In today’s competitive marketplace, accepting credit cards is a must for any business. Eighty-percent of all retail customers pay with their credit and debit cards, and if you don't accept credit cards, customers will go to one of your competitors who does. The acceptance of major credit cards is a key factor in the satisfaction of your customers and, as such, in the success of your business.
These cards are the most commonly used business and personal credit cards in the United States. Whether the card is a regular consumer credit card, is connected to a checking account (i.e., a "check card"), is issued for a business, or accumulates rewards, there are very few consumers who do not have a Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express card in their wallet.
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When it comes to credit cards, Visa is top of the pops. Offering its cardholders security, flexibility, and convenience, Visa cards account for the highest percentage of credit and debit card activity in the U.S. With a medley of benefits available to its users, ranging from zero liability on unauthorized purchases, travel assistance and assurance, emergency card replacement and emergency cash disbursement, as well as purchase security in the form of purchase repair/replacement and reimbursement for eligible items, it’s not a wonder cardholders give Visa top billing. And if Visa really is everywhere the consumer wants to be, then there’s no question as to whether or not Visa should be among the cards you accept. If you want to make your business a consumer hit, accepting Visa is the obvious choice. |
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In 2009 alone, MasterCard processed more than 22 billion transactions. It should come as no surprise, then, that MasterCard is a major contender in the credit card game. From shopping protection in the form of extended warranties and purchase assurance, to personal protection with identity theft resolution and zero liability on unauthorized charges, MasterCard offers a host of benefits that keeps its cardholders rooting for the brand. In addition to these features, MasterCard users are also privy to special offers and upgrades on certain events and experiences, including concerts and sports competitions. By placing MasterCard in your payment arena, you’ll keep fans satisfied and help ensure your business is a total knock out. |
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Accepting Discover is a must for all merchants. Discover cardholders are loyal to Discover; they prefer this card over all others, and it’s easy to see why. Discover offers its users heaps of benefits, including cash back bonuses on all purchases and low interest rates, adding major incentive for its cardholders. By offering Discover as a payment route, you’ll be providing steadfast Discover-ers with the incentive to explore your business, generating the growth you need to put your business on the map! |
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Armed with high credit limits, American Express cardholders spend more than the average credit card user and tend to be more impulsive buyers than their Visa, MasterCard, and Discover Card wielding brethren. And, as a result of the extensive rewards American Express offers its cardholders, including accumulated mileage and rewards points that may be used toward anything from travel expenses to shopping and dining costs, American Express cardholders will gladly fight to use their American Express cards. This is why accepting American Express, a premium "charge" card, is essential for all businesses looking to conquer the market. |
Debit Cards - Accepting debit cards is the 21st century way to do business. While debit cards may be processed as a credit card, at credit card rates, using a pinpad with a debit card means: 1) no required signature, 2) lower processing fees [in many circumstances], 3) extremely low risk of chargeback, and 4) the needs of the customer are met.
