How to Accept Credit Cards With a Portable Device
- 1). Choose a merchant account processor that includes portable devices that accept credit cards. Each time you accept a credit card from your customer, your merchant account processor will get a percentage and fee for that transaction. There are three directions you can go when selecting your portable device: You can use your cell phone (PDA) to wirelessly accept credit cards, use your laptop with an attached card swipe that can be connected via a USB cable, or use a wireless terminal provided by the merchant processor to swipe credit cards directly. Because of the competitive nature of merchant account processors, you will find many processors offer these portable devices either at a considerable discount or free. Many of these portable terminals also allow you to print receipts for your customers.
- 2). Determine your means of connecting with the payment gateway to collect credit card payments. There are a few ways you can accept credit cards using a portable device. If you are using a cell phone, there is an 800 number you can dial to take a credit card payment, or there may be a monthly wireless plan you can participate in to allow the wireless terminals to connect to the Web for payment processing, or you may have to use your own data or Internet package provided through your cellular service or Internet service provider to accept credit card payments. Determine which method will work best for you in terms of the number of minutes and your cell phone package, or the costs of your Internet service provider, so you will know which plan works best for your business.
- 3). Understand the integrated security features for portable devices processing credit cards. Many customers may be concerned about swiping their credit card using a portable device. Knowing what security features are available to protect you and your customers will enhance your business and place your customers at ease. Request this information when selecting your merchant.
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