotiating with Payment Processors

Businesses can negotiate with payment processors to obtain lower credit card processing fees. Negotiating for a better merchant service may involve discussing the business’s transaction volumes, industry, and other factors affecting the processing fees.

Offering Alternative Payment Methods

Businesses can also offer alternative payment methods, such as PayPal, Venmo, or Apple Pay, to reduce their reliance on credit card transactions. These payment methods may have lower processing fees, making them a more cost-effective option for businesses.

Implementing Level 3 Processing

Level 3 processing is a type of processing that is available for certain types of transactions, such as B2B transactions. This type of processing provides more detailed information about the transaction, which can help to reduce fees. Implementing level 3 processing can be a good option for businesses that process many B2B transactions.

Use PIN Debit

PIN debit transactions typically have lower fees than signature debit or credit card transactions. Encouraging customers to use PIN debit can help to reduce credit card fees. You can also work with your processor to optimize your processing setup to prioritize PIN debit transactions over other transactions.

 

No Fee Merchant Processing FAQs

What is zero fee merchant processing?

Zero cost processing is a payment processing model where businesses add a surcharge or convenience fee to credit card transactions to eliminate credit card processing fees. This means businesses receive the full transaction amount without any processing fees deducted.

How do you avoid merchant fees?

Businesses can avoid merchant fees by implementing a zero fee merchant processing model or negotiating with payment processors to obtain lower processing fees. Additionally, businesses can offer alternative payment methods or implement a cash discount program to help reduce their reliance on credit card transactions.

What is a good merchant processing fee?

A good merchant processing fee varies depending on the business’s industry, transaction volumes, and other factors. However, businesses should aim to obtain the lowest processing fees possible to increase their profitability and reduce costs.

What is zero fee payment processing?

Free credit card processing refers to a payment processing model where businesses pay no merchant fees for credit card transactions. This is typically achieved by adding a surcharge or convenience fee to credit card transactions, which the customer pays.

What is a zero fee credit card?

A zero fee credit card is a type of credit card that does not charge any processing fees. Banks or processors typically offer these cards to businesses that process large transactions and qualify for lower transaction rates.

What is merchant credit card processing?

Merchant credit card processing is how businesses accept customer payments using credit cards. This typically involves working with a payment processor to obtain merchant accounts and setting up payment terminals for accepting card payments. Merchant credit card processing fees vary depending on the processor, industry, and other factors.

Final Words – SecureGlobalPay

Zero fee merchant processing can be an effective way for businesses to reduce their credit card processing fees and increase their profitability. However, businesses must carefully consider the legal and regulatory issues around no fee merchant processing and choose a reputable payment processing company to meet their needs. By implementing zero fee merchant processing or other cost-saving strategies, businesses can improve their financial stability and competitiveness in their respective industries.

At SecureGlobalPay, we understand how important it is for businesses to have reliable payment processing services that can help them reduce their costs and maximize their profits. That’s why we provide customers with the best merchant processing solutions, from zero fee merchant processing to cash discount programs.

SecureGlobalPay is committed to providing businesses with the best payment processing solutions. We offer various services, from zero fee merchant processing and cash discount programs to alternative payment methods. Contact us today to learn how we can help your business reduce costs and maximize profits.