8 Best CBD Payment Processors for High-Risk Sales

You pour so much into your CBD business—sourcing the best ingredients, designing beautiful packaging, and creating a brand that people trust. But all that hard work rests on a single, critical foundation: your ability to accept payments reliably. Choosing a payment processor is one of the most impactful decisions you’ll make, yet many entrepreneurs treat it as an afterthought. In the CBD space, you can’t just pick the first option you find. Mainstream providers often don’t understand the industry’s complexities, leading to instability. This is where specialized CBD payment processors come in. They are designed to handle the specific compliance and risk factors of your business. In this article, we’ll break down exactly what to look for so you can build your brand on solid ground.

Key Takeaways

Partner with a high-risk specialist for stability: Mainstream processors view the CBD industry as a liability, which often leads to frozen funds and sudden account closures. A specialized provider understands the complex regulatory landscape and is built to support your business for the long haul.
Evaluate processors on foundational tools, not just rates: The best partner offers more than a low transaction fee. Prioritize essential features like robust security, seamless integration with your e-commerce platform, and a proactive chargeback protection plan to safeguard your revenue.
Take an active role in compliance and risk management: Your processor is a partner, but protecting your business is your responsibility. Maintain meticulous documentation, follow all marketing guidelines, and actively monitor your account to prevent fraud and maintain a healthy merchant relationship.

Why Your CBD Business Needs a Specialized Payment Processor

Running a CBD business comes with its own unique set of challenges, and one of the biggest hurdles is figuring out how to accept payments smoothly and reliably. While you’re focused on creating great products and building a loyal customer base, the wrong payment setup can stop your business in its tracks. Standard payment processors often get nervous about the CBD industry, which can lead to frozen funds or sudden account closures. This is where a specialized payment processor comes in. They understand the landscape and are built to handle the specific needs of businesses like yours, ensuring you can keep your sales flowing without interruption.

What Makes the CBD Industry “High-Risk”?

The term “high-risk” can sound a little scary, but it doesn’t mean your business is doing anything wrong. Payment processors use this label for industries that have a greater potential for chargebacks or operate in a complex regulatory environment. For CBD, the issue stems from the fact that laws are still evolving. Even though hemp-derived CBD is federally legal, the rules from the FDA are still developing, which makes traditional banks and payment companies cautious. This uncertainty, combined with a higher-than-average rate of customer disputes, is why the industry gets flagged as high-risk.

The Payment Hurdles Every CBD Brand Faces

Because of the high-risk label, many mainstream payment processors simply won’t work with CBD companies. You might get approved initially, only to have your account shut down weeks or months later with little warning. This leaves you scrambling to find a new solution while sales come to a halt and customer trust is damaged. Finding a reliable partner is a major challenge, as many standard providers aren’t equipped to handle the compliance and risk management required for CBD sales. This is why you can’t just sign up for the first processor you find; you need one that explicitly and knowingly supports CBD businesses.

How Payment Problems Can Stall Your Growth

Consistent payment processing is the engine of your e-commerce business. Without it, you can’t grow. If your account is frozen, you can’t accept new orders, process refunds, or pay your suppliers. Beyond the immediate loss of revenue, frequent disruptions can seriously harm your brand’s reputation. Furthermore, CBD businesses often deal with more chargebacks. A specialized processor provides essential chargeback protection systems to help you manage disputes and minimize financial losses. Securing a stable, long-term payment solution isn’t just about convenience—it’s a foundational step for building a sustainable and scalable CBD brand.

Our Top Picks for CBD Payment Processors

Finding the right payment processor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your CBD business. The ideal partner won’t just handle your transactions; they’ll provide the stability and support you need to grow in a complex industry. Because every business has unique needs, there’s no single “best” choice for everyone. Some processors excel at helping new businesses get approved quickly, while others are built to handle high sales volumes for established brands.

To help you find the perfect fit, we’ve put together a list of the top payment processors that specialize in serving the CBD industry. We looked at their features, reputation, and how well they address the specific challenges CBD merchants face, from compliance to chargeback management. Think of this as your starting point for comparing options and identifying a processor that aligns with your business goals, operational needs, and budget.

Borderfree Payments

At Borderfree Payments, we specialize in providing secure and reliable payment solutions for businesses in high-risk industries just like yours. We built our platform from the ground up to address the unique hurdles CBD merchants face. Our approach is centered on creating a customized payment infrastructure that not only gets you approved but also keeps your account stable for the long haul. With robust fraud prevention tools, multi-currency support for global sales, and expert guidance on regulatory compliance, we act as a true partner in your growth. Our mission is to remove the payment barriers that hold you back, so you can focus on building your brand with confidence.

PaymentCloud

PaymentCloud has earned a strong reputation for its focus on high-risk businesses, making it a go-to option for many CBD sellers. They understand that the industry is constantly changing and make it a point to help merchants keep up with new laws and compliance standards. Their team is skilled at integrating with popular e-commerce platforms, ensuring you can connect your online store and start accepting payments smoothly. By specializing in industries that traditional processors often turn away, PaymentCloud has developed the expertise needed to provide stable and reliable merchant accounts for CBD brands.

Square

For businesses that operate both online and in-person, Square offers a versatile and user-friendly solution. They have a dedicated program for CBD businesses that allows you to accept payments through your website, retail store, or mobile app. One of Square’s biggest draws is its transparent pricing. They offer a clear fee structure without long-term contracts or hidden monthly charges, which is a refreshing change for many merchants. This straightforward approach makes it easier to manage your budget and predict your processing costs as your business grows.

Easy Pay Direct

With years of experience in the high-risk space, Easy Pay Direct is well-equipped to handle the needs of growing CBD companies. They are particularly known for their ability to support businesses with high sales volumes, making them a scalable option as your revenue increases. A key benefit they offer is the absence of early termination fees, giving you more flexibility and control over your payment partnerships. This shows confidence in their service and provides peace of mind for merchants who are wary of getting locked into long, restrictive contracts.

PayKings

PayKings stands out by leveraging its extensive network of acquiring banks. This is a major advantage for CBD businesses, as working with multiple banking partners significantly increases the chances of getting approved for a merchant account. They even offer a “fast approval” program tailored specifically for CBD oil sellers, which can help you get your business up and running more quickly. Their focus on building strong banking relationships behind the scenes provides a more stable foundation for your payment processing, reducing the risk of sudden account holds or closures.

eMerchant Broker

Chargebacks are a common headache in the CBD industry, and eMerchant Broker (EMB) tackles this problem head-on. They understand that chargebacks are a significant risk for CBD merchants and have developed tools to help you protect your revenue. EMB offers a chargeback alert system designed to notify you of disputes before they escalate, giving you a chance to resolve the issue directly with the customer. This proactive approach to chargeback prevention can save you time, money, and help you maintain a healthy merchant account.

PayWize

PayWize is another processor that specializes in providing merchant accounts for high-risk industries, including CBD. They focus on creating stable, long-term processing solutions by connecting businesses with acquiring banks that are comfortable with the industry’s regulatory landscape. Like other top-tier processors, PayWize offers robust chargeback protection and fraud prevention tools to help safeguard your transactions. Their expertise in navigating the complexities of high-risk payments makes them a solid contender for CBD businesses looking for a reliable and secure partner to support their operations.

Cryptocurrency Payment Options

For some CBD businesses, accepting cryptocurrency can be a viable alternative to traditional payment processing. Because crypto operates on a decentralized network, it isn’t subject to the same regulations and restrictions imposed by banks and card networks. This can lead to lower transaction fees and eliminates the risk of a processor shutting down your account. However, this option comes with its own challenges, including price volatility and a steeper learning curve for your customers. While not a mainstream solution, it’s an avenue worth exploring if you’re looking for a way to diversify your payment methods.

Key Features Your Payment Processor Must Have

Choosing a payment processor for your CBD business isn’t just about finding someone who will work with you—it’s about finding a partner who sets you up for success. The right processor provides more than just a way to accept credit cards; they offer a suite of tools designed to protect your business, streamline your operations, and help you grow. As you compare your options, think of it like building a house. You need a solid foundation before you can even think about decorating. These key features are your foundation. Overlooking any one of them can lead to major headaches down the road, from lost sales to suspended accounts. Let’s walk through the non-negotiables your payment processor absolutely must have.

Robust Security and Fraud Prevention

In the high-risk world, security isn’t just a feature; it’s everything. You’re handling sensitive customer data and are a prime target for fraudulent activity. Your processor must provide top-tier security measures to protect both you and your customers. This includes ensuring your business is PCI compliant, which is the industry standard for protecting card data. A great processor handles this for you, so you don’t have to get lost in the technical details. They should also offer advanced fraud prevention tools that can spot and block suspicious transactions before they become a problem, saving you from potential losses and chargebacks.

Support for Multiple Currencies

If you have ambitions to sell beyond your home country, you need a processor that can think globally. Accepting payments in multiple currencies is essential for creating a smooth checkout experience for international customers. When shoppers can see prices and pay in their local currency, they’re more likely to trust your store and complete their purchase. This feature removes a significant barrier to entry for global expansion, allowing you to tap into new markets without the complexities of managing international bank accounts. It’s a critical tool for scaling your CBD brand and building a worldwide presence.

Seamless E-commerce Integrations

Your payment processor should feel like a natural extension of your online store, not a clunky add-on. Before you commit, confirm that the processor integrates smoothly with your e-commerce platform, whether you use Shopify, BigCommerce, or WooCommerce. A seamless integration means an easier setup for you and a more reliable checkout process for your customers. The last thing you want is to deal with technical glitches, broken payment gateways, or having to switch your entire online store just to accept payments. The right partner makes this part easy, often with simple plugins or apps.

A Solid Chargeback Protection Plan

Chargebacks are a painful reality for any business, but they are especially common in high-risk industries. A good payment processor doesn’t just process transactions; they help you defend against disputes. Look for a provider that offers a robust chargeback protection plan. Some processors have alert systems that notify you of a potential dispute before it becomes a full-blown chargeback, giving you a chance to resolve the issue with the customer directly by offering a refund. This proactive approach can save you a significant amount of money in fees and help protect your merchant account from being shut down.

Reliable and Accessible Customer Support

When a payment issue arises, you can’t afford to wait days for a response. Your business depends on reliable and accessible customer support. Look for a processor that has a reputation for being there when you need them, ideally with support available around the clock. A strong team can help you quickly address disputes, manage fraud alerts, and answer any technical questions that come up. Test their support before you sign up. A responsive and knowledgeable team is a clear sign that you’re working with a processor who values your business.

Mobile Payment Options for Your Customers

Your customers are shopping on their phones, and your payment process should reflect that. Whether you’re selling online, in a physical store, or at a weekend market, offering flexible payment options is key. A modern processor will support a variety of mobile payment solutions, from mobile-optimized online checkouts to physical card readers that connect to your phone or tablet. This flexibility ensures you never miss a sale, no matter where you’re doing business. It provides the convenience customers expect and positions your brand as current and easy to shop with.

Easy Recurring Billing and Subscriptions

Want to build a predictable, recurring revenue stream? A subscription model is a fantastic way to do it, and your payment processor should make it simple to manage. Look for a provider that offers easy-to-use tools for recurring billing. This allows you to automatically charge customers for their monthly or quarterly CBD supply without any manual effort. Some processors even integrate with buy now, pay later services, giving customers more flexibility while you still get paid in full upfront. This feature is a powerful tool for increasing customer lifetime value and creating a loyal following.

A Clear Guide to Payment Processing Costs

Let’s talk about one of the trickiest parts of running a business: payment processing costs. It’s easy to get lost in the jargon and fine print, but getting a handle on these fees is crucial for your financial health. The truth is, costs can vary wildly between processors, and what seems like a bargain on the surface might be hiding charges that chip away at your hard-earned revenue. This is especially true in high-risk industries like CBD, where pricing structures can be more complex due to the perceived risk. My goal here is to give you a clear, straightforward guide to the different fees you’ll encounter. We’ll break down everything from transaction rates to those sneaky hidden costs, so you can compare your options with total confidence. Think of this as your cheat sheet for asking the right questions and finding a payment partner that genuinely supports your growth.

How Transaction Fees Work

First up is the transaction fee, which you’ll pay on every sale you make. It’s usually a combination of a percentage and a small fixed amount—for example, a processor might charge 3.8% plus 30 cents for each online purchase. Because the CBD industry is considered high-risk, you can expect these rates to be a bit higher than standard retail. It’s tempting to just hunt for the lowest percentage, but please don’t stop there. A low transaction rate can sometimes be a smokescreen for higher monthly fees or other charges. Always look at the full picture to understand what you’ll really be paying.

What to Expect for Monthly Fees

Next, you’ll want to look at monthly fees. Some processors charge a flat fee each month for things like account maintenance or gateway access. Others, like Square, have no monthly fees, which can be great when you’re starting out or if your sales are unpredictable. But here’s the trade-off: sometimes, paying a predictable monthly fee can unlock lower per-transaction rates. If you have a steady, high volume of sales, this model could actually save you money in the long run. It’s all about doing the math and finding the structure that works best for your specific business.

One-Time Setup and Integration Costs

Getting your new payment processor up and running can sometimes come with one-time costs for setup or integration. A setup fee is just what it sounds like—a charge for opening your account. An integration fee covers the tech side of connecting the processor to your website. The best way to keep these costs low is to choose a processor that can easily work with your current online store platform, like Shopify or BigCommerce. A partner that offers a seamless integration will save you a ton of time, money, and the headache of a major website overhaul.

Watch Out for These Hidden Fees

Okay, this is where you need to put on your detective hat. Some processors advertise attractive rates but tuck other mandatory charges away in the fine print. Always ask for a complete fee schedule and read your contract from top to bottom. Keep an eye out for statement fees, PCI compliance fees, and early termination fees if you decide to switch providers. You should also get a clear answer on the cost of chargebacks, since these can be more frequent and costly in high-risk industries. A transparent partner will be upfront about every potential cost, so don’t be shy about asking direct questions.

Ask About Volume-Based Discounts

As your business grows, your processing costs should have the potential to shrink. Many processors offer better rates once you hit a certain sales volume—for example, you might qualify for custom pricing after you pass $250,000 in annual sales. But don’t wait for them to offer it to you. Be proactive and ask about volume-based discounts right from the start. Knowing these thresholds can be a great motivator and helps you plan your finances for the future. If a processor isn’t willing to discuss a path to lower rates as you grow, they might not be the best long-term partner for your brand.

How to Stay Compliant

Operating a CBD business means keeping compliance at the top of your priority list. While the rules can seem complicated, think of them as a roadmap to building a stable and trustworthy brand. Getting your compliance in order from day one is the best way to secure a reliable payment processing partner and protect your business for the long haul. Let’s walk through the key areas you need to focus on to keep your operations running smoothly.

Know the Federal and State Rules

The legal landscape for CBD is a patchwork of federal and state regulations, which is a big reason why payment processors consider the industry “high-risk.” While the 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp-derived CBD at the federal level, each state has its own set of rules for how CBD products can be produced, sold, and marketed. It’s your responsibility to understand and follow the laws not only in your home state but also in any state you ship to. Staying informed on these changing regulations is crucial for avoiding legal trouble and maintaining a good relationship with your payment processor.

What Banks Will Require from You

Don’t be surprised if some banks are hesitant to work with you. Due to the legal complexities, many financial institutions are still cautious about serving CBD businesses. When you’re looking for a bank, be upfront about the nature of your business. The best approach is to find CBD-friendly banks that have established policies for the industry. A specialized high-risk payment processor can be a huge help here, as they often have existing relationships with banks that understand and welcome CBD merchants, making the entire process much simpler for you.

Get Your Documentation in Order

Before you can get approved by a payment processor, you’ll need to have your paperwork ready. Think of it as your business’s resume. You’ll need standard documents like your business license and bank statements, but for CBD, you need more. Be prepared to provide a detailed description of your products, your fulfillment and refund policies, and most importantly, a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for every item you sell. This lab report is non-negotiable, as it proves your products contain 0.3% THC or less, showing processors you’re a legitimate and compliant operator.

Understand Common Product Restrictions

Your payment processor will have its own set of rules you need to follow, and they almost always center on your products and how you talk about them. The most critical rule is ensuring every product is derived from hemp and contains no more than 0.3% THC. Just as important is avoiding any unproven medical claims. The FDA has clear guidelines on this. You cannot market your CBD products as a treatment or cure for any health condition. Violating these rules is the quickest way to get your merchant account shut down.

Follow the Marketing Guidelines

Your compliance efforts must extend to all of your marketing channels, including your website, social media, and advertisements. Processors will review your marketing materials to ensure you aren’t making prohibited health claims or misrepresenting your products. A clean, transparent marketing strategy shows processors that you are a responsible business owner. This not only helps you get approved but also builds trust with customers and reduces the likelihood of issues like chargeback disputes. Consistently compliant marketing is a sign of a healthy, low-risk business, which is exactly what payment partners want to see.

Simple Ways to Protect Your Business

Choosing the right payment processor is a huge first step, but your work doesn’t end there. Staying on top of your account and adopting smart habits is the key to protecting your revenue and maintaining a healthy relationship with your provider. Think of it as financial self-care for your business. By being proactive, you can spot potential issues before they become major problems, keeping your cash flow steady and your business secure. These simple practices will help you safeguard your hard-earned success and build a resilient CBD brand for the long haul.

Implement Fraud Prevention Best Practices

Fraud is an unfortunate reality for any online business, and the risk can be higher in the CBD space. Your best defense is a good offense. While a great payment processor will come equipped with built-in security, you can take extra steps to protect yourself. Start by enabling standard security measures like Address Verification System (AVS) and requiring the CVV code for every transaction.

Many platforms also allow you to set up custom fraud filters. For example, you can flag or block transactions from certain high-risk countries or get an alert for orders that are significantly larger than your average purchase. Taking the time to configure these settings gives you an essential layer of security. A solid fraud prevention strategy not only saves you money but also shows your processor that you’re a responsible merchant, which is always a good thing.

Manage Chargebacks Proactively

Chargebacks can be a nightmare for CBD businesses. They come with hefty fees and, if you get too many, can put your entire merchant account at risk. The best way to handle them is to prevent them from happening in the first place. Start with crystal-clear communication. Make sure your shipping and return policies are easy to find on your website, and provide top-notch customer service to resolve complaints before a customer feels the need to dispute a charge with their bank.

Some processors offer chargeback alert systems that notify you of a pending dispute, giving you a window to issue a refund and avoid the chargeback entirely. Ask any potential processor if they offer this service. Keeping detailed records of every order, shipment, and customer interaction is also crucial. This documentation will be your best friend if you need to fight an illegitimate chargeback and prove that the transaction was valid.

Monitor Your Account for Red Flags

Don’t just set up your payment processing and forget about it. Make it a weekly habit to log into your merchant account dashboard and review your activity. You’re looking for anything out of the ordinary that could signal trouble. Keep an eye out for sudden spikes in your sales volume, an unusual number of declined transactions, or a cluster of orders from the same IP address.

These aren’t always signs of fraud, but they are worth investigating. This is also where having a responsive customer support team comes in handy. If you spot something that doesn’t look right, you need to be able to get in touch with your processor quickly to get answers. Staying vigilant allows you to catch potential issues early, whether it’s a technical glitch or a fraudulent attack, before they can seriously impact your business.

Work Within Your Transaction Limits

When you first open a high-risk merchant account, your processor will likely set a monthly processing volume limit. It’s incredibly important that you know what this limit is and make every effort to stay within it. Consistently exceeding your cap without approval can trigger an account review or even a freeze on your funds, as it can be seen as a sign of unpredictable business activity.

The good news is that these limits aren’t set in stone. As your business grows and you establish a track record of stable sales and low chargeback rates, you can often negotiate for higher limits. If you’re planning a big promotion or expect a seasonal sales rush, be proactive and communicate with your processor ahead of time. They can often grant a temporary increase to accommodate your growth, which helps build a trusting and transparent relationship.

Use Tools to Assess and Reduce Risk

Ultimately, the best way to protect your business is to partner with a processor that understands the unique challenges of the CBD industry. Look for a provider that offers a robust suite of risk management tools designed specifically for high-risk merchants. This goes beyond basic payment acceptance and includes advanced fraud filters, chargeback mitigation programs, and detailed analytics that give you insight into your transaction patterns.

When vetting processors, ask them directly about the tools they provide to help you assess and reduce risk. A true partner, like Borderfree Payments, won’t just give you the keys to the car; they’ll show you how to use the seatbelt, airbags, and anti-lock brakes. Leveraging these specialized tools is one of the smartest investments you can make in the long-term health and stability of your business.

How to Make Your Final Decision

Choosing a payment processor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your CBD business. This isn’t just about finding someone to handle transactions; it’s about finding a long-term partner who will support your growth and help you operate smoothly. Once you’ve narrowed down your list to a few top contenders, it’s time to dig into the details to see which one is the right fit. A little extra diligence now can save you from major headaches later. By systematically comparing your options based on your specific needs, costs, and the fine print, you can make a choice with confidence.

Evaluate Your Specific Business Needs

Before you can pick the right partner, you need a clear picture of what your business requires. Start by thinking about your sales channels. Do you sell exclusively online, in a physical store, or both? Your processor must support all the ways you make money. Consider your sales volume and average transaction size, as some processors have better rate structures for different business scales. Most importantly, you need a processor that works with your existing setup. If you’ve built your store on a platform like Shopify or WooCommerce, you need a partner with a proven, reliable e-commerce integration to ensure a smooth checkout experience for your customers.

Compare Rates and Fees Side-by-Side

Don’t let a low advertised rate fool you. The best way to understand the true cost is to compare all potential fees side-by-side. Ask each processor for a complete fee schedule. Look beyond the basic transaction percentage and check for monthly account fees, statement fees, compliance fees, and any charges for using a payment gateway or terminal. Pay special attention to chargeback fees, as these can be steep in the CBD industry. Creating a simple spreadsheet to compare these costs can reveal which processor offers the most value. Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best if it comes with poor service or a mountain of hidden fees.

Confirm It Integrates with Your Tools

Your payment processor should fit into your existing workflow, not force you to change it. A seamless integration with your e-commerce platform is non-negotiable. If the processor doesn’t easily connect with your online store, you could face lost sales from a clunky checkout process or spend unnecessary time and money on custom development work. Before committing, ask for specifics on how their technology works with your shopping cart. Do they offer a simple plugin or a more complex API? A processor that offers a straightforward, plug-and-play integration will get you up and running faster and with fewer technical issues down the road.

Read the Fine Print in Your Contract

I know, nobody loves reading legal documents, but this step is crucial for protecting your business. Pay close attention to the contract length. Many processors try to lock you into long-term agreements, but a month-to-month contract gives you more flexibility if your needs change. Look for the cancellation policy and any associated early termination fees (ETFs), which can cost you hundreds or even thousands of dollars if you decide to switch. Understanding these contract terms upfront ensures you won’t be caught by surprise. A transparent partner will have clear, easy-to-understand terms without locking you into an inescapable deal.

Test Their Customer Support

In a high-risk industry, you can’t afford to wait days for an answer when a problem arises. Excellent customer support is a must-have. Before you sign anything, test their support team. Call their service line with a few questions about their setup process or fee structure. Are they easy to reach? Is the representative knowledgeable and helpful? Given the complexities of selling CBD, you need a support team that can provide clear guidance on everything from technical glitches to chargeback disputes. A processor that invests in quality, accessible support is a processor that values its merchants’ success.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why can’t I just use a standard processor like Stripe or PayPal for my CBD sales? While it might seem like the easiest route, mainstream processors explicitly prohibit the sale of CBD products in their terms of service. You might get approved for a short time, but their internal systems will eventually flag your account. When that happens, they can freeze your funds and shut you down without warning, leaving you unable to do business. It’s not a risk worth taking. A specialized processor underwrites your business from the start, fully aware of what you sell, which provides the stability you need.

What’s the first thing I should do to prepare before applying for a merchant account? Before you even start shopping for rates, get your paperwork in order. The most important documents you’ll need are up-to-date Certificates of Analysis (COAs) for every single product you sell. These lab reports prove your products are hemp-derived and meet the legal THC limit. Having these ready, along with your business license and clear website policies, shows processors that you are a professional and compliant operator, which will make your approval process much faster and smoother.

How can I protect my business from getting too many chargebacks? The best strategy is to be proactive. Start by making sure your shipping, return, and refund policies are incredibly clear and easy for customers to find on your website. Excellent, responsive customer service can also resolve many issues before a customer even thinks about calling their bank. When comparing processors, ask if they offer a chargeback alert system. These services can notify you of a potential dispute, giving you a chance to issue a refund and avoid the costly chargeback fee and penalty.

Is it possible to lower my processing fees over time? Yes, it’s definitely possible. As your business grows and you build a solid history of steady sales and a low chargeback rate, you become a more attractive client. Many processors offer volume-based discounts or are willing to renegotiate your rates once you hit certain monthly or annual sales milestones. When you’re first signing up, ask potential partners what their thresholds are for custom pricing. This gives you a clear goal to work toward and ensures you’re with a processor that’s invested in your long-term growth.

If I’m fully compliant, is there still a risk my account could be shut down? Working with a specialized processor dramatically reduces this risk, but it’s never completely zero because the banking and regulatory rules for CBD can change. This is precisely why your choice of processor is so critical. A true high-risk partner stays on top of industry regulations and maintains relationships with multiple acquiring banks. If one banking partner changes its policies, your processor can move your account to another, providing a crucial safety net that protects your ability to accept payments.

Top 7 CBD Payment Processors for Secure & Compliant Sales