Getting Set-up to Accept Credit, Debit and Check Cards

To accept credit cards, debit cards, check cards and gift cards, all you need is a relationship with a merchant transaction processing company (a.k.a. merchant services provider), and a means for collecting customer card information and submitting it to your processor.

First, identify which type of collection means is necessary for your business. To collect customer credit card information you can purchase, lease, rent and sometimes obtain a loaned terminal at no charge. A credit card terminal is the little machine in which a credit card is "swiped" at the point of sale. It can be a stand-alone machine or connected to your computer or cash register.

If your sales are made over the phone or via mail, you will simply need software that allows the information to be entered manually or a phone number to call to submit the information to your processor.

If you take orders via your website you need your processor or website design company to provide the secure gateway allowing customers to enter their own data. For tips on locating an ideal processor for you, see "Finding the Ideal Merchant Credit Card Processor" above.