Why merchants choose Centurion for high-risk accounts
Two decades of placing merchants in high-risk and regulated industries — with the right bank, the right terms, and support that keeps you processing long-term.
Built for High-Risk
Stripe, Square, and PayPal routinely freeze or close high-risk accounts. We only place files with acquiring banks that knowingly underwrite your vertical.
Fraud & Chargeback Tools
AVS, CVV, velocity rules, 3-D Secure, and chargeback alerts help keep your ratios under Visa VAMP and Mastercard monitoring thresholds.
Underwriting-Ready Application
We pre-vet your file before submission so the bank sees a clean, complete package — fewer back-and-forths and a stronger case for approval.
Works With Your Stack
Connect to Shopify, WooCommerce, WordPress, custom carts, and major POS systems through gateways like NMI, Authorize.net, and more.
Real People, Real Answers
You get a dedicated contact who knows your file — no offshore call centers or ticket queues.
Multi-Bank Placements
If one bank passes, we have others. Direct relationships across multiple acquirers improve placement odds and let us split volume for stability.
Merchant account comparison
| Typical Low-Risk (Stripe / Square) | Other High-Risk Providers | Centurion | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Industries served | Low-risk only | Some high-risk | Most high-risk & regulated |
| Approval process | Automated, frequent later shutdowns | Manual, often slow and unclear | Pre-vetted file, direct underwriter access |
| Pricing transparency | Flat, limited plans | Often hidden markups | Clear, itemized pricing |
| Gateway options | Proprietary only | Limited | NMI, Authorize.net & more |
| Chargeback tolerance | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Multi-bank placement | ✗ | Varies | ✓ |
| Account stability | ✗ | Varies | ✓ |
| Support | Automated | Often outsourced | Dedicated US-based rep |
Frequently asked questions
What is a high-risk merchant account?
It's a merchant account from an acquiring bank that knowingly underwrites businesses in industries banks consider higher risk — due to chargeback rates, regulation, subscription billing, or card-not-present sales. It gives you the same card acceptance as any business, with terms suited to your industry.
Why can't I just use Stripe or PayPal?
Their terms prohibit many high-risk categories. Accounts are often approved instantly and then frozen once volume grows, holding your funds. A dedicated high-risk account is underwritten up front, so it's built to last.
Which industries do you support?
AI platforms, adult & creator content, THCA, CBD & hemp, nutraceuticals, dating, subscriptions, travel, firearms, credit repair, and many more. If you don't see yours, ask — we likely have a bank for it.
Will I need a rolling reserve?
Sometimes. Reserves depend on your industry, processing history, and chargeback ratio. We negotiate reserve terms on your behalf and work to minimize or remove them as your history builds.
How long does approval take?
Timelines depend on the bank and your vertical. Complete files move fastest — we help you gather everything before submission. All accounts are subject to underwriting review and approval.
How the application process works
- 1
Gather Your Info
Business name, EIN, website, recent processing statements (if any), and owner details.
- 2
Apply Online
Submit a short application — we pre-vet it and match you to the right bank.
- 3
Underwriting & Go Live
We work directly with underwriting until you're approved and processing.
Get matched with the right bank
Get Your Free Rate Analysis
Specialists in High-Risk Merchant Account. No obligation. Response within 1 hour.
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All merchant accounts are subject to underwriting review and approval.