Constant Processing is often asked questions about all aspects of merchant accounts, credit card processing and the services and products that we offer. We’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions and answers to them:
How do I apply for a merchant account?
Just fill out the free, no obligation, online merchant account application on our website and sign up for a 30-day risk-free trial. It should take you less than 10 minutes to complete the application process.
How long does the approval process take?
Once your application is complete, the processing time is usually 24 hours or less, especially if we receive your application before noon MT. If approved, we will promptly inform you of your acceptance and deliver the terminal equipment or software.
What kinds of businesses does Constant Processing accept as clients?
We accept retail, professional service providers, trade shows, mail order, telephone order, Internet based, and home-based businesses. We do not accept adult-related businesses.
Do I need a business license to obtain a merchant account?
You do not necessarily need a business license, although it is a document that would satisfy the Premises Inspection Requirement. You do not need to have a business license if you can provide a different acceptable core documentation item that is required. These items vary depending upon the level of risk associated with your business.
Do I need a business checking account to obtain a merchant account?
You only need a business checking account if your business is set up as a corporation. If it is a sole proprietorship, you may use a personal checking account or a business checking account.
What if I have less than perfect credit?
Technically, your personal credit score does not affect your merchant account rates. However, if you have a low credit score there is the possibility that you may not be eligible. We can sometimes approve a merchant account application despite a low personal credit score by putting other stipulations in place.
What credit cards will I be able to accept with a merchant account from Constant Processing?
Constant Processing can set you up so that you can accept MasterCard®, Visa®, American Express®, Discover® and PayPal™ In Store, as well as bank ATM debit cards.
Do I need to have an American Express or Discover account before I apply?
No, you do not. We can do all this for you.
My website isn’t ready; can I still qualify for an account?
Yes, we can accept temporary websites, something very basic that shows product and pricing. It does not have to be live to the public, but it should show enough to give us a sense of what you are selling and for how much.
Can I use a smartphone or tablet to process credit cards?
Yes! ProcessNow® Register and ProcessNow Mobile from Constant Processing mobile processing solutions that turn your smartphone or tablet into a credit card terminal and much more. These app-based options let you deliver your products or services directly to your customers in the field or at your place of business. ProcessNow consolidates payment acceptance of credit and debit cards, cash and checks in one system that processes transactions through a single gateway. Gain real-time access to all of your payments, add inventory information to your system directly at the point of sale, and more with ProcessNow.
How will I receive the proceeds from my transactions?
Once Constant Processing receives authorization for a transaction, we pass it along to you so you can complete the sale and issue a receipt to the cardholder. The card issuer bills the cardholder’s account and pays Constant Processing, and we in turn deposit the transaction proceeds into the your merchant account, typically within two days.
Is there a customer service number that I can call if I need help?
Yes! Our U.S.-based customer support team is always available. You will have live, toll-free merchant assistance by calling +1 877-384-2037 anytime — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Will I receive a monthly statement?
Yes, a statement is mailed to you every month.
Do you accept foreign businesses?
No. We do not process for merchants outside the United States.
What is the discount rate?
The discount rate is the fee that a merchant pays to the acquirer for processing services that enable the merchant to accept bankcards as payment. Our discount rates are extremely competitive.
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 help detect this for you.