Frequently Asked Questions
 
 

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Authorize.Net FAQ

Who is Authorize.Net?

Authorize.Net is the largest payment gateway in the world, and the most secure. Authorize.Net is the credit card processing engine behind more websites than any other gateway.

What cards does Authorize.Net process?

Authorize.Net has the ability to process Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, Diners Club, and JCB.

How long does each transaction take?

Authorize.Net takes the order, in real time, and sends it to the processing bank where your merchant account resides. The processing bank then responds with the results of the transaction (accepted, denied, etc.). The entire process usually takes 1 - 2 seconds. 

Merchant Account FAQ

What kind of businesses do you accept?

We accept retail, professionals, trade shows, mail order, telephone order, Internet based, and home based businesses. Sorry, we don't accept adult related businesses.

What if I have less than perfect credit?

Our approval rate is 98%, so even if you have bad credit you are likely to get approved. If you do happen to get declined, we will gladly return the application fee, so you have nothing to lose.

What credit cards will I be able to accept?

We set up you so that you can accept Mastercard and Visa. You can apply for American Express and Discover at the same time. 
 

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

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

Do I need a business license?

You should have documentation showing you have registered your name -- such as a business license, trade name registration, dba certificate, etc., but other documents will also suffice.

Is there a site inspection?

No, site inspections are not required any of our merchant accounts.

What is the discount rate?

The discount rate is the percentage of each transaction that is kept by the processing bank. For example, if your discount rate is 2.39%, and you process a $100 transaction, the bank will keep $2.39 and you will be paid $97.61.

What is the Address Verification System?

If you sell mail order/telephone order, or through the Internet, you don't want to send a product to a false address and have a risk of receiving a chargeback. The Address Verification System (AVS) lets you enter the customer's home address and compares it to the address on file with their credit card company. If someone uses a stolen card, and wants products shipped to a false address, AVS will detect this for you.

Will I receive a statement?

Yes. A statement is mailed out every month with the information on all deposits into your account, your total sales volume, and the charges for the month.

How will I get my money?

Your money will be deposited directly into your current business checking account. Most funds are available within 48 hours.

How long does the approval process take?

The approval process takes anywhere from 48 hours to 5 business days, depending on your business type and other info on your application. To get started now, please fill out our online application.

What if my application is declined?

There is a 98% acceptance rate. It is unlikely that you will be turned down. However, if you are declined for any reason you will not be charged anything.

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

Yes! You will have live, toll-free merchant assistance available to you 24 hours per day, 7 days a week, 365 days per year.