How to Get an Int'l High-Risk Merchant Account Fast

Your business has global potential, but reaching customers around the world requires a payment infrastructure that can handle the complexity. Standard merchant accounts often fall short, unable to manage the risks associated with cross-border transactions or specific high-risk industries. This is where a specialized account becomes essential. It’s the tool that allows you to accept payments in multiple currencies securely and reliably. This guide will walk you through the entire journey, from assessing your business’s risk profile to choosing the right global partner. We’ll show you exactly how to get an international high risk merchant account to build a seamless checkout experience for every customer, no matter where they are.

Key Takeaways

Build a Strong Application with Full Transparency: Present a complete and honest picture of your business from the start. Organizing your financial documents and being upfront about your processing history shows processors you’re a reliable partner and helps speed up the approval process.
Choose a Partner, Not Just a Processor: Look beyond transaction rates to find a provider that specializes in your high-risk industry. The right partner provides essential fraud prevention tools, a clear fee structure, and the multi-currency support needed to protect your revenue as you grow.
Protect Your Account with Proactive Management: Keeping your account in good standing is an ongoing effort. Actively monitor your chargeback ratio, maintain security compliance like PCI DSS, and focus on excellent customer service to prevent disputes and ensure long-term stability.

What Is an International High-Risk Merchant Account?

If you operate in an industry that traditional banks consider risky, you’ve probably heard the term “high-risk merchant account.” So, what exactly is it? Think of it as a specialized bank account designed for businesses that have a higher likelihood of facing issues like customer disputes (also known as chargebacks) or fraud. This label isn’t a judgment on your business practices; it’s often assigned based on your industry, your financial history, or even your sales model—like selling high-ticket items or processing payments online where a credit card isn’t physically present. An international high-risk account takes this a step further, allowing you to accept payments from customers around the globe.

Key Features and Benefits

The main benefit of a high-risk merchant account is simple: it allows your business to accept credit and debit card payments when you otherwise couldn’t. This opens your doors to a much wider customer base. For businesses with global ambitions, these accounts are essential, as many come with multi-currency support to handle international transactions smoothly. They also typically include robust fraud protection tools to help secure your revenue. The trade-off is that these accounts often come with higher fees and stricter terms, which is how payment processors balance the additional risk they take on by partnering with you.

Which Industries Are Considered High-Risk?

So, how do you know if your business falls into the high-risk category? While every processor has its own criteria, certain industries are almost always considered high-risk. This includes sectors like travel and tourism, online gambling, pharmaceuticals, and subscription services. Other common examples are businesses that sell CBD, e-cigarettes, adult products, supplements, or offer services like credit repair and telemarketing. If your business operates in one of these or a similar field, you’ll likely need a specialized payment solution designed to handle the unique challenges of your industry.

High-Risk vs. Standard Accounts: What’s the Difference?

The differences between a high-risk and a standard merchant account really come down to risk and requirements. Standard accounts are for businesses in low-risk industries and generally have lower fees and a straightforward application process. In contrast, getting a high-risk account involves a much more thorough review. You can expect a longer application timeline and a request for more detailed information about your business and its finances. High-risk accounts also have a different fee structure, often including higher transaction rates and a rolling reserve, which is a portion of your revenue held by the processor to cover potential chargebacks.

How Processors Assess Your Business Risk

When you apply for a merchant account, payment processors look at your business through a specific lens: risk. They’re trying to predict the likelihood of financial losses from things like chargebacks and fraud. It’s not a personal judgment on your business, but a practical assessment based on a combination of factors. Understanding how they see your business is the first step to building a strong application. They’ll look at everything from the industry you operate in to your sales volume to figure out where you fit on the risk spectrum. Let’s break down exactly what’s under their microscope.

Industry-Specific Risk Factors

Some industries automatically raise a red flag for processors simply because of their reputation. Fields like CBD, online gaming, adult entertainment, travel, and multi-level marketing (MLM) are often labeled high-risk right out of the gate. This is usually because these sectors historically face higher rates of customer disputes, regulatory scrutiny, or reputational concerns for the acquiring banks. If your business falls into one of these categories, processors will take a closer look at your operations. It doesn’t mean you can’t get an account, but it does mean you need a processor who understands the unique challenges of your specific industry.

How Your Location Affects Risk

Where you and your customers are located plays a big role in your risk assessment. If a large portion of your sales are international, processors see that as an added layer of complexity. Cross-border transactions can be less predictable due to varying consumer protection laws, currency fluctuations, and a higher potential for fraud. A business that primarily sells within its own country is generally seen as lower risk than one that processes payments from all over the world. For international businesses, it’s crucial to partner with a processor that has a global footprint and understands the nuances of different markets.

How Your Business Model Is Evaluated

Processors want to see a track record of stability. If you’re a brand-new business without any payment processing history, you’re an unknown quantity, which translates to risk. They’ll also look at the business owner’s personal credit history. A poor credit score can suggest financial instability. The most significant red flag, however, is being on the Terminated Merchant File (TMF), often called the MATCH list. If a previous merchant account was shut down for excessive chargebacks or fraud, getting a new one becomes incredibly difficult. Your business model itself, like a subscription service with recurring billing, can also be seen as riskier due to the higher chance of future disputes.

The Impact of Your Transaction Volume

How much you sell and how you sell it are key metrics. Processors pay close attention to your chargeback ratio—the percentage of your transactions that are disputed by customers. A ratio that creeps above 1% is a serious warning sign. Businesses with high average transaction amounts or a large volume of online, “card-not-present” sales are watched more closely because these sales are more susceptible to fraud and disputes. Consistently high sales volumes can be great for business, but if they’re paired with a rising chargeback rate, your processor will get nervous. Proactively managing chargebacks is essential for keeping your account healthy.

Debunking Common Risk Misconceptions

Let’s clear something up: being labeled “high-risk” doesn’t mean you’re running a bad business. It’s a financial classification that means a processor sees a greater potential for financial loss. Think of it from their perspective—they are taking on liability with every transaction they process for you. This label is simply their way of categorizing that potential liability. It’s not a moral judgment. The key is to find a payment partner who specializes in your industry and understands your business model. They have the infrastructure and expertise to support your growth while managing the associated risks effectively.

Get Your Paperwork in Order: Essential Documents

Applying for a high-risk merchant account can feel a bit like applying for a business loan—you need to prove you’re a reliable partner. The good news is that a little preparation goes a long way. Getting your documents in order before you even start an application makes the entire process smoother and shows processors you’re serious about your business. Think of it as creating a portfolio that showcases your company’s stability, legitimacy, and commitment to doing things the right way. When an underwriter has everything they need from the start, you’re already on the path to a faster approval.

Financial Statements and Records

First things first, processors want to see your financial track record. This isn’t about judging your business idea; it’s about confirming your company is financially stable. You’ll need to gather at least six months of recent business bank statements and your last two years of tax returns. These documents give processors a clear picture of your cash flow and overall financial health. Providing a complete and organized financial history demonstrates that you run a responsible business, which helps underwriters accurately assess their risk in partnering with you. This financial transparency is a standard part of the high-risk merchant account requirements.

Business Licenses and Permits

This one is a non-negotiable. Before a payment processor can work with you, they need to know your business is legitimate and operating legally. Make sure you have all your necessary local, state, and federal business licenses and permits organized and up-to-date. This includes your articles of incorporation or other business formation documents. For international merchants, this step is even more critical, as it shows you’re compliant with the regulations in your region. Having your licenses in order is a fundamental step that proves your commitment to regulatory compliance and builds a foundation of trust with your potential processor.

What to Share About Your Processing History

I know it can be tempting to sweep a less-than-perfect processing history under the rug, but trust me on this: honesty is always the best policy. Be prepared to share a complete summary of your past payment processing, including your average transaction volume and chargeback rates. If you’ve had a merchant account terminated before, be upfront about it and explain the circumstances. Processors have ways of finding this information anyway, and discovering that you weren’t transparent is a major red flag. Being open about your history allows you to control the narrative and shows that you’re a proactive and trustworthy partner.

Key Compliance Documents

In high-risk industries, security is everything. You need to show that you’re serious about protecting your customers’ sensitive information. This means having documentation that proves you adhere to the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). This is the gold standard for securing credit card transactions. If you’re already PCI compliant, have your certificate ready. If not, be prepared to show that you have a plan to achieve compliance. Meeting security standards like PCI DSS is critical for preventing fraud and assuring processors that you’re a safe partner to work with.

How to Choose the Right Payment Processor

Finding the right payment processor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your high-risk business. This isn’t just about finding the lowest rate; it’s about securing a long-term partner who understands the unique challenges of your industry and is invested in your success. A great processor acts as a shield, protecting your revenue with robust security and providing the stability you need to grow. A bad one can leave you with frozen funds, surprise fees, and a constant feeling of uncertainty.

The key is to look beyond the sales pitch and evaluate potential partners on a few core criteria. You need a processor that specializes in high-risk accounts and has a proven track record of supporting businesses like yours. They should offer more than just a transaction pipeline; they should provide the tools, support, and flexibility required to operate safely and effectively in a global market. Think of this process as hiring a critical team member—because that’s exactly what your payment processor is.

What to Look For in a Processor

When you start comparing processors, focus on finding one that genuinely gets your business. Do they have experience in your specific industry? A processor familiar with your niche will understand its specific risks and regulatory landscape, making the application process smoother and providing better long-term support. They should also be able to grow with you. The solution that works for you today might not be enough in a year, so look for a partner with scalable infrastructure. Finally, ask for clear, fair pricing and flexible contract terms. A transparent partner will walk you through every potential fee so there are no surprises down the line.

Assess Their Technical Capabilities

For a high-risk business, a processor’s technical toolkit is non-negotiable. Your top priority should be their fraud prevention suite. Look for features like customizable filters, velocity checks, 3D Secure authentication, and tokenization. These tools are your first line of defense against fraudulent transactions and the costly chargebacks that follow. Beyond security, confirm they can support all the payment methods your customers use. This includes not just major credit cards but also international currencies and popular alternative payment methods, which can significantly impact your conversion rates in different regions.

Don’t Overlook Customer Support

When you’re dealing with a held deposit or a technical glitch, the last thing you want is an automated phone menu or a generic support ticket system. Strong customer support is critical. Look for a processor that offers dedicated support from real people who understand the complexities of high-risk accounts. You’ll need guidance during the application and setup process, and you’ll want a reliable point of contact if issues arise later. Good support isn’t a luxury; it’s a fundamental part of a healthy processing partnership that can save you time, money, and a lot of stress.

Analyze the Fee Structure

The fee structure for high-risk accounts is often more complex than for standard ones. Don’t just look at the transaction rate; you need to understand the full picture. Ask for a complete schedule of fees, including setup fees, monthly minimums, and chargeback fees. Many high-risk processors also use a “rolling reserve,” where they hold a percentage of your sales for a set period to cover potential losses from chargebacks. While this is a standard practice, make sure you understand the terms—the percentage held and the duration. A trustworthy processor will be transparent about their pricing models and willing to explain every line item.

Check Their Currency Support

If you plan to sell to customers outside your home country, robust multi-currency support is essential. The ability to accept payments in various currencies and settle them in your preferred currency is the baseline. A great international processor will go a step further, allowing you to display prices in your customers’ local currencies. This simple feature can build trust and dramatically improve your conversion rates. Ask potential processors about their international capabilities, which currencies they support, and how they handle cross-border transactions. This ensures you can create a seamless checkout experience for every customer, no matter where they are.

A Practical Guide to Managing Costs and Fees

Let’s talk about the money side of things. It’s no secret that high-risk merchant accounts come with higher fees, but higher doesn’t have to mean unpredictable. Understanding exactly what you’re paying for is the first step to managing your costs effectively and protecting your bottom line. Think of this as your guide to decoding the fee structures so you can find a payment partner who is transparent and fair.

When you’re labeled high-risk, payment processors and their partner banks take on more liability to support your business. The fees they charge reflect this increased risk. While you should expect to pay more than a standard-risk business, you should never feel like you’re in the dark about your expenses. A trustworthy processor will walk you through every line item. Let’s break down the most common costs you’ll encounter.

Setup and Monthly Fees

First up are the basic administrative costs. Most high-risk merchant accounts involve a one-time setup fee to get your account established and integrated. After that, you’ll likely have a recurring monthly or annual fee for account maintenance. These fees cover the processor’s overhead for providing dedicated support, compliance monitoring, and maintaining the secure infrastructure your business relies on. While they are standard practice, always ask for a clear breakdown of these administrative charges before you sign any agreement. This ensures there are no surprises on your first statement and helps you compare different providers accurately. It’s a simple step that sets the foundation for a transparent financial relationship with your processor.

Understand Transaction Pricing Models

This is where the bulk of your costs will come from. For every sale you make, a small percentage and a flat fee go to the processor. While a standard account might see rates around 0.3% above the base interchange rate, high-risk accounts can be closer to 1.5% above it. This markup is the processor’s compensation for taking on your business’s risk. It’s crucial to understand the pricing model—whether it’s interchange-plus, flat-rate, or tiered—as it directly impacts how much you keep from each transaction. Ask potential processors to run a cost analysis based on your average transaction volume and ticket size to get a realistic picture of your expenses.

What Is a Rolling Reserve?

A rolling reserve can feel confusing, but it’s essentially a safety net for the processor. Because high-risk industries can have higher chargeback rates, the processor holds a small percentage of your revenue in a non-interest-bearing account. This fund is used to cover potential chargebacks or refunds. Typically, a processor will hold 5% to 10% of your sales for a set period, like 180 days, before releasing the funds to you. While it can impact your immediate cash flow, a rolling reserve is a standard and necessary tool that allows processors to confidently support high-risk businesses like yours and protect themselves from potential losses.

Watch Out for Hidden Costs

The most important thing you can do is read your merchant agreement carefully. This is where you’ll find other potential fees that aren’t always advertised upfront. The biggest one to watch for is the chargeback fee, which can range from $20 to $100 per instance. High chargeback rates can quickly become a major, unexpected expense. Other costs might include fees for PCI compliance, early termination of your contract, or processing international currencies. A transparent partner will disclose all potential fees from the start, so be sure to ask direct questions about any costs that seem unclear. Never assume a fee doesn’t apply to you—always get confirmation in writing.

Tips for Negotiating Better Rates

While higher fees are part of the high-risk territory, you still have some room to negotiate. Don’t be afraid to advocate for your business. If you have a strong processing history with low chargeback rates, use that as leverage. Present a solid business plan and demonstrate that you have robust fraud prevention tools in place. The more you can do to show that your business is a responsible and lower-risk partner, the more willing a processor may be to work with you on rates. It never hurts to ask for a better deal, especially if you can commit to a longer contract or a certain processing volume.

How to Build an Application That Gets Approved

Applying for a high-risk merchant account can feel like a high-stakes job interview. You need to present your business in the best possible light, showing processors that you’re a reliable partner. A well-prepared application not only increases your chances of approval but also helps you secure better terms. It’s all about demonstrating stability, transparency, and a solid understanding of your own business. By getting organized ahead of time, you can make the underwriting process much smoother for everyone involved. Let’s walk through the key steps to building an application that stands out for all the right reasons.

Prepare Your Financial Statements

Your financial history tells a story, and you want it to be a good one. Processors need to see that your business is financially sound and can handle its obligations. Before you even start an application, gather your key financial documents. You should have at least six months of recent business bank statements and a few years of tax returns on hand. These documents provide a clear picture of your cash flow and overall financial health. A consistent, positive financial track record helps underwriters feel confident in your ability to manage risk and maintain a healthy business.

Show Your Business Is Credible

Beyond just having the right paperwork, you need to show that your business is credible and stable. One of the simplest ways to do this is to maintain a healthy balance in your business bank account. This demonstrates that you’re financially responsible and have the capital to cover potential chargebacks or other expenses. Think of it as a sign of good faith. It shows the processor that you aren’t operating on a shoestring budget and that you have a buffer to handle the ups and downs that can come with running a high-risk business. Financial stability is a key factor in the high-risk merchant account approval process.

Organize Your Documentation for a Smooth Process

A messy, incomplete application is a red flag for underwriters. To ensure a smooth process, get all your documents in order before you apply. Create a dedicated folder with everything the processor will need. This typically includes your business licenses and permits, recent financial statements, and a clear business plan that outlines your products or services. Having a detailed processing history with previous providers is also incredibly helpful. When an underwriter can easily find everything they need, it speeds up their review and reflects well on your organizational skills.

Strategies to Get Approved Faster

Two things can significantly speed up your approval: honesty and choosing the right partner. Be completely transparent during the application process. If you’ve had issues with chargebacks or a terminated account in the past, disclose it. Hiding information will only cause problems later on. Processors are looking for trustworthy partners, and honesty builds that foundation. Equally important is selecting a provider that understands your industry. When you choose a provider familiar with your business type, they already know the common risks and have systems in place to manage them, making your application much easier to approve.

Protect Your Business: Risk and Fraud Prevention

Once your international high-risk merchant account is up and running, the work isn’t over. The next step is to protect it. Managing risk isn’t just about avoiding account termination; it’s about building a sustainable business that can thrive long-term. Fraud and chargebacks can quickly eat into your profits and damage your reputation with processors. The good news is that you can get ahead of these issues with a proactive strategy. By implementing smart security measures and focusing on a great customer experience, you can keep your account in good standing and your revenue secure. Let’s walk through the key areas to focus on.

Smart Strategies to Prevent Chargebacks

Chargebacks are a major headache for any business, but they can be especially damaging for high-risk merchants. The best way to handle them is to prevent them from happening in the first place. Start by understanding the common reasons customers initiate a chargeback—it’s often due to unclear product descriptions, slow shipping, or confusing billing descriptors. Make sure your website provides crystal-clear information about what you’re selling and when it will arrive. Your customer service team should be easy to reach and empowered to solve problems quickly. By addressing these core issues, you can significantly reduce disputes and keep your chargeback ratio well within acceptable limits.

Implement a Fraud Detection System

In today’s market, a robust fraud detection system is non-negotiable. Relying on manual reviews alone isn’t enough to catch sophisticated fraudsters. Modern payment processors offer advanced tools that use artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyze transactions in real time. These systems can identify suspicious activities—like multiple orders from different locations using the same card—and flag or block them before the transaction is even completed. Implementing a powerful fraud detection solution acts as your first line of defense, protecting your revenue and preventing fraudulent chargebacks from ever hitting your account. It’s a critical investment in your business’s long-term health.

Monitor Your Transactions Effectively

While automated systems are essential, they work best when paired with human oversight. Make it a regular habit to monitor your transaction patterns. Keep an eye out for anything unusual, like a sudden spike in orders from a specific region, an abnormally high number of declined transactions, or multiple purchases from a single IP address. Catching these red flags early allows you to investigate and take action before a small issue becomes a major problem. This vigilance is key to maintaining a healthy merchant account and showing your payment processor that you are actively managing your risk. Think of it as a regular health check-up for your payment processing activity.

Essential Security Protocols

Protecting your customers’ data is just as important as protecting your own business. Adhering to established security standards is the best way to do this. The most critical of these is the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). This set of requirements ensures that all companies that process, store, or transmit credit card information maintain a secure environment. Compliance isn’t just about checking a box; it’s a fundamental practice for preventing data breaches and building trust with your customers. Your payment processor should provide tools and guidance to help you remain PCI compliant, safeguarding sensitive information and reducing your fraud risk.

How Great Customer Service Reduces Risk

Never underestimate the power of excellent customer service in your risk management strategy. A happy customer is far less likely to file a chargeback. When buyers feel heard and respected, they’re more willing to contact you directly to resolve an issue rather than going straight to their bank. Ensure your contact information is easy to find on your website. Respond to inquiries promptly and professionally. Keep customers informed about their order status, especially if there are delays. This open line of communication can prevent simple misunderstandings from escalating into costly disputes. It’s a simple, human-centric approach that pays dividends in customer loyalty and account stability.

Keep Your Account in Good Standing for the Long Haul

Getting your international high-risk merchant account approved is a huge milestone, but the work doesn’t stop there. Now, the focus shifts to maintaining a healthy, long-term relationship with your payment processor. Think of it as moving from the application phase to the partnership phase. Keeping your account in good standing means you can process payments without interruption, avoid sudden freezes, and build a foundation for stable growth. It all comes down to being proactive, transparent, and diligent in how you manage your account day-to-day.

Stay on Top of Compliance

Compliance isn’t a one-and-done task you check off during your application. It’s an ongoing commitment. Your processor approved you based on the understanding that you’d operate within specific legal and security frameworks. The most critical of these is the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). You must ensure you consistently meet all legal and security standards to protect customer data and maintain your processor’s trust. Regularly review your security practices, update your software, and stay informed about any changes in regulations that affect your industry or the regions you sell to. This diligence shows your processor you’re a reliable and low-risk partner.

Manage Your Transaction Volume Wisely

Processors often set monthly limits on your transaction volume, especially when you’re a new client. This isn’t meant to hold you back; it’s a way for them to manage their own risk. It’s crucial to respect these caps. If you’re planning a big marketing campaign or anticipate a seasonal sales spike, don’t just cross your fingers and hope for the best. Talk to your processor in advance. Giving them a heads-up allows them to adjust your limits temporarily and ensures your transactions go through smoothly. Sudden, unexplained spikes in volume can trigger fraud alerts and lead to your funds being held, so clear communication is your best tool for avoiding disruptions.

Monitor Your Account Health

Keeping a close eye on your account’s performance is non-negotiable. This means regularly reviewing your transaction reports, chargeback ratios, and customer disputes. Maintain meticulous records of everything. Be sure to save all transaction and communication details, including customer service emails, shipping confirmations, and delivery receipts. This documentation is your first line of defense if a chargeback occurs. By monitoring your metrics, you can spot troubling trends early—like a sudden increase in disputes from a specific region—and take action before the issue escalates and puts your account at risk. Think of it as a regular health check-up for your business’s financial lifeline.

Strategies for Sustainable Growth

As your business grows, so do the risks. The key is to scale your risk management efforts alongside your revenue. This starts with a solid chargeback prevention strategy. Use tools to screen for fraudulent orders and be prepared to fight illegitimate chargebacks quickly and effectively. Beyond that, focus on clear communication with your customers. Ensure your billing descriptors are easily recognizable, your return policies are straightforward, and your customer service team is responsive. Happy customers are far less likely to initiate chargebacks. A great customer experience is one of the most powerful tools to prevent and fight chargebacks.

Plan Your International Expansion

If your goal is to sell globally, you need a payment partner who can support that vision from day one. As you expand into new markets, you’ll need the ability to accept payments in multiple currencies. A processor that offers robust multi-currency support for international business is essential for reducing friction at checkout and improving conversion rates abroad. When choosing a provider, look for one that truly understands the challenges of your specific business type. A partner with expertise in your industry can provide tailored advice and scalable solutions, ensuring your payment infrastructure can handle your growth without any hiccups.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my business considered high-risk even if I have a great track record? This is a common and completely valid question. The “high-risk” label is often an industry-wide classification, not a reflection of your specific business practices. Processors look at historical data for entire sectors, and if your industry (like travel, supplements, or subscription services) has a reputation for higher chargeback rates, you’re automatically placed in that category. Your excellent track record is still a huge asset during the application process and can help you secure better terms, but it doesn’t change the overall industry classification.

Is the rolling reserve negotiable, and will I ever get that money back? Yes, you will get the money back. The funds in a rolling reserve are always yours; they are just held temporarily as a security deposit for the processor. The money is released back to you on a schedule after the holding period, which is typically around 180 days. As for negotiation, the terms of the reserve—like the percentage held and the length of time—can sometimes be adjusted. If you have a strong financial history and a low chargeback rate, you have more leverage to discuss more favorable terms with your processor.

I have a poor personal credit score. Will that automatically disqualify me from getting an account? Not necessarily. While processors do look at the business owner’s personal credit as part of their overall risk assessment, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. They are more interested in the complete financial picture of your business. Strong factors like healthy business bank statements, a solid business plan, and a clear processing history can often balance out a lower personal credit score. It’s about showing them that your business as a whole is stable and managed responsibly.

My chargeback rate is creeping up. What are the first steps I should take to get it under control? The first thing to do is investigate the root cause. Look at the reason codes for your recent chargebacks to see if they are primarily from fraud or from customer service issues. If it’s fraud, it’s time to tighten your security filters. If it’s customer-related, focus on improving communication. Make sure your billing descriptor is clear, your shipping times are accurate, and your customer service team is easy to reach and empowered to offer refunds to prevent disputes from escalating.

All the processors I talk to seem expensive. How can I tell if I’m getting a fair deal? A fair deal in the high-risk space is less about finding the absolute lowest rate and more about finding total transparency. A trustworthy processor will provide you with a complete schedule of all potential fees, not just the transaction percentage. Ask directly about setup fees, monthly minimums, chargeback fees, and early termination fees. A fair partner will explain every cost and help you understand your total processing expenses, ensuring there are no expensive surprises on your statement later.

How to Get an International High-Risk Merchant Account