Credit Card Processing

Are you curious about how payment processing works and what exactly happens when a customer swipes a card? When it comes to operating a business in the modern world, understanding everything you need to know about processing credit cards and other types of payments is vital.

Not sure where to start? Build a solid foundation by learning about merchant accounts, payment gateways, and virtual terminals.

If you’re thinking of working with a payment service provider, check out our article on its pros and cons, and the alternative that may work better for your business.

An important aspect to consider when shopping around for the lowest credit card processing fees includes interchange fees vs flat-rate pricing. Contrary to popular belief, flat-rate pricing may not always be the best choice for your business.

Most Recent Credit Card Processing Articles

HIPAA Compliant Payment Processing Guide & Best Practices

Healthcare practices often prioritize securing patient records and communications, but may underestimate the need for HIPAA compliance in their payment platforms. While payment processing is…

A doctor treating a patient who is paying for his treatment via HIPAA-compliant payment processing.

How to Accept Payments: Best Ways to Get Paid Online, In-Person & by Phone (2025)

From morning coffee runs to online checkouts and subscription services, customers expect frictionless payment experiences and will not hesitate to switch if they don’t get…

blue and orange credit cards used to accept payments, dollar signs on coins, and security shields with dollar signs on them against a black background

Alternative Payment Methods: The Ultimate Guide

According to the Baymard Institute, at least 10% of online shoppers abandon their carts because there aren't enough payment methods.[footnote]Baymard. “50 Cart Abandonment Rate Statistics 2025.” Accessed…

A hand typing on a payment terminal, with a device next to it offering alternative payment methods.

Soft Decline vs Hard Decline Credit Card in Sales: A Merchant Guide

A declined card payment can stall a sale in its tracks, chip away at your revenue, and leave a customer feeling frustrated. Whether you recover…

blue and orange credit cards rejected at the point of sale with codes showing if they're a soft decline vs. hard decline

Credit Card Surcharge Laws by State (2025): Legal Guide for Merchants

Every state has its own version of credit surcharge laws, which makes compliance challenging. To avoid fines and penalties, you need to understand these laws…

Blue and orange watercolor map of the United States representing credit card surcharge laws by state

SaaS Payment Processing Explained: Top Gateways, Setup Tips & Key Features

Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) companies operate differently from traditional retailers. Instead of selling a product once, they rely on customers paying repeatedly — monthly, quarterly, or yearly…

cloud-based SaaS payment processing services represented by blue and orange credit cards against a cloud surrounded by coins with dollar signs

What You Need to Know About Credit Card Processing APIs

In January of 2025, 65% of US adults reported using a digital wallet at least once in the past month.[footnote] Capital One Shopping Research. "Digital…

A credit card used in a credit card processing api.

Worldpay Review 2025: Features, Pricing, & More

Since its inception in 1989, WorldPay merchant services has established itself as a driving force in internet-based payments. Although it has since been acquired by…

Worldpay 80's internet payments

No-Fee Credit Card Processing: A Complete Business Guide

Every business owner who accepts card payments has to deal with processing fees at one point or another. However, an unwanted abundance of credit card…

customer paying with credit card at restaurant

Helcim Review 2025: Features, Pricing, Alternatives, and More

As far as merchant services providers go, Helcim merchant services offer fair and transparent pricing and include a lot of useful features. If you are…

A sleek, modern payment terminal with colorful buttons and a bright display, set against a vibrant background, symbolizing innovative payment processing.
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