What is a merchant account?

A merchant account is a bank account created by agreement between your business and the banks we represent. That enables your business to accept credit card payments from your customers.

What is shopping cart technology?

Shopping cart technology converts an informational website into a sales center. You list products for sale on your website. We provide shopping cart technology that is user-friendly and is easy to build.

Why should I accept credit cards from my customers?

Because statistics show that accepting credit cards can increase sales up to 100 percent!

What credit cards will I be able to accept?

We will apply for your business to accept all major credit cards.

What is a discount rate?

Every bank charges a discount rate. The discount rate is the percentage of each transaction that the processing company charges to handle the transaction for you. Our discount rates are exceptionally low for retail merchants, mail order/telephone order (MOTO) and web-based merchants.

What is a per-transaction fee?

The per-transaction fee is a nominal amount charged on each transaction, which is associated with the processing of each transaction through the payment gateway and the merchant account.

What is a chargeback?

A chargeback occurs when a cardholder informs the credit card company that the charge was not authorized or that goods were not delivered as promised. If a customer alleges the goods or services paid for were not delivered, the merchant has seven days to produce evidence that the goods were received or that the cardholders’ account was credited.

What is a chargeback reserve?

In lieu of requesting an upfront security deposit for higher risk merchant types, APPS imposes a chargeback reserve, generally 5 percent, which is maintained in a rolling reserve account for the benefit of the merchant. Funds are released from this account after 180 days, first-in-first-out less any amounts charged back.

Do I need a bank account?

Yes. You will need a business banking account to which your funds can be transferred through ACH.

How long will APPS take to process my application?

From the time we receive your signed application, the approval process generally takes no more than three days. Once approved, we will immediately inform you of your acceptance and deliver the terminal equipment or software.

Will my business be able to purchase or lease the software and/or equipment I need?

Yes. We offer an optional warranty program on credit card processing equipment and software with a 24-hour replacement policy while you are processing with us. We offer immediate upgrades to our secure-online processing program—to make sure you are always processing credit card and other non-cash transactions with state-of the-art technology.

How is the lease payment determined?

The lease payment is based on the type of credit card terminal, printer, or software you choose and the length of your contract—12, 24, 36, or 48 months. Leasing is an attractive alternative when you want to preserve working capital, have a tax-deductible business expense, and a low down payment. At the end of the lease you may continue month-to-month, buy out the lease at fair market value, or terminate the lease.

What kind of businesses do you accept?

We accept retail, professional, Internet-based, trade shows, mail order, and telephone order businesses.

What if I have less than perfect credit?

Even with bad credit, you are likely to get approved.

Are there any monthly fees for accepting American Express or Discover Card?

Other than the discount rate and normal transaction charges, there are no additional monthly fees of any kind for accepting American Express or Discover Card.

Do I need a business license?

You need to have documentation showing you have registered your name—such as a business license, trade name registration, or dba certificate.

Is there a site inspection?

Yes. You will need to provide information for a physical location if you have a traditional business, or give us the URL for your website.

Will I receive a statement of activity?

Yes. A statement is mailed every month with information on all deposits into your account, your total sales volume, and the charges for the month. There is a nominal fee for this service. In addition, we can view all transactions online on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis.

How will I get my money?

Once the transaction has been approved, your customer’s charges are deposited directly from our credit card processor to your bank account. Transaction deposits range from 24-72 hours from the date of transaction.

What if I already have my own software or terminal?

If you already have your own credit card processing software or terminal, chances are very good that we have a program that will run with your existing terminal. A APPS representative will be happy to discuss your options with you.

What if my application is declined?

Our approval rates exceed 99%. It is unlikely you will be turned down.

Is there a customer-service phone number that I can call if I need help?

Yes. Customer Service may be reached at (800) 635-3545. Or, you can email a request to us by clicking the contact button.

How is APPS different from other payment processing services?

Every processing payment vehicle is available to you through APPS. That means making only ONE stop for all of your payment processing needs, whether you have a traditional retail storefront or Internet-based business.