Whether you run a clothing store, a restaurant or a luxury hotel, your customers expect you to accept credit cards. However, every business owner needs more than a point-of-sale system to accept credit cards. The fact is, not all merchant account providers are created equal. This is why savvy business owners have to do their research in order to select the best merchant account provider for their needs.

Whether you’re launching a new business or would like to change your current provider, consider the following tips to ensure that you select the best merchant account service provider for your business.

Look for customizable solutions. Certain point-of-sale (POS) terminals are designed for restaurants while others are created with the retail clothing store in mind.

Likewise, some storefronts rely on wireless credit card processing while other business owners want to know they have the ability to obtain a cash advance at any time. Regardless of your needs, a merchant service provider must have the resources and products to create a combination package tailored to your business and clients.

Usually, this means a combination of point-of-sale terminals, software, and other services.
Try to use your existing equipment. Whenever possible, you will want to save money. After all, purchasing a new POS system can be extremely expensive, especially if you have one that works. Find a total merchant services provider that can reprogram your existing equipment to work with your new account. This service alone can save your company thousands of dollars in purchasing new hardware.

Try to accept multiple payment options. Now that you want the ability to accept credit cards, make sure that you can accept multiple payment options and credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, and debit cards. You will also want to find a merchant account provider that allows you to receive check guarantee or check verification services when you need them.