Step 1 — Statement Review
Everything starts with your last two full processing statements. We rebuild them line by line to calculate your true effective rate: total fees divided by total volume. That single number is the only honest way to compare processors, because it captures interchange, assessments, markup, and every monthly item at once.
During the review we separate the costs that are fixed by the card brands from the costs your current provider controls. Interchange and assessments are the same for everyone; markup, statement fees, batch fees, PCI non-compliance charges, and equipment leases are not. Those are where savings actually come from.
Step 2 — Written Proposal
You receive a side-by-side proposal showing your current effective rate against our proposed interchange-plus pricing, using your own transaction mix rather than hypothetical volume. Every recurring fee is listed, including the ones many providers leave off a quote.
- Interchange-plus markup stated as a fixed basis-point figure
- Every monthly and annual fee disclosed in writing
- Equipment costs, placement terms, or lease-free options
- Projected monthly and annual savings based on your real volume
Step 3 — Application & Underwriting
If the numbers work, we submit your application to the acquiring bank that best fits your business type, volume, and risk profile. Standard retail and e-commerce accounts are typically underwritten quickly; high-risk verticals require more documentation and take longer. Approval is always subject to the bank's underwriting decision — no processor can guarantee it.
We tell you upfront which documents underwriting will ask for so the file goes in complete: business formation documents, a voided check or bank letter, processing history if you have it, and a website review for card-not-present accounts.
Step 4 — Setup & Ongoing Support
Once approved, we configure your terminal, POS, or gateway, run test transactions with you, and confirm your first deposit lands on schedule. You keep a direct line to a dedicated representative rather than a general support queue.
We re-review your statements periodically, because interchange tables change twice a year and your card mix shifts as your business grows. If your effective rate drifts, we tell you before you notice it yourself.