Account
What is a merchant account?
A commercial relationship that lets your business settle card transactions into a business bank account. Overview: merchant accounts.
Do I need one if I only use a consumer payment app?
Many growing businesses outgrow personal apps. If you need business settlement, reporting, and underwriting-appropriate acceptance, talk through a merchant account path.
Gateway
Is a payment gateway the same as a merchant account?
No. A gateway moves authorization requests; a merchant account is the settling relationship. Many online and MO-TO merchants need both. See payment gateways.
Chargeback
What is a chargeback?
A cardholder (or issuer) dispute that can reverse a settled transaction. Prevention mixes clear descriptors, delivery proof, and sane refund policies. We discuss process on a quote call—no invented win-rate claims.
PCI
What is PCI for a small business?
Annual validation (often an SAQ), supported devices/software, and careful handling of cardholder data. Start with data security and payment security basics.
High-risk
What if underwriters call my business high-risk?
It usually means elevated chargeback, regulatory, or delivery risk—not a moral judgment. We explain documentation expectations without inventing approval rates. See high-risk merchant accounts.
Quote docs
What should I send for a quote?
Business basics, channels, volume/ticket estimates, and recent statements when available. Details: get a quote.
Why is there no street address or phone on this site?
Common questions
Can I email instead of the form?
Yes: growmybusiness+merchantservicesamerica@aimarketinggenius.io.
Do you publish rates here?
No. Rates without your mix would mislead. Use get a quote.
Where are equipment questions answered?
POS & terminals and services.
Where can I read educational guides?
Insights.
Who is Merchant Services America?
See about.