What makes Signature different?

You've decided to accept credit cards for your business, did a little research, and are now perhaps a little confused by all the "we are the best, we are the cheapest" claims.

At Signature we want to make this choice simple for you. Compare us to the others and you'll discover that we're driven to providing you with an exceptional service at a fair price. Our knowledge of helping businesses such as MO/TO, Retail, Internet, Home-based, Start-ups and Ecash obtain merchant accounts is unparalleled, which means a stress-free experience for you. We'll give you proven strategies and business specific expertise to help you become a profitable merchant.

What sets Signature apart from everyone else is our experience, dedicated customer service and online reporting. Imagine being able to view your accounts' activity online, everyday. Our reporting allows you to reconcile your account, look-up an individual's credit card history with you, reduce time spent on chargebacks, or see when funds will be deposited into your account. This is available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at no cost. Our current merchants rave about our reporting and how it helps them streamline and control costs for their business.

I am a new merchant? How can Signature help me to start growing?

Due to our years of experience in assisting new businesses, we offer sensible advice about what to expect when you decide to start accepting credit cards. No question that you need to accept credit cards to increase your business, but be aware of some processors out there who charge high application and discount fees, offer leasing with no cancellation terms, or sign you up for services that you just don't need. There are literally hundreds of Web sites out there selling you unnecessary services that you just don't need.

To help you grow from the start, we'll educate you on how to handle credits and chargebacks if you happen to find yourself with an unsatisfied customer. We'll set you up with access to our online reporting system that will help you save time and money for your business. In turn, Signature is here to help you understand how fast, easy and profitable it can be to accept credit cards.

I already have a merchant account. What can Signature offer me?

Beyond our years of experience and dedication to customer service, two things: Signal, our unparalleled online reporting and Tricash, a reliable transaction processing software.

What exactly is a Merchant Account?

If you want to accept credit cards, whether you are doing business on-line or have a physical store, you will need to obtain a merchant account. A merchant account enables merchants to accept and process credit card transactions. In other words, it handles transferring the funds from the shopper's credit card to the merchant's bank account.

Why can't I just establish a Merchant Account through my current local bank?

That's a great idea. However, you'll probably discover that when it comes to smaller businesses, especially ones that are startups, home based or online, the vast majority of the banking establishment would prefer not to have these types of customers. They see too much risk involved. At Signature we are eager to help you and, more importantly, we are able to help you. We specialize in placing these types of smaller and non-traditional businesses with banks that will provide them with Merchant Accounts for credit card transaction processing.

Will I have to open a separate business checking account for these funds?

Absolutely not. Using ACH, Signature can automatically deposit your funds into any existing business checking account at any U.S.-based bank. You just tell us where you want it.

How do I apply?

Complete the entire Signature application package and submit it with all of the collateral material requested and the application fee. That's it. We'll complete the underwriting process and let you know as soon as you have been approved.

Why is there an application fee?

Unlike other companies offering merchant accounts, we handle the complete underwriting and administrative process for your individual account. There is no outsourcing or "shopping" your account around to various banks or organizations. We request a small fee for this service in order to cover the expenses involved when setting up a merchant account. In return, this assures you an immediate response and the comfort of knowing that your account will be monitored and handled by us, and only by us. Of course, we will completely refund your application fee if you are unsatisfied with the service you receive or if your application is declined.

How long does it take to complete the application process and get going?

We'll let you know within 1-2 business days if you have been approved for a Merchant Account. As soon as you are approved, you can begin taking credit card payments.

Will it be a big problem if my credit rating is less than perfect?

Relax. It will be no problem at all. This is one of our specialties. We have been able to get all types of merchants with all sorts of credit problems, even bankruptcies, set up with Merchant Accounts — without ANY extra hassles, ridiculous stipulations and conditions, or additional fees.

What happens if my request for a Merchant Account is turned down?

If we exhaust every option at our disposal and still can't get your business placed with a Merchant Bank, we will refund your entire application fee. But bear in mind that we are able to place over 95% of the merchants who come to us seeking our services with an appropriate bank.

Once approved, what special software am I going need and how can I get it?

There is no need to purchase or lease any expensive or complicated software. We provide a simple and affordable transaction processing method that works in conjunction with your merchant account.

Will I have to sign an expensive, long-term lease to get the necessary equipment?

NO! Let us re-emphasize that. NO! This is one of the biggest misconceptions among merchants regarding credit card transaction processing and the equipment required to do so.

Once I run a charge, how long does it take for the money to show up in my business checking account?

Generally no longer than 3 days.

What is a discount rate and how much will it cut into my sales?

Discount rates are based on the type of business you are operating, the principal's credit rating, and length of business. The discount rate is the combined fee the merchant bank/processor/credit card company charge for handling credit card transactions. The rate can be as low as 2%, but can exceed 4% for risky businesses.

What is a monthly minimum?

What are chargebacks and how will they affect my business?

A chargeback occurs when a consumer tells their credit card company that they did not authorize a purchase item appearing on their account statement.

What if I'm uncertain about something or experiencing problems and need to speak with someone?

In your acceptance packet, we provide you with a toll free customer service number you can call any time you need assistance.

What is AVS?

AVS stands for Address Verification System, and is exactly what it sounds like. In order to reduce the risk of fraudulent transactions and/or chargebacks, a credit card billing address is requested with any charge and verified before authorization is given for the transaction.

What is an electronic check?

How would I benefit from having electronic check acceptance capabilities?