What is Merchant Account processing?
Merchant account processing services are provided by a bank or a third party processor (on behalf of the bank) to the Merchant. These services include authorization of credit cards, settlement of funds through the bank associations (MasterCard and Visa), depositing of funds to checking accounts, merchant billing and account activity reporting.

How do I apply?
Just fill out the online application and return it to us. We will do a pre-approval. Once pre-approved, we will send you that paperwork to sign. This process normally takes five working days.

What if my application is declined?
Very few applicants are declined. If you are declined you have no obligation, so why not apply?

I have a bad credit rating, is this a problem?
With Spectrum having one of the highest approval rates in the industry, probably not. Most applications are declined due to current bankruptcy or tax lien. There are no hassles and NO FEES TO APPLY, so why not apply?

What equipment do I get? Must I purchase it, or can I lease it?
You have the option of many state-of-the-art electronic terminals. The equipment may be purchased or leased.

What are my leasing options?
You can get a four-year lease. These are all lease-to-own plans. The lease has a 10% buy-out option at the end. It is a business lease and therefore 100% tax-deductible. Just as important, it will not show up on your personal credit report as a credit liability.

Can I use my computer instead of a terminal to process the sales?
Yes, you can purchase or lease the software for the same amount as the electronic terminal.

Do I receive any training on the equipment?
We will contact you when your terminal arrives to fully train you on all equipment at NO charge.

Is there a Merchant Service phone number that I can call if I need help?
You will be provided with an (800) number to handle any questions.

What are discount points?
Every bank charges discount points to merchants. Discount points are the percentage of each transaction that the processing company charges to handle the transaction for you. Our discount points are exceptionally low, starting at just 1.59%.

When can I expect the money from the sales to appear in my bank account?
Usually, the money will appear in your account within 2 business days after you have reconciled your daily business.

How do Internet credit card transactions work?
Click here for an explanation.

Who is First Data?
Atlanta-based First Data Corporation (NYSE: FDC) helps move the world's money. As the leader in electronic commerce and payment services, First Data serves more than two million merchant locations, 1,400 card issuers and millions of consumers, making it easier, faster and more secure for people and businesses to buy goods and services using virtually any form of payment. With more than 30,000 employees worldwide, the company provides credit, debit and stored-value card issuing and merchant transaction processing services; Internet commerce solutions; money transfers and money orders; and check processing and verification services throughout the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Mexico, Spain and Germany. In addition, its Western Union network includes approximately 90,000 agent locations with operations in 182 countries and territories. For more information, please visit the company's Web site at www.firstdata.com.