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Nadapayments Blog

Franchising is by no means an uncommon venture for entrepreneurs in the US: According to Statista, there were nearly 800,000 franchises in the country in 2022, collectively generating almost $830 billion, about 3% of the nation’s GDP.

Operating a franchise can be an exciting and potentially lucrative business venture, but it’s important to understand the costs involved before diving in. 

Franchising offers unique opportunities for entrepreneurs to start their own businesses with established brands and proven business models.  

When you become a franchisee, you gain access to a support system that includes training, marketing assistance, and ongoing guidance from the franchisor. However, this support comes at a cost.

That’s why, in this article, we’ll explore the various expenses associated with operating a franchise, including franchise fees, additional costs, and financing options, so that you can have a clear understanding of what it takes to own a franchise and whether it's worth the investment.

What Is a Franchise Fee and What Does It Cover?

One of the primary expenses associated with operating a franchise is the franchise fee, which tends to run anywhere between $10,000 and $50,000. This fee is paid to the franchisor upfront and covers: 

  • The right to use their brand name, trademarks, and operating system
  • Initial advertising and marketing expenses
  • Staff training and other general expenses

The franchise fee tends to vary widely depending on the brand, industry, and location. It may also cover ongoing support and access to resources such as marketing materials and software.

It’s important to note that the franchise fee will not be the only upfront expense you’ll be expected to pay: You’ll also be responsible for incurring expenses for:

  • Physical adjustments to your location
  • Material sourcing
  • Building and construction 
  • Equipment

Therefore, you shouldn’t look at the franchise fee as the only upfront expense you’re expected to pay: The true costs of becoming a franchisee when all is said and done can run upwards of $150,000, after taking the aforementioned costs into account. More on this later. 

Factors That Affect Franchise Fees

Several factors can influence the franchise fee for a particular brand. The popularity and reputation of the brand play a significant role, as well as the demand for franchises in a specific industry. 

Additionally, the size of the territory you'll be operating in and the level of support provided by the franchisor can impact the fee.

It's important to carefully evaluate the value you'll be receiving for the franchise fee. 

Consider the following:

  • The strength of the brand
  • The level of support provided
  • The potential for success in your chosen market

While a higher fee may initially seem daunting, it may be justified if it comes with a well-established brand and comprehensive support system.

Typical Franchise Fees for Different Industries

Again, franchise fees vary significantly based on the industry. Some industries have higher barriers to entry and require a more significant investment, while others may have lower upfront costs. 

Here are some examples of typical franchise fees in different industries:

  • Fast Food Restaurants: Franchise fees for popular fast-food chains can range from $10,000 to $50,000 or more. These fees often include initial training and ongoing support from the franchisor.
  • Retail Stores: Depending upon the brand and size of the store, franchise fees for retail businesses vary widely. Fees tend to land anywhere between $10,000 to $100,000 or more.
  • Service-Based Businesses: Franchise fees for service-based businesses, such as cleaning companies or home repair services, can range from $5,000 to $50,000 or more. These fees typically cover training and support for starting and running the business.

It's important to note that these figures are just rough estimates, and actual franchise fees can vary based on the specific brand and location.

Read more: What is The Average Retail Profit Margin? How to Optimize Your Bottom Line

Additional Costs Involved in Operating a Franchise

While the franchise fee is a significant expense, there are additional costs to consider when operating a franchise. These costs can vary depending on the industry, location, and size of the business. 

Here are some common additional costs you may encounter:

  • Royalty Fees: Most franchisors require franchisees to pay ongoing royalty fees, typically a percentage of their revenue. These fees contribute to the ongoing support and resources provided by the franchisor.
  • Marketing and Advertising Fees: Franchisees often contribute to a national or regional marketing fund to promote the brand. These fees can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars per month.
  • Equipment and Inventory: Depending on the nature of the business, you may need to invest in equipment, fixtures, and inventory. These costs can vary widely depending on the industry and the specific requirements of the franchisor.
  • Lease or Real Estate Costs: If you don't already own a suitable location, you'll need to consider the cost of leasing or purchasing real estate. This can be a significant expense, especially in high-demand areas.
  • Staffing and Payroll: You'll need to budget for employee salaries, benefits, and training. Labor costs can vary depending on the industry and the local job market.
  • Payment Processing: Chances are your franchise will accept credit and debit card purchases. Don’t forget to overlook this often-forgotten chunk of overhead: Surcharge fees can range anywhere between 1.70% and 3.05%, a cost you’ll likely have to pass down to your customers.

It's crucial to carefully consider these additional costs when evaluating the total investment required to operate a franchise.

Read more: What is a Surcharge Fee? Everything Business Owners Need to Know

Examples of Healthcare Franchise Costs

Now, let’s look at the healthcare industry as an example of franchise costs. Healthcare franchises, such as senior care or medical staffing services, offer rewarding opportunities but often require significant investments. 

Here are some estimated costs for healthcare franchises:

  • Senior Care Franchise: The franchise fee for a senior care franchise can range from $40,000 to $80,000. Additional costs, including training, licensing fees, and marketing, can add up to a total investment of $100,000 to $200,000.
  • Medical Staffing Franchise: The franchise fee for a medical staffing franchise is typically around $35,000 to $50,000. Additional costs, such as office space, employee salaries, and marketing, can bring the total investment to $100,000 to $150,000.
  • Dental Franchise: Expect to pay about $50,000 in franchise fees when you open a dental franchise. Examples of practices offering franchising opportunities include Primary Dentist and FLOSS.

Remember, these figures are only estimates, and actual costs may vary depending on the specific franchise brand, location, and other factors.

Read more: What is The Average Profit Margin in The Healthcare Industry?

Calculating the Total Investment Required for a Franchise

Determining the total investment required to operate a franchise can be a complex task. It's essential to consider all the costs mentioned earlier, as well as any other expenses specific to your chosen industry. 

To calculate the total investment, you'll need to add up the franchise fee, additional costs, and working capital.

Working capital refers to the funds needed to cover ongoing expenses until the business becomes profitable. It's important to have enough working capital to sustain the business during the initial months or even years when revenue may be low.

To accurately calculate the total investment required, it's recommended to consult with a financial advisor or accountant who has experience working with franchises. They can help you analyze the costs and create a realistic budget for your venture.

Financing Options for Franchisees

Once you have a clear understanding of the costs involved, you can explore various financing options to fund your franchise. Here are some common financing options for franchisees:

  • Bank Loans: Many banks and financial institutions offer loans tailored to franchise businesses. These loans may require collateral or a personal guarantee and typically require a solid business plan and financial projections.
  • Personal Savings or Retirement Funds: Instead of going into debt, you may choose to use your personal savings or retirement funds to finance your business. This option eliminates the need for external financing but carries personal financial risks.

It's important to carefully evaluate each financing option and consider the associated costs, interest rates, and repayment terms. Consult with a financial advisor to determine the best option for your specific situation.

Cutting Franchise Costs, One Transaction at a Time 

Operating a franchise can be a rewarding and profitable business venture, but it can be a lot to take in. 

Thoroughly understanding the costs involved before making a decision can be difficult, and it can be easy to overlook other expenses that go beyond the franchise fee.

To optimally reduce your franchise overhead, don’t forget about the small stuff that adds up over time. Credit card surcharge and other payment processing fees are exactly that. 

You may not realize how much money you’re leaving on the table until your bottom line starts taking a hit, and it’s better to prevent excess expenditures in the first place than absorb them and try to navigate your way out later.

Nadapayments can help you start your franchising journey the right way by identifying these fees and handling them accordingly, boosting your bottom line and keeping your hard-earned money in your pocket.

Help Me Save on Fees

As a small business owner, you understand the importance of revenue growth to the overall success and sustainability of your business. Driving and maintaining business growth is a constant objective, and it requires careful planning, strategic thinking, and a proactive approach. 

In this article, we will explore various strategies and techniques to help you increase revenue for your small business. By analyzing the market, you can develop a growth strategy that incorporates a variety of tactics to focus and improve upon your business offerings and unlock success through revenue growth strategies.

Understanding the Importance of Revenue Growth for Small Businesses

Before we dive in, it's necessary to understand why revenue growth is crucial for small businesses. 

Revenue growth signifies the expansion and success of your business. It enables you to invest in new opportunities, hire more talent, and increase your market presence. Moreover, revenue growth allows you to stay ahead of inflation and rising costs, ensuring the financial stability and long-term viability of your small business.

To drive business growth effectively, you need to analyze the market and assess your current business performance.

Analyzing the Market and Current Business Performance

When searching for growth opportunities, it's essential to conduct a thorough analysis of the market and your current business performance. 

Start by researching market trends, customer preferences, and competitor strategies. This information will provide valuable insights into potential areas for revenue growth.

Simultaneously, evaluate your current business performance. Analyze your financial statements, sales data, and customer feedback. Identify strengths and weaknesses, areas of high profitability, and areas that require improvement. 

This evaluation will help you make informed decisions and prioritize your efforts in driving business growth.

Developing a Growth Strategy for Your Small Business

With a clear understanding of the market and your business performance, it's time to develop a growth strategy tailored to your small business. 

Start by setting realistic and measurable goals. These goals should align with your overall business objectives and provide a clear direction for your revenue growth efforts.

Next, identify the key tactics and initiatives that will help you achieve those goals. These could include expanding your product or service offerings, exploring new markets or customer segments, improving operational efficiency, or increasing customer retention. Remember to prioritize these initiatives based on their potential impact and feasibility.

Read more: How to Write Off Business Expenses the Right Way

Creating a Sales Funnel

A well-designed sales funnel can significantly improve your conversion rate, leading to increased revenue for your small business. A sales funnel represents the customer journey, from initial awareness to making a purchase. 

By optimizing each stage of the funnel, you can guide potential customers smoothly through the buying process. Here’s how it works:

Start by attracting a wide audience through effective marketing and advertising campaigns. Use multiple channels and strategies to reach your target market. 

Once you have captured their attention, focus on nurturing leads and building trust. Provide valuable content, personalized recommendations, and exceptional customer service to increase their likelihood of making a purchase.

Finally, streamline your sales process to maximize conversions. Simplify the purchasing experience, offer competitive pricing, and provide clear communication throughout. Continuously analyze and optimize your sales funnel to ensure maximum efficiency and revenue growth.

Expanding Your Audience

To drive business growth, it's also crucial to expand your audience and reach new customers:

  • Develop a comprehensive marketing strategy that spans various channels, such as digital marketing, social media advertising, content marketing, and search engine optimization.

  • Tailor your messaging and promotions to resonate with your target audience and attract their attention.

  • Consider partnerships with complementary businesses or influencers in your industry. Collaborations can help you tap into new customer segments and gain exposure to a wider audience. Explore cross-promotion opportunities, joint campaigns, or co-branded initiatives that can mutually benefit all parties involved.

Resorting to these methods can help you better find the people most likely to want your products and services.

Keeping Your Current Customers Happy

While attracting new customers is important, it's equally essential to keep your existing customers happy. Loyal customers not only provide repeat business but can also become brand advocates, recommending your products or services to others. 

You can encourage loyalty and reduce attrition a variety of ways:

  • Invest in customer service. By training your staff to provide personalized, prompt, and helpful assistance.

  • Implement loyalty programs. Awarding exclusive perks to repeat customers helps incentivize their continued support.

  • Engage with your audience. Maintaining regular contact with your customers through email newsletters, social media, or personalized offers helps you stay top of mind.

Keeping your current customers coming back for more reduces your reliance on new customers and allows you to be less aggressive with audience acquisition.

Trimming Unprofitable Services

As you strive to increase revenue, it's important to evaluate the profitability of your products or services. Identify any offerings that are consistently underperforming or draining resources without generating significant revenue. Consider discontinuing or revamping these offerings to focus on more profitable ventures.

By trimming unprofitable services, you can allocate resources more effectively and concentrate on revenue-generating activities. This strategic decision will enable you to optimize your business operations and drive overall revenue growth.

Read more: How to Cut Costs in Business Without Sacrificing Quality

Taking Advantage of Technology

Of course, increasing revenue isn’t the only improvement businesses can make. Profit margins will also grow if businesses cut costs. Here’s a few ways technology can help reduce costs:

  • Automating tasks. Technology can automate time-consuming and costly tasks such as data entry, customer support, and social media management. This can reduce labor costs and minimize human error.

  • Going paperless. Moving to digital documentation can reduce expenses associated with paper, ink, printing, postage, and transportation. It can also speed up business processes.

  • Server virtualization. This step allows companies to maximize the use of their hardware, which can reduce the need for new hardware. This can lead to lower energy costs and a reduction in floor space.

When choosing technological tools, businesses should consider scalability, customer service, and price range. They should also look for tools that suit their business needs.

Keeping Up with the Competition

In today's competitive business landscape, staying ahead of the competition is crucial for revenue growth. Regularly monitor your competitors' strategies, pricing, and offerings. Identify any gaps or opportunities that you can leverage to differentiate your business and attract more customers.

Invest in continuous learning and professional development to keep your skills and knowledge up to date. Stay informed about industry trends, emerging technologies, and changing customer preferences. 

By staying proactive and adaptive, you can position your small business as a leader in the market and drive revenue growth.

The Easiest Way to Increase Your Bottom Line

Running a small business or clinic can be deeply rewarding and financially lucrative, though it often entails its own set of complexities.

It's crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of all potential costs before diving in, as it's quite simple to miss certain expenses that aren't immediately apparent.

One effective approach to safeguarding your business's financial health is to remain vigilant about the seemingly insignificant costs that accumulate over time. This includes details like credit card surcharges and various payment processing fees.

Without astute attention, you may overlook potential savings until they start eroding your profit margins. It's generally more proactive to avert unnecessary outlays than to grapple with them retrospectively.

Nadapayments is here to support you as you steer your business or clinic toward growth, by pinpointing these fees and managing them adeptly, ensuring your revenue remains healthy and your hard-earned money stays in your possession.

Help Grow My Business


Do you know how well your dental practice is doing compared to your competitors?

If not—no worries. We did the homework, and here are the numbers.

(Or, if you want to skip ahead and find out how Nadapayments can help boost your clinic’s profit margins, click below…)

Boost My Profit Margins

Profit Margins in the Dental Industry

Here’s the breakdown of average profit margins (and incomes) across the U.S. dental industry:

  • According to the American Dental Association (ADA), the average net income for dental specialists is $323,776.

Typical Dental Office Expenses

The average expense ratio for a dental practice in the U.S. is around 62% of revenue:

  • The average annual revenue for all 65,327 sole proprietorship dental offices in the U.S. was $343,584, based on 2019 IRS data for the ‘Dental Office’ category. 
  • Meanwhile, average annual expenses for sole proprietorship dental offices in the U.S. added up to $246,550 per year.

It’s important to keep in mind that most of these costs are based on sole-proprietor dental clinics with only one location

Factors That Impact Dental Profit Margins

Several factors influence the profit margins in a dental practice:

  • The location of your office plays a significant role. Urban areas have higher overhead costs, like rent and insurance, which can lower profits.
  • The size of your practice and # of patients you see daily. A larger practice with a higher patient volume has the potential for higher profit margins.
  • The services you offer and the fees you charge. Specialized procedures tend to have higher profit margins compared to routine dental check-ups.

Of course, there is a fourth major factor that’s often overlooked:

  • How high your expenses are. Do they have to be that high? Can you lower them? (Hint: Yes, you 100% can.) 

How to Lower Expenses And Boost Your Profit Margins

Now that we understand the typical profit margins in the dental industry, let's take a look at the simplest, easiest, fastest way to cut your clinic costs and boost your profit margins by up to 10% or more:

  • Cut your credit card processing fees to zero. With Nadapayments, you can do that basically overnight.

We help hundreds of dentists and orthodontists around the country lower their expenses and take home more of their hard-earned money. Like Dr. Lee, age 45, who made $1.1 million in revenue from his dental practice last year.

  • His credit card processing fee is 3.5%, and 82% of his clients paid with credit cards.
  • This means Dr. Lee paid $31,570 in card processing fees on $902,000 in sales.

Aside from the fact that that’s probably as much as he’s paying his scheduler...by the time Dr. Lee retires 20 years from now, he’ll have paid $631,400 in credit card processing fees.

With that money, Dr. Lee could have bought a home, condo, cars, boats, his kids’ college tuition—you name it!

(Instead, he paid processing fees to a multi-billion-dollar credit card issuer like Visa.)

Put Your Hard-Earned Money Back Into Your Bank Account

If this sounds like a terrible injustice to you, it’s because it is.

That’s why Nadapayments helps our dental clients cut their credit card processing fees to zero using surcharge programs that are legal in 48 of the 50 states.

Not only do we help you set up your new zero-fee card processing program, Nadapayments is also a fully integrated payment solution:

Integrated Payment Solution

  • Combines various payment functions into a unified system
  • Automatically logs payments, reducing manual entry errors
  • Enables secure, PCI-compliant storage of credit card information
  • Provides options for automated payment plans via email or text
  • Offers a wireless, contactless handheld solution for convenience

Unintegrated Solution

  • Doesn’t offer any of the cool stuff above…

That’s not all — Nadapayments is also your one-stop shop for card processing and practice management software. We’re fully integrated with:

  • Dentrix
  • Opendental
  • Eaglesoft
  • DSN
  • and many more...

Integrated systems like Nadapayments offer a comprehensive solution for dental practices, streamlining operations and ensuring compliance with industry standards.

Interested? Reach out for a free savings analysis today and we can show you exactly how much money you could be saving by getting rid of those pesky credit card transaction fees.

Boost My Profit Margins

Appropriately managing the finances of your business starts by understanding the distinction between cost savings and cost reduction. 

  • Cost savings refer to finding ways to spend less money on the same products or services without compromising quality. 
  • Cost reduction, on the other hand, involves decreasing expenses by making significant changes to your operations, which may impact the quality of your offerings. 

While both approaches have their place, it can be difficult to discern between the effectiveness of the two for your specific business situation.

That’s why, for the purpose of this article, we’ll simplify things and focus on cost savings as a means to cut costs without sacrificing quality.

Identifying Areas for Cost Savings in Your Business

The first step is to identify areas where cost savings can be achieved. Start by thoroughly analyzing your current expenses and pinpointing any unnecessary or excessive spending. 

Look at your inventory management, production processes, supplier relationships, and overhead costs. 

Next, evaluate your business operations to identify any inefficiencies or redundancies. Ask yourself some key questions, like:

  • Are there any tasks or processes that could be streamlined or automated? 
  • Can you renegotiate contracts with suppliers to get better pricing or terms? 

ITSupplyChain, in a survey of 100+ global enterprise leaders, suggests that businesses today can locate inefficiencies in these areas:

  • Onboarding at scale: Moving away from manual, time-consuming processes and towards automation can save on operational expenses by reducing the time it takes to onboard by as much as 27%.
  • Data utilization: Ignoring both information your business has gathered over time and important trends on behavioral insights in your industry tends to complicate roadmap creation.
  • User feedback: Failing to implement a system that effectively manages and takes user feedback into account will amplify the need to spend on customer service.
  • Sales reliance: Over-relying on your sales and marketing teams to drive growth instead of finding ways to create more autonomous sales funnels often leads to wasted spend.

By scrutinizing these areas, you can uncover potential cost-saving opportunities.

Cost Savings Strategies for Businesses

You can then implement cost savings strategies once you’ve identified the areas where your business needs to save. Keep in mind that effective approaches will vary from business to business, depending upon the nature of your offerings.

  • Renegotiate supplier deals: Reach out to them and explore the possibility of bulk discounts, extended payment terms, or reduced prices. Building strong relationships with your suppliers can lead to significant savings over time.
  • Optimize your inventory management: Excess inventory ties up valuable resources and incurs storage costs. Implementing just-in-time inventory practices can help you minimize excess inventory and reduce carrying costs. 

Additionally, consider using inventory management software to track inventory levels and identify trends to make more informed purchasing decisions.

  • Scrutinize your overhead costs: Evaluate your utility bills, office space, and other fixed expenses. Can you find alternative providers that offer better rates? Are there areas where you can reduce consumption to lower your bills? 
  • Incorporate surcharge costs into pricing: Payment processing surcharges can add up over time. Building these fees into your product pricing can help you save more money in the long run.

By paying attention to these details, you can identify cost-saving opportunities that might have otherwise gone unnoticed.

Read more: Can Merchants Charge a Credit Card Fee? Surcharge vs. Convenience

Reducing Real Estate Expenses

The ongoing popularity of the work-from-home movement has led many employers to reconsider the value of physical workspace. 

That said, there are valid points to be made on both sides of that argument: Sometimes, in-person teamwork is required; others, you may not be able to afford to overlook the flexibility that hybrid work offers.

Recent research conducted by Fortune suggests that many businesses, by taking from the lessons the pandemic taught us, plan to either downsize office space or improve its utilization thereof. 

Some other notable statistics Fortune gathered from business executives include:

  • 83% expect to save money through hybrid work
  • 60% expect to cut down on office space utilization by 50% or more
  • 74% of Fortune 500 CEOs also plan to cut down on office space use

Remember when we mentioned ignoring important industry trends earlier? There is absolutely a trend here that’s worth noticing.

What about retail?

A retail business may not have the luxury of cutting down on physical space use so liberally, so how can retail outlets save?

Naturally, eCommerce integration could be a great first step if your business currently lacks it, helping you save on transaction and inventory costs

Combining both a physical presence with a digital presence can aid in streamlining order processing as well as in making the process of purchasing from you more affordable to your customers: When discretionary income is low and gas tanks aren’t as full, they can simply buy from or schedule with you online.

But knowing exactly where to cut costs and how to save as a retail business starts by knowing your margins.

Read more: What is The Average Retail Profit Margin? How to Optimize Your Bottom Line

Implementing Cost Savings Initiatives

Once you’ve developed a plan for cost savings, it's time to implement your initiatives. Start by communicating your goals and strategies with your team. 

Emphasize the importance of cost savings and explain how it benefits the business as a whole. Encourage your employees to contribute their ideas and suggestions for cost-saving measures.

Next, establish clear benchmarks and targets to track your progress. Set realistic goals and create a timeline for implementation. 

Regularly review your progress and make adjustments as needed. By monitoring your initiatives, you can ensure that you stay on track and achieve the desired cost savings.

Creative Ideas for Business Cost Savings

In addition to the traditional cost-saving strategies, thinking outside the box may lead to other creative and innovative ideas that can help you cut costs in your business. 

Consider implementing remote work options for your employees, which, as previously mentioned, can save significantly on office space and utility costs. Reduce travel expenses for your employees by encouraging virtual meetings.

Another creative idea is to explore shared services or co-working spaces. By sharing resources with other businesses, you can split costs and reduce operational expenses. 

According to data from Statista, the number of worldwide co-working spaces increased by about 18% between 2022 and 2023 and is expected to grow by about another 18% in 2024. Small businesses are turning to co-working spaces for their short-term leases and shared expenses.

Additionally, think creatively when it comes to marketing and advertising. Instead of expensive traditional advertising methods, consider leveraging social media and digital marketing techniques, which are often more cost-effective. 

Engage with your customers through online platforms and encourage them to spread the word about your business, saving on advertising costs while increasing brand awareness.

Tracking and Measuring Cost Savings

Ensuring success of your cost savings initiatives involves tracking and measuring your progress. Implement a robust system for monitoring and recording your cost savings. Keep detailed records of your expenses and savings achieved through various initiatives.

Regularly analyze your financial statements and compare them to previous periods to assess the effectiveness of your cost savings strategies. 

This will help you identify areas where further improvements can be made and provide insights into the overall financial health of your business.

The Role of Technology in Cutting Business Costs

Technology also plays a pivotal role in cutting business costs:

  • Going paperless: Implementing software that saves on raw materials, like paper, goes a long way in boosting your bottom line.
  • Boosting productivity: The fewer manual processes and the more automation you have, the more you tend to save and the better you’re able to streamline and grow your business at scale in the future
  • Saving on admin tasks: The costs of doing business tend to be a noticeable drain of corporate resources. Automating the small stuff through digital means will help you save over time.
  • Tracking and measuring progress: Excel spreadsheets are nice, but they take time and resources to create, modify, and keep track of. Automating data across departments will cut down on your employees’ time spent on unnecessary busy work.

Explore the latest software and tools available in the market that can streamline your processes and reduce manual efforts. Consider investing in automation software that can eliminate repetitive tasks and improve efficiency.

Cloud computing is another technological advancement that can help you save costs. By migrating your data and applications to the cloud, you can reduce the need for expensive hardware and IT infrastructure. 

Cloud services also offer scalability, allowing you to pay only for what you use, resulting in potential cost savings.

Where else is your business losing money?

Cutting costs in your business doesn't have to mean sacrificing quality. 

By understanding the differences between cost savings and cost reduction, identifying areas for cost savings, implementing strategic initiatives, and leveraging technology, you can achieve significant cost savings while maintaining the quality of your products or services.

Remember to be creative and innovative in your approach to cost savings, and don't overlook the importance of tracking and measuring your progress. 

By implementing these strategies and fostering a cost-saving culture within your business, you can unlock savings and improve your financial health without compromising on the quality that sets your business apart.

Read more: What is The Average Profit Margin in The Healthcare Industry?

Speaking of cost-saving culture—did you know that high-ticket retail businesses, like private healthcare clinics, are more likely to overpay in payment processing fees than others? If you’re not looking at what the big guys are charging you to accept payments, you’re likely losing money there, too.

Nadapayments can help your business identify, locate, and save on these fees, boosting your bottom line and putting your hard-earned money back in your pocket.

Boost My Bottom Line

Running a business involves numerous expenses, from office supplies to travel costs. 

But did you know that many of these expenses can be tax deductible? Taking advantage of deductions can significantly reduce your taxable income and save your money. 

However, keeping track of your business expenses can be daunting. This guide will explore the necessity of tracking business expenses and how a business expense calculator can simplify the process, ultimately helping you maximize your deductions.

Understanding the importance of tracking business expenses

Tracking your business expenses is crucial for tax purposes and gaining a clear understanding of your financial health. 

By meticulously recording your expenses, you can identify areas where you may be overspending and make informed decisions to optimize your budget. 

Moreover, accurate expense tracking enables you to claim the maximum deductions allowed by law, reducing your taxable income and lowering your tax liability.

Tracking costs with a business expense calculator

A business expense calculator is a powerful tool that simplifies tracking and categorizing your expenses. It allows you to input your expenses and automatically calculates the deductible amount based on the applicable tax laws. This, in turn, should reduce the chance of human error in manual calculations. 

A good business expense calculator also provides detailed reports, giving you a comprehensive overview of your expenditures and facilitating easy record-keeping for tax purposes.

Using a business expense calculator is straightforward and user-friendly. Here's how to do it:

  • Gather your receipts: Collect all business-related receipts, including invoices, bills, and receipts from online transactions. Make sure you have documentation for every expense you want to include.
  • Categorize your expenses: Sort your expenses into different categories, such as office supplies, travel expenses, or marketing costs, so they're easier to enter into the calculator. Make sure to separate personal expenses from business-related ones. 
  • Enter your expenses: Open the business expense calculator and input each expense under the appropriate category. Include the date, amount, and any additional relevant information. The calculator will automatically add up the total spent in each category, providing you with a clear overview of your expenses.
  • Review and verify: Once you have entered all your expenses, review the information for accuracy. Double-check the amounts and ensure that all necessary details are included.
  • Generate reports: Most business expense calculators can generate detailed reports. Take advantage of this feature to get a clear overview of your expenses and the associated deductions.

Remember that keeping all your receipts and supporting documents is essential in case of an audit. With the help of a business expense calculator, you can streamline the tracking process, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in managing your business expenses.

Tracking expenses manually

There are other effective ways to track your business expenses. If you have an accounting background or just prefer to keep your own books, create a spreadsheet or use accounting software like Quickbooks to record each expense. 

Be diligent in categorizing your expenditures, ensuring that they align with the tax deduction guidelines provided by your local tax authority.

Maintaining a physical folder or an organized digital folder to store all your receipts and invoices is essential. Make it a habit to promptly file away these documents, ensuring they are easily accessible when needed. 

Additionally, consider implementing a system where you jot down any business-related expenses immediately. This proactive approach will prevent you from forgetting or misplacing crucial expense information. 

By diligently tracking your business expenses, you can confidently claim deductions during the tax filing season and maintain financial transparency.

Examples of common, deductible business expenses

As a business owner, it's crucial to be aware of the expenses that are considered tax deductible

While specific rules and regulations may vary depending on your jurisdiction, here are some business expenses that you can typically deduct:

  • Office supplies: Expenses related to purchasing office supplies, such as pens, paper, printers, and software, are generally deductible.
  • Travel expenses: Costs incurred during business trips, including airfare, accommodation, meals, and transportation, can often be deducted.
  • Advertising: Expenses related to marketing your business, such as website development, promotional materials, and online advertisements, are typically deductible.
  • Professional fees: Payments made to consultants, accountants, lawyers, and other professionals who provide services directly related to your business are often deductible.
  • Insurance premiums: Premiums paid for business insurance, including general and professional liability insurance, are usually deductible.

Remember to consult with a tax professional or refer to the tax laws in your jurisdiction to ensure accurate deduction of these expenses.

FAQ on deducting business expenses

Q: Are legal fees tax deductible for businesses?

A: The deductibility of legal fees depends on the purpose of the legal services. In general, legal fees incurred for ordinary business operations, such as contract drafting or employment matters, are tax deductible. However, legal costs related to personal matters or capital expenditures are typically not deductible. It is essential to keep detailed records and consult with a tax professional to determine the deductibility of legal fees specific to your business.

Q: Can I deduct the cost of business meals?

A: The tax deductibility of business meals varies depending on the jurisdiction. In many cases, you can deduct a percentage of expenses related to business meals, typically around 50%. However, it is essential to keep detailed records, including the purpose of the meal or entertainment, the attendees, and the business discussed, to support your deduction.

Q: Can I deduct the cost of business entertainment expenditures?

A: Despite some exceptions, most business entertainment expenditures are not deductible.

Q: Can I deduct the cost of my home office?

A: If you have a dedicated space in your home used exclusively for your business, you may be eligible to deduct a portion of home office expenses such as rent, utilities, and insurance. However, there are specific criteria that must be met, so it is advisable to consult with a tax professional to ensure compliance.

Take control of your business expenses and save money

Tracking your business expenses can be complicated, but it is crucial to managing your finances and running a profitable business. If you stay organized, you can maximize deductions and minimize accounting headaches.

Whether you use a business expense calculator or not, remember to keep detailed records, consult with a tax professional, and stay up to date with the tax laws in your jurisdiction. 

By taking control of your business expenses, you not only save money but also gain valuable insights into your financial health and make informed decisions for the growth of your business.

Fortunately, Nadapayments can help your business identify exactly which expenses you can cut back on or slash altogether. They don’t call us Nadapayments for no reason.

Help Cut My Costs

In recent years, the demand for non-surgical cosmetic procedures has skyrocketed. 

Among these procedures, Botox treatments have gained significant popularity. In fact, it’s the most popular non-surgical cosmetic treatment in the US.

If you're considering entering the Botox business or already own a clinic that provides Botox injections, you may be wondering, "Is Botox profitable?" 

This comprehensive analysis will dive into the profitability of Botox injections at your clinic, exploring revenue streams, cost factors, and profit margins.

Read: The Most Profitable Aesthetic Procedures (Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery) For Clinics

What’s in a Botox injection?

Before delving into the financial aspects, it's essential to grasp the Botox business model, which includes what exactly Botox is in the first place (turns out a lot of people actually don’t know what they’re injecting in their faces).

Botox is a brand name for a toxin derived from Clostridium botulinum. Yes, this is the same bacteria that can cause botulism. But the toxin is present in a much smaller, safer dosage in Botox.

Botox injections temporarily paralyze muscles at the injection site, which reduces the appearance of wrinkles. It can also be used to treat other medical conditions, such as neck spasms, sweating, and overactive bladder. 

Since Botox is technically an ‘all natural’ treatment, Botox components are eventually broken down into harmless amino acids. These amino acids are excreted from the kidneys as waste, or used in other proteins.

Botox is approved for individuals aged 18 and above, and many experts suggest that people in their mid-to-late 20s and early 30s are ideal candidates for proactive Botox therapy.

Revenue streams for Botox clinics

Botox clinics focus on providing non-surgical cosmetic procedures, primarily Botox injections, to clients seeking aesthetic enhancements. But Botox is never the only treatment offered.

These clinics cater to individuals looking to reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of aging without undergoing invasive surgeries.

To assess the profitability of Botox clinics, it's crucial to analyze their multiple revenue streams from different treatments. Botox clinics typically generate revenue from the following sources:

1. Botox Injections

Botox injections are the primary revenue driver for Botox businesses. These injections work their magic by temporarily relaxing facial muscles, resulting in a noticeable reduction in wrinkles and fine lines. With a high demand for these procedures, Botox clinics can generate substantial revenue through Botox injections.

2. Dermal Fillers

In addition to Botox injections, Botox businesses often offer dermal filler treatments. Dermal fillers are injectable substances that add volume to areas of the face, such as the cheeks or lips, smoothing out wrinkles and enhancing facial contours. By providing dermal filler treatments along with Botox injections, Botox businesses can expand their revenue streams.

3. Additional Aesthetic Services

Many Botox businesses also offer additional aesthetic services to complement their core offerings. These services may include chemical peels, microdermabrasion, laser treatments, or skincare consultations. By providing a variety of aesthetic services, Botox clinics can attract a broader clientele and increase their revenue potential.

4. Retail Product Sales

Some Botox businesses sell skincare products and beauty supplements to their clients. These retail products often complement the treatments offered and allow clients to maintain their results at home. By offering retail products, Botox clinics can generate additional revenue and enhance client satisfaction.

5. Membership Programs and Packages

To encourage client loyalty and generate recurring revenue, some Botox businesses offer membership programs or packages. These programs provide clients with exclusive perks, discounts on treatments, and priority scheduling. By implementing membership options, Botox clinics can build a loyal customer base and ensure a steady stream of revenue.

Factors affecting Botox profitability

While Botox businesses have the potential to be profitable, several factors can impact their financial success. Understanding and managing these factors effectively can optimize the profitability of a Botox clinic.

1. Location

The location of a Botox clinic plays a significant role in its profitability. A prime location in an area with a high population density and a target demographic interested in cosmetic procedures can attract a larger client base. Being situated near complementary businesses, such as beauty salons or medical clinics, can also enhance visibility and drive foot traffic to the clinic.

2. Competition

The level of competition in the local market can affect the profitability of a Botox business. If there are several Botox clinics or aesthetic practices in the area, attracting and retaining clients may be challenging. To stand out from the competition, Botox clinics must differentiate themselves by offering unique treatments, exceptional customer service, and a pleasant ambiance.

3. Pricing Strategy

The pricing strategy of a Botox clinic can significantly impact its profitability. Setting competitive prices while considering factors such as the costs of supplies, equipment, staff salaries, and overhead expenses is crucial. Conducting market research to understand the average prices for similar services in the area can help determine a pricing structure that balances profitability and attractiveness to potential clients.

4. Operational Efficiency

Efficient operations contribute to the profitability of a Botox clinic. Streamlining administrative processes, optimizing staff scheduling, and leveraging technology can help reduce expenses and improve overall efficiency. Implementing electronic medical record (EMR) systems, automated appointment reminders, and online booking platforms can enhance the client experience and increase staff productivity.

5. Staffing and Expertise

Having a skilled and knowledgeable team is vital for the success of a Botox clinic. Employing licensed medical professionals, experienced injectors, and well-trained support staff ensures the delivery of high-quality services and client satisfaction. Investing in ongoing training and professional development for the staff can keep them updated on the latest techniques and advancements in the field, attracting discerning clients.

6. Marketing and Branding

Effective marketing and branding strategies are essential for attracting clients to a Botox clinic. Developing a comprehensive marketing plan that includes online and offline strategies can increase visibility and reach. Building a professional website, leveraging social media, collaborating with local influencers, and investing in targeted advertising can all contribute to a successful marketing campaign.

How profitable are Botox clinics?

Botox and filler injections can be a profitable business because they are in high demand and don't require surgery. 

According to a 2021 study, a practice can charge around $409 per Botox treatment. If a practice sees at least 10 patients per day, it can generate up to $4,090 in income. In a month, they can expect an average of $60,000–$80,000 in business revenue. 

Meanwhile, the profit margin for Botox is relatively high. According to one source, Botox clinic owners typically see margins between 40–60%. And, according to Face Med Store, the average markup for a Botox injection is between 65–72%

So assuming a 60% profit margin, that same clinic is taking home between $36,000–$48,000.

Of course, it’s not usually that simple. The cost of Botox depends on several factors, including the price of the botulinum toxin and the number of units needed. The education and experience of the medical professional performing the procedure is another major cost. And there’s always the fact that any clinic that offers Botox is also offering plenty of other treatments.

A fast-growing, in-demand clinic treatment

While the specific financial figures can vary depending on various factors, such as location, competition, and pricing, Botox businesses generally have favorable profit margins.

And the demand for non-surgical cosmetic procedures, including Botox, continues to grow. 

The global botulinum toxin market (the ingredient inside of the injections) is anticipated to grow to $15.2 billion by 2030 from $6.4 billion in 2022. 

For reference, nearly 3.6 million people received cosmetic injections in 2021, the year of the post-pandemic ‘botox boom.’ So some simple napkin math shows us that by 2030, the number of people receiving Botox injections could well exceed 7 million people.

In other words, this is the type of aesthetic treatment that any type of aesthetic clinic should strongly consider offering. 

As long as your customer base would appreciate Botox injections as an added service, you are very likely to turn a profit by offering Botox injections, assuming you have qualified personnel to administer the treatments.

Read: Are Med Spas Profitable? A Comprehensive Analysis

Boosting your bottom line one expense at a time

To ensure the financial success of a Botox business, it is crucial to develop a solid business plan, monitor financials closely, optimize revenue streams, manage expenses efficiently, and implement effective operational and marketing strategies. 

By focusing on delivering high-quality services, understanding client needs, and staying up-to-date with industry trends, Botox businesses can thrive in this growing market.

Botox clinics should also consider partnering with a payment processing provider that specializes in working with the healthcare industry, like Nadapayments.

How to lower your clinic expenses

If you run an aesthetic clinic that offers Botox, or any healthcare clinic that accepts credit card payments, try out Nadapayments

Nadapayments offers payment solutions tailored to the needs of medical and aesthetic clinics. By partnering with a reliable payment processing provider, you can streamline your payment operations, reduce expenses, and enhance your overall customer experience.

We already help hundreds of doctors, dentists, and clinics cut out card processing fees and easily boost their bottom line.

Why wait? Start your journey towards a more profitable clinic today.

Help My Clinic Save More

As the beauty and wellness industry continues to thrive, medical spas, medi-spas, or med spas, have become increasingly popular. 

These establishments offer a unique blend of medical treatments and spa services, catering to individuals looking for both aesthetic enhancements and therapeutic relaxation. 

If you're considering entering the med spa business, you may be wondering, "Are med spas profitable?" And if you already own a med spa, then you want to know “Am I as profitable as I can be?”

In this comprehensive analysis, we dive into the profitability of med spas around the US. Let’s take a look at their revenue streams, expenses, and other factors that impact profitability. 

By understanding the financial aspects of med spas, you can make informed decisions and optimize the profitability of your clinic, too.

Understanding the Med Spa Business Model

Before diving into the financials, it's important to understand the med spa business model

A med spa is somewhere between a regular day spa and a medical clinic. Med spas offer a range of services, including non-surgical cosmetic procedures, skin rejuvenation treatments, massage therapy, and wellness services. 

Unlike traditional spas, med spas have a medical professional, such as a licensed physician or nurse practitioner, overseeing and performing certain treatments.

The combination of medical expertise and spa services allows med spas to attract a broader clientele, including people seeking cosmetic enhancements, anti-aging treatments, or therapeutic services. 

This unique positioning creates multiple revenue streams for med spas, contributing to their overall profitability.

Revenue Streams for Med Spas

To assess the profitability of med spas, it's crucial to analyze their various revenue streams. Med spas typically generate revenue from multiple sources, including:

1. Aesthetic Procedures

Aesthetic procedures are the main revenue driver for many med spas. These procedures include treatments like Botox injections, dermal fillers, laser hair removal, chemical peels, and microdermabrasion. 

Aesthetic procedures are often in high demand, as individuals seek non-invasive or minimally invasive solutions to enhance their appearance.

2. Skin Rejuvenation and Anti-Aging Treatments

Skin rejuvenation and anti-aging treatments, such as laser skin resurfacing, radiofrequency treatments, and microneedling, are another significant revenue stream for med spas. 

These treatments target skin concerns like wrinkles, fine lines, sun damage, and uneven texture, appealing to individuals looking to achieve a more youthful and radiant complexion.

3. Wellness Services

In addition to aesthetic treatments, med spas often offer wellness services like massage therapy, acupuncture, nutritional counseling, and holistic therapies. These services cater to individuals seeking relaxation, stress relief, and overall well-being. 

While wellness services may not generate as much revenue as aesthetic procedures, they contribute to the overall profitability of med spas by attracting a diverse clientele.

4. Retail Product Sales

Many med spas sell skincare products, beauty supplements, and other retail items. These products complement the treatments and services offered, allowing med spas to generate additional revenue. 

Retail sales can be a profitable aspect of the business, as clients often trust the recommendations of their med spa providers and purchase products to maintain their results at home.

5. Membership Programs and Packages

Some med spas offer membership programs or packages that provide clients with discounts, exclusive perks, and priority scheduling. These programs incentivize client loyalty and generate recurring revenue for the med spa. 

By offering attractive membership options, med spas can build a loyal customer base and ensure a steady stream of revenue.

Factors Affecting Med Spa Profitability

While med spas have the potential to be very profitable, several factors can impact their overall financial success. Understanding these factors will help you make informed decisions and optimize your med spa's profitability.

1. Location

The location of your med spa plays a significant role in its profitability. A prime location in an affluent area with a high population density and a target demographic interested in aesthetic and wellness services can attract a larger client base and higher-paying customers. 

Additionally, being situated near complementary businesses like salons, gyms, or health clinics can drive more foot traffic and enhance the visibility of your med spa.

2. Competition

The level of competition in your area can affect your med spa's profitability. If there are several med spas or aesthetic clinics nearby, you may face challenges in attracting and retaining clients. 

It's essential to differentiate your med spa by offering unique treatments, exceptional customer service, and a pleasant ambiance. Developing a strong brand identity and marketing strategy can help you stand out from the competition and attract a loyal customer base.

3. Pricing Strategy

Your pricing strategy can significantly impact your med spa's profitability. Setting competitive prices while considering the costs of supplies, equipment, staff salaries, and overhead expenses is crucial. 

Conduct market research to understand the average prices for similar services in your area, and determine a pricing structure that balances profitability and attractiveness to potential clients. Offering occasional promotions or package deals can also help drive sales and increase revenue.

4. Operational Efficiency

Efficient operations can contribute to the profitability of your med spa. Streamlining administrative processes, optimizing staff scheduling, and leveraging technology can help reduce expenses and improve overall efficiency. 

Implementing electronic medical record (EMR) systems, automated appointment reminders, and online booking platforms can enhance the client experience and increase staff productivity.

5. Staffing and Expertise

Having a skilled and knowledgeable team is crucial for the success of your med spa. Employing licensed medical professionals, experienced aestheticians, and well-trained support staff ensures the delivery of high-quality services and client satisfaction. 

Investing in ongoing training and professional development for your staff can keep them updated on the latest trends, techniques, and advancements in the industry, allowing you to offer cutting-edge treatments and attract discerning clients.

6. Marketing and Branding

Effective marketing and branding strategies are essential for attracting clients and building a reputable brand. This means developing a comprehensive marketing plan that includes both online and offline strategies. 

This could include building a professional website with engaging content, high-quality images, and client testimonials. Or perhaps leveraging social media to showcase before-and-after photos, share educational content, and engage with your target audience. 

Some spas even collaborate with local influencers, establish partnerships with complementary businesses, and invest in targeted advertising to increase their visibility and reach.

But Are Med Spas Profitable?

The simple answer? Yes. Medical spas can be very profitable. In fact, the medical spa industry is one of the fastest-growing industries in the US. 

Size of the med spa market

The global medical spa market is a $16.31 billion industry that employs an estimated 70,000 people, and it’s expected to reach a staggering $63.79 billion by 2032 at a 14.6% CAGR. 

According to the American Med Spa Association, there were 8,841 medical spas in the US in 2022, up from 7,430 in 2021 and 5,431 in 2018.

Average med spa revenue and profitability

Single-location med spas in the US bring in an average of $121,632 in monthly revenue and around $1,982,896 annually at an average per-visit sticker price of $97.50. Meanwhile, top practices can earn between $4–5 million.

But what about expenses and profits? Great question.

The average medical spa owner makes between $300,000–$375,000 annually after expenses, making the average profit margin for a med spa between 20–25%. That’s great—and well above average—for medical clinics as a whole.

Read: What is The Average Profit Margin in The Healthcare Industry?

Average med spa expenses and startup costs

This is even better when you consider the fact that, compared to more specialized clinics (think cosmetic dentistry or surgery of any kind), the startup costs for a med spa are also significantly lower.

Typical all-in startup costs for a med spa average around $19,267–$35,923, while a business license only costs $62. Of course, a med spa’s location and area rent play a big role in these costs. 

In the most in-demand, high-priced downtown metros, startup costs for a med spa offering higher-end services and targeting a wealthier clientele could be closer to $700,000–$1,000,000.

It’s a lot harder to accurately gauge average med spa expenses since those can vary dramatically. The two biggest unknowns would be rent and equipment, which can be bought or leased. Advertising costs can also vary dramatically depending on the types of services the med spa focuses on.

But since we know that the average med spa profit margin is around 20–25%, we can assume that all expenses—including staff, equipment, rent, inventory, advertising and marketing, etc. —are between 75–80% of all revenue.

How to Boost Revenue at Any Med Spa

Running a med spa requires a combination of expertise in both medical and aesthetic fields, as well as business acumen. By staying informed, continuously learning, and adapting to industry trends, you can position your med spa for long-term success in this thriving industry.

To ensure the financial success of your med spa, conduct thorough market research, develop a comprehensive business plan, and monitor your financials closely. 

By offering a range of aesthetic procedures, skin rejuvenation treatments, wellness services, retail products, and membership programs, med spas can generate multiple revenue streams. 

By understanding and optimizing your revenue streams, managing expenses, and implementing effective operational and marketing strategies, you can maximize profitability. 

The goal of any med spa should be to provide valuable, in-demand, high-margin services to its clients.

Read: The Most Profitable Aesthetic Procedures (Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery) For Clinics

How to Lower Any Clinic’s Expenses

If you run a med spa or a healthcare clinic of any kind that accepts card payments and want to cut out needless expenses, try Nadapayments

We help hundreds of doctors, dentists, and specialists around the country reduce their expenses and boost their bottom line by either lowering or eliminating their credit card processing fees completely.

Nadapayments is also designed to seamlessly connect with various clinic EMRs while also offering fully compliant payment processing and point-of-sale solutions.

Start your journey towards a profitable med spa today, and make a positive impact on the lives of your clients while taking home more of your hard-earned cash. Just reach out and we can perform a free savings analysis to show you exactly how much your clinic can save.

How Much Can My Clinic Save?

As the US opioid crisis continues to affect communities across the country, recently released shows like Painkiller on Netflix are making more and more people realize just how big of an issue opioid dependence really is. 

According to the CDC, from 1999–2021, nearly 645,000 people died from an opioid overdose, including any and all prescription and illicit opioids, like Fentanyl. On average, 220 people died each day from opioid overdoses in the US in 2021. 

Unsurprisingly, the demand for effective treatment options has never been higher. Methadone clinics play a crucial role in addressing this crisis by providing medication-assisted treatment to individuals struggling with opioid addiction. 

What is Methadone, and What is a Methadone Clinic?

First, let’s start with some important definitions:

  • Methadone: one of the most popular medications used to treat Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). Methadone is a Schedule II, prescription-only drug dispensed through SAMHSA-certified opioid treatment programs (OTPs), such as methadone clinics.
  • Methadone clinic: These SAMHSA-certified OTPs, often called methadone clinics, not only prescribe methadone, but they can also provide or partner with supportive services, including educational materials, family resources, therapy providers, etc. 

Besides the noble mission of helping people recover, it's essential for methadone clinics to operate as profitable businesses to ensure their sustainability and ability to serve the community effectively.

In this comprehensive analysis, we delve into the profitability of the average methadone clinic. We explore average revenues, expenses, and profits at these clinics, as well as the initial costs associated with starting such a business. 

By understanding the financial aspects of methadone clinics, clinic owners and operators can make informed decisions to optimize profitability and continue to provide life-saving treatment to those in need.

Understanding Methadone Clinic Revenue Streams

To assess the profitability of methadone clinics, it is crucial to analyze their revenue streams. Methadone clinics typically generate revenue from various sources, including:

  • Patient Services: The primary source of revenue for methadone clinics is the provision of medication-assisted treatment services to patients. This includes dispensing methadone or other medications approved for opioid use disorder treatment, as well as providing counseling and other supportive services.
  • Insurance Reimbursements: Many patients seeking treatment at methadone clinics (but not all of them) have health insurance coverage, either through private insurers or public programs such as Medicaid. Methadone clinics can generate revenue by billing these insurance providers for the services rendered to insured patients.
  • Government Funding: Some methadone clinics receive funding from federal, state, or local government agencies to support their operations. These funds can contribute to the revenue generated by the clinic, helping to cover expenses and potentially increasing profitability.

It's important to note that the revenue generated by methadone clinics can vary significantly depending on factors such as location, patient volume, and the availability of insurance coverage for substance use disorder treatment.

The Average Revenues of US Methadone Clinics

While specific revenue figures for individual methadone clinics may differ, it is helpful to examine average revenue benchmarks to understand the financial landscape of the industry.

There isn’t a lot of info out there on the average annual revenue for US methadone clinics, as that can vary greatly depending ohn whether it’s a government-sponsored entity that mostly accepts Medicare/Medicaid or if it’s a private treatment center targeting wealthier families.

According to data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and other sources like the U.S. Department of Defense, the average price for opioid treatment at an OTP on a per-patient basis, including supportive services, is:

  • Methadone cost (daily visits): $126 per week or $6,552 per year
  • Buprenorphine cost (2x per week): $115 per week or $5,980 per year
  • Naltrexone (including drug administration): $1,176.50 per month or $14,112 per year

Additionally, a study published in Drug and Alcohol Dependence found the costs of buprenorphine and naltrexone can range from $257–$384 per dose. By comparison, the cost of a single dose of methadone averages out to approximately $84.

As you can see, depending on which opioid treatment drug is administered, revenue can vary dramatically. While there isn’t a huge difference between methadone and buprenorphine due to the frequency of visits balancing them out, naltrexone is significantly more expensive.

Since there’s no info on the average breakdown of drugs per clinic, and no way to estimate the average number of patients per methadone clinic since there are more clinics in certain states and different states have different population densities, we’ll stick with a per-patient baseline for the purposes of this article.

Analyzing the Average Expenses of Methadone Clinics

To accurately assess the profitability of methadone clinics, it is essential to analyze their expenses. Methadone clinics face various expenses in their daily operations, including:

  • Personnel Costs: Staff salaries, including those of physicians, nurses, counselors, and administrative personnel, form a significant portion of the expenses for methadone clinics. The number of employees and their respective salaries impact the overall expense structure of the clinic.
  • Medication Costs: Methadone clinics incur expenses related to the purchase and dispensing of medications approved for opioid use disorder treatment. These costs can vary depending on the price of the medication and the number of patients receiving treatment.
  • Facility Expenses: Rent or mortgage payments, utilities, and maintenance costs constitute a significant portion of the expenses for methadone clinics. The size and location of the clinic can impact these expenses.
  • Administrative Costs: Expenses related to administrative functions such as billing, insurance claims processing, and record-keeping contribute to the overall expense structure of methadone clinics.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Methadone clinics must comply with various regulations and licensing requirements, which may involve expenses such as licensing fees, inspections, and compliance monitoring.

Unfortunately, we couldn’t find any info on the average expenses of a typical methadone clinic. But we can extrapolate them based on our research into the average profit margins of methadone clinics and OTPs.

Calculating Profit Margins for Methadone Clinics

To determine the profitability of methadone clinics, it is necessary to calculate the profit margin. The profit margin represents the percentage of revenue that remains as profit after deducting all expenses.

Profit Margin (%) = (Net Profit / Revenue) * 100

By analyzing the profit margin, clinic owners and operators can assess the financial health of their businesses and identify areas for improvement.

The average profit margin for methadone clinics in the US is estimated to be between 10–20% on the high end for privately run clinics, based on a 2013 study published by multiple sources. 

We can reasonably assume that, due to inflation in the 10 years since that study was published, these profit margins may have changed slightly, but not by too much. The federal government is incentivized to keep these OTPs in business, so it’s likely that they have been able to preserve their profit margins over time with the help of Medicare/Medicaid.

Notably, this translates to an 80–90% expense ratio, which is actually much lower than most types of tracked healthcare clinics, which would be lucky to have a 2–7% net margin after all expenses and taxes.

Read: What is The Average Profit Margin in The Healthcare Industry?

It's important to note that profit margins can vary widely depending on factors such as clinic size, location, patient volume, and operational efficiency. And there are no reliable studies done on the revenues, expenses, or profits of OTPs that mostly service wealthier demographics (e.g., the ones that accept mostly card payments).

The Cost of Starting a Methadone Clinic

Before diving into the profitability of methadone clinics, it is essential to understand the initial costs associated with starting such a business. The cost of starting a methadone clinic can vary based on several factors, including:

  • Licensing and Regulatory Requirements: Methadone clinics must comply with various licensing and regulatory requirements, which may involve fees and expenses for obtaining necessary permits and certifications.
  • Facility Setup and Renovations: Setting up a suitable facility for a methadone clinic may involve expenses related to leasehold improvements, construction, and renovation.
  • Equipment and Supplies: Methadone clinics require specialized equipment and supplies for dispensing medication, conducting counseling sessions, and managing patient records. These items contribute to the initial costs of starting a clinic.
  • Staffing and Training: Hiring and training qualified personnel, including physicians, nurses, counselors, and administrative staff, is crucial for the successful launch of a methadone clinic. The associated costs should be considered in the initial investment.

It's important for individuals considering starting a methadone clinic to conduct a comprehensive cost analysis and develop a detailed business plan to ensure financial viability.

All that being said, we can reasonably assume that the costs to start a methadone clinic are significantly less than the costs to start clinics that require specialized equipment, such as a dental office or a cosmetic surgery office.

Methadone clinics and OTPs do not require any sophisticated equipment, so startup costs are probably closer to those of a traditional primary care provider. Doctorly estimates that it costs anywhere from $70,000–$100,000 to set up and open a new general practice clinic.

Read: What’s The Typical Profit Margin of a Dentist Office? The Dental Office Cost Breakdown

Strategies to Improve Profitability in Methadone Clinics

While methadone clinics face unique challenges in achieving profitability, there are strategies that clinic owners and operators can implement to optimize financial performance. Here are some key strategies to consider:

  • Operational Efficiency: Focus on streamlining administrative processes, optimizing staff scheduling, and leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency. This can help reduce expenses and improve overall profitability.
  • Maximize Insurance Reimbursements: Collaborate with insurance providers to understand their reimbursement policies and ensure accurate and timely billing. Proper documentation and coding practices can help maximize insurance reimbursements, ultimately boosting revenue.
  • Expand Service Offerings: Consider offering additional services such as counseling, therapy, or other complementary treatments to diversify revenue streams and attract a broader patient base.
  • Community Outreach and Marketing: Develop effective marketing strategies to raise awareness about the clinic's services and reach potential patients. Community outreach programs and collaborations with local organizations can help increase patient volume and revenue.
  • Cost Management: Continuously evaluate expenses and identify areas where cost-saving measures can be implemented. Negotiate favorable contracts with suppliers, explore bulk purchasing options, and implement energy-saving initiatives to reduce facility expenses.

By implementing these strategies and closely monitoring financial performance, methadone clinics can improve profitability and ensure the long-term sustainability of their operations.

Read: The Most Profitable Aesthetic Procedures (Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery) For Clinics

A Surefire Way to Lower Your Clinic Expenses

By carefully managing expenses, maximizing revenue streams, and implementing effective operational strategies, methadone clinics can achieve profitability while fulfilling their mission of providing life-saving treatment to individuals struggling with opioid addiction. 

But as with any business, it requires financial acumen, strategic decision-making, and a commitment to delivering high-quality care to patients in need.

If you run a healthcare clinic of any kind that accepts card payments and want an easy cost-cutting solution, use Nadapayments. We help hundreds of doctors, dentists, and specialists around the country lower their expenses and boost their bottom line.

Nadapayments is designed to seamlessly connect with various dental clinic APIs, including EMRs. 

Curious? Contact us for a complimentary savings assessment now, and discover the exact amount you could save on credit card fees.

How Much Can My Clinic Save?

If you own a dental practice, you already know and understand your profit margins. Running a successful dental practice requires providing quality dental care while managing the financial aspects of your practice effectively. 

But are you maximizing profitability? In other words, are you growing your profits as much as possible while lowering your expenses as much as possible?

This comprehensive guide will explore expert tips to help you maximize your dental practice's profitability and ways you can potentially increase revenue, enhance patient satisfaction, and drive down your operating costs.

Understanding the financial aspects of owning a dental practice

To maximize dental practice profitability, it’s essential to have a thorough understanding of the financial aspects of owning a dental practice. This means analyzing your practice's financial statements, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. 

By carefully reviewing your financials, you can gain insights into your practice's current financial performance and identify potential areas for short-term and long-term improvement.

Of course, it’s also crucial to keep track of key financial metrics, like revenue per procedure, overhead costs, and profit margins. Regularly monitoring and analyzing these metrics can help you make informed decisions to optimize your practice's financial performance.

Furthermore, staying up to date with industry trends and changes in insurance reimbursement rates is vital for financial success. It’s also why it’s so important to stay on top of the most cutting-edge (and affordable) technology you could integrate into your dental practice’s day-to-day operations.

The beautiful thing about owning your own dental practice is that you can optimize your company’s financial stability by staying informed and proactive.

Major factors affecting dental practice profitability

Various factors can impact the profitability of your dental practice. One significant factor is your fee structure.

Determining appropriate fees for your services should be based on factors such as regional market rates, overhead costs, and the value you provide. It’s essential to balance competitive pricing and ensure your practice remains financially viable.

Efficiency in managing your practice's operations is another critical factor. Streamlining admin work, provider scheduling, medical billing, and inventory management strategies can help reduce costs and improve overall productivity.

Investing in modern dental technology and equipment can enhance efficiency and attract more patients.

Furthermore, the demographics and competition in your practice's location can influence profitability. Understanding your target market, competition, and local economic factors can help you effectively tailor your marketing and patient acquisition strategies.

Read: What is The Average Profit Margin in The Healthcare Industry?

How to make your dental practice more profitable

Now that we have explored the key factors affecting dental practice profitability, let's delve into some expert tips on how to make your dental practice more profitable.

  • Optimize your appointment scheduling: Efficiently managing your appointment schedule can help minimize downtime and maximize revenue-generating opportunities. Implementing strategies such as block scheduling, reducing cancellations and no-shows, and utilizing practice management software can streamline your scheduling process.
  • Increase treatment acceptance: Enhancing your case presentation skills and effectively communicating the value of recommended treatments to patients can increase treatment acceptance rates. Providing clear explanations, visual aids, and financing options can help patients understand the benefits of the proposed treatments and make informed decisions.
  • Implement effective marketing strategies: Developing a comprehensive marketing plan tailored to your target market can attract more patients and increase revenue. To reach a wider audience, utilize digital marketing channels such as social media, search engine optimization, and online advertising. Nurturing patient relationships through email marketing and referral programs can boost patient retention and acquisition.
  • Optimize your practice's operations: Regularly review your practice's operational processes to identify areas for improvement. Streamline administrative tasks, implement cost-saving measures, and leverage technology to enhance efficiency. This can free up time and resources to focus on revenue-generating activities and improve profitability.
  • Invest in continuing education: Staying updated with the latest advancements in dental technology, techniques, and patient care can help differentiate your practice and attract more patients. Continuously investing in your professional development and that of your team can lead to increased patient satisfaction and higher profitability.

Implementing these strategies can make your dental practice more profitable and set a foundation for long-term success.

What’s the average profit margin of a dental practice?

Of course, you wouldn’t know how much you could improve your profit margins by or what benchmarks you should compare your practice to unless you look at the data. Fortunately, there’s a lot of that.

It’s generally accepted that the average profit margin of a U.S. dental practice is 30% to 40% of revenue. The actual salary of a dentist varies state by state and also depends on their specialty and type of practice.

The average dentist makes $180,830 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), between $154,376 to $204,543 according to Salary.com, and $170,164, according to the American Dental Association (ADA).

Meanwhile, the average net income of dental specialists was $323,776 in 2020. Note that these are ‘EBITDA’ numbers. And we can’t quite assume that practice net incomes are comparable since some practices have more than one dentist or owner.

But it gives you a pretty good starting point for some interesting napkin math.

Read: What’s The Typical Profit Margin of a Dentist Office? The Dental Office Cost Breakdown

What about the average expenses for a dental practice?

Great question. Average expenses for a U.S. dental practice is 62% of revenue, which lines up with the higher-end of average profit margins (40%).

According to Elevate Practices, the typical cost breakdown for the average dental office is:

  • Lab: 6–8%
  • Supplies: 5%
  • Payroll: 25%
  • Marketing: 3–5%
  • OG&A*: 10.5%
  • Facility: 8%

Total Expenses: 57–61.5%

But percentages are only so helpful. They’re hard to visualize in dollar figures unless you have some harder data.

Fortunately, while there isn’t a lot of info out there about average revenues for dental practices nationwide, there is some info for 2-dentist practices, which make up a large percentage of all dental practices nationwide.

Recent data seems to suggest that the average 2-dentist practice in the U.S. costs $67,500–$70,000 per month to run as a going concern, which adds up to $810,000–$840,000 per year. That’s a spicy meatball.

If costs $67,500–$70,000 per month to run a 2-dentist practice with 6 chairs in the U.S. (Source)

Strategies to increase revenue in your dental practice

With expenses like that, increasing revenue should be a key objective for any dental practice seeking to maximize profitability. Here are some proven strategies to help you boost revenue:

  • Expand your service offerings: Consider adding new services or treatments to your practice's offerings. Conduct market research to identify underserved areas or emerging trends that align with your expertise. Introducing new services can attract a broader patient base and increase revenue streams.
  • Focus on high-value procedures: Analyze your practice's revenue per procedure and identify high-value treatments that generate significant income. By focusing on these procedures, you can optimize your schedule, allocate resources efficiently, and maximize revenue.
  • Implement a dental membership plan: Offering a dental membership plan can provide an alternative payment option for uninsured patients and attract more individuals to your practice. This plan allows patients to pay a monthly or annual fee in exchange for discounted services, encouraging loyalty and increasing revenue.
  • Improve case acceptance rates: Enhancing your case presentation skills and implementing effective communication strategies can increase the acceptance rates of proposed treatments. You can boost revenue and patient satisfaction by effectively conveying the value and benefits of recommended procedures.
  • Leverage technology for efficiency: Embrace technological advancements such as digital imaging, CAD/CAM systems, and electronic health records to enhance efficiency and productivity. You can increase patient throughput and revenue by reducing treatment time, improving accuracy, and streamlining administrative processes.

By implementing these revenue-boosting strategies, you can enhance the financial performance of your dental practice and drive profitability.

Enhancing patient satisfaction for higher profitability

Patient satisfaction is not only crucial for providing quality dental care but also for maximizing profitability. Satisfied patients are more likely to recommend your practice to others, leading to increased patient acquisition and retention. Here are some key strategies to enhance patient satisfaction:

  • Deliver exceptional customer service: Train your staff to provide excellent customer service at every patient touchpoint. Ensure that your team is friendly, empathetic, and responsive to patient needs. A positive patient experience can significantly impact satisfaction levels and foster long-term relationships.
  • Invest in a comfortable and welcoming environment: Create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your practice. Comfortable waiting areas, soothing decor, and amenities such as complimentary beverages can help patients feel relaxed and valued. A pleasant environment contributes to a positive overall experience.
  • Communicate effectively and transparently: Establish open lines of communication with your patients. Clearly explain treatment options, procedures, and associated costs. Address any concerns or questions promptly and transparently. Effective communication builds trust and enhances patient satisfaction.
  • Personalize patient care: Take the time to understand unique patient needs and preferences. Tailor your treatment plans, appointment reminders, and follow-up communications to individual patients. Personalized care demonstrates your commitment to their well-being and fosters patient loyalty.
  • Request and act on patient feedback: Regularly seek feedback from your patients through surveys or feedback forms. Analyze the feedback and make necessary improvements based on their suggestions. Actively listening to patient feedback shows that you value their opinions and are committed to continuous improvement.

By prioritizing patient satisfaction and implementing these strategies, you can create a patient-centric practice that delivers exceptional care and drives profitability.

Read: The Most Profitable Aesthetic Procedures (Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery) For Clinics

Valuing and selling a dental practice

You may consider selling your dental practice at some point in your career. Understanding the value of your practice and the process involved in selling is crucial. Here are some key considerations:

  • Seek professional valuation: Engage the services of a professional dental practice valuator to determine the fair market value of your practice. They will properly evaluate (key word: properly) factors like revenue, patient base, location, equipment, and even your brand reputation. A proper valuation helps you set realistic asking prices so you can negotiate effectively rather than suffer through ongoing bid-ask gaps and spoiled deals.
  • Prepare your practice for sale: Enhance the attractiveness of your practice to potential buyers by ensuring it is well-organized, financially stable, and efficient. Address any operational inefficiencies, update equipment if necessary, and maintain accurate financial records. A well-prepared practice is more likely to attract buyers and command a higher selling price.
  • Find the right buyer: Work with a dental practice broker or utilize online platforms to market your practice to potential buyers. Target individuals or groups who align with your practice's values and vision. Properly vetting potential buyers ensures a smooth transition and the preservation of your practice's legacy.
  • Negotiate the terms of the sale: Once you find a potential buyer, negotiate the terms of the sale, including the purchase price, payment structure, and transition period. Seek legal and financial advice to ensure a fair and mutually beneficial agreement.

Selling a dental practice is a significant decision, and proper planning and guidance are essential to achieve a successful and profitable sale.

Taking action to maximize your dental practice's profitability

Maximizing the profitability of your dental practice requires a combination of financial acumen, operational efficiency, effective marketing, and patient-centered care. 

By understanding the financial aspects of owning a dental practice, implementing strategies to increase revenue, enhancing patient satisfaction, and evaluating the value of your practice, you can set a course for long-term success.

This means analyzing your revenue and expenses, comparing them to industry-standard benchmarks, identifying areas for improvement, prioritizing changes (e.g., low-hanging fruit vs. long-term endeavors), and implementing strategies to boost your profits. 

By being smart with your finances and prioritizing top-notch dental services, you can discover the key to a successful and lucrative dental business.

Or just use Nadapayments. Speaking of low-hanging fruit, we've helped countless dentists and orthodontists around the country reduce their costs and increase their profit margins. With just a minor tweak to their credit card processing routine, they're able to keep more of what they earn.

Did we mention Nadapayments can also integrate with nearly all dental clinic EMRs?

Interested? Contact us for a complimentary savings assessment today, and we'll demonstrate precisely how much you could save on those annoying credit card transaction charges.

I Want My Free Savings Analysis

If you own a dental practice, you already know and understand your profit margins. Running a successful dental practice requires providing quality dental care while managing the financial aspects of your practice effectively. 

But are you maximizing profitability? In other words, are you growing your profits as much as possible while lowering your expenses as much as possible?

This comprehensive guide will explore expert tips to help you maximize your dental practice's profitability and ways you can potentially increase revenue, enhance patient satisfaction, and drive down your operating costs.

Understanding the financial aspects of owning a dental practice

To maximize dental practice profitability, it’s essential to have a thorough understanding of the financial aspects of owning a dental practice. This means analyzing your practice's financial statements, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. 

By carefully reviewing your financials, you can gain insights into your practice's current financial performance and identify potential areas for short-term and long-term improvement.

Of course, it’s also crucial to keep track of key financial metrics, like revenue per procedure, overhead costs, and profit margins. Regularly monitoring and analyzing these metrics can help you make informed decisions to optimize your practice's financial performance.

Furthermore, staying up to date with industry trends and changes in insurance reimbursement rates is vital for financial success. It’s also why it’s so important to stay on top of the most cutting-edge (and affordable) technology you could integrate into your dental practice’s day-to-day operations.

The beautiful thing about owning your own dental practice is that you can optimize your company’s financial stability by staying informed and proactive.

Major factors affecting dental practice profitability

Various factors can impact the profitability of your dental practice. One significant factor is your fee structure.

Determining appropriate fees for your services should be based on factors such as regional market rates, overhead costs, and the value you provide. It’s essential to balance competitive pricing and ensure your practice remains financially viable.

Efficiency in managing your practice's operations is another critical factor. Streamlining admin work, provider scheduling, medical billing, and inventory management strategies can help reduce costs and improve overall productivity.

Investing in modern dental technology and equipment can enhance efficiency and attract more patients.

Furthermore, the demographics and competition in your practice's location can influence profitability. Understanding your target market, competition, and local economic factors can help you effectively tailor your marketing and patient acquisition strategies.

Read: What is The Average Profit Margin in The Healthcare Industry?

How to make your dental practice more profitable

Now that we have explored the key factors affecting dental practice profitability, let's delve into some expert tips on how to make your dental practice more profitable.

  • Optimize your appointment scheduling: Efficiently managing your appointment schedule can help minimize downtime and maximize revenue-generating opportunities. Implementing strategies such as block scheduling, reducing cancellations and no-shows, and utilizing practice management software can streamline your scheduling process.
  • Increase treatment acceptance: Enhancing your case presentation skills and effectively communicating the value of recommended treatments to patients can increase treatment acceptance rates. Providing clear explanations, visual aids, and financing options can help patients understand the benefits of the proposed treatments and make informed decisions.
  • Implement effective marketing strategies: Developing a comprehensive marketing plan tailored to your target market can attract more patients and increase revenue. To reach a wider audience, utilize digital marketing channels such as social media, search engine optimization, and online advertising. Nurturing patient relationships through email marketing and referral programs can boost patient retention and acquisition.
  • Optimize your practice's operations: Regularly review your practice's operational processes to identify areas for improvement. Streamline administrative tasks, implement cost-saving measures, and leverage technology to enhance efficiency. This can free up time and resources to focus on revenue-generating activities and improve profitability.
  • Invest in continuing education: Staying updated with the latest advancements in dental technology, techniques, and patient care can help differentiate your practice and attract more patients. Continuously investing in your professional development and that of your team can lead to increased patient satisfaction and higher profitability.

Implementing these strategies can make your dental practice more profitable and set a foundation for long-term success.

What’s the average profit margin of a dental practice?

Of course, you wouldn’t know how much you could improve your profit margins by or what benchmarks you should compare your practice to unless you look at the data. Fortunately, there’s a lot of that.

It’s generally accepted that the average profit margin of a U.S. dental practice is 30% to 40% of revenue. The actual salary of a dentist varies state by state and also depends on their specialty and type of practice.

The average dentist makes $180,830 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), between $154,376 to $204,543 according to Salary.com, and $170,164, according to the American Dental Association (ADA).

Meanwhile, the average net income of dental specialists was $323,776 in 2020. Note that these are ‘EBITDA’ numbers. And we can’t quite assume that practice net incomes are comparable since some practices have more than one dentist or owner.

But it gives you a pretty good starting point for some interesting napkin math.

Read: What’s The Typical Profit Margin of a Dentist Office? The Dental Office Cost Breakdown

What about the average expenses for a dental practice?

Great question. Average expenses for a U.S. dental practice is 62% of revenue, which lines up with the higher-end of average profit margins (40%).

According to Elevate Practices, the typical cost breakdown for the average dental office is:

  • Lab: 6–8%
  • Supplies: 5%
  • Payroll: 25%
  • Marketing: 3–5%
  • OG&A*: 10.5%
  • Facility: 8%

Total Expenses: 57–61.5%

But percentages are only so helpful. They’re hard to visualize in dollar figures unless you have some harder data.

Fortunately, while there isn’t a lot of info out there about average revenues for dental practices nationwide, there is some info for 2-dentist practices, which make up a large percentage of all dental practices nationwide.

Recent data seems to suggest that the average 2-dentist practice in the U.S. costs $67,500–$70,000 per month to run as a going concern, which adds up to $810,000–$840,000 per year. That’s a spicy meatball.

If costs $67,500–$70,000 per month to run a 2-dentist practice with 6 chairs in the U.S. (Source)

Strategies to increase revenue in your dental practice

With expenses like that, increasing revenue should be a key objective for any dental practice seeking to maximize profitability. Here are some proven strategies to help you boost revenue:

  • Expand your service offerings: Consider adding new services or treatments to your practice's offerings. Conduct market research to identify underserved areas or emerging trends that align with your expertise. Introducing new services can attract a broader patient base and increase revenue streams.
  • Focus on high-value procedures: Analyze your practice's revenue per procedure and identify high-value treatments that generate significant income. By focusing on these procedures, you can optimize your schedule, allocate resources efficiently, and maximize revenue.
  • Implement a dental membership plan: Offering a dental membership plan can provide an alternative payment option for uninsured patients and attract more individuals to your practice. This plan allows patients to pay a monthly or annual fee in exchange for discounted services, encouraging loyalty and increasing revenue.
  • Improve case acceptance rates: Enhancing your case presentation skills and implementing effective communication strategies can increase the acceptance rates of proposed treatments. You can boost revenue and patient satisfaction by effectively conveying the value and benefits of recommended procedures.
  • Leverage technology for efficiency: Embrace technological advancements such as digital imaging, CAD/CAM systems, and electronic health records to enhance efficiency and productivity. You can increase patient throughput and revenue by reducing treatment time, improving accuracy, and streamlining administrative processes.

By implementing these revenue-boosting strategies, you can enhance the financial performance of your dental practice and drive profitability.

Enhancing patient satisfaction for higher profitability

Patient satisfaction is not only crucial for providing quality dental care but also for maximizing profitability. Satisfied patients are more likely to recommend your practice to others, leading to increased patient acquisition and retention. Here are some key strategies to enhance patient satisfaction:

  • Deliver exceptional customer service: Train your staff to provide excellent customer service at every patient touchpoint. Ensure that your team is friendly, empathetic, and responsive to patient needs. A positive patient experience can significantly impact satisfaction levels and foster long-term relationships.
  • Invest in a comfortable and welcoming environment: Create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your practice. Comfortable waiting areas, soothing decor, and amenities such as complimentary beverages can help patients feel relaxed and valued. A pleasant environment contributes to a positive overall experience.
  • Communicate effectively and transparently: Establish open lines of communication with your patients. Clearly explain treatment options, procedures, and associated costs. Address any concerns or questions promptly and transparently. Effective communication builds trust and enhances patient satisfaction.
  • Personalize patient care: Take the time to understand unique patient needs and preferences. Tailor your treatment plans, appointment reminders, and follow-up communications to individual patients. Personalized care demonstrates your commitment to their well-being and fosters patient loyalty.
  • Request and act on patient feedback: Regularly seek feedback from your patients through surveys or feedback forms. Analyze the feedback and make necessary improvements based on their suggestions. Actively listening to patient feedback shows that you value their opinions and are committed to continuous improvement.

By prioritizing patient satisfaction and implementing these strategies, you can create a patient-centric practice that delivers exceptional care and drives profitability.

Read: The Most Profitable Aesthetic Procedures (Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery) For Clinics

Valuing and selling a dental practice

You may consider selling your dental practice at some point in your career. Understanding the value of your practice and the process involved in selling is crucial. Here are some key considerations:

  • Seek professional valuation: Engage the services of a professional dental practice valuator to determine the fair market value of your practice. They will properly evaluate (key word: properly) factors like revenue, patient base, location, equipment, and even your brand reputation. A proper valuation helps you set realistic asking prices so you can negotiate effectively rather than suffer through ongoing bid-ask gaps and spoiled deals.
  • Prepare your practice for sale: Enhance the attractiveness of your practice to potential buyers by ensuring it is well-organized, financially stable, and efficient. Address any operational inefficiencies, update equipment if necessary, and maintain accurate financial records. A well-prepared practice is more likely to attract buyers and command a higher selling price.
  • Find the right buyer: Work with a dental practice broker or utilize online platforms to market your practice to potential buyers. Target individuals or groups who align with your practice's values and vision. Properly vetting potential buyers ensures a smooth transition and the preservation of your practice's legacy.
  • Negotiate the terms of the sale: Once you find a potential buyer, negotiate the terms of the sale, including the purchase price, payment structure, and transition period. Seek legal and financial advice to ensure a fair and mutually beneficial agreement.

Selling a dental practice is a significant decision, and proper planning and guidance are essential to achieve a successful and profitable sale.

Taking action to maximize your dental practice's profitability

Maximizing the profitability of your dental practice requires a combination of financial acumen, operational efficiency, effective marketing, and patient-centered care. 

By understanding the financial aspects of owning a dental practice, implementing strategies to increase revenue, enhancing patient satisfaction, and evaluating the value of your practice, you can set a course for long-term success.

This means analyzing your revenue and expenses, comparing them to industry-standard benchmarks, identifying areas for improvement, prioritizing changes (e.g., low-hanging fruit vs. long-term endeavors), and implementing strategies to boost your profits. 

By being smart with your finances and prioritizing top-notch dental services, you can discover the key to a successful and lucrative dental business.

Or just use Nadapayments. Speaking of low-hanging fruit, we've helped countless dentists and orthodontists around the country reduce their costs and increase their profit margins. With just a minor tweak to their credit card processing routine, they're able to keep more of what they earn.

Did we mention Nadapayments can also integrate with nearly all dental clinic EMRs?

Interested? Contact us for a complimentary savings assessment today, and we'll demonstrate precisely how much you could save on those annoying credit card transaction charges.

I Want My Free Savings Analysis

Running a successful dental practice requires a combination of skill, knowledge, and strategic decision-making. 

To achieve long-term success, it's essential to understand the factors that contribute to profitability. One key aspect is offering the most profitable dental procedures.

By focusing on these procedures, you can maximize revenue while providing quality care to your patients.

Understanding the profitability of dental procedures

When it comes to dental procedures, not all are created equal in terms of profitability. Some procedures yield higher returns than others due to various factors such as complexity, time required, and materials used. 

It's crucial to analyze the profitability of each procedure to make informed decisions about which ones to prioritize in your practice.

To determine profitability, you need to consider both the cost of performing the procedure and the revenue generated. 

Costs include factors like materials, lab fees, staff time, and overhead expenses. Revenue is influenced by factors such as insurance reimbursements, patient demand, and market trends. 

By carefully assessing these factors, you can identify your practice's most profitable dental procedures.

Read: What’s The Typical Profit Margin of a Dentist Office? The Dental Office Cost Breakdown

Most profitable dental procedures and their average costs

To give you an idea of the average costs of profitable dental procedures, here are some big-picture prices:

  • Dental implants: Dental implants are one of the most profitable procedures in dentistry. They involve replacing missing teeth with artificial tooth roots that are surgically implanted into the jawbone. The average cost of a dental implant procedure ranges from $3,000–$56,000 or more, depending on the material of the implant, the number of implants required, and the complexity of the case.
  • Orthodontic treatments: Orthodontic treatments, such as braces and clear aligners, are highly profitable due to their long treatment duration and the need for regular adjustments. The average cost of orthodontic treatment ranges from $1,000–$13,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case and the type of treatment chosen.
  • Cosmetic dentistry: Procedures like teeth whitening, veneers, and dental bonding are in high demand due to the desire for a beautiful smile. The average cost of cosmetic dentistry procedures varies, ranging from $200 for at-home teeth whitening to $2,500+ for single tooth veneers.

Keep in mind that these are average prices, and costs may vary depending on factors such as location, the complexity of the case, and the expertise of the practitioner.

Read: The Most Profitable Aesthetic Procedures (Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery) For Clinics

Dental Implants

Orthodontic Treatments

  • Clear aligners: $1,000–$3,000 as a starting cost. After-treatment retainers can cost $150–$1,200

Cosmetic Dentistry

  • Teeth whitening: $300–$1,800 for an in-office procedure (take-home kits cost just $200–$400)
  • Veneers: $400–$2,500 per tooth (composite veneers are the most affordable at $400–$1,500 per tooth, while porcelain veneers can go for $925–$2,500 per tooth)
  • Dental bonding: $300–$600 per tooth, depending on tooth location of treatment type.

Pricing considerations for profitable dental procedures

Setting the right pricing for your profitable dental procedures is crucial to attracting patients while ensuring profitability. 

It's essential to consider factors such as the local market, the complexity of the procedure, and the level of expertise your practice offers. Conducting competitive analysis and consulting with industry professionals can help you determine appropriate pricing.

When it comes to insurance, it's important to understand reimbursement rates and negotiate fair contracts with insurance providers. Some procedures may have higher reimbursement rates than others, making them more financially viable for your practice. 

By analyzing insurance data and negotiating favorable agreements, you can optimize the profitability of your dental procedures.

Incorporating tech innovation in profitable dental procedures

To stay competitive and enhance profitability, embracing technology and innovation in your dental practice is essential. 

Advanced imaging systems, CAD/CAM technology for same-day restorations, and laser dentistry can improve efficiency, reduce treatment time, and attract patients seeking state-of-the-art care.

Investing in the latest equipment and staying up-to-date with industry advancements can set your practice apart from competitors. 

You can increase patient satisfaction and profitability by offering innovative procedures and utilizing technology to its fullest potential.

Read: Maximize Your Dental Practice's Profitability: How to Increase Revenue and Patient Satisfaction

Dental marketing to attract patients for profitable procedures

To attract patients seeking profitable dental procedures, it's crucial to implement effective marketing strategies. Here are some dental office marketing ideas:

  • Online presence: Establish a professional website and optimize it for search engines. Utilize social media platforms to engage with potential patients and share informative content.
  • Patient testimonials: Encourage satisfied patients to share their positive experiences and testimonials. This helps build trust and credibility, attracting new patients interested in profitable procedures.
  • Targeted advertising: Use online advertising platforms to target specific demographics and geographic areas. Focus on keywords related to profitable dental procedures to reach the right audience.
  • Referral programs: Offer incentives for existing patients who refer friends and family to your practice. Word-of-mouth referrals are powerful and can drive new patients to seek profitable procedures.

Investing in continuing education for profitable dental procedures

To excel in offering profitable dental procedures, continuous learning is crucial.

Investing in continuing education courses allows you to stay updated with the latest dentistry advancements, techniques, and materials. 

This enhances your skills and helps you offer innovative procedures that attract patients and increase profitability. Participating in conferences, workshops, and online courses can provide valuable insights and networking opportunities. 

By investing time and resources in continuing education, you position yourself as an expert in profitable dental procedures, gaining a competitive edge in the market.

Simple supply and demand: go where the money is

By analyzing costs, setting appropriate pricing, and considering insurance reimbursements, you can maximize revenue while providing quality care to your patients and setting your practice up for long-term success.

And by being smart with your finances and prioritizing top-notch dental services, you can discover the key to a successful and lucrative dental business.

Or simply sign up for Nadapayments, which can integrate with most dental EMRs. We've helped numerous dentists and orthodontists nationwide cut their costs and boost their profits. 

In fact, by simply adjusting their credit card processing procedures, they’ve all managed to retain more of their earnings than they expected.

Reach out for a free savings assessment today, and see exactly how much you can save on credit card fees.

I Want My Free Savings Analysis

As a dentist, understanding the financials of your practice is crucial for long-term success. One important aspect to consider is the profit margin, which is a key indicator of your practice's financial health. 

In this article, we will explore the typical profit margin for a dentist office, factors that affect these margins, and strategies to improve them. 

By the end, you'll have a better grasp of your practice's financials and how to optimize your profits.

Profit Margins in the Dental Industry

Before we dive into the specifics, let's clarify what profit margin means in the context of a dentist office. 

Profit margin is the percentage of revenue that remains as profit after deducting all expenses. It provides insight into how efficiently a practice is being managed and how much profit is being generated from each dollar of revenue.

To fully comprehend dental profit margins, it's important to understand the financial aspects of a dental office. 

Revenue is generated from various sources, such as patient visits, insurance reimbursements, and ancillary services. On the other hand, expenses include rent, salaries, supplies, equipment, and other overhead costs. 

By analyzing the revenue and expenses, you can calculate the profit margin and identify areas for improvement.

With that being said, here’s the breakdown of average profit margins in the dental industry:

  • And according to the American Dental Association (ADA), the average net income in 2020 was $170,164 for general dentists and $323,776 for specialists.

Note that these are just national averages. The actual salary of a dentist in the U.S. varies depending on the state, the specialty, and the type of practice. 

Factors That Affect Profit Margins in a Dental Practice

Several factors influence the profit margins in a dental practice:

  • The location of your office plays a significant role. Urban areas typically have higher overhead costs, such as rent and insurance, which can lower profit margins.
  • The size of your practice and # of patients you see daily affect your revenue and expenses. A larger practice with a higher patient volume has the potential for higher profit margins.
  • The services you offer and the fees you charge can impact your profit margins. Specialized procedures tend to have higher profit margins compared to routine dental check-ups.

Cost Breakdown of Running a Dental Office

Now that that’s established, let's delve into the nitty-gritty breakdown of all the major costs involved in running a dental office.

The average expense ratio for a dental practice in the U.S. is around 62% of revenue, which lines up with the average profit margin.

  • The single largest expense is usually staff salaries, including dentists, hygienists, and administrative personnel. 
  • Other significant costs include rent or mortgage payments for the office space, utilities, insurance premiums, dental supplies, and equipment maintenance
  • Additionally, marketing and advertising expenses are necessary to attract new patients and maintain a steady flow of clientele. 

According to Elevate Practices, the typical category-by-category cost breakdown for a dental office might look something like this:

  • Lab: 6–8%
  • Supplies: 5%
  • Payroll: 25%
  • Marketing: 3–5%
  • OG&A*: 10.5%
  • Facility: 8%
  • Total Expenses: 57–61.5%

*NOTE: OG&A stands for ‘Operating, General, and Administrative’

Taking a closer look, this breaks down to around 45–55% in variable expenses, such as supplies, fees, and payroll, and 4–7% in fixed costs, like rent and utilities for the clinic itself.

It’s important to keep in mind that most of these costs are based on sole-proprietor dental clinics and clinics with only one location. The moment a dental clinic scales up to two dentists, expenses go up a lot and profits tend to go down as a percentage of total revenue, too.

It costs $67,500–$70,000 per month to run a 2-dentist practice with 6 chairs in the U.S. (Source)

By understanding these costs, you can identify areas where you can potentially reduce expenses and increase your profit margins.

Average Revenue and Expenses for a Dental Practice

While revenue and expenses vary depending on various factors, it's helpful to have a benchmark to gauge your practice's performance. 

  • The average annual revenue for all 65,327 sole proprietorship dental offices in the U.S. was $343,584, based on 2019 IRS data for the ‘Dental Office’ category. 
  • Meanwhile, the average annual expenses for all sole proprietorship dental offices in the U.S. was $246,550.

However, it's important to note that these figures can vary significantly depending on location, practice size, and services offered. Also, not all dental clinics are sole proprietorships, but there’s less data on dental clinics with more than one dentist.

According to ADA Health Policy Institute, 76% of all U.S. dental clinics have 1 location (Source)

How Much Do Dentists Make If They Own Their Own Practice?

As a dentist who owns their own practice, your income is determined by the profit generated after deducting expenses.

While the average take per sole proprietorship is $343,584, if we consider dental clinics with more than one dentist, the salary of an individual private practice dentist can range from $200,000–$300,000 per year, depending on factors such as location, practice size, patient volume, and services offered. 

It's important to note that owning a practice comes with additional responsibilities and risks, but it also offers the potential for higher income compared to being an associate in someone else's practice.

Profit Margins for Orthodontists

Orthodontists, who specialize in teeth alignment and braces, often have their own practices as well.

The profit margins for orthodontists are generally higher than for general dentists due to the higher fees associated with orthodontic treatments. 

On average, orthodontists can expect profit margins ranging from 40–60%, depending on factors such as location, patient volume, and the complexity of cases they handle. 

They can also expect around $249,410 as a median annual net income, whether they own their own clinic or work for someone else. Generally, dental specialists in the U.S. (including but not limited to orthodontists) take home an average annual income of $323,780.

However, it's important to note that orthodontic practices also have higher overhead costs, such as specialized equipment and additional staff.

Read: The Most Profitable Aesthetic Procedures (Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery) For Clinics

What About Average Profit Margins in Healthcare?

While profit margins can vary significantly depending on various factors, the average profit margin in the dental industry ranges from 20–40%. 

This means that for every dollar of revenue generated, dentists can expect to keep 20 to 40 cents as profit after all expenses are deducted. However, it's crucial to note that profit margins can be improved through strategic financial management and cost-containment measures.

But how do dental clinics and orthodontist offices compare to the average healthcare business in the U.S.? Well, for starters, private clinics pay their owners a whole lot better than hospitals.

Read: What is The Average Profit Margin in The Healthcare Industry?

According to Syntellis, the average hospital profit margin was just 0.7% in May 2023. In other words, 99.3% of all revenue hospitals make goes right back into expenses and staff compensation. 

This is because only 24% of hospitals are for-profit organizations. The other 76% are non-profits or state- and city-funded institutions, so this makes sense.

So, while hospitals are a significant part of the U.S. healthcare system and its revenues, they aren’t a great comparison for most healthcare business owners, who own for-profit enterprises.

A better comparison comes from NYU Stern School of Business, which maintains a Margins by Sector page.

Here’s what they list for Healthcare, as of January 2023:

Industry Name

Gross Margin

Net Margin

Pre-tax, pre-stock operating margin

Healthcare Products

57.74%

7.00%

17.41%

Healthcare Support Services

14.72%

2.01%

4.35%

Healthcare Facilities (including hospitals)

35.63%

5.31%

12.24%

Note that private clinics would mostly fall under either “Healthcare Support Services” or “Healthcare Facilities,” while “Healthcare Products” includes retail businesses like supplement shops.

This data reveals that, compared to the average U.S. healthcare clinic of any type, dental practices tend to be more profitable. Meanwhile, specialty dental practices like orthodontists can be nearly 2x as profitable as the average healthcare facility if run well.

Read: What is The Average Retail Profit Margin? How to Optimize Your Business's Financial Success

Strategies to Improve Profit Margins in a Dental Practice

Now that we understand the typical profit margins in the dental industry, let's explore strategies to improve them. 

  • Optimizing your practice's efficiency can have a significant impact. This includes streamlining administrative processes, reducing overhead costs, and maximizing the use of technology to improve productivity.
  • Focusing on high-profit procedures and services, such as cosmetic dentistry or orthodontics, can boost your profit margins. 
  • Implementing effective marketing strategies to attract new patients and retain existing ones can lead to increased revenue and improved profit margins.

Remember, optimizing your practice's efficiency, focusing on high-profit procedures, and implementing effective marketing strategies are key to improving your financial success. 

Want to Lower Your Dental Clinic Expenses?

Understanding the typical profit margins for a dentist office is essential to gauge the financial health of your practice. 

By analyzing the revenue and expenses, you can identify areas for improvement and implement strategies to increase your profit margins. 

With careful financial management and a focus on providing quality dental care, you can unlock the secrets to a thriving and profitable dental practice.

Or, if you want an easy cost-cutting solution, use Nadapayments. We help hundreds of dentists and orthodontists around the country lower their expenses and take home more of their hard-earned money with a simple adjustment to their credit-card processing workflow.

Nadapayments is also custom-built to integrate with most dental clinic APIs, such as for EMRs.

Interested? Reach out for a free savings analysis today and we can show you exactly how much money you could be saving on those pesky credit card transaction fees.

I Want My Free Savings Analysis

The healthcare industry is one of the largest and most important sectors not only in the U.S. but in the world. It provides essential services to billions of people each and every day. 

However, like any other industry, healthcare providers need to make a profit in order to remain viable. 

In the healthcare industry, profit margin is particularly important because of the essential nature of the services provided. Healthcare providers must balance the need to provide high-quality care with the need to remain financially sustainable. This can be a tricky balancing act, as providers often face rising costs and increasing competition.

In this article, we will explore the average profit margin in the healthcare industry, the factors that affect it, and some ways healthcare business owners can boost their bottom line.

Breaking down profit margins in healthcare

The healthcare industry is unique in many ways, and this is reflected in the way profit margin is calculated. 

Unlike other industries, healthcare providers must deal with a wide range of factors that can affect their profitability. These can include things like changes in government regulations, shifts in patient demographics, and advances in medical technology.

One of the key factors that can impact profit margins in healthcare is the cost of providing care. Healthcare providers must pay for a wide range of expenses, including salaries for medical staff, equipment and supplies, and insurance.

Another significant cost factor is the level of competition in the market. Healthcare providers must compete for patients, and this can drive down prices and reduce profit margins further. 

In addition, providers must also deal with changes in government regulations, which can impact their ability to provide certain services or receive reimbursement for those services.

Another key factor that affects profits in healthcare is the level of technology used for delivery. One of the main reasons telehealth startups like Talkspace and Sequence Health (recently acquired by Weight Watchers) are attracting so much investment: their operating costs are significantly lower than traditional healthcare providers and their profits are much higher.

As medical technology and telehealth continue to advance, healthcare providers must invest in new technology and rethink old ways of doing things in order to remain competitive.

In addition, providers must also deal with the rising cost of healthcare itself, which can make it difficult to maintain profitability.

Average profit margin in the healthcare industry

The “average” profit margin in the healthcare industry is honestly not a super-useful metric. It varies widely depending on the type of provider and the specific market. 

A hospital with thousands of staff and most patients on insurance is going to have a far lower profit margin than a privately owned small cosmetic surgery clinic with only a few employees.

According to Syntellis, the average profit margin was just 0.7% in May 2023. In other words, 99.3% of all revenue hospitals make goes right back into expenses and staff compensation. Not to mention this was after 9 months of profit losses (e.g., negative profit margins) from June 2022 to February 2023. 

The average U.S. hospital just recently got out of the red in early 2023 and is barely profitable right now (Source)

Now you know why so many hospitals — even the country’s most famous institutions — regularly request donations from wealthy sponsors, much like a museum might. 

Of course, this is mostly because only 24% of hospitals are for-profit organizations. The other 76% are non-profits or state- and city-funded institutions, so this makes sense. They’re not really supposed to have a profit margin.

So, while hospitals are a significant part of the U.S. healthcare system and its revenues, they aren’t a great comparison for most healthcare business owners, who own for-profit enterprises.

What about urgent care profit margins?

While many urgent care centers (especially the older ones in any neighborhood) are also nonprofits, more urgent care centers have been springing up recently and tend to be for-profit businesses.

The rise of urgent care centers as a legitimate for-profit business model in the States has been a long time coming. Since the pandemic started, more patients have sought out more affordable, convenient, and faster options for seeing providers.

This is why urgent care centers are growing in popularity. Unlike PCPs, who you have to schedule visits with far in advance, you can walk into most urgent care centers without an appointment, and they’ll see you the same day. Urgent care clinics also provide a wide range of services, from basic medical care to more complex procedures. 

However, like other healthcare providers, urgent care centers must also maintain a healthy profit margin in order to remain viable.

According to ProfitableVenture, the average “successful” U.S. urgent care center can expect a profit margin of 15%. It’s certainly doable since for 99% of urgent care patients, their insurance company will cover the costs anyway. But it’s an administrative headache to earn that 15% when all is said and done.

What about private clinic profit margins?

Hospitals and urgent care clinics are all well and good, but what about dentists? What about cosmetic surgeons? What about cryotherapy, botox, laser hair removal, etc.? 

Well, while you might think this information would be more readily available on the Internet, it really isn’t.

As an example, the NYU Stern School of Business maintains a Margins by Sector page with a lot of useful and regularly updated information on retail margins and expenses by sector and subsector, too.

Read: What is The Average Retail Profit Margin? How to Optimize Your Business's Financial Success

Here’s what they list for Healthcare, as of January 2023:

Industry Name

Gross Margin

Net Margin

Pre-tax, pre-stock operating margin

Healthcare Products

57.74%

7.00%

17.41%

Healthcare Support Services

14.72%

2.01%

4.35%

Healthcare Facilities (including hospitals)

35.63%

5.31%

12.24%

Note that private clinics would mostly fall under either “Healthcare Support Services” or “Healthcare Facilities,” while “Healthcare Products” includes retail businesses like supplement shops. 

“Net margin” is also very misleading here. Most private healthcare clinics are owned by the main providers or surgeons, and the payroll portion of their compensation counts as an expense. But it’s really just profit for the business since they’re the owners.

In other words, looking at the “Pre-tax, pre-stock operating margins” are slightly more accurate. It’s still not perfectly accurate, since payroll has still been deducted already, but at least large distributions to the owners (e.g., in the form of stock) won’t be deducted.

Also, most small business owners don’t think about profit margins in terms of ‘after-tax’ profit margins. Maybe accountants do, but since taxes are a function of your taxable income after expenses anyway, it’s a largely meaningless distinction for the average small clinic owner. 

If you know what your profit margin is, you’ll also likely know what your taxes are.

With all that in mind, the right-most column in this table shows us that the average privately owned U.S. healthcare clinic can expect a profit margin somewhere between 12.24–35.63%. If we’re counting healthcare products, that range goes up to 17.41–57.74%.

This seems to align with other recent data. According to Dentistry IQ, the average U.S. dental clinic has a profit margin between 30–40% of revenue

And, according to Zippia, the average U.S. supplements shop has a profit margin of 38%.

Read: What’s The Typical Profit Margin of a Dentist Office? The Dental Office Cost Breakdown

Read: The Most Profitable Aesthetic Procedures (Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery) For Clinics

Of course, what these types of surveys don’t account for is the fact that many clinic owners, especially in the U.S., graduate medical school with significant student loan debt — and pay it off for decades, sometimes into retirement.

According to the Education Data Initiative, the average U.S. medical school graduate has to pay off $250,990 in student loan debt. That’s nearly the cost of a single-family home in some states, and it certainly cuts into these already tight profit margins for any clinic owner that hasn’t paid down their debt already.

Strategies to improve profit margins in healthcare

Maintaining a healthy profit margin in the healthcare industry can be challenging, but there are strategies that providers can use to improve their profitability. 

One of the most effective is to focus on reducing costs. This can involve things like negotiating better prices with suppliers, using technology to streamline operations, and outsourcing certain services.

Another effective strategy is to increase revenue. This can be done by expanding services, targeting new patient populations, and adopting new payment models. For example, some providers have begun offering telemedicine services, which can help to reduce costs while also expanding their reach.

Challenges faced in maintaining profit margin in healthcare

Despite these strategies, there are still many challenges that healthcare providers face when it comes to maintaining a healthy profit margin. 

One of the biggest is the rising cost of healthcare itself. As medical technology advances, healthcare providers must invest in new equipment and systems in order to remain competitive. However, these investments can be costly, and may not always result in a significant increase in revenue.

In addition, providers must also deal with changes in government regulations, which can impact their ability to provide certain services or receive reimbursement for those services. 

This can be particularly challenging for smaller providers, who may not have the resources to keep up with these changes but have no choice but to contend with the ongoing nightmare of insurance claims tit-for-tats.

Balancing profit and quality healthcare services

Maintaining a healthy profit margin is critical for healthcare providers to stay in business, as it allows them to continue providing essential services to millions of people nationwide. 

However, healthcare providers and clinic owners must also balance the need for profitability with the need to provide high-quality care. 

This can be challenging, but by focusing on reducing costs, increasing revenue, and staying up-to-date with changes in the industry, healthcare providers can improve their profitability while also ensuring that patients receive the care they need.

Fortunately, there are some fairly simple cost-cutting tactics for retail healthcare businesses, like supplement shops and private clinics. In fact, if you accept credit cards, you could probably be saving significantly more than you realize per transaction.

If you’re a healthcare business owner who runs a clinic of some kind, maybe you’ve realized over time that you could be taking home more money than you are right now. If so, we can help by running a free savings analysis for your business.

I Want My Free Savings Analysis

Striving for maximum profitability at your clinic without compromising patient care is a balancing act that every clinic owner understands too well. 

A surefire approach to bolster your revenue? Offer only the most in-demand, high-paying aesthetic procedures. That way, you meet rising, consistent demand while boosting your bottom line in an economically rewarding niche.

This piece dives into the most lucrative aesthetic procedures that can enrich your service offerings and augment your revenue. We’ll also explain how you can lower your overhead costs and keep more of your profits, no matter what procedures your clinic offers.

Read: What is The Average Retail Profit Margin? How to Optimize Your Business's Financial Success

The difference between cosmetic surgeons and plastic surgeons

Before delving into specific procedures, it's important to understand the distinction between cosmetic surgeons and plastic surgeons. While the terms are often used interchangeably, there is a subtle difference. According to the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery:

  • Cosmetic surgeons focus primarily on enhancing a patient's appearance through surgical and non-surgical procedures. This might include plastic surgery procedures, and it might not. It depends on the patient and practice.
  • Plastic surgeons are trained to primarily reconstruct and repair defects (reparative surgery), such as those caused by birth defects, trauma, or disease. 

Both specialties have their own unique set of skills and expertise, but for the purpose of this article, we will mainly focus on cosmetic procedures, as they tend to not accept insurance.

In other words, customers pay out of pocket and cosmetic clinic owners get as much profit as they can. Naturally, cosmetic surgery customers are wealthier and more able to afford high-ticket prices for cosmetic procedures.

Due to the high dollar cost of their procedures, cosmetic surgery customers will also expect to pay with a credit card (more on this later).

Exploring the world of face plastic surgery procedures

Face plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery is among the most sought-after aesthetic procedures. It encompasses a wide range of treatments, from minimally invasive procedures like Botox and dermal fillers to more complex surgeries like facelifts and rhinoplasty. 

According to Stanford Medicine, the major categories of facial cosmetic procedures include:

  • Facelift
  • Brow/forehead lift
  • Eyelid lift
  • Ear pinning
  • Ear reshaping
  • Hair replacement surgery
  • Nasal surgery
  • Nose reshaping (rhinoplasty)
  • Chin, cheek, or jaw reshaping / facial implants
  • Lip augmentation
  • Cleft lip and cleft palate
  • Craniosynostosis (craniofacial anomaly)
  • Oral and maxillofacial surgery

Facial procedures aim to rejuvenate and enhance the appearance of the face, helping patients achieve a more youthful and refreshed look. With advancements in technology and techniques, face plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery has become safer and more accessible than ever before. 

As a clinic owner, offering these procedures can be highly lucrative, but it's crucial to carefully consider the potential risks and benefits before incorporating them into your practice.

Read: What’s The Typical Profit Margin of a Dentist Office? The Dental Office Cost Breakdown

The most profitable facial procedures for clinic owners

Now, let's dive into the most profitable facial procedures for clinic owners. These procedures have consistently shown high demand and excellent profit margins:

  • Botox and Dermal Fillers: According to GoodRx, the average Botox or dermal filler procedure in the U.S. cost $466 per treatment in 2020. Botox injections and dermal fillers are incredibly popular non-surgical treatments that effectively reduce wrinkles and fine lines while restoring volume. These procedures have minimal downtime and offer immediate results, making them highly desirable for patients looking for quick fixes. Notably, while botox and dermal fillers may not be the most profitable on a per-procedure basis, the sheer demand for them makes this a relatively easy volume play for most qualified clinic owners.
  • Facelifts: According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of a facelift in the U.S. is $8,005. Facelifts remain one of the most transformative facial procedures. By tightening sagging skin and muscles, a facelift can significantly reverse the signs of aging and provide long-lasting results. While this procedure requires a higher level of expertise, the potential profits are significant. Plus, facelifts are a recurring procedure that many customers get more than once in their lifetimes.
  • Rhinoplasty: According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of a rhinoplasty (or nose job) in the U.S. is $5,483*, but it’s actually closer to $10,000. Nose reshaping surgery, or rhinoplasty, is another profitable facial procedure. Many individuals, particularly women, seek rhinoplasty to enhance their facial harmony or correct breathing difficulties. Unlike botox/dermal fillers and facelifts, rhinoplasties are a far more complex procedure that requires precision, expertise, and even a bit of artistry. This is probably why celebrity rhinoplasty surgeons can charge upwards of $50,000+.

*The ASPS notes that this figure does not include additional costs like anesthesia, operating rooms, and related expenses. The ‘all-in’ average cost of a nose job in the U.S. can be as high as $10,000 or more.

Key considerations before offering facial surgery in your clinic

Before integrating facial surgeries into your clinic's services, there are several key considerations to keep in mind. 

  1. Ensure you have skilled and experienced surgeons. The success and safety of these procedures heavily rely on the expertise of the surgeon performing them. 
  1. Conduct thorough market research to gauge the demand in your area and identify potential competitors. Understanding local market dynamics will help you tailor your marketing strategies effectively.
  1. Ensure that your clinic has the necessary resources, like equipment and facilities, to offer these procedures safely and efficiently.

The growing demand for body plastic surgery

While smaller facial procedures like the ones mentioned above dominate the cosmetic surgery industry, there is a growing demand for body plastic surgery as well. 

More and more people are seeking body contouring, breast augmentations (or reductions not covered by insurance), and liposuction, among many other procedures, to achieve their desired appearance.

By expanding your clinic's services to include body plastic surgery, you can tap into a new market segment and further increase your profits. 

Broadly speaking, the three biggest categories of body plastic and cosmetic surgery are breasts, abdomen, and skin:

Breasts

  • Breast augmentation
  • Breast reconstruction
  • Breast reduction in men with gynecomastia
  • Breast lift

Abdomen

  • Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)
  • Liposuction
  • Hand and upper limb

Skin

  • Chemical peel
  • Dermabrasion / dermaplaning
  • Collagen/fat injectable fillers
  • Botox/filler injections (restylane, radiesse)
  • Glycolic peels
  • Laser peels
  • Vein removal
  • Scar revision
  • Tattoo removal

Getting into the pricing for each of these cosmetic body procedures is beyond the scope of this article, but as you can see, there are a lot of options. The more niche, higher-paying body procedures, like height lengthening surgery, can cost as much as $80,000.

Of course, a lucrative body surgery will almost always be far more complex and carry more risk than a facelift, for example. 

That’s why it's essential that you thoroughly evaluate the risks, benefits, and legal requirements associated with body-based procedures. Consult with experienced plastic surgeons and ensure that your clinic meets all necessary standards and regulations.

Marketing strategies for promoting aesthetic procedures

To attract a steady stream of patients for your aesthetic procedures, you need to implement effective marketing strategies. Here are a few strategies to consider:

  • Establish an online presence: Create a professional website and maintain active social media accounts to showcase your expertise and before-and-after photos of successful procedures. Engage with your audience by providing valuable content and responding to inquiries promptly.
  • Collaborate with influencers: Partnering with social media influencers or local celebrities can help generate buzz around your clinic and attract new patients. Make sure to choose influencers who align with your clinic's values and target audience. Instagram is a very popular social media platform for cosmetic surgeons.
  • Offer special promotions: Introduce limited-time promotions or package deals to incentivize potential clients. Discounts on popular procedures or bundled services can entice new patients to choose your clinic over competitors.

Maximizing your plastic or cosmetic surgery clinic profits

Once you’ve attracted patients to your clinic for specific procedures, you can further maximize your profits through upselling and cross-selling while also lowering your expenses. 

  • Upselling involves offering additional services or upgrades to enhance the patient's experience or results. For example, if a patient comes in for Botox injections, you can recommend adding dermal fillers for more comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
  • Cross-selling, on the other hand, involves promoting related products or services to complement the procedure. For instance, if a patient undergoes liposuction, you can offer specialized compression garments or post-operative massage therapy. 
  • Lowering expenses is often more straightforward than many clinic owners might realize. In a high-priced industry like healthcare (much less plastic or cosmetic surgery), just changing medical manufacturers and vendors (assuming similar quality of products) can often lead to huge cost savings. 

Another easy way to lower expenses for any clinic? Get rid of those pesky 2–3% credit card transaction fees that all of your customers are paying per procedure.

By implementing these strategies, you not only increase your revenue per patient but also enhance their overall satisfaction.

Read: What is a Surcharge Fee? Everything Business Owners Need to Know

The importance of patient satisfaction and referrals

In the aesthetic industry, patient satisfaction is paramount. Happy and satisfied patients are more likely to refer their friends, family, and colleagues to your clinic, serving as powerful ambassadors for your business. 

To ensure patient satisfaction, prioritize clear communication, empathy, and personalized care. Take the time to understand your patients' goals, address their concerns, and provide realistic expectations. 

Additionally, encourage your satisfied patients to leave reviews and testimonials, as positive online feedback can significantly influence potential patients' decision-making process.

Identifying the right aesthetic procedures for your clinic

Expanding your clinic's offerings to include aesthetic procedures can be a profitable venture. By carefully selecting the right procedures, ensuring skilled surgeons, implementing effective marketing strategies, and prioritizing patient satisfaction, you can position your clinic as a trusted destination for cosmetic enhancements. 

Remember, the most profitable aesthetic procedures for clinic owners are constantly evolving, so stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in the field. With the right approach, you can provide exceptional services while growing your bottom line.

Whatever procedures you decide to offer, Nadapayments can help you put more of your clinic's hard-earned money back into your pocket by getting rid of your credit card transaction fees.

Make My Clinic More Profitable

In today's digital-first era, businesses are always looking for new and affordable ways to streamline their operations and grow their profits online. Not as many business owners focus on optimizing in-person experiences anymore.

But if the pandemic taught us anything, it’s that people don’t want to be cooped up indoors for too long. Consumers still enjoy in-person shopping experiences, even if they can just buy those products online.

In fact, according to JLL research, U.S. retail foot traffic rose above pre-pandemic levels back in late 2020:

Suburban centers and malls are seeing more foot traffic than cities, a reversal of pre-pandemic trends (Source)

In other words, it pays to pay attention to your retail experience. This brings us to the main topic of this article: surcharge fees.

What is a surcharge fee, exactly?

To put it simply, a surcharge fee is an additional charge that a business applies to a transaction when a customer chooses to pay with a certain type of payment method, typically a credit card. 

You may have seen these fees yourself on your receipts, but not all businesses charge them. In fact, it’s safe to say that many businesses eligible to charge surcharge fees simply don’t do so.

What a credit card surcharge looks like (Source

While most business owners are curious about surcharges, they also don’t know what they don’t know. At Nadapayments, we hear variations of the following questions all the time:

“What does a ‘surcharge’ mean?”
“How do surcharge fees work?”
“Are credit card surcharges illegal?”

These questions keep countless business owners up at night because the laws surrounding surcharges have changed a lot since the 20th century, particularly in the past decade.

But here’s the good news: If you're a business owner looking to understand the ins and outs of surcharge fees and whether you should be charging them at your place of business, you've come to the right place. 

In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about surcharge fees, including the different types of surcharges, their legality in each state, the best way to tell customers you’re going to start charging them, and the rules and regulations you need to follow in your store.

Types of surcharge fees

Businesses commonly use one of two main types of surcharge fees: percentage-based surcharges (the correct way to do credit card surcharges) and fixed-amount surcharges.

Percentage-based surcharges are calculated as a percentage of the transaction amount and are typically used when the processing fees vary based on the card type or the card network.

On the other hand, fixed-amount surcharges are a predetermined flat fee that is added to each transaction, regardless of the transaction amount. 

Flat-fee surcharges are often used when processing fees are consistent across all transactions, but this is almost never the case. 

So anytime you see something like a fixed credit card surcharge in store signage or on your receipt, it’s either a) illegal and the business owner doesn’t know or care, or b) it’s actually a commodity convenience fee the business is mislabeling as a surcharge.

 Read: What is a Commodity Surcharge? What Every Business Owner Needs to Know

Why businesses charge surcharge fees

The primary reason why businesses charge surcharge fees is to offset the costs associated with accepting credit card payments.

Whenever any customer pays with a credit card, the business incurs credit card processing fees that are charged by the card networks, such as Visa or Mastercard, and the payment processors, such as Square or PayPal. 

These fees can significantly eat into a business's profit margins, especially for small businesses with lower transaction volumes on top of already low profit margins.

By U.S. law, surcharge fees are now always the same percentage as whatever the credit card processing fee is for that transaction. The surcharge simply cancels out the processing fee.

In other words, the business doesn’t profit from the surcharge itself. But because the associated credit card processing fees have been passed onto the customer, well-run businesses can boost their profit margins while still offering the convenience of credit card payments.

Are credit card surcharges legal?

Great question. Here’s everything you need to know about the legality of credit card surcharges:

  1. Debit card surcharges are illegal everywhere in the States. No ifs, ands, or buts. They’re no good. You just can’t do it.
  1. Credit card surcharges are legal in 48 U.S. states. As of 2023, credit card sucharges are legal in every state except Connecticut and Massachusetts. If we’re counting U.S. territories, then surcharges are also no bueno in Puerto Rico.

But even if you’re a business owner located in one of these places, you can still charge a surcharge fee using a cash discount program. This is a fancy way of saying that you should implement an incentive system for customers to pay with cash vs. card.

  1. Surcharge fees must be equal to a transaction's credit card processing fee, which is always a percentage. A credit card surcharge cannot be a flat fee.

Notably, credit card processing fees are capped at 3% nationwide, so it's probably illegal if you ever see a “credit card surcharge” higher than that.

 Read: Are Credit Card Surcharges Illegal? Here's Everything You Need to Know

Rules for communicating surcharges to customers

Of course, it’s not enough to follow the above rules. There’s also a whole set of regulations for how you display surcharges in your store, on receipts, and how to calculate them.

  1. Customers must know about the surcharge before any transaction. This basically means that you have to prominently display signage in your store, usually in the storefront window and near the checkout counter. E-commerce websites must also have digital signage on their checkout pages.
Outdated signage from when credit card processing fees were above 3% (Source)

Rules and regulations for major credit card companies

Finally, credit card associations have their own rules and regulations for credit card surcharges. As an example, here are Visa’s surcharge rules.

  1. You must notify your card association and merchant services provider at least 30 days before you intend to add surcharges (unless it’s American Express).
  2. You must include surcharges on receipts as a separate line item. Surcharge fees must be listed in the network authorization request and settlement (unless it’s American Express).
  3. Surcharges must be calculated using compliant Point of Sale (PoS) technology. There’s a very reason that new PoS unicorns like Square are worth what they’re worth. To ensure that credit card surcharges are properly calculated and displayed on receipts, your PoS system must be able to handle that. If it can’t, then you need a new PoS.

How to add surcharges without losing customers

If you're thinking about adding credit card surcharges to keep more money in your pocket, then you need to make 1,000% sure that doing so won't upset or piss off your customers.

After all, most consumers have no idea how credit card processing works (or that you are paying a fee to begin with) so they probably won’t be too sympathetic. Instead, they’re likely to see the surcharge as an unwelcome additional expense.

Fortunately, including the proper signage is usually enough to satisfy most consumers, especially for lower-priced items. But there will always be those who don’t like it.

One effective way to lawfully and diplomatically add credit card surcharges to your place of business is by offering a cash discount (which we mentioned earlier) to customers who can pay with cash.

It’s a pretty simple concept in execution. Here’s a super-simple example:

  • You sell a $100 item in your store and your credit card processing fee is 3%. If a customer buys with a credit card, you pay a $3 fee, which means you only get $97 (in reality, you’ll get less than that because of the other fees you must pay).
  • When you add a 3% surcharge, credit card customers will have to pay $103. Many of them won’t care about it or even notice it, as a lot of people don’t look at their receipts. But for the ones that do look at their receipts and do care…
  • You offer a cash discount lower than the card processing fee. Say you have a 1% cash discount program. Now a customer paying with cash can buy that product for $99 instead of $103. And because you don’t have to pay the $3 processing fee, you’ll get an extra $2 in profit. Everyone wins.

Growing your profits, one transaction at a time

You're not alone if you feel like your head is spinning right now. Because the rules change every so often, credit card surcharges can be confusing even for business owners who have dealt with them for years.

But if you can only take away one thing from this article, it should be this: Whether you’re running a low-margin business, like a restaurant or auto-body shop, or one with high prices and margins, like a cosmetic surgery clinic, you shouldn’t have to pay credit card processing fees.

Think about how much they can really cut into your profits. Compare a 3% credit card processing fee on a $10 item, a $100 item, a $1,000 service, or a $10,000 procedure. That’s $0.30, $3, $30, or $300 in credit card processing fees!

Your business deserves better. You deserve better, too.

If you want to keep more of your hard-earned money in your pocket and bank account, then Nadapayments can help set you up with the signage and PoS you need to start charging credit card surcharges.

Help Me Grow My Profits

Auto body and repair shops keep the gears of the automotive industry greased, providing essential services to millions of vehicle owners nationwide. 

Unfortunately, auto repair is also a notoriously low-profit margin business. Success depends on balancing numerous factors, such as location, competition, and business niches.

In this post, we’ll go over just how much auto body and repair shop owners can reasonably expect to make—as well as how to keep overhead and expenses low so they can take home more at the end of the day.

How much do auto repair and body shop owners make?

Determining the income of mechanic shop owners can be challenging due to the varying factors influencing earnings. 

On average, experienced mechanic shop owners can earn a substantial income…at least in terms of gross revenue. In 2022, the 282,637 auto repair businesses in the U.S. earned an average revenue of $275,972 per shop. At a glance, this seems about right.

But it's important to note that these figures are approximate and can vary depending on the specific circumstances of each auto repair shop. 

For example, a three-year-old collision center can expect to sell around $80,000 per month, according to Body Shop Business, assuming it’s well run. And auto repair shops that offer specialty services for luxury or sports vehicles can expect to earn significantly more (e.g., into seven figures).

Profit margins after expenses, however, are another story. By the time all is said and done, the median annual income for an auto shop owner after expenses is around $75,000 for a well-run “mid-sized shop,” according to Body Shop Business. 

Notably, an owner’s take-home income, after payroll and expenses, should be around the salary of a good general manager for the shop.

Average profit margin for auto repair shops

According to CSI Accounting & Payroll, the “generally accepted” answer when it comes to the net profit margin for a decently run auto shop is between 20–40% of revenue from sales of parts and up to 50% on labor costs.

Apart from annual income, auto shop owners also benefit from the potential for business growth and expansion. As auto shops gain a loyal customer base and build up their reputation, income can increase substantially. 

The profitability of any auto repair shop primarily depends on how many customers it serves monthly and how efficient operations are. By providing quality services and building a strong reputation, you can attract a steady flow of customers. 

Additionally, offering specialized services or targeting niche markets can create a competitive edge, leading to higher profits. However, it's important to note that profitability may vary based on the size of the shop, the range of services offered, and the local market conditions.

Calculating monthly expenses for an auto repair shop

Running an auto repair shop incurs various monthly expenses that need to be accounted for. Key expenses for an auto repair shop include rent, utilities, employee wages, insurance, equipment maintenance, marketing, and inventory costs.

Typical auto repair shop startup costs can range from $67,200–$225,000, not counting the cost of labor, so don’t expect to make any money at all in your first 6–12 months. 

The typical auto repair shop's startup costs are between $67 to $225K

By the way, that’s on top of $84,000–$96,000 in average operating costs per month to keep the business running (read: payroll and rent).

However, it's important to consider that this figure can fluctuate significantly based on the location, reputation, and customer base of the shop. It's important to note that these figures are approximate and can vary depending on the specific circumstances of each auto repair shop.

  • Rent* typically represents a significant portion of the monthly expenses for an auto repair shop. The cost of rent depends on the size and location of the shop. Prime locations in busy areas may demand higher rent, but they can also attract more customers. 

It's crucial to consider the balance between rent costs and potential customer traffic when selecting a location for your shop.

  • Utilities, such as electricity, water, and gas, also contribute to monthly expenses. These costs can vary based on the size of the shop, the equipment used, and the local utility rates.
  • Wages are another significant expense, as skilled technicians (and, at a certain size, a general manager) will always be essential for providing quality services. 
  • Insurance will never go away, either. For a business in which so much depends on physical parts and a space in which to conduct business, protecting the shop from potential liabilities and risks is non-negotiable.
  • Marketing expenses, including online advertising and promotional materials, are also crucial for attracting new customers and maintaining a competitive edge. That being said, many auto shops typically ignore marketing costs beyond the bare minimum (like having a Google store location and info) and rely on word-of-mouth promotions instead to keep costs low.

*NOTE: To strike a balance between rent costs and customer traffic, consider conducting thorough market research. Analyze the demographics, competition, and potential customer base in different areas. Additionally, evaluate the accessibility and visibility of the location to ensure maximum exposure. By carefully assessing these factors, you can select a location that offers a reasonable rent cost while still attracting a steady flow of customers.

Furthermore, negotiating favorable lease terms with the landlord can help reduce rent costs. Explore options for long-term leases or discuss the possibility of rent adjustments based on the shop's performance. By effectively managing rent and location costs, you can optimize your shop's profitability.

Strategies for lowering expenses in an auto repair shop

Minimizing expenses is crucial for maximizing profitability in the auto repair industry. Implementing effective cost-control strategies can help reduce overhead costs and increase the shop's bottom line. 

Here are some strategies to consider:

  • Optimize inventory management: Properly managing inventory can prevent overstocking or understocking of parts, minimizing waste and unnecessary expenses. Utilize inventory management software to track stock levels, identify fast-moving items, and streamline the ordering process.
  • Invest in efficient equipment: Upgrading to modern, energy-efficient equipment can reduce utility costs and improve productivity. Newer equipment often requires less maintenance and consumes less energy, resulting in long-term cost savings.
  • Implement preventive maintenance: Regularly maintaining tools, machinery, and vehicles can prevent breakdowns and costly repairs. Create a preventive maintenance schedule and follow it diligently to avoid unexpected expenses.
  • Train and retain skilled technicians: Skilled technicians are valuable assets for an auto repair shop. Invest in training programs to enhance their skills and provide a competitive edge. Retaining skilled technicians reduces recruitment and training costs, ensuring consistent service quality.
  • Negotiate with suppliers: Building strong relationships with suppliers can lead to favorable pricing and bulk purchase discounts. Negotiate pricing terms and explore alternative suppliers to obtain the best deals for parts and supplies.
  • Get rid of credit card processing fees: In this day and age, few customers are going to be willing to pay all cash for a multi-thousand-dollar transaction. So you have to accept credit cards—but that doesn’t mean you have to pay card processing fees (more on this later).

By implementing these strategies, auto repair shop owners can effectively lower expenses and increase profitability.

Maximizing profitability in the auto repair industry

Auto repair shops can be highly profitable ventures if managed effectively. 

While the income of mechanic shop owners varies depending on various factors, experienced owners can earn a substantial income above typical industry averages.

To maximize profit margins, auto repair shop owners need to carefully manage their expenses and optimize revenue streams.

By implementing strategies to lower expenses, such as optimizing inventory management and investing in efficient equipment, auto repair shop owners can increase their profit margins.

Nadapayments can help you cover some of those pesky expenses (like credit card processing fees) and help you put your hard-earned money back into your pocket, where it belongs.


Get Rid of My Credit Card Processing Fees

In the competitive world of retail, profitability is the ultimate goal for any business owner. 

But what are the most profitable retail businesses? And just how profitable are they? 

In this article, we will delve into the average profit margins of brick-and-mortar retail stores, explore the most lucrative retail shops with high profit margins and EBITDA, and provide insights into how to boost your bottom line.

What is the average brick-and-mortar retail profit margin?

To understand profitability in retail, it’s crucial to examine the average profit margin for brick-and-mortar stores in particular, as the profitability of similar e-commerce stores can often be extrapolated from that. 

Profit margin is a key indicator of any business's financial health. It measures the percentage of revenue that the business owner keeps in their pockets after deducting all expenses, including overhead like payroll and rent, as well as interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization. 

According to Investopedia, average retail profit margins are between 0.5–3.5% across all industries and sectors. And a 2016 Deloitte study found that average retail profit margins stood at 3.2% nationwide.

In fact, some of the biggest publicly traded retailers in the country had shockingly low net margins a few years ago (although some have improved their bottom line since then):

  • Amazon: 1.7%
  • Costco: 2.0%
  • Wal-Mart: 2.9%
  • CVS: 3.0%
  • Walgreens: 3.6%
  • Home Depot: 8.4%

Profit margin is a key indicator of any business's financial health. It measures the percentage of revenue that the business owner keeps in their pockets after deducting all expenses, including overhead, interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization. 

Various factors contribute to the profit margin of a brick-and-mortar retail business. These include the cost of goods sold (COGS), operating expenses such as rent, utilities, and staff wages, as well as pricing strategies. 

Learn more: What is The Average Retail Profit Margin? How to Optimize Your Bottom Line

What are the most profitable retail businesses?

While profit margins can vary, certain retail businesses have consistently proven to be highly profitable. 

One way to try and measure the most profitable type of retail business is by looking at the profitability of retail businesses by sector. According to Employers.com:

  • Retail banks: 24% profit margin
  • Electronics: 6.7% profit margin
  • Restaurants: 3–5% profit margin

This little slice of data isn’t too surprising. But it does show the vast discrepancy between what certain types of retail brick-and-mortar businesses can command in terms of profit margins as opposed to others.

Of course, you’re probably not that interested in the profit margins of banks (got a couple million to invest into your own bank and a team of lawyers to protect your interests?) or large household name-brand electronics distributors.

You’re more interested in what small retail shops can generate, right? Fair enough.

Retail business profits by industry

Statista has really interesting data on gross profit margins by industry. While this isn’t the same as net profit margins (which is what most people mean when they say “profit margin”), it’s still very revealing:

Image Source

When looking at just gross profit margins, the same sectors infamous for having low net profit margins actually look like they aren’t hurting too badly for cash (at least as a measure of COGS). 

Of course, gross profit isn’t the entire picture, but these numbers lead to an interesting observation: if you can keep rent (e.g., you own the building the store is in) and payroll (e.g., headcount) low, you can run a really profitable specialty food & beverage or cosmetics business.

Last but not least—these numbers don’t take into account services-based brick-and-mortar businesses like specialty healthcare clinics or cosmetic dentistry (more on this later).

Small retail businesses with high profit margins

With a strong demand for skincare, makeup, and personal care products, beauty retailers enjoy healthy profit margins. This is due to the high markup on beauty products, as well as the brand loyalty and repeat purchases common in this industry. 

Think about all of those Korean beauty products that sell like hotcakes in every salon across the country—as well as how low COGS actually is for those products.

Another highly profitable retail business is the specialty food & beverage market. As consumers become more conscious of their dietary choices, demand for unique and gourmet food items has surged. 

Specialty food & beverage stores that offer organic, artisanal, or locally sourced products often command higher prices, allowing for impressive profit margins. Microbreweries, which have extremely steep equipment startup costs, are the notable exception. 

Finally, home decor and furnishings have proven to be lucrative retail businesses (as shown by Home Depot leading the pack earlier). 

As people invest in their living spaces, there is a growing demand for stylish and unique home decor items. Retailers that offer a curated selection of furniture, accessories, and interior design services can enjoy substantial profit margins.

For more information, NYU Stern School of Business maintains a Margins by Sector page with a lot of useful and regularly updated information on retail margins and expenses.

Specialty food & beverage retail profit margins

While large retail chains dominate the industry, small businesses can also thrive and achieve high profit margins. As of 2021, some of the most profitable retail businesses you could own are all in the specialty food & beverage sector:

  • Coffee bar: Non-franchised coffee bars can average $200,000–$350,000+ in startup costs, with profit margins that vary. Larger chains or franchises can generate around 15–70% in profit, while small independent shops and kiosks usually see about 2.5%​​.
  • Tea room: Startup costs can be upwards of $100,000, but you could launch a kiosk for only several thousand. And because the concept of a ‘tea room’ tends to self-select for a certain, higher-earning demographic, profit margins can reach up to 40%​​.
  • Juice bar / Smoothie shop: Startup costs range from $10,000–$600,000 depending on franchise and overhead costs. But well-run juice bars have fairly low COGS and can generate an average revenue of $100,000–$700,000+​.
  • Bubble tea stand: Speaking of low COGS, it doesn’t get much better than a bubble tea shop. Startup costs can be around $15,000, with franchises costing $180,000–$345,000. Profit margins are quite high, with markups averaging 350%, leading to profit margins of 60–80%​.
  • Wine bar: The great thing about a wine bar compared to a microbrewery? You don’t have to come up with your own wine! Startup costs can be around $50,000–$130,000 for a more modest wine bar, with franchise options averaging $200,000–$600,000​​.

Specialty salon and healthcare clinic profit margins

At the other end of the retail spectrum are specialty service providers, which basically all fall under healthcare and/or fitness. 

These kinds of retail businesses include specialty beauty salons that offer high-ticket services like full-body laser hair removal, botox injections, etc. as well as specialty healthcare clinics, such as cosmetic surgery or dentistry, that are as expensive on a per-transaction basis as any retail business can get outside of specialty auto body shops (which we’ll cover in a separate article).

  • Dental practices: According to DentistryIQ, the average profit margin of any dental practice in the U.S. was between 30–40% of revenue. One-dentist practices (e.g., a single dentist and some desk staff) enjoy 37.5% profit margins. Profit margins tend to go down rather quickly once more dentists are involved, which requires more chairs, more staff, and profit-splitting.

Image Source

  • Pharmacies: The good news is that, unlike big box chains like Walgreens and CVS, independently owned local pharmacies tend to have much higher profit margins—as high as 21.9% in 2020, according to PBA Health. Part of the reason pharmacies have a lower profit margin than dental practices is their much-higher COGS, compared to the higher payroll paid by dental practices.

Image Source

  • Cosmetic surgery practice: Unsurprisingly, cosmetic and corrective surgical procedures have some of the best profit margins in the retail business, especially since COGS is relatively low, and everything comes down to the skill of the surgeon, who is often one of the clinic owners. According to Engage Technologies Group, specialty cosmetic surgery practices can have profit margins of 70% or higher.

Of course, these are just some examples. But it’s easy to see why specialty healthcare clinics and cosmetic practices enjoy some of the highest gross and net profit margins in retail.

Strategies to increase profit margins in retail businesses

Regardless of the retail business you run, there are strategies you can implement to increase your profit margins. One effective strategy is to negotiate better pricing and terms with suppliers. By building strong relationships with suppliers, you can secure favorable pricing, discounts, or exclusive deals, allowing for higher profit margins.

Another strategy is to optimize your inventory management. By implementing inventory control systems, analyzing sales data, and forecasting demand accurately, you can reduce carrying costs, minimize waste, and maximize profits.

Additionally, focusing on customer retention and loyalty can significantly impact profitability. By providing exceptional customer service, personalized experiences, and loyalty programs, you can increase customer satisfaction and encourage repeat purchases, leading to higher profit margins.

Boosting the bottom line of your retail business

Profitability is the lifeblood of any retail business. By understanding the average profit margins in your particular line of business, you can gain actionable insights into the financial health of your own operation. 

For example, did you know that small retail businesses with high gross and net profit margins (like specialty healthcare or cosmetic dentistry/surgery practices) are often wasting the most money on unnecessary expenditures, like credit card processing fees.

Learn more: Are Credit Card Surcharges Illegal? Here's Everything You Need to Know

By implementing strategies to increase profit margins, such as negotiating with suppliers, optimizing inventory management, and focusing on customer retention, you can boost the bottom line of your retail business. 

Improving business profitability requires careful planning, market research, and a commitment to providing exceptional products and services. But it also helps to know where you can cut costs without impacting the quality of your services. 

Nadapayments can help you by getting rid of those pesky credit card processing fees today.


Help Me Boost My Bottom Line

As a business owner, you're constantly faced with various costs and expenses that can eat into your profits, like credit card processing fees

And while you might have heard about credit card surcharges as a way to offset credit card processing fees, you probably haven’t heard about commodity surcharges, even if your business could benefit from charging them.

But what exactly is a commodity surcharge? How does it affect your business? 

In this article, we'll demystify commodity surcharges and provide you with the knowledge you need to navigate this little-known surcharge that could help you improve your bottom line.

What’s a surcharge?

Before we dive into commodity surcharges specifically, let's first understand the broader concept of surcharges in general.

Surcharges are additional fees or charges that businesses may apply to their products or services to offset certain costs of doing business. Note that surcharges are not the same as convenience fees legally speaking, and it’s important to know the difference between the two types of fees.

Learn more: Can Merchants Charge a Credit Card Fee? Surcharge Vs. Convenience

Surcharges are typically implemented to cover specific costs that are incurred by the business due to its unique nature (e.g., accepting credit cards, selling seasonal goods, etc.). By applying surcharges, businesses can offset these variable costs and ensure that they remain profitable.

Why businesses use surcharges

Now that we have a general understanding of surcharges, let's explore why businesses choose to implement them. There are several reasons why surcharges are used in business:

  • Cost recovery: Surcharges allow businesses to recover costs associated with specific expenses such as raw materials, transportation, or taxes. Passing these costs onto consumers allows businesses to maintain their profit margins (which are already tight).
  • Price stability: Surcharges can help businesses maintain stable prices for their products or services even in the face of fluctuating market conditions. Rather than constantly adjusting the base price, which might annoy customers even more, businesses can apply surcharges to account for changes without disrupting their overall pricing structure.
  • Transparency: Surcharges provide transparency to customers by clearly indicating the additional costs associated with a product or service. This transparency can help build trust and ensure that customers have a clear understanding of what they are paying for.

Common types of surcharges in business

Before we focus specifically on commodity surcharges, it's important to note that there are various types of surcharges that businesses utilize. Some common types include:

  • Credit card surcharges: Many businesses accept credit card payments, but processing these payments comes with fees. To cover these fees, businesses may apply credit card surcharges to customer transactions.

Learn more: Are Credit Card Surcharges Illegal? Here's Everything You Need to Know

  • Fuel surcharges: These surcharges are commonly used in industries that heavily rely on transportation, such as logistics or shipping. Fuel surcharges help businesses offset the costs of fuel, which can fluctuate significantly.
  • Environmental surcharges: With increasing concerns about sustainability, some businesses may implement environmental surcharges to fund eco-friendly initiatives or offset their carbon footprint.

Now that we have a foundation of understanding regarding surcharges, let's dive into the specifics of commodity surcharges.

What is a commodity surcharge?

Commodities are raw materials or primary agricultural products that are traded in bulk, such as oil, metals, or crops. Fuel and utility surcharges, which you’ve probably seen on your gas station receipts and utility bills, are an example of commodity surcharges. 

The prices of these commodities can vary greatly due to factors like supply and demand, supply chain snarls, geopolitical events, or even natural disasters. Then there are seasonal commodities, like foodstuffs, which are subject to the same price factors.

And according to Investopedia, which provides one of the more unbiased definitions of surcharges on the Internet, a surcharge “may be imposed because of a governing body's need for additional revenue or to defray the cost of increased commodity pricing.”

That’s what a commodity surcharge is. This specific type of surcharge applies to goods or services that are directly influenced by the fluctuating prices of commodities. 

Long story short, if a business is heavily reliant on commodities as inputs for their products or services, they may implement a commodity surcharge to account for the volatility in commodity prices. 

Commodity surcharges help these businesses cover the additional, often unexpected costs incurred when commodity prices increase, ensuring that they can maintain profitability.

Factors that influence commodity surcharges

To understand how commodity surcharges are calculated and applied, it's crucial to be aware of the factors that influence these surcharges:

  • Commodity price fluctuations: As mentioned earlier, the prices of commodities can be highly volatile. Businesses need to closely monitor these price fluctuations to determine when and how much to apply in terms of surcharges.
  • Supply chain dynamics: The complexity of a business's supply chain can also impact commodity surcharges. Businesses that rely on a global supply chain may face additional costs due to factors like transportation, tariffs, or exchange rates.
  • Market demand: The level of demand for a particular commodity can also influence commodity surcharges. When demand is high and supply is low, the cost of doing business goes up drastically for businesses selling goods that require that commodity.

To effectively calculate and apply commodity surcharges, it's crucial to understand the factors that influence them. 

Fluctuations in supply and demand, geopolitical tensions, and weather conditions can all contribute to significant price changes in commodities. Additionally, transportation costs, currency exchange rates, and government regulations can also impact commodity surcharges. 

By staying informed about these factors and monitoring market trends, you can better anticipate and manage commodity surcharges for your business.

How to calculate and apply commodity surcharges

Calculating and applying commodity surcharges can seem daunting, but with the right approach, it can be a manageable process with just a few, simple steps:

  1. Pricing research: Determine the base price of your product or service, excluding any surcharges. 
  2. Expense calculation: Next, identify the specific commodity or commodities your products or services depend on that are directly influencing your cost of doing business.
  3. Commodity market research: Monitor the price fluctuations of these commodities and establish a method for calculating the surcharge based on price changes. 
  4. Communicate the surcharge: Include signage that lets customers know about your surcharges and add them as a line item on your receipts (you’ll need a proper point-of-sale payment processor for that). It's very important to be transparent and communicate your surcharge methodology clearly to your customers.
  5. Stay on the straight and narrow: Regularly review and adjust your surcharges to ensure they remain fair and actually reflect market conditions. If you continue charging them long after the need has passed, customers will eventually take notice.

How to effectively communicate surcharges to customers

Implementing surcharges, including commodity surcharges, can sometimes lead to customer dissatisfaction or confusion. To effectively manage customer expectations, it's essential to communicate the rationale behind the surcharges clearly and transparently. 

Clearly explain how the surcharges are tied to specific cost factors, such as commodity price fluctuations, and emphasize the benefits of maintaining fair pricing and quality products or services. 

Providing this context can help customers understand and accept the surcharges as necessary for the sustainability of your business.

To clearly communicate surcharges to your customers, consider the following strategies:

  • Be upfront: Clearly state the existence of surcharges upfront, preferably before customers make a purchase or engage with your business.
  • Provide context: Explain the reasons behind the surcharges, such as rising commodity costs, and how they impact your business.
  • Offer alternatives: Whenever possible, provide customers with alternative options, such as different payment methods or package deals, that can help mitigate the impact of surcharges.
  • Be transparent: Clearly outline the methodology used to calculate surcharges and make this information easily accessible to your customers.
  • Listen and respond: Be open to feedback and address any customer concerns or questions regarding surcharges promptly and professionally.

Alternatives to commodity surcharges

While commodity surcharges can be an effective tool for managing costs, it's important to explore alternative strategies as well. Some alternatives to consider include:

  • Cost optimization: Look for opportunities to optimize your business processes and reduce costs without relying solely on surcharges.
  • Negotiating contracts: Explore the possibility of negotiating favorable contracts with suppliers to minimize the impact of commodity price fluctuations.
  • Diversification: Consider diversifying your product or service offerings to reduce reliance on commodities that are subject to significant price volatility.
  • Hedging strategies: Investigate hedging options that can help mitigate the risks associated with commodity price fluctuations. (After all, that’s why commodities trading exists in the first place.)

Navigating surcharges as a business owner

Commodity surcharges are an essential aspect of managing costs and maintaining profitability for many businesses. By understanding the concept of surcharges, including commodity surcharges, and staying informed about the factors that influence them, you can effectively calculate, apply, and communicate these surcharges to your customers. 

Remember to consider legal implications by looking into regulations, manage customer expectations, and explore alternative strategies as part of your overall approach to surcharges. 

With the right knowledge and strategies in place, you can navigate surcharges as a business owner and ensure the financial health and sustainability of your business—no matter what the economy is doing.

Nadapayments can help you set up your business with all kinds of surcharges so that you keep more of your hard-earned money in your bank account, where it belongs.

Help Me Start Surcharging

If you’re running any kind of retail business, then chances are your profit margin isn’t as high as you’d like it to be. Lower profit margins are a uniquely brick-and-mortar problem that impacts nearly all retail businesses, from your local bodega to that high-end clinic you walk past on your way to work that doesn’t accept insurance.

The retail industry is known for its thin profit margins due to fierce competition and various operational costs. Understanding the factors that affect retail profit margins is crucial for optimizing your business's financial success.

Factors that affect retail profit margins

Several factors can impact profit margins in retail. One of the primary factors is the cost of goods sold (COGS). This includes the direct costs associated with producing or purchasing the products you sell. If your COGS is too high, it can eat into your profit margins.

How to calculate cost of goods sold (COGS)

Here’s a simple formula you can use to determine your COGS for any specific product or service that you offer:

COGS = Beginning Inventory + PEnding Inventory
where
P = purchases made during the accounting period (typically a quarter or a year)
Beginning Inventory = leftover inventory from the previous accounting period
Ending Inventory = leftover inventory at the end of the current accounting period

Let's say that at the beginning of the year, you had $10,000 worth of clothing inventory left from the previous year (Beginning Inventory). Over the course of the year, you buy $50,000 worth of new clothing to sell in your store (Purchases or P).

At the end of the year, you count up your remaining clothing inventory and find that it is worth $15,000 (Ending Inventory).

COGS = $10,000 (Beginning Inventory) + $50,000 (Purchases) - $15,000 (Ending Inventory)

So, the Cost of Goods Sold (COGS) for your clothing store for this year would be $45,000. This means that it cost you $45,000 to provide the goods you sold this year.

Of course, this is a very simplified example and actual business calculations would involve additional operating expenses including rent, utilities, employee wages, marketing costs, and other overhead expenses. 

Keeping all of these costs in check is vital to ensure your retail profit margins remain healthy.

What goes into a pricing strategy?

Another significant factor that can impact your retail profit margins is your competitive pricing strategy.

For example, if you set your prices very low compared to your competitors, you may attract more customers...but your profit margins will undoubtedly take a hit.

On the other hand, setting prices too high compared to your competitors is almost a sure way to drive away potential customers. Striking the right balance is essential to maintain healthy profit margins.

Calculating and analyzing your business's profit margin

To calculate your profit margin, you need to know your total revenue and total expenses. 

Going back to our earlier clothing store example, let's say you sold those clothes that cost you $45,000 in COGS for a total of $70,000 that year. Your net profit (or gross profit in accounting terms) can be calculated as total sales minus COGS.

Net Profit = Sales - COGS
where
Sales = how much revenue you generated from your sales during the accounting period

In this particular, hypothetical case:

Net Profit = $70,000 (Sales) - $45,000 (COGS) = $25,000

So your gross profit on the clothing sold during this year would be $25,000. This means you earned $25,000 after accounting for the cost of the goods you sold, which was $45,000.

Finally, to calculate your profit margin, you could use the following formula:

Profit Margin (%) = (Net Profit / Total Revenue) * 100
where
Total Revenue = Sales, just to keep things simple for the purposes of illustration

Putting it all together, we get:

Profit Margin = $25,000 (Net Profit) / $70,000 (Total Revenue) * 100 = 35.71% 

So your profit margin for the year on the clothes you sold comes out to 35.71%. Not bad, considering the average retail clothing store’s profit margin is typically just 4–13%. Sheesh.

Once you’ve calculated your profit margin, it's important to analyze it regularly to identify trends and make informed decisions about how to lower your expenses while upping your margins. 

Staying up-to-date on industry average profit margins

Knowing your industry’s average profit margins—which can change quite a bit over time, depending on the industry—will provide invaluable insights into your business's financial health. 

Knowing what your local competition charges will allow you not only to benchmark your performance against industry standards and identify areas where improvements can be made but also to come up with an effective pricing strategy that is more likely to work in the first place.

If your profit margins are significantly lower than your industry average, you might not be running a tight ship. 

To benchmark your profit margin, you can start by researching industry reports or consulting industry experts. Look for data that provides insights into the average profit margins for businesses similar to yours.

Keep in mind that benchmarking is not just about comparing numbers. It's about understanding the underlying factors that contribute to the profit margins of successful businesses in your industry, including what their expenses cost. 

By gaining this deep understanding of the competition, you can identify smart strategies and best practices that can help you optimize your business's financial success.

Fortunately, NYU Stern School of Business regularly updates a Margins by Sector page with a lot of useful info—likely way more than you’ll ever need. You can even download the dataset as an Excel file, which is super helpful.

Strategies to optimize your business's financial success

Optimizing your business's financial success requires a proactive approach. Here are some strategies to consider:

Increasing revenue and reducing costs to improve profit margins

One way to improve your profit margins is by increasing your revenue while simultaneously reducing your costs. 

Look for opportunities to attract more customers or increase your average transaction value. This can be done through effective marketing strategies, upselling, cross-selling, or introducing new products or services.

At the same time, analyze your expenses and identify areas where you can cut costs without compromising the quality of your products or services. 

Negotiating better deals with suppliers, optimizing your inventory management, and implementing cost-saving measures can all contribute to improved profit margins.

Utilizing technology and data analysis for better financial management

In today's digital age, technology plays a crucial role in optimizing financial management. 

Implementing a robust point-of-sale (POS) system can help you track sales, inventory, and customer data more efficiently. Real-time, 24/7 POS data can provide valuable insights into customer behavior, allowing you to make data-driven decisions to improve your profit margins.

Even something as simple as switching preferred merchant services providers can help, since modern providers will not only offer the most competitive card processing rates for your type of business, but they’ll be compliant with current laws.

Some preferred merchants, like Nadapayments, will even set you up with the best POS system for your needs and even integrate your payments with industry-specific software, like CRMs or ERMs.

Additionally, leveraging data analysis tools can help you identify trends, spot inefficiencies, and optimize your pricing strategies. 

By harnessing the power of technology and data, you can gain a competitive edge and maximize your business's financial success.

Tips for improving gross profit margin in retail

Here are some tips to improve your gross profit margin:

  • Negotiate better deals with suppliers to lower your COGS.
  • Streamline your inventory management to minimize wastage and reduce carrying costs.
  • Optimize your pricing strategy to ensure you are charging the right amount for your products.
  • Monitor and control your operating expenses to prevent them from eating into your gross profit margin.
  • Regularly review and update your product offerings to ensure you are offering a mix of high-margin and popular items.

By implementing these strategies and focusing on improving your gross profit margin, you can enhance your business's financial performance and optimize your overall profitability.

The more you charge, the more you lose to credit card fees

By implementing strategies to increase revenue, reduce costs, and leverage technology and data analysis, you can optimize your business's financial success.

Remember, improving your profit margins requires a proactive approach and ongoing evaluation. But with the right strategies and a focus on financial management, you can maximize your business's profitability and achieve long-term success.

Speaking of ways to reduce costs—if you run a high-ticket retail business like a private health clinic (e.g., waxing and laser hair removal, cryotherapy, cosmetic dentistry or surgery, etc.), you're paying a heck of a lot more in credit card processing fees than you should, sometimes by dozens or even hundreds of dollars per transaction. 

The good news? Nadapayments can help put all of that money back into your pocket, where it belongs.

I Want a Free Savings Analysis

Can you add credit card surcharges to offset processing fees? Here’s what you need to know about surcharges, where they’re legal, and key rules & regulations.If you’re a retail or e-commerce business owner, you’re probably aware of the various fees associated with accepting credit card payments from your customers. 

But do you know whether you’re legally allowed to charge your customers a credit card fee? 

Perhaps you heard years ago from your local barber that some credit card fees are illegal, while others are perfectly fine. Maybe another business owner told you that surcharges aren’t totally legal or illegal, but they will drive your customers away.

It can be hard to figure out what is and isn’t true when it comes to credit card fees and surcharges, especially with the laws constantly changing.

That’s why, in this article, we’re going to review what current regulations have to say about credit card fees and whether merchants like you can legally charge them.

What are Credit Card Fees?

We included the pandemic-era restaurant receipt at the top of this post mostly for fun, but also to point out that only one of those listed fees is actually a credit card fee (the “non-cash adjustment”).

A credit card fee can either be a credit card surcharge—an added fee that a merchant charges to customers who pay with a credit card—or a convenience fee, which is not the same thing at all.

In the case of the receipt image, the non-cash adjustment of 3.5% is a convenience fee, not a credit card surcharge, because a credit card surcharge can be at most 3% (we’ll explain why later).

So, as far as we can tell, this restaurant owner is either in one of two U.S. states where credit card surcharges are illegal...or they just don’t know they can legally charge a credit card surcharge.

Yes, it’s confusing. But it doesn’t have to be.

What is a credit card surcharge?

To simplify things, a credit card surcharge is a fee charged to customers paying with a credit card for the sole purpose of covering the credit card processing fees the merchant has to pay.

This fee is typically a percentage of the total transaction amount and is intended to cover the cost of credit card processing fees.

Notably, credit card processing fees are capped at 3% everywhere in the U.S. except Colorado, where they can be at most 2%. This means that credit card surcharges can at most be 3% everywhere except Colorado, where they can at most be 2%.

Of course, this is assuming you’re paying the maximum credit card processing fee in your state. (If your merchant services provider is Nadapayments, for example, you won’t be.) 

For example, if your business is in Florida and you’ve negotiated a 2.5% CC processing fee rather than 3%, that means your credit card surcharge can at most be 2.5% as well.

It’s important to understand that credit card surcharges are not the same as convenience fees, which are fees charged for alternative payment methods, such as paying by phone or online.

What is a convenience fee?

While credit card surcharges and convenience fees may seem similar, there are some key differences. 

Convenience fees are fees charged for any alternative payment methods different from the usual payment method accepted in the store, such as paying by phone or online at a brick-and-mortar retail store. 

These fees are designed to cover the cost of processing these alternative payment methods and are typically a flat fee rather than a percentage. 

Convenience fees are typically charged on larger transactions, like mortgage payments, property tax payments, college tuition, and taxes. But they can be charged for day-to-day purchases as well.

Can you charge a convenience fee for credit card payments or debit cards? 

Yes—but only if you can demonstrate with reasonable proof that credit cards or debit cards are not the normally accepted method of payment at your business.

That being said, it’s very rare to see a business charge both a credit card convenience fee and a credit card surcharge. While this is legal under very specific circumstances, the juice likely isn’t worth the squeeze as your customer will notice the two fees—and they won’t like what they see.

Where and When Surcharges & Convenience Fees Are Legal

The legality of credit card fees varies by state. Here’s everything you need to know about who can charge surcharges and convenience fees and where they can charge them.

Surcharges:

  • Can only be charged on credit card purchases, not debit card purchases.
  • Must be a percentage of the total transaction amount, not a flat fee.
  • Cannot exceed credit card processing fees, which are capped at 3% nationwide and at 2% in Colorado.
  • Legal in all 50 states and U.S. territories except for Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Puerto Rico.

Convenience fees:

  • Can be charged for any payment method that is not the standard payment method for a given transaction type.
  • Can only be charged if there is another preferred form of payment as an option.
  • Is typically a flat fee rather than a percentage.
  • Legal in all 50 states and U.S. territories.

Both surcharges & convenience fees:

  • Must be prominently and transparently displayed to customers on store signage and on receipts, and clearly labeled as such.
  • The major credit card issuers (Visa, American Express, Discover, and Mastercard) have different rules for surcharges and convenience fees that merchants must follow. These rules may vary from state to state.

The numerous laws surrounding credit card fees can be complex and difficult to navigate, which is why it is important to consult with an expert like Nadapayments before implementing credit card fees at your store.

Read more: Are Credit Card Surcharges Illegal? Here's Everything You Need to Know

Charging a Credit Card Fee Without Upsetting Your Customers

If you’re considering charging a credit card fee to win back some of your hard-earned dollars, it’s important to do it in an above-board way that does not upset your customers. 

One way to legally and diplomatically charge a credit card surcharge, for example, is to offer a discount to customers who pay with cash or another payment method that does not incur a credit card fee. These types of good-faith gestures can go a long way.

Another option is to be transparent about your credit card fee and explain why it is necessary in plain English. After all, most customers have no clue how card issuers work, or that merchants have to pay their card issuers to process credit card transactions.

By educating your customers about the cost of credit card processing fees, you may be able to mitigate any negative feelings they may have about the fee.

Are You Getting the Most You Can Out of Every Sale?

Credit card fees can be a complex and confusing topic for both merchants and their customers. But they’re also legal for a reason. 

Whether you’re running a business with low profit margins, like an auto-body shop, or one with high prices, like a cosmetic surgery clinic, remember that credit card processing fees are a percentage of each sale, not a flat fee.

In other words, they can really cut into your profits. And your business deserves better than that.

If you do choose to start implementing credit card fees, however, be sure to do so in a way that is 100% above board and does not upset your customers. By offering discounts or being transparent about the fee, you can help ensure that your customers continue to do business with you.

Looking for a payment processing solution that meets the needs of your business? Contact Nadapayments today to learn more about our payment processing solutions and how we can help your business succeed.

Put Money Back In My Pocket

As a business owner, you’ve probably considered adding a credit card surcharge to your products to offset credit card processing fees. However, you may also wonder if doing so is legal. 

In this article, we'll explore the legality of credit card surcharges, the rules and regulations surrounding them, and how to find out whether your business can legally charge surcharges.

What is a Credit Card Surcharge?

You may or may not have heard of a credit card surcharge before, but you’ve probably paid credit card surcharges countless times without noticing. 

Simply put, a credit card surcharge is an extra fee that merchants add to their credit card transactions to offset the cost of paying credit card processing fees. A typical credit card surcharge is a percentage of the purchase amount. 

Unsurprisingly, credit card surcharges are sometimes called ‘zero-fee’ or ‘free’ credit card processing because they make the customer pay for the processing costs instead of the merchant.

But while surcharges are legal in some states, they are prohibited in others. Whether or not a business can legally charge a credit card fee depends on the state in which they operate and the credit card association's policies.

Is it Legal to Charge a Credit Card Fee?

The legality of credit card surcharges is a complex issue that’s seen its fair share of rollercoaster ups and downs in the past few decades. Fortunately, recent laws have been very favorable for all business owners looking to save more of their revenue.

In 2013, a major milestone settlement was reached in a class-action lawsuit between merchants and Visa and Mastercard. As a result of this settlement, merchants in nearly all 50 states are now allowed to charge a credit card surcharge (but not a debit card surcharge, which remains illegal nationwide) as long as they follow specific rules and regulations.

That being said, a couple of states still prohibit credit card surcharges. 

And while none of the major credit card companies ban surcharges outright, you must follow specific rules and regulations that differ depending on the credit card association to implement surcharges at your place of business (more on this later).

Where Are Credit Card Surcharges Legal?

The good news is that while the legality of surcharges has been murky in the past, as of 2023, credit card surcharges are now legal in all U.S. states except for Connecticut and Massachusetts. (Credit card surcharges are also prohibited in Puerto Rico, just in case you were wondering.)

The complete list of U.S. states where credit card surcharges are not prohibited includes:

Alabama:

Alaska:

Arizona:

Arkansas:

California:

Colorado:

Connecticut:

Delaware:

Florida:

Georgia:

Hawaii:

Idaho:

Illinois:

Indiana:

Iowa:

Kansas:

Kentucky:

Louisiana:

Maine:

Maryland:

Massachusetts:

Michigan:

Minnesota:

Mississippi:

Missouri:

Montana:

Nebraska:

Nevada:

New Hampshire:

New Jersey:

New Mexico:

New York:

North Carolina:

North Dakota:

Ohio:

Oklahoma:

Oregon:

Pennsylvania:

Rhode Island:

South Carolina:

South Dakota:

Tennessee:

Texas:

Utah:

Vermont:

Virginia:

Washington:

West Virginia:

Wisconsin:

Wyoming:

Does this mean you can't charge credit card surcharges if your business operates in Connecticut, Massachusetts, or Puerto Rico? Unfortunately, it does mean just that. 

But you can still offer discounts for anyone willing to pay via cash or check instead of card. 

Some lawyers argue this type of “cash discounting” is the same thing, but they don’t have a legal leg to stand on.

The main takeaway is that even in states where credit card surcharges are illegal, you can still legally incentivize cash-paying customers with discounts vs. discouraging credit card payments by adding a surcharge fee.

What are the Rules & Regulations for Credit Card Surcharges?

If you're considering adding a credit card surcharge to your business, it's important to understand the rules and regulations surrounding them. Here are four major, big-picture rules to keep in mind:

  1. Customers need to know about surcharges before they make a purchase. This can often be as simple as appropriately placed signage in a store.*
  2. Surcharges can’t be greater than your credit card processing fees (which are capped at 3% nationwide). So if your credit card processing fee is 3%, your surcharge can, at most, be the same. 
  3. Surcharges must be a percentage of the purchase price, not a flat fee. This makes sense because otherwise, you’d risk violating the second rule.
  4. Surcharges cannot be applied to debit card transactions. This is so important it’s worth repeating. You cannot, under any circumstances, charge debit card surcharges.

These rules and regulations vary slightly by state. Some states have additional requirements that businesses must follow to charge a credit card fee.

*NOTE: E-commerce companies can also charge credit card surcharges on their websites, although the rules vary slightly. For example, an e-commerce website must have digital signage on its checkout page instead of physical signage to notify customers in a store.

What about surcharge rules for major credit card companies?

Great question. While all four major credit card issuers—Visa, Discover, Mastercard, and American Express—permit credit card surcharges, they each have slightly different rules and regulations to follow if you want to start charging them at your place of business. (Example: here are Visa’s rules on surcharges).

Here are some (but not all) of the major credit card association rules on surcharges that you should know:

  • You must notify the card association & your merchant services provider at least 30 days in advance. Note: American Express only requires you to provide notice if you comply with all their rules.
  • You must include the surcharge amount on receipts as a separate line item. This is an extension of the signage rule to increase customer awareness of the surcharge. The surcharge must also be listed in the network authorization request and settlement. Note: Once again, American Express is the only exception.
  • You need a payment processing machine that prints surcharges on receipts. This is the obvious corollary to the previous rule, except it’s not very obvious. You need to ensure that your payment gateway or processing equipment is reprogrammed to accurately record the surcharges in accordance with the card network requirements.
  • For Visa and Mastercard, you can apply brand-level surcharges (e.g., all Visa cards) or product-level surcharges (only certain lines of cards). However, you cannot do both.

The Consequences of Illegal Credit Card Surcharges

Credit card surcharges can be a valuable way for businesses to offset the fees associated with accepting credit card payments. 

But it goes without saying that if your business is somehow out of compliance with charging credit card surcharges, you could face serious consequences. 

Penalties can include fines, legal fees, and damage to your reputation. It's essential to ensure you follow all rules and regulations surrounding credit card surcharges.

Make More Money...and Keep More of it, Too

At the end of the day, most credit card processing fees are just too high. In industries where a 10–20% profit margin is expected and reasonable, a 2–3% processing fee is just another headache.

So if you live in one of the 48 states where credit card surcharges are legal, it’s in your best interest as a business owner to cover your processing fees with those surcharges. You’re literally setting your money on fire if you don’t.

And honestly? Most customers won’t notice (or care) whether they pay a surcharge or not. They’re already used to paying 2–3 different fees and taxes every time they get picked up by a ride-share or order takeout delivery.

But if you're still unsure whether or not your business can legally charge a credit card fee, be sure to do your own due diligence and consult with an attorney if necessary.

Or...you could just ask Nadapayments for help. We can set up your surcharge program, notify the credit card associations, and even get you the right processing equipment. All you need to do is start putting more of your hard-earned money back into your pocket—where it belongs.

Help Me Start Surcharging

Passing on credit card fees to customers can be a big decision for your business. Some small business owners feel like they have no choice due to the high cost of credit card processing, but many retailers worry that it could drive away customers.Fortunately, there are several ways to pass on credit card fees to customers that comply with state laws and don’t require you to overhaul your entire point-of-sale system.Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of credit card surcharges, and what you need to know before charging customers a surcharge or convenience fee.

4 Ways to Pass on Credit Card Fees to Customers

When it comes to passing on credit card fees to customers, you can either do it directly or indirectly. Passing the fees on directly means that your customer covers the cost of their credit card purchases and you pay less or nothing at all.Passing them on indirectly means that you use other strategies to reduce your credit card processing fees, such as incentivizing other payment methods.

Surcharge Program

A surcharge program is the most direct way to pass on your credit card fees. In short, a surcharge program charges your customer a fee on credit card transactions in order to offset the amount that you would be charged by your payment processor.For example, with a surcharge program through Nadapayments, your customer is charged 3.5% of the purchase amount, so you take home 100% of the sale and pay $0 in transaction fees.Surcharge programs can be tricky to implement on your own, since you’ll need to abide by state and federal laws and let the credit card networks — and your customers — know about the program.That’s why it’s best to work with a merchant service provider like Nadapayments, who will take care of the paperwork for you.

Convenience Fee

Another way to pass on credit card fees is to charge a convenience fee on some, but not all, credit card purchases. If you’ve ever bought tickets to a movie or a concert online, then you’re probably familiar with these kinds of convenience fees.Unlike surcharge programs, convenience fees are legal in all 50 states, as long as you abide by the policies of the card companies (i.e., Visa and Mastercard).The important thing is that you can only charge a convenience fee for “alternative” sales channels. For example, if you have a brick-and-mortar store, you could charge a fee for over-the-phone transactions but not in-store purchases.This option won’t pass on the entire cost of credit card processing, but it will offset the cost of some payment methods.

Minimum Purchase Amount

If you don’t want to charge customers directly for using a credit card, an alternative is to set a minimum purchase amount for credit card transactions.Since some payment processors charge a flat fee plus a percentage of the transaction amount, smaller transactions result in higher costs for business owners. By setting a minimum purchase amount, you’ll be able to keep accepting credit cards but minimize fees cutting into your bottom line.

Cash Discount

Finally, another option is to offer a cash discount instead of implementing a surcharge fee. This is a good option in states where surcharge programs aren’t legal, including Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Colorado.Instead of charging more to customers who pay with a credit card, you charge less to customers who pay with cash or a debit card. This encourages customers to choose a payment method that incurs lower fees, and lets you factor the cost of doing business into your pricing model.Cash discounts are common in gas stations and convenience stores and are often applied to debit card transactions too since they have lower processing costs.

Pros and Cons of a Surcharge Program

Person paying at the cashier counter using his credit card

The most straightforward method of passing on credit card fees to customers is starting a surcharge program — but how do you know if it’s the right thing to do for your business? Let’s take a look at the pros and cons.

Pros

The first advantage is obvious: You can accept credit card payments without cutting into your profits, since the customer will bear the cost of the transaction.Depending on the size of your business, accepting credit cards can eat into your bottom line, especially if you pay merchant account fees on top of processing costs.Setting up a surcharge program simply passes those costs on to the customer, allowing you to keep your prices low for all customers. Plus, customers have the option to avoid the surcharge fee by paying with cash or a debit card instead.

Cons

The downside to starting a surcharge program is that some of your customers may be unhappy about it and may complain to your employees.If all of the other merchants in your area charge surcharge fees too, then it may not be a big deal. But if customers can go elsewhere to avoid the fee, you may be afraid you’ll lose business.You can minimize this risk by announcing the surcharge program before you launch it, and reminding customers they can opt out by paying with cash, check or a debit card.With the right messaging, your customers will understand that the program is designed to give them more payment options to choose from. Companies using Nadapayments as their surcharge solution haven’t reported any decline in sales as a result.Another con is that there are strict rules you need to follow. For example, you’ll have to register the program with each card brand and the surcharge can’t exceed 4%.When you get started with Nadapayments, we’ll take care of these details for you to make sure you don’t run into any issues.

Tips for Passing on Credit Card Fees to Customers

If you’re thinking of changing your payment policies, it’s important to do it right to avoid disruptions and reduce customer complaints. Here are a few tips to help you out.

Be Transparent

First, don’t try to hide your credit card fees behind confusing language and terminology. Post signage that explains your policy at the checkout counter, and display any credit card fees as a line item on your customer’s receipt.Not only is this a legal requirement in many states, but it will build trust between you and your customers and reduce confusion. Who knows, maybe they’ll even be in favor of the change because they want to support local businesses and help keep prices low!

Give Customers a Choice

Some customers will be fine with your surcharge program, but others may prefer to opt out and use another payment method. That’s where cash and debit cards come in.You aren’t allowed to pass on debit card fees to customers, so you’ll have to cover the cost yourself. However, processing costs for debit cards are much lower. For example, Nadapayments charges only 1% plus $0.25 cents for debit card transactions, so you’d take home $49.25 for a $50 payment.

Follow State Regulations

Finally, be sure to follow all the rules and regulations in your state. Even in states where surcharge programs are legal, such as California, customers can report you to the state’s attorney general for “unfair or deceptive” practices if you don’t disclose it.If in doubt, get help from a company like Nadapayments, who will work with you to set up a surcharge program that’s compliant with the laws of your state.

Use Nadapayments as Your All-in-One Solution

Passing on credit card fees to customers: shopper handing her credit card to the store owner

Nadapayments offers more than just a credit card surcharge program. It’s an all-in-one merchant service provider that will handle all of your credit and debit card transactions with no setup costs and no monthly account fee.You’ll pay just 1% plus $0.25 for all debit card transactions, while your customer will pay a flat 3.5% on all credit card transactions. You’ll get all of the signage you need to explain your surcharge program to customers, plus a virtual terminal for keyed-in payments. And, you can rent a credit card reader with the surcharge program built right in for just $35 per month.Sign up with Nadapayments to launch your credit card surcharge program today!

Sometimes it can seem like every customer has a different payment method they prefer. Some customers want to buy everything online, others want to be able to tap their credit card on a contactless card reader, and others prefer to use their smartphone to pay with an Apple or Android mobile app.Being able to accept multiple types of payments can be good for your business, but not every point-of-sale (POS) system has the same functionality. Restaurants, e-commerce stores, and retailers all need different things out of a point-of-sale-system.Let’s take a look at what kind of POS systems are out there and how you can choose the right POS system for your small business needs.

What Is a POS System?

The tricky thing about choosing a POS system for small businesses is that there’s no one-size-fits-all system. There may be multiple components of your POS system, but they typically take the place of a traditional cash register and may include:

  • A credit card reader
  • A tablet or computer that runs POS software
  • A barcode scanner
  • A receipt printer
  • A cash drawer

Your merchant services provider may offer all of these items as a package, or you may have to purchase some of these components separately.For example, Nadapayments provides a Wi-Fi-enabled smart terminal for $35 per month, which includes a receipt printer and reams of receipt paper. You’ll also get a a virtual terminal you can run on your own computer or tablet.If you’re happy with your existing POS system, you can use the Nadapayments card reader to implement a surcharge program and integrate it with your existing system.The Nadapayments card reader accepts payments via:

  • Visa
  • Mastercard
  • American Express
  • Discover
  • Apple Pay
  • Google Pay
  • Contactless payments

Once all the components of your POS system are up and running, you’ll be able to ring up items, accept credit card payments, and provide printed or digital receipts. Some POS systems offer additional tools to help you take restaurant bookings, manage inventory, and monitor sales figures over time.

How Do POS Systems for Small Business Work?

POS systems are about more than just accepting credit card payments. POS systems save time and reduce employee error by making it easy to scan or key in the code for each item and print out a receipt.For certain types of businesses, like restaurants, your POS system will help you group items by table and even split the check.Retail and e-commerce businesses can use their POS system to collect a customer’s contact details in order to email a receipt or run a loyalty program.Of course, the functionality of your POS system will depend on what kind of hardware and software you use and which payment processor you choose.

POS Hardware

When it comes to POS systems for small businesses, the “hardware” you need may be as simple as a credit card reader and a smartphone or iPad. You can run a POS app on your device and use a card reader to swipe your customer’s payment info, turning your smartphone into a mobile POS system.This is a great option for sole proprietors and small business owners who don’t work out of an office — such as landscapers or fitness instructors — who need to be able to accept mobile payments on the go.If you operate a retail store or cafe, then you may want to consider additional hardware options, such as an EMV card reader that can accept contactless payments.

POS Software

POS software refers to the program or app that you use to process payments. Some point-of-sale solutions are cloud-based, which means that data is stored in the cloud, and you can access it by logging in on any of your devices.On-premises software is installed locally, such as on your company’s PC or Mac, so it may be more customizable but may also require more maintenance. The right POS software for you depends on how many locations you have, how many employees will be using it, and whether you want your POS hardware to be stationary or mobile.Most POS features will be intuitive for anyone who’s worked at a checkout counter before, but some features may require some training.

Pricing and Payment Processing

When choosing a payment processor, you’ll also want to take a close look at the pricing structure. You’ll need to compare upfront costs, monthly fees, and how much you’ll pay for debit and credit card processing.For example, Nadapayments only charges 1% plus $0.25 for debit card transactions. When it comes to credit card transactions, you won’t owe anything for processing fees. If your customer chooses to use a credit card instead of cash, check, or debit, they will incur a 3.5% surcharge.Your only recurring fee is the $35-per-month cost of the credit card reader, which gives your customers multiple payment options, including contactless payments.This pricing model is simpler than many other POS solutions, which often charge a higher transaction fee for online ordering than for in-person payments. Also, since most payment processors don’t offer a surcharge program, you’ll be stuck paying for credit card processing fees.

The Best POS System for Small Businesses

POS system for small business: cashier updating the register

The best point-of-sale system for your business will depend on your sales volume, your industry, and what kind of payment methods you want to accept. Any POS system may do the bare minimum — allow you to accept credit card payments — but more advanced POS systems can provide real-time sales metrics and inventory management.Let’s take a look at three industries that rely on POS systems, and which POS features your small business could benefit from.

Retail POS Systems

Retail POS systems are designed for retail businesses like hardware stores, bookshops, and other shops where customers make purchases in person. Your business may offer some online sales, but most sales are made using a physical card reader.Retail POS systems streamline the checkout experience and make it easy to track inventory. You can use a retail POS system to generate sales reports, accept gift cards, and run a customer loyalty program.

Restaurant POS Systems

Even within the restaurant industry, POS systems can vary widely. For example, a cafe or quick-service restaurant can use a POS system to speed up the ordering process for dine-in, pickup, and delivery.A full-service restaurant may need a more advanced POS system with tools for both the front and back of house staff. You may want a POS system with a built-in floor plan and the ability to accept tableside payments.

E-Commerce POS Systems

E-commerce POS systems are for businesses that operate primarily online. These POS systems rely on payment gateways and virtual terminal credit card processing, but may still offer a physical credit card reader for in-person payments.The main features to look for in an e-commerce system are inventory management and customer management tools. You can integrate your POS system with your CRM to run customer loyalty programs and email marketing campaigns.

Choose Nadapayments as Your Credit and Debit Card Processor

Customer paying using a credit card

For businesses that only need a credit card reader, Nadapayments’ surcharge program is the obvious solution. For a low monthly cost, you’ll get a Wi-Fi-enabled EMV card reader that’s ready to use and has all of the software you need built right in.For businesses that need more advanced POS features, such as a restaurant booking system or inventory management, you can simply integrate Nadapayments with your existing POS system and take advantage of no credit card processing fees.Unlike other payment processing solutions, Nadapayments is an all-in-one merchant service provider that’s compatible with online sales, retail, restaurants, and more. You’ll be able to accept more types of payment methods, including Apple Pay and Google Pay, while saving money on transaction fees.Plus, you’ll get the signage you need to explain your surcharge program to customers, and a receipt printer is built in, so you can provide your customers with printed or digital receipts.Get started with Nadapayments and launch your surcharge program today!

Every business owner wants to get the lowest credit card processing fees they can, but it isn’t always clear how to do it. Do you need to open a merchant account or a business bank account? Or can you lower your transaction fees another way, such as using a payment service provider to handle your transactions?For large businesses, opening a merchant account may be a better deal, but for small businesses, a payment service provider will offer better rates and more flexibility. Here’s how to accept credit card payments without a merchant account — as well as how to use a surcharge program to get rid of credit card processing fees entirely.

What Is a Merchant Account?

A merchant account is essentially a specific type of bank account for businesses that’s used to handle online payments and credit card transactions. There are a few different types of merchant accounts for different types of businesses — for example, internet merchant accounts for e-commerce businesses.Depending on what products or services you offer, and where you sell them, you may need to open more than one merchant account to process all transactions. Not every bank offers merchant accounts, though, and you’ll have to go through an application process to get one — even if you already have a business bank account.

How Does a Merchant Account Work?

A merchant account is provided by an entity called a merchant acquiring bank, and it’s their job to facilitate the sale between you, the cardholder’s bank, and your credit card processor. Your customer’s money goes into the merchant account, where your credit card processor can access it to take their cut. Then, the remainder of the purchase amount goes into your business bank account, where you or your business partners can access it.Most merchant acquiring banks charge a monthly fee for a merchant account, usually between $10 and $50, regardless of how many transactions go through it.

Is It Hard to Open a Merchant Account?

In order to get a merchant account for your business, you’ll have to apply for one with a merchant acquiring bank. These banks usually have a lengthy application process and may want to know the following details about your business:

  • The type of business you run
  • How long you’ve been in operation
  • Your own personal credit history
  • Your business’s financial history

Some businesses are considered “high risk” because they’re more likely to experience fraud or chargebacks. If that’s the case for your business, then your acquiring bank may charge you higher fees or decline your application altogether.If you’re a small business without a lengthy credit history, then you may have better luck applying for a merchant account at a bank that you already do business with.

Pros and Cons of Merchant Accounts

Merchant accounts have their advantages. Since they’re provided by established banks who vet the businesses they work with, you’re less likely to run into processing delays and account issues than with third-party payment processing companies.And for businesses with a high sales volume — over $10,000 per month — they may offer a more appealing pricing structure than payment processing services.But for new businesses or startups that don’t have a high volume of sales or extensive business history, a merchant account may be harder to obtain. The application process can take more time than its worth, and you may not actually save any money on credit card transaction fees compared to other processing options.

How to Accept Credit Card Payments Without a Merchant Account

Entrepreneur calculating expenses

The obstacles to opening an account with an acquiring bank can leave you wondering how to accept credit card payments without a merchant account of your own. The good news is that there are plenty of companies that can do the heavy lifting for you. These are known as “payment service providers” or “merchant aggregators”.Payment service providers (PSPs) maintain their own merchant account, where they receive the funds from all of the customers they work with. After deducting their fees, they’ll send the money into your business bank account — usually within a few business days.You’re probably familiar with some of these companies — such as Stripe, Square, and PayPal — but all of them offer slightly different services and payment structures.

How Much Do Payment Service Providers Cost?

Most payment service providers charge a processing fee for each transaction. Instead of paying a monthly fee for a merchant services account plus the processing fees that your credit card network charges, your fees will look something like this:

  • Stripe: 2.9% plus 30 cents per transaction
  • Square: 2.6% plus 10 cents per transaction
  • PayPal: 2.99% plus 49 cents per transaction

Some payment service providers charge different rates for different payment methods — such as in-person vs. card-not-present payments — or for online transactions.

What Equipment Do You Need to Accept Credit Cards Through a PSP?

Not only do payment services providers handle everything behind-the-scenes, they’ll also provide you with the tools you need to accept credit card payments in person.This usually means a credit card reader or point-of-sale (POS) system that you can use to swipe, tap, or otherwise process in-person payments.In some cases, you may be able to install a POS app directly onto your mobile devices, but in other cases you may need to buy more extensive hardware.

Pros and Cons of Payment Service Providers

Payment service providers are faster and easier to get started with than acquiring banks, and don’t require as thorough of an application process. However, they may still decline to work with high-risk businesses with a higher likelihood of chargebacks.On the plus side, they’ll take care of PCI compliance for you so you don’t have to worry about keeping your merchant account compliant with PCI regulations yourself.They also tend to have a much more favorable pricing structure for small businesses – that is, any business turning over less than $10,000 per month. Even so, processing fees can still add up and eat into your profits, especially if you have to pay higher fees for online transactions or certain types of payment methods.

Avoid the Merchant Account Hassles and Credit Card Processing Fees

Nadapayments is a merchant service provider that makes it easy to start accepting credit card payments right away — even if you don’t have a merchant account. Nadapayments will take care of all the paperwork and set up your merchant account for you. You’ll be able to accept payments from all of the major credit card networks — including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover — without ever having to deal with the credit card companies directly.Plus, when you use Nadapayments as your merchant service provider, you’ll be able to say good-bye to credit card processing fees with a built-in surcharge program. When you customer pays with a credit card, they’ll be responsible for paying a 3.5% surcharge, and you’ll pay $0 in processing fees. (These fees don’t change, even for online and other card-not-present transactions.)The surcharge program gives your customer a choice. If they’d rather pay with a check, cash, or debit card, they will not be responsible for paying a 3.5% surcharge. And when your customer uses a debit card, your business will only have to pay 1% plus 25 cents for the transaction.There are no setup fees when you use Nadapayments, just a flat $35 per month to rent a Wi-Fi-enabled EMV terminal. A payment gateway for online and over-the-phone transactions is included. Plus, you’ll have free access to a mobile app for accepting payments on-the-go.

Use Nadapayments as Your Merchant Service Provider

How to accept credit card payments without a merchant account: person paying for their coffee using their mobile phone

While it is possible to accept credit card payments without a merchant account, those options still come with high processing fees. By setting up a credit card surcharge program with Nadapayments, you’ll avoid the headaches of setting up a merchant account and enjoy $0 fees on all credit card transactions. Get started with Nadapayments today!

Transaction fees can be a surprise for businesses and customers alike. No one likes to look at their bank statement to find that they were charged fees they didn’t know about.As a business owner, it’s important to understand the transaction fees associated with credit card and debit card payments, so you can get the lowest credit card processing fees available for your industry — and so you can be transparent with customers.We’re here to take the mystery out of credit card transaction fees and show you how to eliminate them altogether with a credit card surcharge program.

What Are Transaction Fees?

Transaction fees are a type of service fee charged by a payment processor on top of the purchase amount when you make a sale. They’re basically the cost that your payment processor charges you in order to facilitate the transaction.When it comes to transaction fees, most payment processors charge a percentage of the transaction, but other times they charge a flat rate. Usually, these fees are paid by the merchant, but in some cases, they might be passed on to the cardholder — for example, if you use a credit card surcharge program.Transaction fees can vary from one credit card issuer to the next and even within the same credit card network for using different payment methods.Likewise, transaction fees for debit cards tend to be lower than credit card transaction fees since they’re regulated differently.This is why it’s so important to read the fine print before entering into a contract with a merchant services provider. All payment processors will charge fees, but some pricing models may be more favorable for your business than others.

Types of Credit Card Transaction Fees

To find the cheapest way to accept credit card payments for your business, it’s important to know what fees you’re being charged and how they’re calculated. Most transactions incur multiple fees, but not every fee will apply to every transaction.Here are a few of the most common transaction fees you’ll encounter.

Interchange Fee

The interchange fee makes up the bulk of credit card transaction fees, and unfortunately, it’s non-negotiable because it’s set by the credit card issuers. Even if you’re able to negotiate a good deal with your payment processor, they won’t be willing to charge less than the interchange fee, otherwise they’d be losing money.Your payment processor will pass on the fee in one of three ways:

  • They’ll charge a flat fee per transaction
  • They’ll charge you the interchange fee plus a markup.
  • They’ll offer a tiered pricing model for different types of transactions.

The second option is often the best deal, since it’s the most transparent, but you won’t know what the exact rate is until after the transaction is complete.

Network Fee

The second unavoidable fee is the network fee, which is charged by the major credit card networks, like Mastercard, Visa, and Discover.These fees vary from one network to the next, which is why in the past, some merchants have chosen not to accept American Express due to its higher fees. These days, though, all of the credit card networks charge similar network fees.

Processing Fee

The next fee to consider is the processing fee charged by your merchant acquiring bank or your payment services provider. If you have a merchant account, this is where your issuing bank will take their cut of the total amount for processing the transaction.If you use a payment processor, then you’ll still pay a processing fee, but you won’t have to pay additional fees such as an annual fee on your bank account.This is one area in which you can shop around to get the lowest rates. Some service providers, like Square, charge a different rate for card-present payments than for online and e-commerce transactions.Others, like Nadapayments, charge the same rate regardless of whether the credit card details are entered manually or if the card is swiped.

Foreign Transaction Fee

Foreign transaction fees aren’t charged to merchants, but they’re worth keeping in mind if your business operates in multiple regions or accepts different currencies. Most credit card issuers charge the cardholder a fee for foreign transactions — up to 3% of the transaction amount — but some travel credit cards may waive this fee.This is distinct from a currency conversion fee, which allows the cardholder to pay for a foreign transaction in U.S. dollars (USD).This fee can be an additional 1%, so it’s usually a better deal for the customer to accept the charge in the local currency and receive the mid-market exchange rate.

Address Verification Fee

Finally, your processor may charge an additional fee if you need to verify a customer’s address during the payment process.This fee isn’t usually applied to card-present transactions, but if your business makes a lot of keyed-in sales, then an address verification fee may be applied automatically.

How to Navigate Transaction Fees

Transaction fees: person paying using the contactless feature of their credit card

Transaction fees have become just another part of doing business, especially if you want to provide your customers with as many payment options as possible. But that doesn’t mean you have to put up with hidden charges on your financial statements.Here’s what you need to do to navigate transaction fees and get low- or no-fee credit card processing for your business.

Understand Your Statements

First, read your statements carefully to make sure that you understand all the charges. The fees that we’ve described here are just some of the fees you’ll encounter, so you may see other fee descriptions as well, such as an “authorization fee.”If you have any questions, ask your merchant services provider or merchant acquiring bank and see if you can negotiate a better rate based on your sales volume.

Choose the Right Merchant Services Provider

Since you can’t choose your cardholder’s issuing bank or credit card network, your merchant services provider is where you have the most leverage.If most of your transactions take place online or over the phone, avoid using a payment processor that charges more for those types of transactions.If you have a merchant bank account but have sales of less than $10,000 per month, you may be better off switching to a payment services provider or merchant services provider to eliminate monthly fees.

Start a Surcharge Program

There’s only one way to get rid of credit card transaction fees entirely, and that’s to pass them on to your customer using a surcharge program.With a surcharge program, if your customer wants to pay with a credit card, they will be charged a fee on top of the total amount of their purchase. For example, Nadapayments charges a flat 3.5%. In line with state regulations, your customers will see the surcharge on your credit card reader or point-of-sale (POS) system and can decide whether or not to accept it.The customer can choose to pay with cash, check, or a debit card if they want to avoid the surcharge. If they choose to pay with a debit card instead, they’ll pay $0 in fees, and you’ll pay only 1% plus 25 cents — much less than the fees for a standard credit card transaction.

Reduce Transaction Fees With Nadapayments

Person at a restaurant paying for their meal using his phone

Transaction fees may be a necessary part of doing business, but they don’t have to be a mystery. With Nadapayments, you’ll benefit from a transparent pricing structure and a surcharge program that passes on credit card transaction fees to customers.For $35 per month, you’ll get a Wi-Fi-enabled EMV credit card reader to process in-person payments, while access to the web-based virtual terminal is entirely free. You’ll pay a low transaction fee for debit card transactions and $0 for credit card transactions.Sign up with Nadapayments to lower your credit card processing costs today!

A merchant account is a type of business bank account that makes it possible for you to accept credit cards online or in-person. Some businesses — especially those with more than $10,000 in monthly sales volume — may find it hard to get by without one.But with monthly merchant account fees to pay and credit card processing fees on top of that, having a merchant account can really make a dent in your profit margins.Fortunately, opening your own merchant account isn’t the only way to accept credit card payments. We’ll show you how to lower your merchant account fees and even get rid of credit card processing fees altogether by starting a surcharge program.

What Is a Merchant Account?

As a small business owner, you may already have a business bank account that you use to pay bills and safeguard your money. But chances are, it isn’t set up to process credit card payments. That’s because credit card transactions go through a different process than check and cash deposits and require a special type of business account.In short, you’ll need a separate bank account called a merchant account in order to receive credit card payments, which comes with its own merchant account fees.Merchant accounts are provided by merchant acquiring banks and typically require a lengthy application process before you can open an account. This can make merchant accounts pricey and inconvenient for small business owners, especially if you don’t have a high-enough sales volume to justify the monthly fee.That said, there are ways to accept credit card payments without a merchant account, such as by working with a merchant services provider like Nadapayments.

How Do Merchant Accounts Work?

Before we get into the best alternatives to merchant accounts, it’s worth taking a look at how merchant accounts work so you can understand their pros and cons.The main purpose of a merchant account is to transfer your customer’s payment into your business bank account, but it’s a multi-step process.First, your customer’s credit card issuer will approve the transaction and send their money into the merchant account.Then, the acquiring bank, credit card processor, and/or credit card network — such as Visa or Mastercard — will deduct their transaction fees. These are usually based on the current interchange rate, but may also include markups on top of that.Finally, the money is deposited into your business bank account, where you or your employees can access it.

How Long Do Transactions Take?

Although swiping a customer’s credit card and communicating with the issuing bank may only take a few minutes, it can take several business days before the funds are available in your bank account.With so many steps involved — as well as the potential for delays and chargebacks — it’s no surprise that some small businesses choose not to accept credit cards at all.But as customers come to expect more and more payment options — such as mobile and contactless payments — refusing to accept credit cards can cost you customers.It’s up to you to find out whether merchant account fees are worth it and whether you can reduce those fees by using a merchant services provider that takes care of the merchant account for you.

How Much Are Merchant Account Fees?

Merchant account fees: credit card terminal

There are several different types of merchant account fees, so you’ll have to check with your acquiring bank to find out which fees will apply to your business.In general, there are two types of fees to look out for: account fees, which are charged by the acquiring bank directly, and transaction fees, which may be applied by the payment processing company or credit card networks, like American Express or Discover.Your bank may charge any of the following fees:

  • A setup fee when you open a merchant account (not including the cost of a card reader or point-of-sale (POS) system)
  • Monthly or annual account fees, usually a flat fee between $10 and $30
  • Statement fees, which cover the cost of mailed credit card statements
  • A batch fee for processing a large number of transactions
  • An address verification fee for checking a customer’s address
  • A payment gateway fee for e-commerce services
  • A cancellation fee or early termination fee if you cancel your contract early

Not all of these merchant account fees may apply to you, but since merchant service agreements tend to be quote-based, they can be hard to predict in advance.You’ll also be charged a credit card processing fee for each transaction, usually based on one of three pricing models:

  • Flat-rate pricing
  • Interchange-plus pricing, based on the real-time interchange fees charged by the major credit card networks, plus a markup
  • Tiered pricing, which involves a different rate for different types of transactions (e.g., card-present payments vs. high-risk transactions)

The most cost-effective option for you depends on your sales volume and the type of cards you accept. For example, flat-rate pricing tends to be more predictable but can add up quickly if you process a lot of sales with low transaction amounts.

How to Avoid Merchant Account Fees

As mentioned, you may be incurring both merchant account fees and credit card processing fees. To reduce or eliminate merchant account fees, you have two options: using a payment services provider or using Nadapayments. One of these options will also eliminate credit card processing fees (more on that later).For businesses that don’t have a high monthly sales volume, using a payment services provider can be a more affordable way to accept credit card payments since they don’t have the monthly minimum fees associated with merchant accounts.You’ll still have to pay a flat fee or percentage for each transaction, but you won’t have to pay an annual fee or other additional fees just to maintain an account. For example, PayPal charges a fee for each transaction, with a different rate for online payments, keyed-in transactions, and card-present sales.Nadapayments, on the other hand, charges the same rate for all credit card transactions, regardless of the payment method — and passes those fees on to customers. So you’ll be able to avoid both merchant fees and credit card processing fees.When you set up a surcharge program with Nadapayments, there are no setup fees or annual account fees — just a $35 fee per month to rent a Wi-Fi-enabled credit card terminal. Your customers will pay a 3.5% surcharge when they pay with a credit card, and you’ll pay $0 in fees. When customers pay with a debit card, you’ll only owe 1% plus $0.25 per transaction.Credit card surcharge programs are legal in almost all 50 states, and Nadapayments will provide the signage so your customers are fully informed of the credit card processing guidelines. If your customers don’t want to pay a surcharge, they can easily choose to use another payment method instead, like cash, check, or debit card.Plus, Nadapayments will save you from having to open a merchant account of your own, since it will take care of all the paperwork for you. This makes it easier to get set up quickly.And, along with the credit card terminal, you’ll have access to a virtual terminal and mobile app at no extra cost, giving you the flexibility to take payments over the phone, online, and on the go.While payment services providers can help you avoid merchant account fees, only Nadapayments can eliminate both merchant account fees and credit card processing fees.

Use Nadapayments as Your Merchant Services Provider

Restaurant staff using a POS

Opening a merchant account can add a surprising number of fees to the cost of doing business: from setup fees to account fees to statement fees. If you want to start accepting credit card payments without merchant account fees, then Nadapayments may be the payment processing solution for you.Nadapayments makes it easy for small businesses to accept credit cards without the hassle of securing a merchant account and paying merchant account fees. Sign up today to pay $0 on all credit card transactions!

The high cost of payment processing leaves many retailers asking themselves, “Is it legal to charge a credit card fee to customers?”After all, you don’t want to start charging a credit card fee only to get slapped with fines and penalties of your own.The good news for small business owners is that it is legal to charge fees on credit card purchases in most parts of the U.S. There’s no federal law against it. Each state can set its own guidelines, though, so you’ll want to make sure you follow the rules and regulations under state law to avoid running into issues.Here’s everything you need to know about the legality of charging credit card fees in the U.S., and how to implement a surcharge program for your business.

Types of Credit Card Fees

Before you charge customers a fee for credit card payments, it’s important to know what type of fee is right for your business model. There are basically two types of credit card fees: surcharge fees and convenience fees.The right type of fee for you will depend on the forms of payment you accept and which credit card networks you use.Let’s take a look at how these two types of fees compare.

Convenience Fees

A convenience fee is applied when a customer makes a purchase using an alternative payment method or channel.For example, if most of your sales take place in person, you could charge a convenience fee for purchases that are made over the phone. This involves more work for you but is more “convenient” for the customer, so they’re charged a fee for it.These days, some “alternative” sales channels have become the go-to option. Buying tickets to the movies or a concert online is pretty common, so customers may complain about having to pay a convenience fee for it.Convenience fees are legal, but each credit card brand — including Visa, Mastercard, and Discover — has its own set of policies that you’ll need to be aware of.

Surcharge Fees

Surcharge fees differ from convenience fees in that they pass on the processing cost from credit card purchases to the customer.These usually max out at around 3.5% but may vary depending on the fees that your credit card processor charges.The point of a surcharge fee isn’t to cover the cost associated with a specific payment channel — such as typing in the card number manually — so they’re the same regardless of whether a customer pays in person, online, or over the phone.However, they only apply to purchases made with a credit card, not a debit card. You can’t charge a fee if a customer pays with a debit card — or cash, for that matter. That’s why you’ll often see gas stations advertise one price for credit card payments and a “cash discount” for paying with cash or a credit card.

Is It Legal to Charge a Credit Card Fee?

Is it legal to charge a credit card fee: A woman sits on her couch and makes a purchase with her credit card over the phone

You may have heard mixed reports about surcharge programs that leave you wondering, “Is it legal to charge a credit card fee after all?” That’s because laws around credit card fees have changed over time, so it can be tricky to keep track of all the regulations.In fact, convenience fees and surcharge fees haven’t always been legal. According to the General Services Administration, federal regulations changed in 2013 as part of a legal settlement between credit card companies and retailers.Currently, there’s no federal prohibition on credit card surcharges, but there are rules for surcharging that you’ll have to follow in most states.

Register With Card Brands

You’ll need to let the credit card networks you use, such as Visa and Mastercard, know that you plan to charge customers a credit card fee. If you use Nadapayments to implement your surcharge program, we’ll take care of this step for you!

Inform Customers

You can’t simply charge a credit card fee without letting the customer know. This usually means putting up signage near your point-of-sale system, but it also means integrating the fee into your credit card terminal or mobile app.Your customers should be able to see the credit card price alongside the cash or debit card price, so they can decide which payment method they want to use.

Cap It at 4%

The surcharge fee should be used to cover processing costs, not to make a profit. It can’t be more than 4% of the purchase price. (Nadapayments charges 3.5%.)

Provide a Receipt

The surcharge fee must be shown as a separate line item on the customer’s receipt, so they can easily see what they were charged for.

Exempt Debit Card Purchases

You aren’t allowed to charge customers a fee to pay with a debit card, so you won’t be able to include a debit card fee in your surcharge program.Fortunately, debit card processing is cheaper than credit card processing, so you won’t be hit with sky-high processing costs.With Nadapayments, you can accept debit card transactions for 1% plus 25 cents, using the same POS system that you use to process credit card payments.

State Laws for Credit Card Surcharges

Once you’ve met these five rules for surcharging, are you good to go in any state? Not quite. Four U.S. states and territories don’t allow credit card surcharge fees at all:

  • Connecticut
  • Colorado
  • Massachusetts
  • Puerto Rico

Other states, such as California, don’t have a blanket ban on surcharge programs but prohibit practices that are “unfair or deceptive.” That’s why it’s so important to disclose your surcharge program to customers and apply it consistently.Customers can make a complaint to the Attorney General’s office if you don’t run your surcharge program fairly.If you run a business in multiple states, then you’re free to start a surcharge program in the states that allow it, but you’ll have to restrict it in those that don’t. You may be able to account for merchant fees in other ways, such as setting a minimum purchase amount for credit cards or offering a discount for paying in cash.In addition to state-specific rules, you may also have to abide by policies set by your credit card processor, such as charging the same fee for all credit card networks.Since the rules for surcharging are complex, you can use Nadapayments to set up your surcharge program and get everything taken care of for you.

Start a Surcharge Program With Nadapayments

A happy woman types her PIN into a credit card terminal

Nadapayments makes it easy to charge credit card fees by providing all of the tools you need to set up a surcharge program of your own.You’ll get a credit card reader you can link to your point-of-sale system, plus signage to explain your surcharge fees to customers. Customers will see the surcharge displayed beside the cash price on your POS system and can choose to pay with a debit card if they want to avoid the cost of a credit card transaction.This helps you keep customers informed of their choices and ensures that you meet the guidelines of your credit card issuers and state law.Get started with Nadapayments today to set up a surcharge program and stop high credit card processing fees from eating into your profit margin!

There are more ways to process credit card payments than ever. You can swipe a credit card using a traditional credit card reader, process mobile payments through a cell phone app, and even accept contactless payments.But what happens when the customer’s card isn’t present, such as when they place an order over the phone? For that, you’ll need a virtual terminal.A virtual terminal is a web app that allows you or your customer to enter credit card details manually, charging the card just like you would if the customer was making a purchase in person. It’s a great choice for businesses that don’t rely on face-to-face interactions with customers.Here’s what you need to know about virtual terminal credit card processing, including what it costs and how to set it up for your business.

What Is Virtual Terminal Credit Card Processing?

According to the U.S. Federal Reserve, there were 86.1 billion in-person card payments in 2018 and 33.5 billion remote payments. Although remote payments make up a smaller percentage of sales, they’re growing at a faster rate — 20.5% compared to 5.8%.For businesses that rely primarily on remote credit card transactions — from call centers to home-based businesses — that gap can be even larger.In order to accept credit card payments without the cardholder present, you’ll need to use a virtual terminal for payment processing. If you’ve ever bought anything from an online store, then you already have an idea of what a virtual terminal looks like.A virtual terminal lets you or your customer enter in their credit card information during the checkout process using an online form — just like you do when shopping on an e-commerce platform like Amazon.All you need is a web browser and a good internet connection. Your payment processor or merchant services provider will verify that the credit card details are correct and will charge you a processing fee for each transaction.

How Does a Virtual Terminal Work?

Even if you’ve only accepted payments for card-present transactions,using a virtual terminal won’t be that much of a learning curve for you and your employees. The main difference is that there’s more room for error, since you or your customer will be typing in the credit card number by hand.If you or your employees are the ones entering the credit card details, it’s important to make sure the info is entered accurately to avoid complaints or chargebacks.Here’s what you need to know about how a virtual terminal works and how much it will cost to start using one for your business.

Equipment

The best thing about a virtual terminal is that you don’t need any expensive equipment to start accepting credit cards. Some POS systems require you to install premium software or wait for a credit card reader to arrive in the mail. But not virtual terminals.If you work from home, you can simply log in to a virtual terminal from your web browser when it’s time to bill clients. If you run a store, you can access your virtual terminal from your company’s tablet or any other mobile device.You can even cut down on having to buy paper, since you can send your customers a receipt by email instead of printing it out.

Security

The best virtual terminals are PCI-compliant and use a high level of security to protect your customers’ credit card details. This includes technologies like tokenization and end-to-end encryption to ensure payment details aren’t intercepted by hackers.Of course, you’ll want to take precautions of your own to prevent unauthorized charges, such as not logging into your virtual terminal on a shared computer and verifying the following information for every transaction:

  • Name
  • Credit card number
  • Three- or four-digit CVV number
  • Expiration date
  • ZIP code

Cost

One of the biggest things to consider when using a virtual terminal is the cost. While the virtual terminal itself may be free, it may have higher transaction fees than other types of transactions. For example, Square charges 2.6% plus 10 cents for in-person transactions but 3.5% plus 15 cents for remote transactions.There’s a reason payment processors do this: It’s because keyed-in transactions have a higher risk of fraud. Still, it can seriously eat into your profit margins.If you use Nadapayments as your virtual terminal credit card processor, you’ll pay $0 on all credit card payments, and your customer will be charged a flat 3.5% surcharge. The customer can choose to avoid the surcharge by using a debit card, in which case you’ll only pay 1% plus 25 cents for processing.

Who Is Virtual Terminal Credit Card Processing Best For?

Virtual terminal credit card processing: entrepreneur holding a credit card while typing on a laptop

Virtual terminal credit card processing can be used for nearly any type of business, but it may be a better fit for some businesses than others. These include:

  • Small businesses: Do you own a bookstore that accepts payments online or over the phone?. Or does your restaurant charge customers a reservation fee when booking a table over the phone or through your website? You can benefit from a virtual terminal. Plus, your employees can type in a customer’s credit card details immediately, instead of writing it down and processing it later — which increases the risk of fraud or identity theft.
  • Call centers and mail-order companies: Using a PCI-compliant virtual terminal is a must for businesses that primarily rely on card-not-present sales. Not only will it protect payment details from hackers, but by sending out a receipt right away, you’ll reassure customers that your business is trustworthy.
  • Creative professionals and online service-based businesses: Instead of waiting for clients to send an ACH transfer to your bank account, you can charge their credit card directly and send them a receipt. Or, you can send them a link to a payment gateway via email that they can use to pay an invoice. Not only is this safer and more secure, but it can make your business appear more professional and trustworthy.

Some businesses may not benefit from a virtual terminal, especially if you process most of your transactions in-person using a credit card machine. That said, it’s good to have a backup option if your primary payment processing method goes down.Plus, it’s possible you already have access to a virtual terminal through your merchant services provider. For example, Nadapayments will provide you with a credit card reader and access to a virtual terminal for a flat monthly fee of $35.

Pros and Cons of Virtual Terminals

As with any type of payment method, virtual terminal credit card processing has its pros and cons. One benefit is that you’ll have access to a wide range of payment processing options — including online, over the phone, and even via email. This can make it easier for small business owners to accept credit card payments at the moment of sale and see the money in their bank account in just a few business days — instead of waiting for a bank transfer to arrive or a check to clear.As we mentioned earlier, you may end up paying more in transaction fees, since your payment processor may charge higher fees when the card isn’t present.The best virtual terminals address this by providing a transparent pricing structure so you don’t have to keep track of different processing fees for different payment methods. For example, Nadapayments charges the same rate for in-person payments and virtual terminal credit card processing.

Set Up a Virtual Terminal With Nadapayments

Person holding a credit card while typing on a laptop

Nadapayments makes it easy for businesses to accept credit card payments anywhere — online, in-person, and even on the go. The Nadapayments app and virtual terminal are free, and if you need a physical credit card terminal for your business, you’ll pay a flat monthly fee of $35 per month for a Wi-Fi-enabled EMV card reader.Plus, by setting up a surcharge program, you can get rid of fees for in-person payments and virtual terminal credit card processing. Your customers will be charged a 3.5% fee if they pay with a credit card, and you’ll pay only 1% plus $0.25 if they use a debit card.Nadapayments takes care of the paperwork and provides the signage, so you can keep accepting payments like you always have, just without the cost.Sign up with Nadapayments to get access to an all-in-one payment solution today!

Credit card processing fees can really eat into your profit margins. A few percentage points may not sound like a lot, but those transaction fees can add up quickly, and you may even be tempted to stop accepting credit cards altogether.But giving up credit cards as a payment method isn’t realistic in today’s world, where customers expect to be presented with multiple payment options.So in order to keep accepting credit card payments as a small business, you’ll want to choose a payment processor with the lowest credit card processing fees.Let’s take a look at what kinds of fees you can expect from major payment processing companies — and how to eliminate fees altogether with a surcharge program.

What Are the Lowest Credit Card Processing Fees?

If you’re looking for a list of companies with the lowest credit card processing fees, then you may need to do a little research – and math! That’s because choosing the best credit card processor for you depends on several factors, such as your transaction volume, type of business, and pricing model.The cheapest credit card processing option for an online store may be different from the best credit card processor for a small business owner. You’ll want to compare the monthly fee structure, the cost to rent or buy a credit card machine or a POS system, and any hidden fees that might turn up, such as chargeback fees.That said, comparing the fees for several popular credit card processing companies is a good place to start. Here’s how six merchant services providers stack up when it comes to credit card processing fees:

  • Stripe: 2.9% plus 30 cents per transaction
  • Square: 2.6% plus 10 cents per transaction
  • PayPal: 2.99% plus 49 cents per transaction
  • Payment Depot: Interchange plus 15 cents per transaction
  • Stax by Fattmerchant: Interchange plus 8 cents per transaction
  • Dharma Merchant Services: Interchange plus 0.15% plus 8 cents per transaction

There are a few things to keep in mind here, though. The first is that the same credit card processor can charge dramatically different fees depending on the type of transaction.For example, Square charges 2.6% plus 10 cents when the card is present. If you enter the card number manually or charge a card that you already have on file, the fee jumps to 3.5% plus 15 cents – so a low processing fee may not be available for your business.Meanwhile, Dharma Merchant Services charges an interchange fee plus 0.15% for most small businesses but drops it to 0.10% for nonprofits.Of course, even the cheapest credit card processing fees are still an expense! But you can eliminate them altogether by using a surcharge program and a merchant services provider like Nadapayments. This is the cheapest way to accept credit card payments because it passes on transaction fees to the customer — or encourages them to pay with a debit card, check, or cash instead.

How Are Credit Card Processing Fees Calculated?

Credit card terminal

Before we go any further, let’s dig a little deeper into credit card transaction fees to see how they’re calculated. As we’ve seen, the fees for online payments and e-commerce transactions may be calculated differently than point-of-sale transactions.But your processing costs will also depend on the pricing model you choose and possibly on whether you enter into a long-term contract or choose a monthly subscription.There are three main types of credit card processing pricing models: flat-rate pricing, interchange-plus pricing, and tiered pricing.

Flat-Rate Pricing

Flat-rate pricing means you’ll pay a consistent fee for every transaction. The fee might vary depending on the type of transaction it is (for example, 2.6% plus 10 cents for contactless payments and 2.9% plus 30 cents for e-commerce payments), but it won’t change based on processing volume or the credit card network.The benefit to this approach is that it’s predictable, but it may end up costing you more per transaction than other pricing models.

Interchange-Plus Pricing

Interchange-plus pricing is based on the interchange rate determined by the credit card networks, such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. Your merchant services provider will pass along that fee plus a markup.This model tends to offer more transparent pricing, since the fee is based on real-time processing rates (plus the markup). The downside is that these fees may change over time and are usually different for each credit card network, so they’re less predictable.

Tiered pricing

Tiered pricing is the least transparent pricing model because the payment processor can charge a different fee for each transaction based on their own criteria. They may charge less for “qualified” transactions and more for high-risk transactions, making it harder to predict which sales will be hit with higher processing fees.

How to Get the Lowest Credit Card Processing Fees

Depending on the type of business you run, there may be ways to lower your credit card processing fees without sacrificing sales or customers. Here are a few ways to get lower credit card processing rates or eliminate transaction costs altogether.

Find an Affordable Payment Processor

If you aren’t locked into a long-term contract with your payment processor, shop around for a better deal. Consider switching from a tiered pricing model to flat-fee pricing, but be on the lookout for hidden fees for using a payment gateway or virtual terminal.Some payment processors charge additional fees to rent credit card readers and POS systems, so be sure to factor that in to the overall cost of each payment processor.

Avoid Cards With Higher Fees

You don’t have to accept every type of credit card out there. Some credit card networks, like American Express and Discover, charge higher fees, so it makes sense if you don’t want to accept those added fees as the cost of doing business.Even major brands like Amazon have stopped accepting some Visa credit cards – at least temporarily – due to high processing fees. Some customers may complain, but chances are they’ll be just as happy to use a different credit or debit card.

Set a Minimum Spend for Credit Cards

Even flat-rate fees can feel steep if your customers make a lot of small purchases. For example, since Stripe charges 2.9% plus 30 cents per transaction, you could pay up to 33 cents in fees on a $1 purchase.By implementing a minimum spend, your customer will be incentivized to use a debit card instead or spend more at your business to make the fees worthwhile.Setting a minimum purchase amount is legal, as long as it’s no more than $10, and is applied to all credit card networks equally.

Start a Credit Card Surcharge Program

Finally, the best way to get the lowest credit card processing fees is to get rid of them! A surcharge program — not to be confused with a convenience fee — passes the fees on to the customer if they choose to pay with a credit card. The customer will pay the transaction cost, and your business will get to keep 100% of the profit.For example, if you use Nadapayments to implement your surcharge program, a customer that pays by credit card would have a 3.5% surcharge added to the purchase price. So on a $10 purchase, the customer would pay an additional 35 cents.However, if the customer chooses to pay with a debit card, you’ll pay only 1% plus 25 cents in fees, and the customer won’t have to pay a surcharge.Here’s an example of how a $100 sale would look if the customer used a credit card or a debit card:

Lowest credit card processing fees: example credit and debit card fees

Launch a Surcharge Program With NadapaymentsCredit card surcharge programs are legal everywhere in the U.S. except Connecticut, Massachusetts, Colorado, and Puerto Rico.

Lowest credit card processing fees: customer about to swipe their credit card

Nadapayments makes it easy to launch a surcharge program by providing payment processing, a merchant account, and a credit card reader all in one package.You’ll pay a flat rate of $35 per month, which covers all of the hardware and software you’ll need to accept credit and debit cards, digital wallets (such as Google Pay and Apple Pay), contactless payments, and more. And, you’ll be able to accept them in-person, online, or on-the-go.Nadapayments even provides the signage you need to explain the surcharge program to customers so they can understand exactly how it works — and how they can save money too by paying with cash, check, or debit card.At the end of the day, you’ll pay $0 in credit card processing fees and only 1% plus 25 cents for debit card transactions.Whether you already accept credit card payments or are just getting started, get in touch with Nadapayments today to learn how you can lower your transaction costs!

There are more than 500 million active credit card accounts in the United States, as Americans continually make more and more purchases with their credit card. As a merchant, accepting credit card payments could increase revenues. The more payment methods you offer customers, the more likely you are to increase a sale and the less likely you are to turn someone away at the register. If you currently accept credit card payments — or are considering doing so — you may have heard the term "credit card convenience fee." You may also have heard the term "credit card surcharge." People often use these terms interchangeably, even though they are different. In this article, we offer a complete guide to credit card convenience fees for small business owners. We outline what convenience fees are and how they work. We also cover why they are different from surcharges and the best ways to use these fees to your advantage.

What Are Convenience Fees?

A convenience fee is a fee levied by retailers to customers when they pay via a non-standard payment channel. One example of this would be a movie theater charging convenience fees when a customer purchases tickets via online payment instead of at the box office. Or, as another example, let's say that you own a brick-and-mortar store. A customer calls and would like to place an order over the phone, even though this is not something you normally do. You could charge a fee for the inconvenience of having to manually enter the card information, since you typically process transactions in person.Convenience fees can be applied whether the customer pays with a credit card or debit card.

How Do Convenience Fees Work?

Merchants can charge credit card convenience fees if they accept payment via a non-standard channel. However, credit card companies have criteria that must be met if you want to charge a convenience fee. Below is a breakdown of how each card brand treats these fees.

Visa

Visa requires merchants to meet certain criteria to charge convenience fees:

  • The payment must take place across an alternative payment channel.
  • The fee must be disclosed to the customer, and the option to use an alternative payment method must be available.
  • Merchants must charge a flat-rate fee rather than a percentage of the sale.

Mastercard

Mastercard does not have as stringent restrictions when it comes to convenience fees. Convenience fees can be charged to a customer as long as the fee is imposed on all like transactions no matter the form of payment used. For example, all online purchases would need to be subject to a convenience fee, not just those that are made with Mastercard brand credit cards.

Discover

Discover does not have an official convenience fee policy. However, it requires all cards to be treated the same, which means it's reasonable to assume the rules that apply to other credit card networks would also apply to Discover. A merchant can’t charge a fee to a Discover cardholder that it can’t charge a cardholder of a Visa, Mastercard, or American Express.

Can You Charge Your Customers Convenience Fees?

convenience fee: person handing over a credit card to a woman

If the above criteria are met, you can charge convenience fees. However, doing so may spark customer complaints.One of the biggest issues with convenience fees arises when they are charged to customers paying online, like in the movie theater example cited above. The theater contends that the customer can call or visit the box office in person to purchase the tickets. But, if they call to make their purchase, they may face a long wait time on the telephone. They must also have access to a phone to do so, which can cost them in terms of data or minutes. If they wait until the day of the movie to visit the box office, they risk the movie being sold out. So, while businesses can charge convenience fees, it may not be in their best interest to do so. Accepting credit card transactions in-person, online, or over the phone increases the likelihood of completing a sale and should not be seen as a deterrent or inconvenience, especially with how easy it is to implement a new payment processing system (more on that in a bit).

Are Convenience Fees Different From Surcharges?

Though somewhat similar, convenience fees and surcharges are ultimately different. Surcharges only apply when a customer pays with a credit card. This is different from convenience fees, which apply when customers use any form of electronic payment in a non-standard setting. Businesses charge surcharge fees because of high credit card processing rates. Payment processors charge a service fee for processing the transaction. This fee is around 3.5%. Merchants are often saddled with paying this fee, which comes off their bottom line. Essentially, businesses are punished for the customer using a credit card, making more money on cash transactions than they do on credit card transactions. Surcharges pass these processing fees to the consumer directly. Businesses display signage with disclaimers indicating that a customer will be charged an additional fee should they use a credit card. If they use an alternative payment method, like cash or a debit card, they are not charged the additional fee. Surcharge fees are legal in 47 states. These are the states and U.S. territories that don’t allow surcharge programs:

  • Colorado
  • Connecticut
  • Massachusetts
  • Puerto Rico

Surcharge fees have actually become more commonplace in recent years, with states like California, Texas, Oklahoma, and New York ruling that surcharge programs are in fact legal so long as:

  • The businesses follow rules from the credit card issuers.
  • The businesses display the cash price next to the credit card price.
  • Customers are not charged a processing fee for debit cards.

Can You Use Convenience Fees to Your Advantage?

If the card network allows it, you can potentially charge convenience fees to customers. However, it may not be in your best interest to do so. It can leave customers feeling frustrated, especially when paying via an alternative channel is more challenging. Since convenience fees are often flat fees, customers may question what it is they're paying for. However, surcharge programs are completely legal and much more transparent. With a surcharge program, you clearly convey to customers why you are passing processing fees along to them simply because they are using a credit card. If they choose an alternative payment method, they will not have to pay these fees. Customers also have an option to pay in whatever way is most convenient — whether that’s online, over the phone, or in person — without incurring an extra fee. Choosing your payment processor wisely can help cut down on fees for your business. For instance, Nadapayments is a payment processor solution that helps make things easier for businesses. With Nadapayments, the surcharge program is built right in, so you can start saving money and reducing your processing fees to zero.Plus, you only pay a flat fee of $35 per month. This monthly fee gets you a Wi-Fi-enabled EMV Quick Chip machine for in-person transactions, a virtual terminal for online or over-the-phone transactions, and a mobile app for on-the-go transactions. It also gives you the signage needed to implement a surcharge program.

Are Credit Card Convenience Fees Right For Your Business?

woman smiling while holding her credit card in front of her laptop

Credit card convenience fees are fees levied against a consumer for paying via a non-standard channel. Merchants must meet rules set by credit card issuers when charging convenience fees. Convenience fees are different from surcharge fees, which exist simply to pass the cost of credit card processing to the consumer so that a business' bottom line is not impacted. If you're looking to learn more about how surcharge fees can help improve your business' bottom line, be sure to get started with Nadapayments today.

Merchants and owners of small-to-medium businesses (SMBs) are always thinking of ways to improve their bottom lines, right? Increasing revenue by cutting costs is one way of doing this.Sounds simple, right? It’s often not. As we all know, many things are easier said than done, especially in the world of smaller businesses.But what if there was a hassle-free way to increase your profit margin? And what if this method of increasing profits was risk-free, 100% legal, and simple to boot?All you have to do is adopt zero-cost credit card processing. It doesn’t matter if you operate a food truck, a boutique store, or a mom-and-pop beauty parlor. You can enjoy no-cost payment processing just by changing the way you accept payments.And your customers will thank you for offering them a choice.Let’s take a closer look at how you can start increasing your revenue by using a zero-cost credit card processing program.

What Is Zero-Cost Credit Card Processing?

Zero-cost credit card processing alleviates the pain of paying credit card processing fees, which include interchange fees.As a merchant or SMB, you likely already know that credit card processing can be a significant cost of doing business. When you accept credit card payments, transaction fees are usually assessed at up to 3.5%.With most credit card processors, this means that if your customer pays you $100, you will get just $96.50 of that money, since $3.50 goes toward processing fees. Since you will have to pay these fees on every credit card purchase, they can really add up.But if you use a credit card processor that implements a surcharge program, you can enjoy zero-cost credit card processing, meaning if your customer pays you $100, you will receive $100.

What Do Credit Card Processing Fees Cover?

The interchange fee makes up the majority of the credit card processing fee. It goes to the financial institution that provided the card to the customer — or the issuing bank. Examples of issuing banks are:

  • Wells Fargo
  • Citi
  • Chase
  • Bank of America

Other parts of the overall credit card processing fee are the assessment fee, the payment processor markup fee, and any incidental fees.

How to Use a Surcharge Program for Zero-Fee Credit Card Processing

Zero cost credit card processing: person handing a credit card to another owner

Processing fees are non-negotiable. Whenever a merchant is accepting credit cards — by swiping, tapping, or dipping — the processing fees always have to be paid.But by whom?Typically, the merchant or small business owner will absorb this as an inevitable cost of doing business. But another option is to enroll in a surcharge program like the one offered by Nadapayments. This will enable you to pass on the cost of credit card processing to your customers when they want to pay with credit cards.Surcharge programs give your customers a choice. They enable people that want to use credit cards to use them, but they also encourage the use of alternate payment methods, such as debit cards or cash.

Advantages of Surcharge Programs

There are a lot of advantages to implementing a surcharge program:

  • Eliminates credit card processing fees
  • Allows you to earn 100% of credit card transactions
  • Improves your ability to predict cash flow
  • Works with all major card brands: Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express
  • Works with in-person point-of-sale transactions, online payments, and mobile transactions
  • Is 100% legal in most states

Rules for Surcharge Programs

Before you start surcharging, make sure you understand the rules. Perhaps you’ve shied away from surcharging in the past because the requirements seemed complicated. But a credit card processor like Nadapayments, which is built for surcharge programs, will make it easy.Here are the surcharge program rules to be aware of:

  • You have to notify the major card brands: American Express doesn’t need you to do this, but Visa, Mastercard, and Discover need to be notified that you’re levying a surcharge on your customers that use their cards. Nadapayments will take care of the registration for you.
  • Surcharges cannot be greater than 4%: In other words, the surcharge fee is about recovering processing costs and saving money, not about making more profit. With Nadapayments, your surcharge would be 3.5%, keeping you in compliance with this rule.
  • Your customers must be aware of the surcharge: You need to make sure your customers are notified of the surcharge program as well as the credit vs. cash pricing. Nadapayments will provide you with clear and appropriate signage to use at the entrance to your store and at the point-of-sale — even on your online checkout page.
  • The fee and the purchase must be processed together: An additional detail of this rule is that the receipt must show the surcharge as a separate line item. This lets your customers understand each individual charge. Nadapayments will automatically add the surcharge and include it on the receipt when a credit card is used to make a purchase.
  • Surcharges can’t be added to debit card or cash transactions: These programs work only with credit card purchases. Debit card processing fees are covered by the merchant, and they’re typically much lower than the rates for credit card transactions. When you use Nadapayments, you will only have to pay 1% + $0.25 for debit card transactions.

How Is a Surcharge Program Different From a Cash Discount Program?

If you’ve been looking for a free credit card processing solution, you may have come across information about cash discount programs. These are not the same as surcharge programs. The main difference between the two programs is that surcharge programs pass on the cost of credit card processing to the customer, while cash discount programs offer small discounts to customers for not using a credit card.For example, cash discount programs are frequently seen at gas stations, where one price-per-gallon is used for credit card customers and a cheaper price-per-gallon is offered to cash customers.

Use Nadapayments to Implement Your Surcharge Program

Smiling cafe owner using a tablet

Nadapayments is the best merchant services provider for any business looking to save money with a surcharge program.Nadapayments can provide you with everything you need to implement your surcharge program, including:

  • An EMV-enabled credit card machine for only $35 per month
  • A virtual terminal for online or over-the-phone transactions
  • A mobile app to process payments on-the-go
  • Signage to notify your customers

The Nadapayments software, included free with the terminal, will automatically apply a 3.5% surcharge to all credit card transactions — no matter how the payment is accepted.Finally, in addition to saving money on credit card fees, here are some of the other advantages to using Nadapayments as your merchant service provider:

  • Full PCI compliance
  • 24/7/365 customer support
  • No long-term contracts
  • No setup costs
  • Works with credit card installment plans
  • Cancel anytime

Embrace the Savings of Zero-Cost Credit Card Processing

With most credit card processors, you can expect to hand over about 3.5% of every credit card transaction, thanks to credit card processing fees. But if you use a surcharge program, you can avoid these fees, and keep 100% of the transaction.There are rules you’ll need to follow before you start surcharging, but if you use a merchant services provider that’s built for surcharge programs, like Nadapayments, the heavy lifting will be done for you.Get in touch with Nadapayments today, and start getting zero-cost credit card processing!

The costs of auto repair credit card processing can add up quickly. It’s not uncommon for repair orders to become large-ticket items for your customer, so you want to give them the option to pay with a credit card. But losing out on about 3.5% per transaction is hurting your bottom line.There is a better way though that’s a win-win.In this article, we’ll explain what you need to process credit cards in your auto repair shop, the pros and cons of accepting credit cards, and how you can eliminate credit card processing fees by implementing a surcharge program.

What You Need for Auto Repair Credit Card Processing

Credit card payment processing in the automotive industry is similar to retail credit card processing. To get started, you’ll need:

  • A credit card machine
  • A merchant account
  • A merchant services provider (MSP) or payment services provider (PSP)

First, you’ll need a credit card machine (also known as a credit card reader or a terminal). This will allow you to swipe your customer’s card so that you can accept their payment via credit card. But for the most functionality, you’ll want a machine that will allow for EMV chip cards and contactless payments as well as debit card transactions.Next, you’ll need a merchant account. This is a type of bank account that serves as a holding tank for the money when a customer uses a credit card for payment. Once the transaction has been verified, you’ll receive the funds in your business’ bank account.Finally, you’ll need a merchant services provider, like Nadapayments, or a payment services provider. An MSP is also known as a credit card processor. It manages the interaction between your business and the customer’s credit card company. If you use Nadapayments as your MSP, you can be ready to accept credit cards in even fewer steps. Nadapayments will set up your merchant account for you and will provide you with the credit card terminal.

The Pros and Cons of Accepting Credit Cards in Automotive Businesses

Auto repair credit card processing: person handing a credit card to another person

As we mentioned earlier, the auto repair industry often deals in high-ticket items. In fact, the average car repair costs $500-$600. But that’s just the average. It’s not unusual for repair invoices to carry a four-digit total.Oftentimes, a customer needs a car repair unexpectedly or urgently. So if they don’t have the funds available to cover the cost, they will need to use a credit card. By accepting credit cards in your auto repair business, you are providing your customers with more payment option flexibility.Plus, depending on your payment processing solution, you may be able to accept credit card payments online, via a mobile app, or over the phone. Having these options can be beneficial to your business because it can allow service technicians to accept payments from the service bays or customers to pay ahead if they need to pick up their car after-hours.However, the primary downside to accepting credit cards in your auto repair shops: credit card processing fees. With a traditional payment processor, you could be paying 3.5% or more in transaction fees. So that $500 repair order quickly becomes $482.50 after you’ve paid the fees. Let’s say you have 50 of those repair orders in one week. That’s $875 of lost profit. This can add up and quickly eat into your bottom line.But there is a way to avoid this downside — by implementing a surcharge program.

How a Surcharge Program Eliminates Credit Card Processing Fees

When you use a surcharge program, you’ll no longer be on the hook for credit card processing fees. Instead, your customer will cover the cost of the fees if they choose to pay with a credit card.Surcharging actually gives your customer a choice. If they wish to avoid the fees, they can pay with a different payment method, like cash, check, or debit card.In addition to saving you money on fees, a surcharge program may help your business in another way. If you’ve been paying exorbitant credit card processing fees, perhaps you felt forced to raise your pricing in order to make up the difference and increase your profit margin. But once fees are eliminated, you might be able to entice more customers to your shop with repair prices that beat the competition.

The Rules of Surcharging

When you use a surcharge program in your business, you need to make sure you’re complying with the rules set forth by the major credit card brands (e.g., Visa, Mastercard, etc.):

  1. Register your surcharge program with the major card brands.
  2. Inform your customers and display signage about the fees.
  3. Keep your fee under 4%.
  4. Show the credit card fee as a separate line item on the receipt.
  5. Don’t apply the fee to debit card transactions.

How Nadapayments Makes Surcharge Programs Easy for Auto Repair Businesses

If you want to begin surcharging and saving on credit card processing fees in your auto repair business, you can use Nadapayments as your merchant services provider. With Nadapayments, the surcharge program is built right in and designed to keep you in compliance with all the rules. This takes what could otherwise be a complicated process and makes it simple.With the Nadapayments Wi-Fi-enabled EMV Quick Chip terminal, you’ll be able to accept both credit and debit cards in your business as well as contactless payments, like Apple Pay or Google Pay. It will easily work with your existing point-of-sale system. Plus, it works with installment plans.The credit card machine is programmed to automatically add a 3.5% surcharge fee to the transaction when a credit card is used for payment, so you can keep 100% of the profit. If the customer chooses to use a debit card, you only have to pay 1% plus 25 cents per transaction. Here’s an example of what that would look like for your business.

Auto repair credit card processing fees

As an added bonus, Nadapayments will provide you with the signage you need to keep your customers informed about the surcharge program.In addition to the credit card machine, you will have access to a virtual terminal and a mobile app, which also have the surcharge program built right in. This will allow you to accept payments online, over the phone, or on-the-go via a tablet or cellphone — like straight from the service bay or from an on-call service location.

Start Saving on Fees With a Surcharge Program

Person paying a car rental using a credit card

If you want to accept credit cards in your auto repair business, the setup can be pretty easy, especially if your merchant services provider supplies the credit card machine and sets up your merchant account for. And while offering flexible payment options can be good for business, the credit card processing fees that come with it can quickly eat into your profits.However, if you implement a surcharge program, you can say goodbye to credit card processing fees while still giving your customers a choice when it comes to their payment method. But if you try to go it alone, the rules of surcharging may feel strict and complicated. This is where Nadapayments comes in. As an MSP with a built-in surcharge program, it will all happen automatically when you swipe, dip, or tap your customer’s credit card. Plus, Nadapayments has done the homework about all the surcharging rules, so you won’t have to worry about being in compliance.You know your auto repair business, and Nadapayments knows the credit card processing industry. Let us help you. Contact Nadapayments today to get started.

The world of e-commerce is growing — and fast. Traditional brick-and-mortar stores have been losing ground to e-commerce for some time now. In fact, according to the National Law Review, 2020 saw overall online sales volume rise exponentially.To keep up with these trends, the best way forward is to dive into the world of e-commerce and to take your small business online. But how do you do that?This article is your guide to online credit card processing for small businesses. We will talk about how online payments differ from retail payments, how to manage online payment processing, the fees you might expect to pay, and how to get some help with the whole process.

Online Credit Card Processing for Small Business — What Is It?

While retail credit card processing allows you to accept major credit cards for in-person payments, online credit card processing gives you the ability to conduct transactions over the internet. You might also hear the term “digital payments.” Online credit card payments are one type of digital payment.In some cases, your online payment processor may enable mobile credit card processing as well. This allows you to accept credit card payments in-person via a mobile app, so you don't have to be at your business location with your credit card machine.

What Is Needed for Online Credit Card Processing?

Online credit card processing for small business: person completing an online purchase using his credit card

Online credit card processing is similar to retail processing, but there are differences. For retail sales, you need physical credit card machines or point-of-sale systems (POS systems). But with online credit card processing, you need a virtual system of accepting payments.To process credit cards online, you will need:

  • A bank account
  • A merchant account
  • A payment gateway
  • A credit card processor

Bank Account

You’ll first need a place to put your hard-earned cash. You can open a business bank account with any reputable bank. Processing fees and chargebacks, if you end up having any, will ultimately come out of this account as well.

Merchant Account

When you receive payment from a customer via a credit card, the money is held in your merchant account before it is verified and moved to your bank account.

Payment Gateway

Payment gateways are similar to physical credit card readers. They are tools that validate your customer’s credit card payment details securely, and they also make sure that the customer has enough money to pay you. In addition to credit card payment processing, payment gateways may enable you to take other forms of payment, such as debit cards and ACH transactions. They work between your shopping cart and the bank that issued the payment method being used.

Credit Card Processor

Also called a merchant services provider, a credit card processor is a provider that manages the interaction between a merchant and their accounts and the customer’s credit card company. There are many credit card processors out there. The payment processor you choose should be responsive, have great customer support, offer full PCI compliance, and be reliable.Nadapayments is one of the best credit card processing companies. For one, it makes setup easy because the merchant account and payment gateway are built right in. Plus, Nadapayments enables you to take home 100% of your credit card transactions by eliminating credit card processing fees. We’ll talk more about those fees below.

How Much Does Online Credit Card Processing Cost?

Person holding a pencil while using a calculator

Before you decide on an online credit card processing service, it’s crucial to know how much it will cost. There are two major categories of expenses when processing credit cards online: fees and rates. But there are also other related costs to doing business online that you might incur, such as web hosting or a domain name.

Fees

Credit card processing is a complex business, and there are fees associated with each of the involved parties.The three main fees are:

  • Interchange fees: The major card networks (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover) set the interchange fees, which are paid to the issuing bank. These fees can vary quite a bit depending on different factors. For example, since online transactions are inherently less secure than card-present transactions that happen in person, interchange fees are usually higher for online purchases.
  • Assessment or service fees: Also called “network fees,” these go to the credit card network.
  • Markup fees: These fees go to the payment processor.

Rates

Different payment processing companies offer different pricing models. These rate structures will determine how the above fees will be assessed. Here are the main rate structures you might see:

  • Flat-rate pricing is when a processor charges a fixed fee for all credit card purchases. This is the pricing structure used by services like PayPal, Stripe, and Square.
  • Tiered pricing is when a merchant is charged varying credit card processing fees depending on the type of card that’s used for the purchase and how it’s presented.
  • Interchange-plus pricing is when the merchant is charged a certain percentage of the sale plus a small per-transaction fee.
  • Monthly subscriptions are when you pay a set monthly rate for credit card processing. A small per-transaction fee might be assessed as well.
  • Surcharge programs are the most cost effective. This is when the credit card processing fee is passed to the customer, allowing you to keep 100% of the sale amount. Not only does a surcharge program help you save on processing fees, but it encourages customers to use other payment options (cash or debit cards) since they won’t be charged a surcharge for those transactions.

Other Possible Costs of Doing Business Online

Depending on your specific business needs and your current online presence, there may be other costs associated with accepting online orders and payments, such as the following:

  • Domain name: This is the web address that a customer types into their browser to get to your website. For example, google.com and nadapayments.com are domain names. You will usually pay an annual fee to register a domain name.
  • Web hosting: This service allows you to store and publish your website. Hosting services usually charge a monthly fee.
  • Inventory management: Some businesses, like doctor’s offices and other service providers, won’t have to worry about inventory costs. But if you’re selling physical products, you might incur charges for storing inventory, shipping, or perhaps even specialized inventory management software.
  • Shopping cart: A shopping cart is a specialized e-commerce software that enables your website visitors to collect the products or services they want to purchase from your online store. Similar to the way a grocery store shopping cart works, the customer will put their items into the cart so they can check out and purchase them when ready. Shopping carts are typically available for a monthly fee.

Start Accepting Credit Cards Online in Your Small Business

As a small business owner, it’s important to be able to accept credit cards online in your business. To get started, you will need a business bank account, a merchant account, a payment gateway, and a merchant services provider. In addition to credit card processing costs, you might also have other expenses, such as web hosting or shopping cart software.One of the best credit card processing solutions you can choose is Nadapayments. It’s fully PCI compliant and offers great customer support. Plus, there are no setup costs, hidden fees, or long-term contracts.Nadapayments seamlessly integrates with e-commerce websites, provides the ability to accept both debt and credit cards, and uses a surcharge program. If your customer pays with a credit card, the surcharge will be automatically applied, and you will save money on processing fees. You can even use Nadapayments' virtual terminal to take payments over the phone or to send invoices via email. Plus, you can use the app for on-the-go mobile payments.If you’re ready for cost-effective online credit card processing for your small business or startup, get in touch with Nadapayments today.

Twenty-nine percent of consumers prefer to pay with credit cards and 42% prefer to pay with debit cards, according to findings from the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco. If your small business isn’t accepting card payments, you could be losing business from customers who don’t want to carry cash for in-person purchases. Retail credit card processing can help your business catch up to the payment options these customers are looking for.We’ll explain what retail credit card processing is, what you’ll need to accept credit cards in your business, how much it will cost, and the best merchant services provider to use.

Retail Credit Card Processing — What Is It?

Retail credit card processing allows you to accept credit cards as payment in a brick-and-mortar business, such as a store or restaurant. This is different from online credit card processing, which allows you to accept credit card payments virtually.Retail credit card processing is also different from debit card processing. Though both involve the transfer of money from one bank account to another, this is accomplished through a different process. In short, debit cards use funds directly from the customer’s bank account. Credit cards, on the other hand, draw on a line of credit provided by the credit card issuing bank. The issuing bank pays your business for the purchase, and then the customer pays them back later.For this reason, credit card purchases usually cost your business more in fees than debit card purchases.

What Is Needed to Process Credit Cards in Person?

retail credit card processing: A man pays with a credit card at a grocery store

In order to process credit cards in person as retail business, a few things need to be set up.First, you’ll need a business bank account. You can set one up with the bank of your choice.You will also need a traditional merchant account, or TMA. Since it’s not secure to move money directly into or out of your business bank account, this account acts as a “holding tank.”In addition, you’ll need either a merchant services provider (MSP), like Nadapayments, or a payment service provider (PSP), like Stripe, Square, or PayPal. The MSP or PSP will be the middleman between you and the credit card issuing bank. This provider will make sure the money you make from transactions makes it into your bank account.Keep in mind, your MSP or PSP may open a merchant account for you. For example, Nadapayments handles this step for you, making it even easier for you to get ready to accept credit card payments.Setting up accounts and choosing a service provider is only part of the game, though. You’ll also need some special equipment.

Necessary Equipment for Credit Card Processing

When you process payments in a brick-and-mortar business, you’ll need some equipment. If you want to accept mobile payments as well, that may require different equipment (or software).For in-person payments, you’ll need a terminal device to read your customer’s credit card information. This device talks to the credit card networks and banks involved in credit card transactions. As a merchant, you can also use advanced point-of-sale systems (POS) that perform many additional functions, such as inventory management and payroll. If you use Nadapayments as your payment processor, you’ll have both a credit card machine and virtual terminal that make it simple to accept in-person transactions, online payments, and even payments through a mobile device. Our credit card terminals are Wi-Fi and EMV-capable, and they enable you to accept the following payment methods:

  • Major credit cards, like American Express, Discover, Mastercard, and Visa, including chip cards (EMV)
  • Debit cards
  • Apple Pay (iOS)
  • Google Pay (Android)
  • Contactless payments (tapping the card)

Paying for Retail Payment Processing

Retail credit card processing: A credit card sits in a credit card machine

So how much does retail credit card processing cost? There are three categories of costs you need to be aware of. Money paid to retail credit card processors falls into one of these categories:

  • Fees
  • Rates
  • Equipment Costs

Fees

There are many moving parts to credit card processing, and each of the companies involved needs to make money for the service they’re providing. For example, transaction fees are levied by the card network and the issuing bank. Fees are also charged by the payment gateway and credit card processor. The major types of fees are:

  • Interchange fees: These are set by the major card networks — American Express, Visa, Mastercard, and Discover. They help those companies offset risks and recoup costs. Interchange fees are actually charged against the issuing banks, who then pass that cost along to business owners like you. As the most significant cost involved in payment card processing, interchange fees can vary a lot, depending on the type of card used, your business type (such as if you’re a high-risk merchant), and the way it is presented, among other factors.
  • Service or assessment fees: This fee goes directly to the credit card network. They are also known as network fees.
  • Markup fees: These are charged by the payment processor. These fees help them defray the costs and risks associated with managing merchant accounts.

Rates

The term “rates” refers to the pricing models that MSPs and PSPs charge for their services. Here are four common pricing models:

  • Flat-rate pricing: This is when a payment processor charges a fixed fee for all debit and credit card purchases, no matter the card used. This model is used by payment service providers such as Stripe, Square, and PayPal.
  • Tiered rates: This is when a processor levies a fee dependent on the type of card and how it is presented. Tiers are arranged by the volume of transactions in a given business day, as well as risk involved with each transaction.
  • Interchange-plus pricing: In interchange-plus pricing, merchants are debited a certain percentage of the sale, which is based on the interchange fee of the card being used. A small per-transaction fee is usually added.
  • Subscription: Here, the processor assesses monthly fees to provide service. They also usually charge a small fee per transaction.

Equipment Costs

It’s important to factor in equipment expenses when considering how much retail credit card processing will cost. Some credit card processors offer free card readers. Others have equipment for sale, and other companies (like Nadapayments) rent you the necessary equipment.Base-level credit card terminals provide a keypad, a display screen, a magnetic-stripe card reader, and the ability to use chip cards (EMV). Other card readers offer wireless capabilities or are part of larger POS systems that include receipt printers, cash drawers, and other add-ons.

A Cost-Effective Retail Payment Processing Solution

A woman takes a credit card payment in a cafe

There is no shortage of credit card processing services to choose from. But if you’re looking for an MSP that’s easy to use and cost-effective, check out Nadapayments.If you use Nadapayments as your payment processor, you’ll have both a credit card machine and virtual terminal that make it simple to accept in-person transactions, online payments via email or an e-commerce site, and even payments through a mobile device. Nadapayments’ credit card terminal is available for only $35 per month. It’s Wi-Fi and EMV-capable, and it enables you to accept the following payment methods:

  • Major credit cards, like American Express, Discover, Mastercard, and Visa, including chip cards (EMV)
  • Debit cards
  • Apple Pay (iOS)
  • Google Pay (Android)
  • Contactless payments (tapping the card)

Usually, businesses must pay processing fees when accepting credit cards — typically around 3.5% of each transaction.With Nadapayments’ surcharge program, instead, the customer will cover the costs. This makes the surcharge program a very cost-effective and transparent pricing model. It enables you as the merchant to realize $100 from a $100 transaction. There are no hidden costs or fees involved. Nadapayments’ payment solution gives your customers a choice. If they want to use a credit card, they’ll pay a 3.5% surcharge. But if they want to avoid the fee, they can pay with cash or a debit card. This program actually encourages customers to use cash or a debit card.For example, here is how the same $100 purchase would work depending on if the customer paid with a credit or debit card. Credit CardDebit CardPurchase amount$100$100Fee you pay0% ($0)1% + 25 cents ($1.25)Fee customer pays3.5% ($3.50)0% ($0)Total amount customer pays$103.50$100Total amount you receive from the purchase$100$98.75And, it’s easy to keep your customers informed about the costs they might pay — or not pay. Nadapayments will provide you with the signage needed to inform your loyal customers about the surcharge program.Nadapayments is 100% legally compliant, works with credit card installment plans, and provides 24/7/365 customer support, because all clients are VIPs!

Start Accepting Credit Card Payments in Your Business

A customer makes a purchase with a contactless payment

These days, it’s important to be able to accept credit cards in your business. As a merchant, you will need a business bank account, a merchant account, and a merchant services provider. And you’ll need the necessary equipment, such as a credit card terminal or a point-of-sale system.Paying for retail credit card processing is a complex business. So, be aware of the fees, rates, and equipment costs involved.You have a lot of choices when it comes to merchant service providers. One of the best choices you can make is to use Nadapayments, a leader in the payment card industry. If you’re ready for cost-effective retail credit card processing, get in touch with Nadapayments today.

When it comes to payment processing, credit cards usually grab the headlines. However, approximately 29% of all U.S. payments in 2020 were made with a debit card — and a Federal Reserve study back in 2019 found that debit cards were the most popular method amongst consumers. With almost one-third of customers using debit cards, small business owners should aim to give their customers the payment options they want and expect. The right merchant services provider will make debit card processing possible — and make it efficient and cost-effective for your business.We’ll explore what debit cards are and how they differ from credit cards, how debit card processing works, and the technology your business needs to make debit card processing as seamless as possible.

What Is a Debit Card, and Is It Different Than a Credit Card?

When a customer opens a checking account at a financial institution, like a bank or a credit union, they receive a debit card that allows them to withdraw cash from an ATM or make purchases.Debit cards look just like credit cards, but they're not the same. Since debit cards are tied to a bank account, money is automatically deducted from the customer's account when a purchase is made. This makes them a convenient alternative to cash or checks.So, how does this differ from a credit card? When a credit card payment is made, the customer doesn't need to have the funds immediately available in their checking account. Instead, their credit card issuer is lending them the money and paying your business for the purchase. The customer then pays the credit card issuer back later.But these aren’t the only differences between credit and debit cards. There are some differences for you — the merchant:

  • Depending on your merchant services provider, processing fees are often higher for credit card transactions than they are for debit card transactions.
  • You can’t use a surcharge program with debit card transactions (whereas you can with credit card transactions). With a surcharge program, the customer is responsible for paying the credit card processing fees if they choose to pay with a credit card. A customer can avoid the fee by paying with cash or a debit card.

How Debit Card Processing Works for Merchants

debit card processing: Close up shot of a stack of credit cards

To the average person, debit card processing — or just about any type of payment processing — is shrouded in mystery. “What exactly happens once I swipe the card?”“What data is sent where, and why?”“What's happening between swiping the card and the payment being accepted?”This confusion is understandable. However, the process isn't all that complex — so let's examine the seven steps that occur whenever a customer makes a debit card transaction.

  1. At checkout, the cardholder uses their debit card to pay.
  2. The card number and bank account information is received by your point-of-sale system (POS system), credit card machine, or virtual terminal.
  3. This data is then relayed to the customer's card processing network (e.g., Visa, American Express, Discover, Mastercard, etc.).
  4. Once the processing network receives the data, it evaluates the transaction for potential signs of fraud.
  5. If it seems legitimate, the processing network then passes the data on to the customer's bank (also known as the issuing bank).
  6. The bank confirms that the customer does indeed have enough money to pay for the transaction in question.
  7. Once this has been confirmed, the bank approves the transaction and the payment can go ahead as planned.

Fortunately for customers and merchants alike, this seven-step process only takes a few seconds to complete. Depending on which payment processing company you use, your business will receive the funds within 24-72 hours.

What Are the Normal Debit Card Processing Fees?

Unfortunately, there's no easy answer here. A variety of factors influence the precise debit card processing fees that you'll pay for any one transaction. This is largely dictated by the interchange fees — in other words, the fees paid to debit and credit card networks in order to process the transaction. Interchange fees in the U.S. differ depending on whether a customer is with a regulated or unregulated bank. For reference, regulated means that the bank holds more than $10 billion in assets, while unregulated banks hold fewer than $10 billion in assets.For regulated banks, the fees are fairly simple.However, if a customer is with an unregulated bank, then the fees might vary according to:

  • The transaction's value
  • The merchant's category code (i.e., the industry in which they operate)
  • Whether the customer is present for the transaction or not (i.e., if it takes place face-to-face versus online or on the phone)
  • Whether the customer used their personal identification number (PIN) or signed with their signature

The Technology You Need to Process Debit Card Payments

Portable POS terminal

The right payment processing solution is worth its weight in gold for retailers and merchants.The right solution will be cost-effective and easy to use. It will also provide you with the tools you need to start processing debit card payments right away. The technology you need depends on your specific business needs.If you process in-store transactions, you’ll need a credit card machine that accepts debit cards. For a business that makes sales on the go, you’ll need to be able to take mobile payments. Lastly, if you have an e-commerce business, you’ll need to use a virtual terminal to process debit card payments online.

The Best Payment Processor for Debit Card Transactions

If you use Nadapayments as your payment processor, you’ll receive a Wi-Fi-enabled EMV Quick Chip terminal with the Nadapayments app preinstalled. Simply plug it in, and you’re ready to start accepting debit cards.But it doesn’t stop there. With Nadapayments, you’ll also be able to accept credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and contactless payments. Plus, in addition to the EMV Quick Chip terminal for in-person transactions, you’ll have access to a virtual terminal for online payments.Best of all, Nadapayments keeps it simple — debit charge transactions will only cost you 1% + $0.25. As an added bonus, if a customer chooses to pay with a credit card instead of a debit card, you won’t spend a dime on transaction fees thanks to Nadapayments’ surcharge program.

Transform Your Debit Card Processing Today

Your customers will expect to be able to use debit cards as a payment method. So you want to make sure you have the technology you need to accept them. Even though debit and credit cards may look alike, they actually work differently behind the scenes. While it's good to have an understanding of how debit card processing works, luckily your payment processor will do the heavy lifting, so you can focus on making sales and serving your customers.With Nadapayments, debit card processing is as easy as one, two, three. Plus, you’ll have a built-in surcharge program to help you save on credit card transactions. Get started today and embrace the future of debit card processing — saving you time, hassle, and of course, money.

A recent survey by Retail Consulting Partners found that 41% of retailers plan on upgrading or replacing their current point-of-sale (POS) system. Doing so could be money well-spent for small business owners. A POS system not only improves the customer experience, but it also provides business owners with data and workflows that can improve their efficiency. Additionally, the best POS systems will integrate seamlessly between brick-and-mortar stores and online platforms. They will also work with the payment processor of your choice.This article will serve as a complete guide to POS systems for small business owners, including what they are, what they’re used for, the pros and cons, and more.

What Are Point-of-Sale Systems?

A point of sale is anywhere a customer makes a purchase, such as an in-person checkout or online. A point-of-sale system is the software and hardware that makes the transaction possible. And it’s more than just a cash register. Depending on the point-of-sale software you use, the functionality may even go beyond the transaction itself — helping you manage other aspects of your business, like inventory and customer details.

What Are POS Systems Used For?

POS systems are advantageous for all business owners, no matter what type of industry they're in. Not only do point-of-sale solutions allow you to process payments, but they might also allow you to:

  • Analyze sales trends
  • Streamline inventory management so that there is never too much or too little stock
  • Track sales from both e-commerce and brick-and-mortar stores
  • Better understand customers' shopping habits
  • Adjust pricing

POS solutions may even be customizable, allowing business owners to fine-tune the software to meet their needs. Imagine you operate in the restaurant industry. After years of running your restaurant, you’re looking to expand and add a food truck so that you can sell your food from anywhere.With a restaurant POS system, you could monitor your sales and inventory for both the restaurant and the food truck. Having that information would help you notice sales trends and plan your ingredient ordering for both locations.A restaurant POS system could also allow for online ordering. Customers could checkout online, and the restaurant would receive notice of the pick-up or delivery order. The customer could even pay with a gift card or sign up for a loyalty program that's built into the POS software.In summary, POS systems can include a variety of functions that allow owners to better handle their business needs.

What Are the Components of a POS System?

POS system: woman using her laptop

The components of your POS system will depend on what your business needs and how you accept payments.For starters, you may pick point-of-sale software based on the type of business you have. A restaurant, a doctor’s office, and a retail store may each benefit from software built for the needs of their specific business.The POS hardware you need will also vary. For example, a retail business may need a barcode scanner, while a food truck will need to accept mobile payments on an Apple or Android smartphone or tablet.Common hardware includes:

  • A credit card reader
  • A receipt printer
  • A cash drawer
  • A device to run the POS software (such as a computer or iPad)

How Much Do Point-of-Sale Systems Cost?

The cost of POS systems can vary drastically. Some POS software can cost as much as $300 per month. And this doesn’t include the cost of hardware. But one of the costs you can usually count on, if you accept credit card payments, are processing fees. Credit card processing fees typically cost around 3.5% of the transaction. This may not seem like much, but these fees can add up over time, impacting your bottom line. Let's say, for example, that you run a retail store and sell a pair of jeans for $50. The cost of the jeans is $35, and it costs you $10 per pair to cover your overhead costs. This means that you're expecting to make $5 per pair of jeans sold. However, if a customer pays with a credit card, you pay a transaction fee of 3.5%, or $1.75, meaning your $5 profit drops to $3.25.

The Pros and Cons of POS Systems

Implementing a POS system can offer benefits that cash-only alternatives don't, though there is a drawback worth considering.

Benefits

The benefits of POS systems far outweigh the drawbacks.

Eliminate Manual Accounting

If you have a cash-only system, you need to count everything by hand. You need to issue paper receipts and count the drawer at the end of the day. Additionally, you need to count inventory by hand. This can make for a lot of tedious and unnecessary back-office work.

Accept Payments Anywhere

No longer are customers limited to having to come to your store to complete transactions. Expanding out into online stores and mobile marketplaces allows you to build your customer base.

Improve the Checkout Experience

The more payment options a customer has when checking out, the more likely you are to complete a sale. More and more customers are carrying debit cards and credit cards instead of cash. You don't want to turn a customer away because they don't have any cash on hand. And with the latest contactless payment technology, customers can move through the checkout process even quicker. A transaction can be completed in a matter of seconds without a customer having to even swipe a card.

Boost Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Business owners are constantly looking for ways to connect with their customers. A POS system allows for improved CRM by providing data about customer transactions. What is a customer most likely to buy and when? Having this information allows business owners to provide everything from targeted customer support to targeted social media and email marketing. This, in turn, improves the likelihood of recurring sales.

Drawbacks

The only primary drawback to a POS system is that it relies on software. If there is a bug in the software or you are offline, you may have trouble completing transactions. However, even in these rare circumstances, you can still use the cash drawer to complete a sale. The benefits of POS systems far outweigh the drawbacks.

Can POS Systems Integrate With Payment Processors?

The best POS systems will let you use the payment processor of your choice. That way you can use the POS software you need to manage certain aspects of your business but still choose the credit card processor that’s right for you.For instance, if you use Nadapayments for your payment processing, it will integrate with any POS system and make it possible for you to implement a surcharge program. Remember the example from earlier where the retailer was losing $1.75 on each pair of jeans sold? That won’t happen with Nadapayments’ surcharge program. If a customer chooses to pay with a credit card, they’ll be responsible for covering the 3.5% processing fee. The customer can avoid the fee by paying with cash or a debit card instead.In addition to saving you money on transaction fees, Nadapayments offers a unified payment experience that allows you to accept payments:

  • In-person with a Wi-Fi-enabled EMV Quick Chip machine
  • Online or over the phone with a virtual terminal
  • On-the-go with a mobile app

Nadapayments requires nothing more than a flat monthly fee of $35. This includes the equipment and software required to accept payments, signage for the surcharge program, and integration into your POS system.

Use a Point-of-Sale System In Your Business Today

two women looking at a tablet

If you're looking to bring your business to the next level, you’ll want to have a POS system in place. A POS system goes beyond the cash register and allows you to run sales reports, track inventory, and manage customer data.Once you’ve picked the right POS system, you’ll need to have a payment processor, like Nadapayments, that offers a unified payment experience and saves you money. Get started with Nadapayments today.

Eighty-two percent of small businesses that fail do so because of improper cash flow, as reported by Entrepreneur. As a business owner, you should constantly be looking for ways to improve your cash flow and maximize profit. Only half of businesses make it past the five-year mark, so maximizing profit should be a concern no matter if you're a new or more established firm. If you're wondering what you can do to maximize profit, you're in luck. In this article, we provide a complete guide on how to maximize profit. We offer four tips that you can implement into your business model to ensure profit maximization.

1. Understand Profit Maximization

One of the first things you can do to increase profits is to understand profit maximization and ensure that you are pricing your products and services correctly relative to the market price. To ensure profit maximization, you need to make sure that your marginal cost is equal to marginal revenue. The marginal cost is the increase in cost by producing one extra unit. Marginal revenue equals the change in your total revenue as the result of increasing sales by one extra unit. As seen in the graphic below, the marginal revenue curve should remain flat. The marginal revenue curve shows any extra earnings from increasing your level of output. Because it costs the same to make each unit, you don’t gain anything by increasing production. The marginal cost curve, on the other hand, assumes that creating more units will cost more money. The intersection point of these two is labeled as "Q." This is the price and quantity that you should be using to achieve maximum profit.

 how to maximize profit: profit maximization graph from Oregon State University

Source: Oregon State UniversityProfit maximization optimization can be tricky. Many of these analyses assume things like perfect competition and market demand. But understanding the basic principles behind profit maximization can help you better hone in on the proper price for your goods and services.

2. Focus on Recurring Clients

No matter if you run an e-commerce or brick-and-mortar store, you can improve profits by focusing on converting one-time clients into recurring clients. Economists have found that satisfied recurring buyers are the most valuable customers a business can have. Recurring customers:

  • Spend 300% more than typical customers
  • Make 90% more frequent purchases
  • Are six times more likely to try new products your firm produces
  • Are five times more likely to choose your brand again
  • Are two times more likely to try new products

Additionally, because you already have a relationship with recurring customers, you don't need to spend as much on variable costs, like marketing and sales. This means that your total cost relative to units of output decreases. Focusing on keeping your existing customers can improve your total profit while reducing your total costs. One way to keep customers happy and engaged is by making the buying experience as painless as possible. To do so, make sure you can accept as many payment methods as possible. Nadapayments, for instance, allows customers to pay not only with cash or debit cards but also:

  • Major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express
  • Apple Pay
  • Google Pay
  • Contactless payments

The fewer hiccups customers have during the buying process, the more they are encouraged to buy.

3. Don't Discount Your Product

how to maximize profit: man writing down notes in front of his laptop in a coffee shop

Sales may be useful in helping you push additional units out the door, but they won't do much to improve your total revenue. Offering sales cuts into your profits and sets a lower price expectation on your products. If customers see a higher price for a product, knowing that there is a sale coming down the road discourages them from buying at that particular moment. Instead of offering sales, have free shipping deals for online purchases. Free shipping can improve profitability because it encourages more frequent orders. Similarly, brick-and-mortar stores can offer value by bundling items together at a package price rather than discounting individual products. Sales may improve your levels of output in the short run, but offering free shipping or bundled pricing will improve your quantity of output in the long run, allowing you to achieve maximum profits.

4. Eliminate Credit Card Processing Fees

We mentioned previously that you should accept as many forms of payment as possible to improve your likelihood of converting a sale. However, one of the things you need to be mindful of when accepting credit card payments is processing fees. Processing fees are the fees required by merchant accounts and payment processors to complete the transaction. Typically, they are around 3.5% of the transaction. Let's say that you run a restaurant. The average cost of a pizza is $20. A customer comes in and purchases two, for a total of $40. The customer chooses to pay with a credit card. As a result, you now owe $1.40 in processing fees. Now, instead of $40, you earn $38.60 on the transaction. The bottom line is that processing fees cut into your profit. Fortunately, there is a solution. You can implement a surcharge program instead of absorbing the cost of processing fees. With a surcharge program, you pass along the cost of processing fees to your customers. You also incentivize them to pay with cash or a debit card. Consumers only have to pay processing fees if they elect to pay with a credit card. In the above example, if you had a surcharge program in place at your restaurant, the total cost of the transaction would be $41.40. The extra $1.40 would go toward the processing fees, and you'd be able to keep the full $40. Processing fees can add up, costing you thousands of dollars per year. If you are in a competitive market, these fees can make a difference in whether your business makes it or not. When you use Nadapayments, you receive everything you need to institute a surcharge program, including required signage.

Learn How to Maximize Profit

man smiling while writing on a notebook

As a business owner, you should constantly be worried about growth. Even if you have been successful in your first few years of ownership, it takes long-term growth to succeed. Remember, half of all businesses fail within their first five years. Learning how to maximize profit will help improve your bottom line. Understanding basic economic principles is a great start and will allow you to set your prices correctly. But, that alone is not enough. You should also focus on creating recurring customer relationships and not discounting your products. Additionally, you should make sure that you have the correct credit card processing in place. Having the proper hardware and software ensures that you can accept multiple forms of payment, which helps improve the customer experience. It also makes sure that you avoid paying processing fees when a customer chooses to use a credit card. If you're looking for a one-stop-shop payment solution, be sure to check out Nadapayments. Nadapayments allows you to accept all major forms of payment. It also provides you with the signage and software necessary to implement a surcharge program. Ultimately, a surcharge program can add up to 3.5% back to your bottom line. Be sure to get started today and learn more about how a surcharge program can improve your business financials.

Americans reported 271,823 cases of credit card fraud in 2019, with skimming being the most common type. Skimming occurs when thieves implant a small device into a credit card processing terminal to steal valid information. Hackers working online are also a legitimate concern if you're processing e-commerce payments. Fraud protection is essential. As many as 86% of global consumers fell victim to identity theft and fraud in 2019. As a merchant, you have a responsibility to protect your customer's information when processing transactions. Doing so can also build trust, giving your customers peace of mind knowing that you're processing their payments securely. In this article, we take you through everything you need to know about secure payment processing, including why it's important and how to get set up.

The Technology Behind Secure Payments

If you need to start processing secure payments, you must understand the technology behind it. Below are some of the basics.

SSL Protocol

SSL stands for "Secure Sockets Layer." An SSL protocol is a must whenever you are operating online. It allows you to encrypt information that passes through the site, such as credit card details or medical information. If you have SSL protocols in place, you'll see a padlock visible on the URL bar next to your web address. Your web address will begin with "https."

Tokenization

Tokenization is another technology that improves payment security. It is a form of verification that allows you to authenticate the customer without impacting the transaction in any other way. With tokenization, random strings of characters replace sensitive information, like a credit card number. If hackers were to somehow breach your website, they wouldn't get very far because the tokens would be of no use.

3D Secure

If you process payments online, consider having a 3D Secure authentication option. This process protects merchants when the card used for payment is not present. The system requires tokens or biometrics to authenticate information. And, once someone has been identified, the liability of the transaction shifts from the merchant to the issuing financial institution.

HIPAA-Compliant Credit Card Processing for Medical Professionals

If you are a health care professional, you also need to concern yourself with HIPAA. HIPAA is short for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996. It is a federal law that helps protect a patient's sensitive information. As a health care provider, there are a few things that you need to consider when processing payments. For one, make sure that you only provide information relevant to the credit card transaction itself. Don't offer any health information about treatment or care on the payment screen or a receipt. You should not send receipts via text or non-secure email. You also want to verify with your credit card processing company that they are HIPAA-compliant.As a merchant, you are responsible for securing all credit card data. If you are required to store any information that may contain your patient's credit card information, you must do so behind lock and key. Credit card processing companies can store this information in encrypted vaults.

Secure Payment Solutions

secure payment: man holding a phone and a credit card

If you are looking for secure payment options, look no further than Nadapayments. Nadapayments offers the payment security you need, no matter if you are a small business operating exclusively online or a health care practice accepting credit cards in-person. Nadapayments operates as a payment gateway, meaning that it:

  • Analyzes transaction data
  • Transmits data to the issuing banks
  • Authorizes the transfer of funds between buyer and seller

Nadapayments is a payment processing company focused on saving you money and keeping your payments secure. It works like this: Credit card companies charge processing fees on top of every transaction. Typically, these fees are around 3%. The merchant — that’s you — is often responsible for paying these fees. However, with the Nadapayments surcharge program, you never have to pay one of these fees. Should a customer choose to use a credit card to pay, they are responsible for the additional surcharge. Nadapayments will even provide you with the necessary signage for you to display so your customers are aware of the extra fee. Not only does Nadapayments save you money on credit card surcharges, but it also processes your payments securely. Doing so can save you money on chargebacks. Chargebacks occur when a customer disputes a credit card transaction. The merchant not only needs to refund the sale but also needs to pay the chargeback fee. Below is a breakdown of how Nadapayments can protect your business when processing card payments.

Point of Sale (POS) System

If your business uses Nadapayments, you'll be provided with a fully compliant POS system to process in-store transactions. The credit card machine is:

  • Wireless
  • Wi-Fi enabled
  • EMV-capable, meaning it can accept Mastercard, Visa, American Express, Discover, Apple Pay, and contactless payments
  • Quick-chip enabled
  • 100% secure

But since Nadapayments offers a unified payment experience, you’ll also be able to process secure transactions via the virtual terminal. Not only does this allow you to accept payments online, but you can use the virtual terminal to accept payments over the phone. Whether you accept payments in-person, on the phone, or online, you’ll be able to see all your transactions in one place.Plus, both the credit card machine and the virtual terminal allow you to process credit card payments without storing payment information. Keeping sensitive information, like a cardholder's credit card number, makes you more at risk for severe data breaches.

Online Purchases

If you offer online payments, Nadapayments gives you two ways to accept payments virtually: invoices or a “pay now” button. First, you can email an invoice directly to a customer. All they have to do is open the link and pay. Second, Nadapayments provides a secure payment link, so you can have a “pay now” button that leads to a payment form. The customer simply enters their payment amount and their credit card number.With both options, customers enjoy 100% secure payment processing with no PCI exposure. Being PCI-compliant tells your customers that you follow the general rules and conditions set forth by the payment card industry. These rules are known as the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (PCI DSS). The PCI Security Standards Council develops the PCI DSS in the interest of protecting both merchants and consumers. Any merchant who processes, stores, or accepts credit card data is required to be PCI-compliant. Unfortunately, reaching PCI compliance on your own can be very challenging, which is why it's best to work with a third-party credit card processing company, like Nadapayments, to help address all of your PCI issues.

Mobile Payments

Nadapayments also offers a secure mobile app that makes it possible for you to accept payments from customers who are shopping on the go. The secure app protects payment information, even if the customer is operating off a public cellphone network or an unsecured Wi-Fi network.

Process Secure Payments and Protect Your Customers’ Information

man paying with credit card

As a merchant, you need to be particularly concerned about protecting your customer's private information. This should be the case no matter if you operate online, in-store, or both. Though all merchants should be concerned with secure transactions and PCI compliance, those operating in the medical field need to be particularly concerned. Not only do they need to protect a customer's credit card information, but they also need to protect their sensitive medical information to maintain HIPAA compliance. Putting these measures in place can be challenging for merchants. Fortunately, Nadapayments can streamline the process. Not only will your payments be secure, but you’ll also save money on credit card processing fees.If you’re ready to get started, get in touch with us for more information!

In 2016, credit cards eclipsed cash in worldwide transactions. Additionally, the Pew Research Center found that less than a quarter of Americans make purchases with cash during the week. As a business owner, it's important that you set yourself up to accept an array of payment options. Offering different payment methods to your customers increases the likelihood of a sale. One of the areas that causes a lot of confusion is electronic payments. Electronic payments are those that are not cash and can include things like credit cards, debit cards, contactless payments, and ACH wires. In this article, we outline everything small business owners need to know about electronic payments. This complete guide will cover what electronic payments are, how electronic payment systems work, the benefits of implementing them, and tips to help you save money. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear idea of what your business needs to do to start accepting electronic payments.

​What Are Electronic Payments?

The most straightforward answer is that an electronic payment is any payment method that does not involve cash or physical currency. As mentioned, credit and debit cards are both examples of electronic payments, as are ACH wires. Other examples include:

  • Digital currencies like Bitcoin
  • E-checks, which require a customer's banking information, such as their checking account and routing numbers
  • Digital wallets like Google Pay and Apple Pay

Local businesses with brick-and-mortar stores don't necessarily need to accept electronic payments, though doing so can help them complete a sale. Imagine if you only accept cash. A customer goes to checkout, only to realize they don't have any cash on them. Your business just lost a sale from a customer who was willing to buy your product. If there is an e-commerce portion to your business, you will definitely need to accept electronic payments since you cannot use cash for online transactions.

How Do Electronic Payment Systems Work?

There are many steps involved with electronic payment processing. Included are the:

  • Customer: This is the person purchasing your good or service. This person may also be known as the cardholder if paying with a debit or credit card.
  • Merchant: This is you, the business owner.
  • Issuer: This is the customer's financial institution.
  • Acquirer: The acquirer is essentially your bank account. The acquirer is responsible for verifying the banking information sent by the issuer.
  • Payment processor: This party handles the transaction between the customer and the merchant account. You may also see this referred to as the merchant services provider.
  • Payment gateway: This is a payment service used to process transactions safely and securely.

When you accept electronic payments, the money passes through numerous hands before making it to your bank account.

What Are the Benefits of Electronic Payments?

man and woman looking at the laptop

​As mentioned, electronic payments are beneficial because they increase the likelihood of completing a sale. No longer will you have to turn customers away because they do not have cash on hand. However, there are a few other benefits worth considering when deciding whether you should accept electronic payments.

It Increases Your Customer Base

Accepting electronic payments gives you the ability to operate online. This, in turn, grants you access to a much broader customer base. For instance, if you operate a local business, your customers are those who live in your town. Perhaps you get customers who come in from the town next door. But, generally speaking, your customer base is rather limited. Compare this to the internet, where your customer base is endless. You could sell your products to people on the other side of the country. Accepting online payments can introduce you to millions more potential customers. Of course, there are still benefits to brick-and-mortar stores accepting electronic payments. A recent poll found that 76% of customers carry less than $50 cash on them. Brick-and-mortar stores can expand their customer base by welcoming customers who don’t carry cash and only carry electronic forms of payment.

It Improves the Customer Experience

Should you choose to accept online payments through an e-commerce store, you will also improve the customer buying experience. No longer do customers need to go to a store to buy your product. Instead, they can complete the purchase from the comfort of their own home, with the mere click of a button. They can also shop when it suits them most, no matter if that's in the morning or at night. This also increases the likelihood of completing a sale, as it increases impulse buying.Accepting electronic payments can also improve the in-store experience for customers at brick-and-mortar retailers. It gives customers more payment options, allowing them to pay with the method that’s most convenient. Accepting electronic payments also occurs quickly, improving the customer experience.

It Grants the Ability to Accept Recurring Payments

Cash is always a one-time transaction. The customer needs to be present to complete the sale and they need to physically give you cash. Electronic payments, however, offer the ability to complete recurring transactions. With a recurring transaction, the customer enters their payment information once and agrees to be charged regularly. Examples of a recurring payment would be a monthly subscription service or a monthly gym membership. The customer only enters their payment information once, and your business gets to accept payment every month until the customer elects to cancel. This is not possible with cash-only payments.

Tips for Accepting Electronic Payments

If you're ready to begin accepting electronic payments, there are a few things to consider that can help improve the experience.

Don't Ditch Cash as an Option

Though electronic payments can increase the chance of completing a sale, it doesn't mean that you should eliminate cash entirely. In fact, continuing to accept cash can eventually save you money. This is due to credit card processing fees. Every time you run a credit card, you owe processing fees of approximately 3.5%. These fees pay the merchant service providers and other parties needed to complete the transaction. Typically, business owners are responsible for paying these fees, which can cut into their bottom line. However, if you implement a surcharge program, the cost of processing fees are passed to the consumer. Customers can avoid paying these processing fees if they choose to pay with cash or a debit card. Again, you want to give your customers as many payment options as possible during the buying and checkout experience.

Implement a Unified Payment Experience

If you have a brick-and-mortar and an e-commerce store, you want to make sure that you can easily track the transactions between the two. Similarly, you want to ensure that you can track the transaction no matter what payment method was used, whether it was cash or an electronic payment. Nadapayments offers a unified payment experience. The company provides a Wi-Fi-enabled EMV Quick Chip card reader that integrates with your point-of-sale systems and a virtual terminal that can accept:

  • Visa
  • Mastercard
  • Discover
  • American Express
  • Apple Pay
  • Google Pay
  • Contactless payments

No matter if you accept payments online, on your phone, or in-store, you can track the transaction through the Nadapayments unified payment experience.

Cut Out the Middlemen

Electronic payments cause money to pass through a lot of hands. Look for a payment processor who simplifies things for business owners. Nadapayments, for instance, charges a flat fee of $35 per month. This fee includes everything you need to begin accepting electronic payments. Not only does it include the hardware and software to get you started, but it also includes access to a merchant account. Essentially, it's a one-stop shop for everything you need to begin accepting online payments.

Accepting Electronic Payments Can Help Your Business Grow

electronic payments: woman using her laptop while holding a credit card

If you're a business owner who currently only accepts cash, it's time to strongly consider expanding into electronic or online payments. Fewer people are paying with cash as credit and debit cards continue to grow. Accepting electronic payments increases the likelihood of you completing a sale. It can expand your customer base and improve the customer buying experience. It also allows you to implement subscription programs and other options that would require recurring payments, ultimately improving your cash flow. When accepting electronic payments, you want to make sure that you still offer cash as an option. If you offer cash and implement a surcharge program, you can save money on processing fees. Additionally, you want to make sure that your payment processing software works seamlessly between your brick-and-mortar and e-commerce stores. Lastly, make sure you find a payment processor who offers a unified payment experience. Nadapayments is a payment processor service that makes things easier for small business owners. Be sure to get started today to learn more.

The digital revolution is well underway, with technology embedding itself in every aspect of our lives. Unsurprisingly, payments are no different. Cash used to be king, but not anymore — going cashless is now king. According to a 2019 study, 73% of all payments happened in-person at the point of sale (POS), and the majority of those were digital payments. Plus, 60% of consumers now cite the ability to make digital payments as an important factor when deciding where to shop. Whether it's through contactless payments, virtual terminals, mobile apps, Apple Pay, or Google Pay, businesses and customers alike are flocking to join the digital ecosystem. This article will explain what digital payments are, how they can benefit your business, and how to accept digital payments.

What Is a Digital Payment?

digital payment: Person paying at the cashier with a smartwatch on POS terminal

A digital payment is a cashless payment from one bank account to another made through a point-of-sale system, on a mobile device, or online. It can also sometimes be referred to as an electronic payment. Here are the types of digital payments that can be accepted.

Debit and Credit Cards

This is the quickest, most effective, and most popular digital option. Debit and credit cards are preferred by 80% of consumers, according to a 2017 TSYS study.And debit and credit cards go beyond the traditional swipe through a credit card machine. As a business owner, you’ll want to have a credit card reader that can support the EMV chip cards as well as contactless payments.Some credit card companies, like Mastercard and Visa, are even using biometric technology to add an extra layer of security. Think of it like the Touch ID feature on some Apple phones and tablets. In order to verify the cardholder’s identity, the card’s sensor reads the customer’s fingerprint while the purchase is being made.Luckily, this latest technology is compatible with EMV-enabled credit card terminals.

E-Checks Through ACH Processing

E-checks are really just the digitized form of traditional checks and can be used to pay by check online. The customer just inputs their information — account number, name, authorization, routing, amount — on an online payment form. It’s a great option for small businesses because it’s far safer than receiving a check in the mail.

Mobile Wallets and Digital Wallets

A mobile or digital wallet securely stores a customer’s payment details on a device or via an online service. It makes it possible for a customer to pay with their credit card without having it physically present. Mobile and digital wallets include services like Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, and PayPal.These types of payments can be accepted both online and in-person, if you have a card reader that supports digital wallets. Digital wallet users are an important market to capture. Four in five people, according to NerdWallet, use a mobile payment app or digital wallet. This is particularly true for people under the age of 40.

What Are the Benefits?

Businesses and customers alike can enjoy a wide range of benefits when using digital payment methods.

Efficiency

The average paper-based B2B payment cycle takes 35 days to complete. Digital payments, however, can be completed on the same day. This eliminates data errors and heightens accuracy. It also helps small business owners get paid faster. In addition, digital payments can make it easier to track inventory, monitor cash flow, budget, and gain invaluable, data-led business insights on an ongoing basis.

Eco-Friendly

Digital payment methods are the lifeblood of a paper-free economy. The inevitable transition toward a cashless society will reportedly have an incredibly positive impact on the environment.

Revenue

Most paper-based payment methods have higher fees and “soft costs,” such as bank fees, manpower, materials, and postage. It’s estimated that one paper invoice costs a business between $12 and $30. By accepting digital payments, you can cut the costs of paper invoicing and get paid quicker, which can increase your bottom line.

How to Accept Digital Payments

Person's hand holding a smartphone with digital wallet application

Once you’ve decided to include digital payment options in your business, you’ll need to figure out which methods of accepting them are right for you. Here are the options you’ll want to consider.

In-Store Credit Card Machine

If you’re a brick-and-mortar retailer or service provider, you’ll need a credit card machine for your business. Ideally, you’ll want a machine that can swipe traditional cards, read chip-enabled cards, and accept contactless and digital wallet payments.

Mobile Card Reader

If you conduct business in-person but not within a shop or fixed location, then you’ll want to look into accepting credit cards on-the-go. You can turn your mobile phone or tablet into a credit card reader by using a mobile app from your credit card processor.

Online

In an increasingly e-commerce-dominated society, having an online presence (and being able to take digital payments) is a modern-day imperative. An online store or a “Pay Now” button on your website allows you to accept payments and generate new orders 24/7. It gives customers the ability to use their debit and credit cards directly on your website.

Over the Phone

You can even take digital payments over the phone. If your credit card processor provides a virtual terminal, a customer can give you their debit or credit card information over the phone. This can be a helpful option for customers who aren’t web-savvy or aren’t able to pay in-person.

Emailed Invoices

This is a great option for a service-based business. If you already send out customer invoices, why not send them via email instead of snail mail? With emailed invoices, you can exponentially increase the speed and ease by which your customers pay for services. Instead of going through the tedious process of writing a check (and subsequently rummaging around their house for a stamp), the customer simply pays by debit or credit card.

How Can Nadapayments Help Your Business?

Nadapayments makes it easy for your business to accept different types of digital payments — whether in-store, on-the-go, online, over the phone, or through emailed invoices. With Nadapayments’ Wi-Fi EMV Quick Chip machine, your customers will be able to pay with:

  • Visa
  • Mastercard
  • American Express
  • Discover
  • Apple Pay
  • Google Pay
  • Contactless payments

In addition to the credit card machine, you’ll also have access to a virtual terminal for online payments and an app for mobile transactions.The best part is Nadapayments will save your business money. Normally, credit card companies charge a fee every time a merchant processes a credit card payment.But with Nadapayments’ surcharge program, if a customer chooses to pay with a credit card, the 3.5% transaction fee is charged to the customer — not the business. A customer can still pay with cash or debit if they want to avoid the surcharge The end result? Increased profits — whether you’re a tanning salon or an auto repair shop.

Go Digital in Your Business

Digital payments include credit cards, debit cards, e-check, and mobile wallets. By accepting these types of payments, you’re giving your customers the payment options they prefer. Plus, it expands the ways you can receive payment from your customers. Instead of relying on customers paying with cash and checks in person or by mail, you can also take payment over the phone, on the go, online, and through emailed invoices.If you’re ready to begin digitizing your payment processes, reach out to Nadapayments to get started today.

When it comes to choosing a small business credit card processing company, merchants are spoiled for choice. There are hundreds of payment processors eager to partner with your business and help you accept credit cards and debit cards.It’s understandable if you aren’t sure where to start. Selecting the right processor means researching and weighing a variety of factors like fees, payment tools, security features, technical support, reputation, and more. Many merchants feel overwhelmed with the options, but with a little preparation and know-how, you can narrow down the field and choose the perfect credit card processor for your business.We’ve put together a short guide explaining what to look for in payment processors. Keep reading for clear-cut steps to simplify your search, so you can get back to discovering new business opportunities and growing your revenue.

How to Choose the Right Small Business Credit Card Processing Solution

Small business credit card processing: A smiling woman takes notes while using her laptop

Payment processing is about as far as you can get from a one-size-fits-all scenario. Each processor will cater to different business types, needs, and challenges, so you’ll need to take your time and crunch some numbers to understand which partnership is best. Below, we’ll walk through four important steps to help you select a winner.

1. Evaluate Their Pricing Structure

Pricing transparency is what sets the best credit card processors apart from average or poor processors. The pricing model they use will have a huge impact on your bottom line, so it’s vital to understand how they’ll charge your business.In general, most credit card processors charge an interchange fee for every credit card transaction. This is a non-negotiable fee that’s set by the major card networks (Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express) and passed onto your business.Beyond the interchange fee, pricing structures vary. Here are the three most common structures:

  • Interchange plus pricing: Processors simply add a small markup on top of the standard interchange rate. This is considered the most transparent pricing option.
  • Flat-rate pricing: Processors charge the same transaction rate for every type of transaction. It’s easy to understand but difficult to know what you’re being charged for.
  • Tiered pricing: Processors sort your transactions into categories, such as qualified, mid-qualified, and non-qualified, and charge different rates based on their criteria. This is the least recommended pricing model because processors can change their rules and rates, leaving you with unpredictable costs.

Later, we’ll do a direct comparison of some of the most popular payment processors and discuss another lesser-known pricing structure.

2. Ask About Additional Costs and Fees

It’s common to see other costs beyond credit card transaction fees. For example, if you run an online store and use a payment gateway or virtual terminal to take online payments, a processor might charge you a payment gateway fee. Processors that require long-term contracts might charge a contract cancellation or termination fee. Here are some other common charges your processor may include:

  • Setup fees
  • Monthly minimum fees
  • Statement fees
  • POS software fees
  • Terminal fees
  • PCI compliance fees

Some processors advertise a low processing fee, while sneaking hidden fees into the fine print of their service agreement. So, we highly recommend asking for a list of additional costs, both scheduled and incidental.

3. Determine Which Payment Tools You Need

Another helpful step is to decide what kind of point-of-sale system (POS system) you’re going to need before you begin your search. This can dramatically reduce the number of payment processors you have to consider. For example, do you need an e-commerce payment processing solution or maybe a mobile credit card reader? Perhaps you need a payment processing company that can support online, in-store, and on-the-go payments.At the very least, your payment processor should accept all major credit and debit cards, and particularly EMV chip cards. Using EMV-ready card terminals will protect your business from fraud liability and enhance security for all your chip card transactions. You may also need solutions for prepaid cards, gift cards, or ACH payments, depending on your business type.Think about the payment methods your customers regularly reach for or ask about. Do you have young or tech-savvy customers? You might want to set up a near-field communication (NFC) solution, otherwise known as contactless payments. NFC allows your customers to pay with their digital wallets, like Apple Pay or Google Pay (formerly Android Pay), using their smartphone or smartwatch. Do you have frequent opportunities to make sales outside your physical store or office? Ask about mobile payment options so you can do business on the go.Do you accept payments over the phone? You’ll want to make sure you have a virtual terminal available to you.

4. Assess Their Security and Support Measures

You’re entering into a potentially long-term relationship with your payment processor. While the day-to-day extent of it will be accepting credit card payments, unexpected things happen. Your business may be faced with fraud attempts, cyberattacks, chargebacks, and technical issues, and when that happens, you want a credit card processor with top-notch security services and customer support.After all, 43% of cyberattacks target small businesses, and 60% of small companies close within six months of being hacked. The number of chargebacks is on the rise too, increasing at a pace of 20% each year.You can ask the following questions to understand how your potential processor approaches security and support:

  • Do you have an integrated fraud detection and prevention solution?
  • What fraud management tools are available to me?
  • Do you help merchants maintain PCI compliance?
  • What are your customer support hours?
  • Is customer support available by email, phone, or online chat?
  • What happens if I have a technical issue outside of support hours?
  • Do you help customers with chargeback disputes?

3 Small Business Card Processing Companies

Here’s a quick look at some of the best-rated credit card processing companies for small businesses. We’ll focus on the qualities that set these processors apart from the rest of the pack.

1. Nadapayments

If your small business wants to cut processing costs and keep more of your revenue, Nadapayments is an excellent choice. The majority of payment processors rely on the pricing models we covered earlier — interchange, flat rate, and tiered — to shift costs onto merchants’ shoulders. By contrast, Nadapayments uses a surcharge program to provide small businesses with 100% free credit card processing, regardless of transaction volume.In addition, Nadapayments can be used to process debit and credit cards in whatever way works for you: in store, online, or on-the-go.

2. Preferred Merchant Services

Preferred Merchant Services gives businesses a free credit card terminal as well as a free chip reader for on-the-go transactions. It offers tiered and interchange pricing with processing rates starting at 0.17%.

3. Square

Square is best known for mobile credit card processing, offering free or low-cost credit card readers, and until recently, its flat-rate pricing structure. For high-volume, small-transaction businesses, Square’s new 2.6% + $0.10 processing rate likely isn’t the best deal available. Plus, when you key in a credit card, the rate goes up to 3.5% + $0.15 per transaction.

Making the Right Choice

A smiling business owner take a contactless credit card payment

As a small business owner, your payment processor will have a big impact on your business, in day-to-day operations and in the long term. Choose well, and you’ll do more than just accept debit cards and credit cards. You’ll see serious cost savings, cater to a wider demographic of customers, and rest easy knowing your transactions are protected from fraud. We’ve covered four steps that will lead you toward the best small business credit card processing service, but we can save you some additional time and effort! Get in touch with us at Nadapayments to learn about our 100% free credit card processing, world-class customer support, and secure POS systems.

As many as 48 million merchants across the globe accept at least one credit card. Knowing how to accept credit card payments could be the key to increasing your profits, especially as a small business owner. By accepting credit card payments, you offer your customers multiple payment methods. The more flexibility you give your customers at checkout, the more likely you are to convert the sale.In this article, we cover everything you need to know about how to accept credit card payments, including what you need to get started and the different methods available.

Getting Started — The Basics

how to accept credit card payments: Smiling man looking at his laptop while holding his credit card

To get started processing credit card payments, you will first need to follow these four basics steps:

  1. Determine how you want to accept payments
  2. Find a payment processing company
  3. Open a merchant services account
  4. Install the required hardware and software

Below is a brief breakdown of each step.

1. Determine How You Want to Accept Payments

There are different options available when it comes to credit card processing. You must consider the type of credit card transactions you are going to be processing. The most obvious option is whether you operate a brick-and-mortar store. If you have a physical location, you will need a card reader that can process chip cards. The card reader should be compatible with swipe cards, chip cards, and contactless payments. You want to make sure that you can accept all major credit cards and popular payment options. The best payment processors accept:

  • Visa
  • Mastercard
  • Discover
  • American Express
  • Apple Pay
  • Android/Google Pay
  • Contactless payments (NFC-enabled)

Perhaps, however, you're a startup that does not have physical locations yet. In these cases, you don't need to worry about a physical credit card terminal. Instead, you need to process payments virtually. You can process online payments:

Fortunately, all of these options are available through payment processors. It's up to you to consider how you are going to run your business and the most likely way you are going to accept payments.

2. Find a Payment Processing Company

A payment processing company is a service provider that handles credit and debit card transactions between two parties, typically a merchant and a customer. The payment processing company relays card information from a customer to a business bank account. Not all payment processors are the same. The pricing can vary between companies. Some may offer you access to point-of-sale (POS) systems and virtual terminals, perhaps for an additional fee. Others operate at a flat rate and provide you access to all of their credit card processor tools. Be sure to research beforehand to find a payment processing company that best suits your business.

3. Open a Merchant Services Account

A merchant account is a type of bank account that is required to accept credit card transactions. No matter if you are accepting in-person or mobile payments, you will need a merchant account to process the transaction. Depending on which payment processing company you choose, you may be able to skip this step. For instance, when you use a merchant service provider like Nadapayments, the merchant account is built right in.

4. Install the Required Hardware and Software

Now that you have your processors and merchant accounts in place, it's time to install the hardware and software required to accept payments. If you are accepting payments in-store, you'll need a physical card reader. If you’re accepting mobile payments, you'll need either a physical mobile credit card reader or an app that you can use to enter credit card information. You will also need a virtual terminal if you are collecting payments via an emailed invoice, over the phone, or online.Now is also the time to set up your point-of-sale system. The best processing companies offer POS systems to record transactions, track processing fees, monitor inventory, and produce the records necessary to file taxes at the end of the year. A POS system links all terminals together seamlessly. Setting up your POS system is easy when using Nadapayments, as the software is preinstalled and ready to go after you plug in your credit card terminal.

How to Save on Costs

When learning how to take credit card payments, you must understand how processing fees work. These fees are the biggest cost for businesses when accepting credit cards. Processing fees are a type of transaction fee that credit card companies charge when you use their card. The average fee is around 3.5%. Let's say that you process $50,000 in credit card purchases each month. You owe credit card companies 3% of this, equal to $1,750. After paying processing fees, the money you earned from the sale is now $48,250. If your company pays these fees, you directly impact your bottom line. Fortunately, there are ways to cut the cost of processing fees. Retailers can do so by implementing a surcharge program. With a surcharge program, the fees are passed onto the customer. Businesses are required to display signage indicating that this process is in place. The signage must indicate that customers are not charged processing fees if they choose to make a cash or debit card payment. Implementing a surcharge program is the best way to save on costs when your business accepts credit card payments.

How to Accept Credit Card Payments — The Single Best Method

If you are looking for a business provider that offers everything you need to get started accepting credit card payments while also saving you money, look no further than Nadapayments. Nadapayments provides merchants with a Wi-Fi-enabled EMV Chip reader for in-person transactions, along with virtual terminals and smartphone apps for online and mobile payments as well. You receive a unified payment experience that allows you to easily track all of their transactions, no matter where they take place. The included POS system seamlessly links between in-store and mobile transactions, even if those transactions take place offline. Nadapayments accepts all major credit cards, as well as Apple Pay, Google Pay, and contactless payments. Retailers pay a flat monthly fee of only $35 per month. There are no hidden costs or setup fees. Perhaps the best part, however, is that you’ll save on processing fees thanks to Nadapayments' surcharge program. Plus, you’ll receive the signage you need for the surcharge program for free.

Start Accepting Credit Card Payments Today

Smiling cashier watching a customer make a payment

Knowing how to accept credit card payments can do wonders for your business. The more payment options you offer customers, the more likely you are to complete a sale. Accepting credit cards both in-store and online directly impacts your bottom line. Remember, there are a few things you need to have in place before you can begin accepting credit card payments:

  • A payment processing company
  • A merchant services account
  • The hardware and software needed to take credit card payments, including physical card readers, virtual terminals, and a POS system

Fortunately, these things are easy to come by when you use Nadapayments.Nadapayments is a service provider that offers you everything you need to accept credit card payments, including hardware and software. You can accept all major credit cards, contactless payments, and digital wallets, like Google Pay and Apple Pay. The package costs a flat rate of $35 per month. And you save on processing fees thanks to the included surcharge program. Nadapayments checks all the boxes for merchants. Be sure to get started today.

Accepting credit card payments is a must for every business, from brick-and-mortar businesses to e-commerce companies. It’s especially important as more and more customers prefer to shop online and use contactless payment options (and the COVID-19 pandemic only accelerated this trend). But accepting credit cards comes at a cost, and it isn’t always cheap or easy to understand. If you suspect you’re paying too much, or you want to start accepting credit cards for the first time, you may be wondering: What is the cheapest way to accept credit card payments?There’s no simple answer. How much you’ll ultimately pay depends on a variety of factors, like your industry, transaction volume, and payment methods. However, there are some simple strategies to lower your credit card processing costs, no matter what your unique scenario is. There are even free credit card processing options, which we’ll talk about later.Ready to save? We’ll cover the different types of payment processing fees, compare pricing models, and give you three strategies to get the cheapest credit card processing for your business.

Anatomy of Your Credit Card Processing Costs

Cheapest way to accept credit card payments: A business scans a credit card

What can make credit card processing so confusing — and expensive — is that there are many different types of providers, plans, and transaction rates. Below, we’ve broken this down into digestible sections, including helpful terminology, common fees, and pricing models. That way, you can understand how to find the cheapest way to accept credit card payments and avoid unnecessary charges.

Helpful Credit Card Processing Terms To Know

  • Credit card network: The four major card networks — Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express — are what make credit card transactions possible. They connect consumers, merchants, and banks.
  • Issuing bank: This is the bank or institution that issued your customer’s credit card or debit card. When a customer makes a purchase, the issuing bank checks whether they have the funds and requests information from the card network.
  • Acquiring bank: This is the bank that accepts and processes the funds released by the issuing bank.
  • Payment processor: This is the institution that acts like a middle man between the merchant and the banks to get your customers’ funds into your bank account. You may use a merchant services provider (MSP) like Nadapayments or a payment service provider (PSP) like Stripe, PayPal, Square, or Shopify. Sometimes the acquiring bank and payment processor are one and the same.
  • Merchant account: Your payment processor will help you open a merchant account for your business. With it, you can securely accept credit cards in-store using a point-of-sale system like a credit card terminal or online using a payment gateway. These accounts often come with many fees that are sometimes hidden in the fine print.

Common Credit Card Processing Costs

Your credit card processing costs include a variety of fees, some negotiable and some non-negotiable. Here are four of the most common fees you’ll encounter.

Interchange Fees

The four major credit card networks — Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express — charge issuing banks a fee to use their credit cards and debit cards. This fee is known as the interchange rate, and issuing banks pass this cost onto business owners like you. Rates are often between 1.3% and 3.4% for every transaction, and that’s before any other fees or markups from your payment processor. Costs vary based on:

  • The business type
  • The card brand
  • The type of card
  • The payment method
  • The risk level of the transaction

For example, online transactions carry a higher interchange fee because it’s harder for small business owners to verify their customer’s identity and prevent fraudulent transactions.

Assessment Fees

Assessment fees, also known as network fees, are paid to the card networks each time a credit card is used.

Markup Fees

Payment processors also have wide latitude to charge additional fees in order to make a profit and cover the risks of managing merchant accounts. (After all, they’re a business too.) However, a good payment processor will use a transparent pricing model that ensures these fees are clear. Alternatively, you can use a service like Nadapayments that will save you the headaches and number-crunching by offering free payment processing.

Case-Specific Fees

In some cases, there are additional costs you can expect from your processor. For instance, they may charge a monthly fee for the POS system you use, like the mobile card reader or digital shopping cart for your online store.

Different Payment Processor Pricing Models

Credit card processing companies use a variety of payment plans to cover the above costs and offer merchants their services, each with unique pros and cons.

Flat-Rate Pricing

Flat-rate pricing charges businesses the same transaction rate for every type of transaction. You may recognize this model from payment service providers (PSPs) like Square or PayPal. While it’s easy to understand, it's also easier to charge hidden fees. For small businesses and startups with a low volume of card transactions or low average transaction value, however, this can be the cheapest way to accept credit payments.

Interchange-Plus Pricing

Many industry experts and businesses regard interchange-plus pricing as the most transparent pricing option. It’s cost-effective for most businesses, regardless of industry type or size. The credit card processor simply adds their fee (typically a small percentage) on top of the interchange fee. Because of this, it’s also called “wholesale pricing,” meaning you’re only charged the mandatory fees for each transaction, plus a small processor markup.

Tiered Pricing

With tiered pricing, the payment processor will create different tiers or categories for your transactions based on their risk level. Generally, there are three tiers — qualified, mid-qualified, and non-qualified — each with a different processing rate. Of the different pricing models, tiered pricing is the least transparent and the hardest to predict. It’s difficult to understand whether you’re getting a good deal on each transaction, and processors can change their rates and rules at any time.

3 Key Strategies To Lower Your Credit Card Processing Costs

A business owner takes notes while on the phone

As credit card processing fees add up, they can seriously weigh your business down. Here are some tactics that will help you save money, including a free credit card processing solution.

1. Use a Credit Surcharge Program

Credit surcharge programs allow merchants to pass their transaction fees onto their customers. At checkout, customers are presented with two options: pay with cash or debit card, or pay with credit for an additional 3.5% fee.We know what you’re thinking, “Won’t there be backlash when customers see this fee?” The first important thing to note is that customers always have a choice. They can opt to use debit or cash and avoid the fee entirely. And second, the reality is that a credit surcharge can actually be the better option for your business in the long run. Think about it: You’re being pummeled by processing costs and other expenses, so you decide to raise your prices. These new prices are higher than the amount customers would pay for processing fees, especially if you have high-cost services like plastic surgery or dentistry. Customers compare your high prices to your competitors — and walk away. With a fee-free credit card payment processor like Nadapayments, you can reclaim your revenue, and customers who pay with cash could actually save money.

2. Negotiate a Better Processing Rate

If you’re happy with your current payment processor, you can try negotiating a lower payment processing rate. A great moment to do this is when your contract is up for renewal or when you’ve just closed a particularly successful sales period. Your processor won’t want to lose a valuable customer. Shop around for better merchant account quotes and ask your processor to match them, or suggest your own figure. Finding a better deal might mean moving to a different payment service provider. If so, look for one that offers transparent pricing and specializes in your industry. They should have good customer reviews, a healthy Better Business Bureau rating, and 24/7 customer support.

3. Incentivize Different Transaction Types

As we’ve talked about, certain transaction types cost more than others. Even flat-rate pricing options charge different rates for in-person payments and online payments. While you can’t control which payment methods your customers prefer day to day, you can encourage them to use less costly options. For example, you can put up friendly signage asking customers to use a debit card when possible or offer discounts for cash purchases. These simple measures can go a long way to lower processing costs.

The Cheapest Way To Accept Credit Card Payments

Accepting credit cards may be the cost of doing business, but doing so doesn’t have to eat up your hard-earned revenue. Now that you have a deeper understanding of fees, merchant account providers, and pricing models, you can use the strategies we’ve covered to take control of your processing costs.But for an even more effortless way to save money, choose Nadapayments and pay “nada” on every credit card transaction. With our credit surcharge program, you take home 100% of all your credit card transactions. There are no setup fees and no commitments — just an affordable way to take payments anywhere you are.If you’re ready to save thousands of dollars every year in processing fees, get in touch with us for more information!

Are you a small business owner who operates online? If not, you may want to consider breaking into e-commerce. Revenue from e-commerce in the United States was $431.6 billion in 2020, and experts expect that number to climb to $563.4 billion by 2025. Even if you own a brick-and-mortar business, accepting online payments could expand your customer base and increase revenues. Of course, customers can’t pay cash when a transaction takes place online. There are also no physical card readers present at checkout, as there would be at a brick-and-mortar store. Merchants must have online payment processors in place. In this guide, we outline how to accept credit card payments online and its benefits.

How to Accept Credit Card Payments Online

There are primarily three ways you can begin accepting credit card payments online.

1. Install a Payment Button on Your Website

If you already have a website in place, one of the quickest ways to start accepting payments is by installing a "Pay Now" button. When a customer is ready to check out, they can click a button that says, "Pay Now." Typically, this button is located with a customer's "shopping cart" so that they can review and finalize their order before payment. When a customer selects the "Pay Now" button, they are then presented with a secure form that allows them to enter their name and payment information. Typically, the site will list the business' accepted payment options.

2. Set Up Online Invoices

Another way to accept credit card payments online is by setting up an invoicing system. This is a great option for brick-and-mortar businesses that want to allow customers to pay online for in-person services.To receive payment, you send an invoice to the customer that lists the amount owed and your accepted payment methods. If the customer wishes to pay with a credit or debit card, they can select the secure link that's included with the invoice. When the customer clicks on the link, they are directed to a secure website where they can enter their payment information and complete the transaction.

3. Use a Virtual Terminal Over the Phone

Another payment processing option is to take customer payments over the phone. Even if the customer can’t go online to enter payment information, you can still process the payment online with a virtual terminal.A virtual terminal allows you to process credit card transactions without the card itself being physically present. Virtual terminals work for both online stores and taking payments over the phone.

How Online Credit Card Processing Works

In order to accept credit and debit card payments online, you need a merchant account and a payment gateway.A merchant account is a type of bank account that allows you to accept credit card transactions. You need a merchant account whether you are accepting credit cards in-person or online.A payment gateway is what connects your website to your payment processor. It allows you to have a secure payment form on your site so your customers can enter their credit card information.When you use a merchant service provider, like Nadapayments, the merchant account and payment gateway are built right in. So you can get started with accepting online payments in no time at all.

The Benefits of Accepting Credit Card Payments Online

How to accept credit card payments online: A woman makes a purchase on her cellphone while sitting in a cafe

Though there are transaction fees, today's businesses need to accept payments online. Below are some of the primary benefits that come with doing so.

Increase Sales

As mentioned, e-commerce is expected to grow substantially in the coming years. Learning how to accept credit card payments online can boost sales. Additionally, studies have found that customers spend more when using a credit card versus cash. Operating online also expands your customer base. You can reach customers across the country. If you are only operating a brick-and-mortar store, you are limited to the customers in your area.

Improve the Client Experience

As a business owner, you want the payment experience to be as easy as possible for your clients. Allowing for both credit and debit card payments gives customers a better experience because they have more flexible payment options. Furthermore, allowing customers to make purchases from the comfort of their own home, without having to visit your brick-and-mortar store, can build brand loyalty. The same can go with sending bills or invoices to customers. Let’s say you run a dental practice and invoice a patient. You can send an email invoice to the patient and allow them to pay from home, without having to mail a check or make another trip to your office.

Boost Cash on Hand

Credit card transactions process rather quickly. As a business owner, this is useful because it increases your cash on hand. The money from a credit card transaction will often appear in your bank account within a day or two. Compare this to having to wait for a paper check, which could take days, if not longer.

How Nadapayments Helps Businesses Accept Payments Online

Now that you know how to accept credit card payments online, you are probably curious about which credit card processor you should use. Nadapayments not only provides merchants with Wi-Fi-enabled EMV Quick Chip machines for in-person transactions but also includes access to virtual terminals and mobile apps as well. The mobile app provides merchants with a mobile point of sale system (POS system) that they can take with them anywhere, while the virtual terminal makes it possible to have “Pay Now” buttons online, send emailed invoices, and accept payments over the phone.Nadapayments accepts multiple payment methods, including:

  • Visa
  • Mastercard
  • Discover
  • American Express
  • Apple Pay
  • Google Pay
  • Contactless payments

Nadapayments offers a unified payment experience. You can easily track all of your transactions from either your in-person credit card machine or your virtual terminal — no matter how you've accepted the payment. The two systems link with one another and work seamlessly. Pricing for a Nadapayments terminal is only $35 per month. There are no hidden costs, monthly minimums, or setup fees. And, using Nadapayments can quickly pay for itself because of the money you'll save on processing fees. Businesses are required to pay processing fees whenever a customer uses a credit card. These fees are approximately 3.5% of every transaction.But with Nadapayments’ surcharge program, these costs are passed onto the customer when they choose to pay with a credit card. Customers can avoid the extra fee by choosing to pay with a debit card instead. These fees are made clear to customers when they are checking out online. Lastly, Nadapayments is entirely secure and PCI-compliant. All merchants are required to follow the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards, in the interest of protecting both merchants and customers. Nadapayments meets all standards, which helps protect both you and your customers' sensitive information.

Start Accepting Credit Cards Online to Help Grow Your Business

A smiling man looks at his cellphone

If you are a small business owner, you should be conducting business online. With e-commerce set to grow in the coming years, learning how to accept credit card payments online can help you grow your business. There are three primary ways to accept credit card payments online:

  1. Through a hosted payment link
  2. Via an emailed invoice
  3. Over the phone with a virtual terminal

Nadapayments makes all three online options easy to implement. Plus, it helps merchants save money on transactions and gives customers the convenience of multiple payment options. Be sure to reach out today so you can start accepting credit card payments online.

“I wonder how to accept credit card payments on my phone.” If this is something you’ve said to yourself, you probably fall into one of the following categories:

  • You need an easy, affordable way to take payments without the upfront cost of a traditional point-of-sale (POS) system.
  • Your team needs to be able to process payments and take care of customers anywhere in your store or office.
  • You need a portable checkout tool for on-the-go sales, like trade shows, farmers markets, or home repair services.

Whatever your reason for diving into mobile payments, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, you’ll learn how to turn your smartphone or tablet into a convenient mobile POS system in a few steps. We’ll break down what a mobile POS system can and can’t do, tips to choose the right one, steps to get started, and the benefits of using your mobile devices to accept payments. Let’s dive in.

What Is a Mobile POS System?

A mobile point-of-sale (POS) system, also called an mPOS, might sound complex, but it’s just a smartphone or tablet that functions as a portable register. You’ve likely seen mobile payments in action in everyday life. Food businesses are a great example. Restaurants are increasingly providing pay-at-table options using iPads or Android tablets, and food trucks can deliver amazing eats anywhere thanks to mPOS systems.While traditional POS systems have card terminals, cash drawers, and receipt printers that limit transactions to one fixed location, mPOS systems can go where your business takes you. That’s because an mPOS system only requires three things: a mobile device, a mobile credit card reader, and a payment app. The streamlined setup means mPOS systems are inexpensive and easy to implement. (We’ll talk about other mobile payments benefits later.)Depending on the type of POS software you use, your mPOS can let you take payments on the go or manage your entire business. Your team can schedule appointments, check customer or patient profiles, monitor inventory, run reports, and more. There are plenty of payment processing options too. Most mPOS systems accept a variety of payment methods, including:

  • Magnetic stripe cards
  • EMV chip cards
  • Contactless credit cards
  • Digital wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay)
  • Gift cards and vouchers
  • QR codes

And just like a traditional POS, mPOS systems allow customers to pay in full or sign up for recurring billing options or payment plans.All in all, mobile payments are ideal for any business that needs a low-cost, flexible payment solution.

How To Accept Credit Card Payments With a Phone in 3 Steps

How to accept credit card payments on my phone: A credit card sits in a card reader attached to a tablet

Getting a mobile point-of-sale system up and running is easy. You need to sign up with a payment processor that offers mobile payments, connect a credit card reader to your phone or tablet, and download the required payment app. Then, you’re ready to start taking payments.That said, choosing the right mobile payment processor and comparing different mPOS options — hardware and software — can be challenging. Here’s a quick overview to help you accept payments on your phone in no time.

1. Choose a Payment Processor

You may not know it, but if you already accept credit cards and debit cards at your business, you have something called a merchant account. It’s a special type of business bank account that allows your customers to pay you with card, ACH payments, and more. So, setting up mobile payments could be as easy as asking your current credit card processor to add a mobile POS to your account.Not partnered with a payment processor yet? Look for a merchant service provider that will do the heavy lifting for you, has affordable pricing, and will give you the payment options you need. For example, with a provider like Nadapayments, your merchant account will be set up for you, and you’ll save money on transaction fees. Plus, you’ll have the ability to accept in-store, online, and mobile payments.

2. Get a Mobile Credit Card Reader

A credit card reader is the small piece of equipment your customers will use to swipe, insert, or tap their preferred payment method. Card readers can connect to your mobile phone or tablet via Bluetooth or headphone jack — whichever works best for your device. For instance, if you have an iPhone X with no audio jack, you might need to stick to Bluetooth options.Your payment processor might offer a free credit card reader when you sign up for mobile payments. Otherwise, most card readers cost $20-$50. As you comparison-shop readers, pay attention to accepted payment methods, data connection options, and compatibility.For instance, some readers take magstripe cards and EMV cards but not NFC transactions (also called contactless payments). Some readers operate on Wi-Fi or cellular data only, while others have offline options. Lastly, check that the reader is compatible with your operating system (iOS, Android, etc.).

3. Download the Mobile Payment App

Generally, you’ll need to use a mobile credit card reader and payment app from the same processor. Bottom line: Many credit card processing companies don’t want the liability of using another company’s subpar or faulty equipment to process payments. So, your final step is simple. Once you’ve picked a mobile payment processor and equipment, you’ll download their mobile payment app.This app is the digital hub where your team will handle credit card transactions and store card information, so you want to make sure it’s user-friendly and secure — top to bottom. This is especially important if you’re exclusively using a mobile POS to run your business, or you’ll rely on it for other tasks like invoicing, employee scheduling, or inventory. Our advice? Ask to demo the mobile app or do a trial run for a couple weeks to make sure it’s the right fit.How much you ultimately pay to accept credit card payments on your phone depends on the equipment and level of mPOS software you get. The average mobile processor is going to charge a variety of payment processing fees, such as mandatory transaction fees or monthly fees for service. But there’s an exception: Nadapayments. We offer a free credit card processing solution — called a surcharge program – that helps you hold onto your revenue and avoid unnecessary costs.

4 Unique Benefits of Using a Mobile POS System

A shop owner uses a tablet to accept a credit card payment

There are plenty of reasons to get excited about adding a mobile POS to your payments lineup. Here’s a snapshot of how accepting payments on your phone can give your business a boost.

1. Minimal Setup

Many business owners know the frustration of cramped quarters and busy countertops. For instance, space is often at a premium in health care practices like optical offices and dental offices. Mobile POS systems are handy for a variety of businesses precisely because they don’t require dedicated space. Your device and card reader are compact, lightweight, and easy to transport at a moment’s notice.

2. Business on the Go

The biggest difference between an mPOS and traditional POS is portability. Mobile technology allows you to do business and provide excellent service anywhere, whether you run a brick-and-mortar or e-commerce business. Trade shows, annual conferences, community events, or pop-up stands — it’s all on the table.

3. Cost Effective and Scalable

Every entrepreneur knows what they could do with an extra $1,000 or $5,000 in their pocket. Where most traditional POS systems require a hefty upfront investment, mobile POS systems are inexpensive by design. The low price tag keeps startup costs under control and opens up expansion possibilities for your organization.

4. Better Customer Service

Looking to improve your customer satisfaction? Implement a mobile POS to free your staff from being trapped behind the register. In stores and in the field, your sales team or technicians can assist customers wherever they are, reducing checkout lines and payment delays.Another great example is health care, where privacy and comfort is paramount. You can give patients the ability to handle payment in the treatment room of your plastic surgery clinic, for instance, rather than out in the lobby. These changes add up to an unparalleled customer experience that keeps clients coming back.

Ready to Mobilize?

You’re now ready to accept credit card payments on your phone. As we’ve discussed, a mobile POS is easy to use, inexpensive, and portable, making it a strong choice for most business types and sizes.With just a mobile device, credit card reader, and a payments app, opportunity is at your fingertips. The only disadvantage to accepting credit cards with your phone? The mobile credit card processing fees, which can add up to thousands of dollars every year. There’s a better way. With a credit surcharge program, you can get 100% of every credit card payment. Get in touch with us at Nadapayments to learn how we help you save and start taking payments on-the-go with our mobile app.

With global health care spending set to surpass $10 trillion by 2022, health care delivery is big business. However, despite the size and undoubted importance of medical care, existing health care payment systems are ineffective, inefficient, and in desperate need of changing.In fact, it’s even been suggested that as much as 35-50% of all U.S. health care spending is wasted due to poor business processes (including payment processing).This article will examine the main health care payment model that is currently in use, payment systems you can put in place in your practice, and what to look for in a payment processor.

The Main Health Care Payment Model

Healthcare payment system: A closeup of a medical billing statement

When it comes to health services, there are various payment models. But as a health care provider, you likely use a fee-for-service (FFS) model — where you provide a specific service and then bill the patient for the price of that service.This is the common payment model for primary care physicians and other outpatient clinicians, including dentists, cosmetic surgeons, and dermatologists.Before you bill your patient, you likely submit the bill to the patient's health plan or Medicare for reimbursement. But whatever health insurance doesn't cover will have to be billed directly to the patient.It's important to choose a payment system that is both patient-friendly and benefits your practice.

Health Care Payment System Options

Commonly, the health care industry has relied on mailed statements to seek payment. The patient would receive the statement and then send back a check for the payment amount. However, this paper-based billing is keeping you from getting paid and costing you money in the process.But by ditching the paper statements and offering modern payment methods, you can save time and money. You might even give your patient satisfaction scores a boost by focusing on your quality of care instead chasing down payments.Here are some prospective payment systems you can consider that will get you paid quicker and give your patients more flexibility.

1. In-Person Payment

Even if you follow a fee-for-service payment model, you can still give patients the option of paying their bill at the time of the service. Just make sure you can accept various forms of payment so that patients can pay by cash, debit, or credit card. You might even consider offering payment plans that give the patient even more flexibility. They could pay for part of the bill upfront and then receive an invoice for the rest.

2. Online Payment

You can still send invoices to your patients, but it doesn't have to mean printing off statements, stuffing them in envelopes, and paying for postage. Instead, you can send invoices by email that patients can pay for online with their debit or credit card. With this method, you'll be able to get the invoices out much quicker, and you won't have to wait for a check to make its way back through the mail.

3. Payment by Phone

If your credit card payment processor provides you with a virtual terminal, you can also accept debit and credit card payments over the phone. A credit card doesn't have to be physically present to use a virtual terminal. Simply take the patient's payment information over the phone and enter it into the virtual terminal.

Choosing a Health Care Payment Processor

A closeup of a woman paying with a credit card

In order to accept credit card payments and implement any of the above payment systems, you'll need to choose a payment processor.Payment processing affects how quickly, easily, and efficiently your practice is paid. It also has a significant impact on your patients’ experiences. As a result, you should partner with a high-quality payment processor that makes it as seamless as possible for patients to pay you — and for your practice to receive their payment. Let’s examine what you should look for in a payment processor.

Eradicates manual processes

Manual processes are time- and energy-intensive, while also being incredibly error-prone. And errors aren’t just annoying — they can actively delay when you'll be paid or even leave you open to legal issues further down the line.The best payment processors, like Nadapayments, make the end-to-end payments process as seamless as possible by offering a unified experience. With the Nadapayments POS, you can instantly see whatever’s happening on the credit card machine in your online virtual terminal, or you can even accept transactions via the virtual terminal itself (for instance, while speaking to a customer over the phone).But what if customers want to pay at a later date? With Nadapayments, medical practitioners can email invoices over to their clients that contain a clickable payment link — meaning customers can swiftly pay exactly what they owe in just a few clicks.

Offers Flexibility

Flexibility is key. Health care payments are complex, so it’s important to make the process as easy as possible for both health care professionals as well as their patients. The best tools have flexibility baked into everything that they do. They provide a variety of payment options (such as in-person, online, over the phone, or using mobile devices), which in turn makes it easier for patients to use the method that works best for their financial situation.This, therefore, makes patients more likely to pay up promptly — and it could transform their overall patient experience.

Provides Complete Transparency

As with any business partner, you want to work with payment processors that are transparent, open, and honest. This covers everything from the fees that they charge to the data security methods and standards they follow. If potential vendors seem hesitant to answer your questions or they’re unable to provide clear answers, then consider working with alternative providers.

Speeds Up the Process

With less manual effort required, tools like Nadapayments speed up the payment process from start to finish. You'll get paid quicker and stop spending unnecessary time, effort, and sanity on chasing late payers, depositing checks, or even sending out bills in the first place. With the extra time, you can focus on what's really important: patient care.

Saves You Money

Nadapayments’ revolutionary surcharge program allows health care practitioners to avoid credit card fees, typically resulting in a 10% annual increase in revenue. What sort of impact would these cost savings have on your practice?

Supports HIPAA Compliance

As a health care provider, you must protect their patients’ data during transactions. Fortunately, in the U.S., the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) stipulates common guidelines that all health care providers must follow, outlining how to keep personal health information (PHI) safe at all times.PHI encompasses everything from patients’ names, credit card numbers, and date of birth, all the way to their medical records and Medicaid insurers’ information.But while HIPAA compliance should always be a consideration, it doesn’t actually affect credit and debit card processing. Why? Well, to put it simply, your merchant services provider doesn’t actually handle sensitive patient information when it comes to credit card billing and processing. So long as you never reveal details surrounding a patient’s treatment and your processor sends customers their receipts via secured (or even encrypted) methods, then you have nothing to worry about.

Embrace the Future of Health Care Payments

Whether your practice prefers to accept in-person, online, or phone-based payments, one thing’s for certain: You need to make the payments process as easy as possible for your customers. This means working with a payment processor that speeds up the end-to-end process, eliminates as many manual steps as possible, is flexible and transparent, and ultimately saves you money. Nadapayments makes it easier than ever before for health care professionals to bill clients and get paid for their services. No matter which payment model you use or the services you provide, Nadapayments will transform your payment processing into a genuine value-driver for your health care organization — rather than an ongoing distraction.If you’re ready to offer more payment options and save money in the process, reach out to us to get started today.

Surcharge programs are increasingly in the spotlight as merchants search for ways to offset their heavy credit card processing fees. These fees — often between 1.3% and 3.4% for every credit card transaction — nibble away at revenue to the tune of thousands each year. Before business owners know it, they’re out $20,000 simply because they accept credit cards! Enter surcharge programs. Imposing a surcharge means that customers bear the financial burden if they want to pay with a credit card. But is a surcharge program right for your business? We’ve got answers. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know, including:

  • What is a surcharge program?
  • How do credit card surcharges benefit your business?
  • Are credit surcharge programs legal?
  • Credit card surcharge program rules and best practices
  • How to set up a credit card surcharge program
  • Best practices to introduce a credit surcharge

Let’s dive in.

What Is a Surcharge Program?

A surcharge, sometimes called a checkout fee or service fee, is an additional fee that merchants can tack onto a customer’s bill to cover the costs of credit card processing. Usually, merchants absorb this expense. But with a surcharge program, customers pay for the convenience of using their credit card. At checkout, your customers are presented with a choice:

  • They can pay with credit and accept the extra fee (a surcharge can be equal to your effective rate for credit card transactions, but no more than 4% per transaction).
  • Or, they can pay with cash or debit and avoid the fee altogether.

That leads us to something else important: It’s only legal to add a surcharge to purchases made with a credit card. You can’t legally add an extra charge to debit card, cash, or check transactions to cover processing costs. You can only charge the stated price of your service or product. (We’ll dive deeper into surcharging rules and legality later!)

Surcharge Programs vs. Cash Discount Programs

If some of this is sounding familiar, you may be thinking of cash discounting. In a cash discount program, merchants give discounts to customers who pay with cash, debit, or check instead of charging a fee to customers who pay with credit. The amount of the discount is usually equal to the merchant’s credit card processing rate, like 2.9%. The main difference is that surcharges discourage customers from paying with a card by charging a fee, while cash discounts encourage customers to pay with other methods by offering a small discount.

How Do Credit Card Surcharges Benefit Your Business?

What is a surcharge: A receptionist works at a desk in an office

Businesses are frequently weighing options to lower their credit card processing expenses and to give their profits a boost. They may set a credit card minimum, raise prices, negotiate with their payment processor, or go looking for a new processor entirely. Some of those strategies work better than others. But here are three clear-cut ways surcharge programs could benefit your business:

They Offer a Fast, Effortless Revenue Boost

Surcharging allows merchants to take back the revenue lost to credit card processing costs. To understand the significance of the savings, let’s look at an example. Let’s say your eyecare clinic collects most of its revenue in two ways: $460,000 from medical insurer payments and $300,000 from credit card payments. On average, your clinic pays a 4% processing rate. That means you’re losing $12,000 each year to fees. Covering those costs with a small 4% surcharge puts over $10,000 back in your pocket on an annual basis.

They Lower Your Operating Costs

Surcharging programs are sometimes referred to as “free credit card processing” because they all but eliminate the expense of accepting credit cards. Beyond the daily savings, surcharges could be a lifeline to businesses struggling to stay afloat in times of economic hardship and uncertainty. For instance, small business revenue dropped 52% and payroll expenses dropped 54% in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and shutdown. Adding this small, additional cost to customers’ credit transactions can help businesses respond to a sudden lack of revenue without increasing their pricing and upsetting customers.

They Strengthen Businesses With Low Average Transaction Values

In industries that rely on low-price, high-volume purchases or small average order values (AOVs) — like restaurants and bars, convenience stores, and certain retailers — it can be challenging to make a profit on credit card transactions. Passing these fees along relieves financial pressure so businesses can focus on increasing purchases or raising their AOV. As you can see, there are many reasons a surcharge program could be a smart move. For many businesses, their annual savings will speak for themselves.

Are credit surcharge programs legal?

Yes, in most states. It all depends on where your business is located. As of early 2021, one U.S. territory and three states don’t allow credit card surcharges:

  • Puerto Rico
  • Colorado
  • Connecticut
  • Massachusetts

If you operate in multiple states, you can still surcharge credit transactions, but only in the states where it’s permitted. Even though credit card surcharges are legal, you may be wondering how customers will react to the additional cost. Will it make them spend less? Switch to a competitor? Accuse you of trying to overcharge them?Not really. Customers aren’t completely unfamiliar with surcharging. In the U.S., many small businesses extend lower prices to customers who are willing to pay in cash. For instance, gas stations regularly put fuel surcharges in place. As long as you’re transparent with your customers, they’ll understand that they can continue to pay with a debit card and cash or support your business with a small credit card fee.

Credit Card Surcharge Program Rules

A stack of credit cards

The subject of surcharging can seem complicated, but handling it properly comes down to a few important rules.

  1. You must register with the major card brands. You’ll have to send written notice to card brands like Mastercard, Visa, and Discover so they know that you’re imposing a surcharge on customers using their cards. American Express doesn’t require this. (And by the way, Nadapayments will handle this registration and setup for you.)
  2. Your surcharge can’t exceed 4% per transaction. Merchants can’t profit from this fee — it’s all about recouping processing costs. For example, if your customer pays $1,000 for dental fillings, the surcharge fee is capped at $40.
  3. You must make your customers aware of any surcharge fees. Merchants are required to use clear signage at their point of sale (POS) as well as their store entrance or online checkout page.
  4. Your receipts must show the credit card surcharge as a separate line item. You’re required to process the product or service price and the credit card fee on the same invoice but have two separate line items for each. That way, customers can clearly see and understand the individual charges.
  5. You can’t add surcharges to debit card payments. Surcharge programs are only for credit card purchases. You’ll have to cover the cost of debit card transactions, but there's goods news: It’s usually much lower than credit card rates. For instance, with the Nadapayments surcharge program, you only pay 1% plus $0.25 per transaction.

You don’t have to navigate these rules and legal considerations alone. We’ve done our homework at Nadapayments, staying up to date with changing surcharge rules so you can experience free credit card processing with peace of mind. You can confirm that your state is eligible and get answers to other FAQs on our Rules for Surcharging page.

Setting Up a Credit Card Surcharge Program

One of the best things about starting a surcharge program is that it’s uncomplicated. Here’s an overview of the process.

1. Shop for the Right Merchant Service Provider

First, you’ll need to go comparison shopping for the right merchant service provider (MSP). They’ll help you open a merchant account to accept credit card payments, if you aren’t already, and then get your business set up with surcharging. Here are some qualities of a top-notch MSP:

  • The latest in credit card processing technology
  • Experience with your particular industry or vertical
  • Excellent customer service, including 24/7 technical support
  • Five-star reviews from satisfied customers

Once you’ve found a stellar MSP, the bulk of the work is done.

2. Launch Your Credit Surcharge Program

The next and final step? Activate your surcharge program! At Nadapayments, we believe that your revenue belongs to you — not the credit card companies. We’ll help you select the right array of surcharging equipment and comply with all surcharging rules, while providing you with 24/7/365 customer support. There are no setup fees or hidden costs, just transparent surcharging. If you’re ready to save thousands of dollars every year in processing fees, get in touch with us today.

No matter if you run a small business or a large-scale company, you want to give your customers numerous payment options. Doing so helps ensure that you complete a sale. Failure to accept debit and credit card payments can impact your bottom line significantly. To accept debit cards and credit cards, you need to have payment processing machines. These machines include the physical card readers to chip read or swipe the credit cards themselves – or to accept tap and pay cards or Apple Pay — and the associated software to process the payment on the backend. In this article, we cover everything you need to know about credit card machines. This complete guide for businesses will cover the different types of machines available, what to consider when choosing one, and how much they cost. By the end of this article, you should have a much better idea of which credit card processor is right for your company.

What Are Credit Card Machines?

Credit card machines are devices used to process debit card and credit card payments. They are also referred to as:

  • Payment terminals
  • Point-of-sale system (also known as a POS system)
  • Credit card terminals

Credit card machines are responsible for scanning the card, authenticating it, and transmitting data to the associated processing software. During the authentication process, the terminal ensures that the card is not expired, stolen, or damaged. Doing so protects you as the merchant, ensuring that you receive funds for the transaction and do not give away your goods or services for free. Should the card be declined, you can cancel the sale. Another type of machine is a virtual terminal. A virtual terminal allows you to process credit card transactions without the card being physically present — either online or over the phone. Nadapayments offers a virtual terminal as part of its credit card processing solution.

How to Choose a Credit Card Machine

Credit card machine: A woman pays at a clothing store with a credit card

Not all credit card readers are the same, and the one that you choose will impact the checkout experience for your customers. There are a few factors that you'll want to consider so that you can choose the processing terminal that best meets your customer's needs.Below are some of the main criteria that you should consider when choosing a credit card machine for your business.

Connectivity Options

There are different connectivity options for these terminals that merchants need to be aware of. When a transaction goes out, it connects to a host for verification, so a credit card machine will need to connect to the internet to do that. Many of today's terminals connect via a cell phone network or Wi-Fi, which means retailers can process transactions from anywhere. There are also some card readers that connect to the internet via ethernet.

Payment Options

Different terminals also accept credit cards in different ways. At the most basic level, your credit card terminal should have a pin pad. Customers looking to use a debit card will need to enter their four-digit PIN on a keypad to process the transaction. Next, you need to make sure that customers can swipe their cards. Every debit and credit card has a magnetic stripe on the back. Your terminal needs to be able to read this magstripe, which contains the card information and prompts the authentication process. This is required for both debit and credit card payments. ​Though magstripes are the minimum standard, you may also want to consider accepting EMV chip cards. Instead of swiping, customers “dip” the EMV chip into the terminal. EMV chips create a unique transaction code for each purchase and are designed to be more secure than standard magstripes. EMV cards have become more popular, but not every card has one which is why a magstripe reader is still required. Additionally, if the terminal can’t read the chip for some reason, the customer can then still swipe the card for payment. Another feature that has grown in popularity over the past few years is the ability to accept contactless payments. With contactless payments, customers don't need to swipe or insert their card. Instead, they can tap their card to the terminal. Taking this even one step further, customers don't even need to carry credit cards anymore. Instead, they can upload their information into a mobile credit card wallet, like Apple Pay or Google Pay. When it's time to pay, the customer selects which card to use and then holds their phone up to the terminal. As long as your terminal has near-field communication (NFC) technology, it will accept the payment from the mobile phone. NFC devices have exploded in popularity and could be particularly useful for health care providers, where customers may not want to put their fingers on a physical payment terminal.

Security

Today's customers are more conscious of their personal information than ever. Security is of the utmost concern. At the very least, you need to make sure that you are PCI-compliant. PCI is short for the Payment Card Industry. The Payment Card Industry Security Standards Council sets Data Security Standards (DSS). The DSS seeks to protect both merchants and customers. All merchants who accept debit or credit card information are required to be PCI-compliant. Many of the best credit card machines and software meet these requirements, but it's worth double-checking to verify that this is indeed the case.

Accepted Credit Cards

You’ll also want to look at which cards your machine and credit card processor will accept. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted credit cards, though Discover and American Express (Amex) have made strides and become more popular over the past few years. For example, of those merchants in the United States who take credit cards, 99% now accept American Express. The total number of merchants accepting Amex in the United States grew from 3.7 million in 2014 to 10.6 million in 2019. The more options you give your customers, the more likely you are to complete a sale. For example, if you don't accept American Express and a customer only has an American Express card, you will need to cancel the sale. Ensuring that you can accept all major forms of payment is worth considering when implementing your credit card processing system. Similarly, if your business has gift cards, you'll want to make sure that you can accept and process these as well. You can usually set up credit card machines to do this.

Costs

The price of a physical credit card machine often ranges between $200 and $1,000. This does not include any software required to run transactions. However, you can find high-quality credit card processing terminals and software for as low as $35 per month.

The Best Credit Card Processing Machine Available

If your business is looking for a machine that makes it easy to accept debit and credit card payments, look no further than Nadapayments. Nadapayments provides merchants with a Wi-Fi-enabled EMV Quick Chip machine for in-person transactions. The machine can accept:

  • Visa
  • Mastercard
  • American Express
  • Discover
  • Apple Pay
  • Google Pay
  • Contactless payments

Merchants also receive access to a virtual terminal that can be used for online transactions or for taking payments over the phone. In addition, the Nadapayments mobile app provides you with a mobile point-of-sale system that you can take with you anywhere. Because Nadapayments offers a unified payment experience, you’ll be able to easily track all your transactions from either the app on the credit card machine or from the virtual terminal — no matter how you accepted the payment.Pricing for a Nadapayments terminal is only $35 per month — with no hidden costs or fees. On top of that, when you use Nadapayments, you’ll save money on processing fees.Typically, businesses are required to pay processing fees whenever a customer uses a credit card. These fees are approximately 3.5% of every transaction.But with Nadapayments’ surcharge program, these costs are passed onto the customer when they choose to pay with a credit card. Customers can avoid the extra fee by choosing to pay with cash or a debit card instead.Nadapayments even provides merchants with the signage required to convey this information to customers.

Use a Credit Card Machine for Your Business

A customer uses contactless payment at a coffee shop

As a business owner, you want to have numerous options for accepting payments. Limiting your customers to cash-only transactions can cut down on your ability to complete sales. It's important that you accept both credit and debit cards as well. To do this, you need to have a card processing terminal. There are many things to consider when it comes to choosing a credit card machine. A Wi-Fi-equipped machine allows you to complete transactions anywhere with an internet connection. EMV-equipped terminals ensure your customer's information is protected. The best credit card machine available today is through Nadapayments. Nadapayments is not only affordable, but it will save you money on your bottom line. When you sign up, you receive all of the equipment and signage you need. Getting started is simple, so get in touch with us today.

Data breaches and credit card fraud attacks have increasingly dominated the headlines, including the high-profile Yahoo, Equifax, and Blackbaud breaches. In 2020, a massive 37 billion records — like full names, addresses, credit card numbers, and Social Security numbers — were compromised, the largest number since 2005.The payments industry is fighting back against fraudsters with new tools like EMV technology. EMV cards (or “chip cards”) are more secure than traditional magnetic-stripe cards, making fraud and chargebacks much less likely. To avoid any fraud liability, merchants have to meet certain EMV requirements, whether you own a brick-and-mortar business or online store.In this guide, we’ll answer your EMV compliance questions and show you exactly how to protect your business and your card-holding customers.

What Does EMV Stand For?

EMV is an acronym that’s short for Europay, Mastercard, and Visa — the credit card networks that pioneered and implemented this secure technology. American Express and Discover, the other major U.S. card networks, are behind this push for payment security as well.EMV has actually been around for decades in other countries. Payment experts explain that the U.S. has always had a robust credit card system with plenty of anti-fraud steps, so there’s been less need for higher security measures. But with data breaches and fraud on the rise, there’s been a growing call to adopt EMV transactions.Now, EMV is a global credit card standard, using microchip technology to authenticate and secure card transactions and reduce the risk of fraud. According to EMVCo, over 80% of card-present transactions worldwide are conducted with EMV chip technology. U.S. merchants are still in the process of adopting EMV chip cards, with 63% of card-present transactions using EMV.We’ll also note that EMV cards go by several different names. They’re also referred to as:

  • Chip and PIN cards
  • Chip-enabled smart cards
  • Smart-chip cards
  • EMV smart cards

Next, let’s go over the different ways EMV chip cards safeguard payment data from end to end.

Is EMV the Same Thing As NFC?

EMV and near-field communication (NFC) often get confused because they both represent new, secure payment technologies available to merchants. However, they’re not interchangeable.EMV refers to chip cards, while NFC is a type of technology that lets people pay with their mobile devices, like smartphones and watches. It works by allowing devices to communicate with each other when they’re held close together, usually about two inches or less, which is why it’s often called a “contactless” payment solution. Apple Pay and Google Pay are two common examples of NFC apps.NFC was already on the rise, but it became even more popular during the COVID-19 pandemic, when businesses and customers were on the hunt for hands-free checkout options. It’s just as secure as EMV — transactions are encrypted using tokenization, making it virtually impossible for cybercriminals to access card information.

How Does EMV Technology Work?

EMV compliance: A woman at a juice bar accepts a credit card for payment

From a customer’s perspective, payment is simple — they insert (or “dip”) their card into the chip reader in your point-of-sale (POS) system and wait for their transaction to be completed in a few seconds.Behind the scenes, EMV technology is protecting your customer’s personal information — and by extension, your business — at every turn. As we mentioned earlier, an EMV card is a credit card or debit card with an embedded microchip. These computer chips can store more information than magnetic strips and can only be authenticated by special EMV card readers.When a customer initiates an EMV transaction, a unique, one-time-use transaction code is generated. Your small business never receives or transmits a customer’s actual card number. Even if a cybercriminal breaks into your POS system and steals EMV card information, they walk away empty-handed. They only get access to the random code created for the transaction, just a jumble of letters and numbers. Your cardholder’s actual card information is safe, encrypted, and inaccessible.

Why Is EMV Compliance So Important for Merchants?

We’ve broken down the what and why of EMV technology, but how exactly does the shift toward EMV cards affect your business? Mainly, you’ve got to have a payment system with POS terminals (in-store or virtual) that accept EMV cards.The reason? The 2015 EMV Liability Shift. It used to be that if you accepted a fraudulent payment, the banks absorbed the costs. But in 2011, the major credit card companies set an October 1, 2015 deadline for merchants to start using EMV-enabled POS systems for in-person purchases. As a result, liability for fraud shifted to the party that wasn’t EMV-ready. In other words, you could be on the hook for fraudulent purchases with chip cards if you don’t meet EMV compliance requirements.There is, however, an exception for gas stations. As of early 2021, the deadline has been extended to April 2021 to accommodate the added costs and time needed to upgrade the payment terminals in their fuel pumps.Let’s look at an example. Say you own a cosmetic surgery center and a client comes in for a rhinoplasty that costs $5,409. The customer pays with a stolen or counterfeit EMV credit card. If you don’t use an EMV card reader to process the transaction, you may be responsible for the full $5,409 charge — not the credit card issuer, bank, or payment processor. That’s a hefty chunk of change for any business, but merchants offering high-cost services and products are particularly vulnerable.Before we continue, it’s important to note there’s no law or mandate that says merchants have to accept EMV transactions. There isn’t anything illegal about not using EMV-compatible card readers. However, if you don’t meet EMV compliance standards, there’s no question that your business and customers are at risk. Fraudsters don’t just go after large corporations and Fortune 500 companies. Over 40% of cyberattacks target small businesses, and 60% of small companies close within six months of being hacked.The good news is that maintaining your EMV compliance really works. Visa recently reported that merchants who accepted EMV cards saw a whopping 76% decrease in counterfeit fraud.

How Do You Become EMV Compliant?

A woman inserts a credit card into a credit card machine

Customers are quickly adopting EMV cards. One poll found that 70% of U.S. credit cardholders now carry an EMV chip card. So, if you want to avoid costly fraud liability and give your customers a secure way to pay, it’s time to invest in EMV.It’s easy. All you need to do is upgrade your POS system — your credit card terminals or mobile card readers — to support EMV transactions. EMV is the gold standard for safe card processing, so most merchant services providers offer a variety of affordable payment solutions.For example, Nadapayments can get you set up with a Wi-Fi-enabled EMV terminal for as little as $35 per month. Plus, with Nadapayments’ surcharge program, you won’t pay any processing fees on credit card transactions, saving you thousands and increasing your bottom line.

Get Peace of Mind With EMV Compliance

Cybercriminals are constantly evolving their methods of attack, but so is the payment industry. Using EMV-compliant terminals is one of the smartest moves your business can make to ensure your data is protected 24/7/365. Ready to upgrade? Get in touch with us to learn about our EMV-ready payment solutions.

The average American spent $456 per month just on health insurance in 2020. With medical costs continuing to rise, you want to give your patients flexibility in how they pay for your services. One way is by accepting credit card payments. A medical credit card is a type of credit card offered by practices to help patients pay for health care expenses. If you're a medical provider or a health-centered business, you may find yourself wondering whether you should offer or accept these cards as forms of payment.Below, we'll explain what medical credit cards are and why they may not be your best option. We’ll also introduce you to a better credit card processing solution.

What Is a Medical Credit Card?

A medical credit card is a lending option designed to help cardholders pay for medical procedures and services. These cards offer promotional periods and special financing options to cardholders — such as payment plans with deferred interest charges, 0% intro APRs, or low interest rates — so cardholders don’t have to pay the entire balance of their medical bill at once. Medical credit cards are similar to regular credit cards. Prospective cardholders have to apply and have a good credit score (a minimum FICO score of 670). However, medical credit cards typically don't offer perks to cardholders like cash back or travel rewards. There are two primary medical credit card issuers:

  1. CareCredit
  2. Wells Fargo Health Advantage Card

As a health care provider, you have to sign up with these credit card issuers to be able to accept their credit card. However, before you decide to sign up, it's best to consider the whole picture.

The Problems With Medical Credit Cards

A patient signs up for a medical credit card

Medical credit cards may seem like an easy way for your business to get paid for the services you provide. But there are some disadvantages that are worth considering when determining whether to accept these forms of payment.

Not Widely Used

The biggest problem with medical credit cards is that they are not widely used. As we mentioned previously, there are only two options available, CareCredit and the Wells Fargo Health Advantage card. They are not as well-known or accepted as your standard Visa, Mastercard, Discover, or American Express cards. Also, if you already accept credit cards for payment, you can’t process medical credit cards through your regular point-of-sale system. The medical credit card company provides you with a special portal that is to be used only with their cards. This means your office staff would have to learn yet another system rather than using one payment processor for all transactions.

Patient Sign-Up Needed

Since these cards aren’t widely used, it’s likely your patients will need to sign up and receive approval for the card. When you decide to accept a medical credit card, you’re encouraged to sign up your patients at your practice. Your office staff is already busy, so making sales pitches and getting patients approved for a credit card is just one more thing to add to their plate.You’re looking for solutions to make your practice run more smoothly, not ones that will give you more work to do.In addition to the extra work for you, your patients may not like hearing a sales pitch when they are trying to pay their bill or schedule a procedure. Plus, your patients may not be interested in adding another credit card to their wallet, especially one with such limited usability.You're likely better off sticking with payment options that patients already know and are comfortable with.

Not All Procedures Are Covered

Another disadvantage to medical credit cards is that not all procedures are covered. For instance, the Wells Fargo card is only available for:

  • Dentistry practices
  • Audiologists
  • Optometrists
  • Veterinarians

CareCredit covers many cosmetic surgeries and procedures like Lasik. But it does not cover all emergency procedures. So, there's a chance that the lender will not cover all of the procedures that your practice offers.

Processing Fees

When a patient uses a medical credit card to pay their bill, your medical practice will be charged a processing fee. These fees cut into your bottom line. For example, let's say that a procedure costs $10,000, and the medical credit card company charges a 3.5% processing fee. That means you owe $350. This processing fee equals less revenue in your pocket, as you’re now only making $9,650 on that procedure.

The Best Alternative: A Surcharge Program

Medical credit cards can be more trouble than they're worth. Accepting regular credit cards will be more popular and convenient for your patients. Over 191 million Americans have a credit card, making it a far more widespread and available payment option. The one downside to accepting regular credit cards is that you’ll still be on the hook for processing fees. That is, of course, unless you use a surcharge program — the cheapest way to accept credit card payments. With a surcharge program, if your patient chooses to pay with a credit card, they are responsible for covering the cost of the processing fees. The patient is simply paying for the convenience of using a credit card.This gives your practice a revenue boost, allowing you to keep every penny for your services.With a surcharge program, a patient has two options:

  1. They can pay with a credit card and accept the extra fee, which is 3.5% of the transaction. Remember the example that we cited earlier, where you only got to keep $9,650 out of a $10,000 bill? With this option, you would get the full $10,000, and the patient would pay a total of $10,350 for the medical procedure.
  2. They can pay upfront with a debit card or cash, avoiding the processing fee altogether.

When you use Nadapayments for your credit card processing, your surcharge program will be built right in. We’ll even make set up a breeze and provide you with the necessary signage to keep your customers informed.Plus, with Nadapayments, you can swipe credit cards in-person or accept online payments, giving you and your patients even more flexibility.

Are Medical Credit Card Payments Right for Your Practice?

A patient pays with a credit card at a doctor's office

With increasing medical expenses, patients are continually looking for new ways to pay for procedures. As a health care provider, it makes sense that you would want to offer as many payment options as possible. However, one option that you may want to avoid is medical credit cards. Simply put, there are too many stipulations attached to these cards, especially when there are more straightforward and revenue-friendly options available. Instead, accepting regular credit cards and using a surcharge program is a win-win for your patients and your business. Your patients are likely already using credit cards, so they don’t need to sign up for something new. And so long as you use Nadapayments for credit card processing, you’ll keep up to 4% of every transaction, boosting your revenue. Plus, you never have to worry about hidden costs or set up fees.If you’re ready to add money back to your bottom line, get in touch with us today.

How can a credit card surcharge program boost profits at your hair loss treatment center?It’s simple math, really. Because hair loss treatment is only covered by insurance if a medical condition has caused the hair loss, many of your clients pay out of pocket. Many clients will opt to use a credit card when paying for this treatment (which can cost anywhere from $4,000 to $15,000).That means you must pay processing fees. And these fees can cost an average of 3.5% per transaction. That means paying anywhere from $140–$525 per client in processing fees. That’s ridiculous. And it’s undoubtedly hurting your business. But we have some excellent news.You can eliminate credit card processing fees at your hair loss treatment center. You just need to implement the right credit card surcharge program.

First, what is a credit card surcharge program?

A credit card surcharge program works by adding a fee to customers’ bills each time they pay with credit. This covers the fees credit card companies charge each time a merchant processes a client’s credit card payment. Traditionally, your hair loss treatment center would’ve paid this transaction fee. With credit card surcharge fees, you can offset the impact of processing fees on your bottom line.But—you can also give your clients a choice: if they don’t want to pay with credit, they can pay with debit or cash instead. If they pay with cash, then it’s a win-win for everyone because there are no fees involved. And if they pay with debit, you have to pay a much lower fee (usually less than 1%).Credit card surcharge programs have been around for some time. If you want to set up a credit card surcharge program, you must follow specific rules (more on this later).

Why you should want a credit card surcharge program at your hair loss treatment center

Think of all you’ve invested in having your hair renewal and transplant center.You’ve complete 10+ years of schooling and training. You obtained your bachelor’s degree and a four-year doctorate and slogged through residency. You also got certified by the American Board of Medical Specialties. Needless to say, you’ve invested a lot of time into your practice. You’ve also spent a great deal of money to start your hair restoration business. Besides graduating with an average of more than $200,000 in student debt, doctors can pay well more than $100,000 to open a medical practice. On top of that, hair-loss treatment centers require specific technologies and equipment. Hair restoration equipment and technology, such as restoration robotics and follicular unit extraction technology, can be quite expensive. And in addition to technology and equipment costs, you have ongoing expenses, including labor, rent, insurance, marketing, legal, and more. It all adds up, and you have a lot on the line. Considering your investment, you want to look after your finances carefully. That begins with making sure you aren’t throwing money out the window. And paying too much in credit card processing fees is letting money fly out the window. This is why you need a credit card surcharge program. It will make you more financially sustainable so that you can continue to care for your patients and provide them with the benefits of hair loss treatment.

How much does your hair loss treatment center pay in processing fees?

It helps to put the impact of a credit card surcharge program into actual numbers. From nose job clinics to eye care centers, we’ve seen the financial benefits of offsetting credit card fees across all areas of the medical industry. Hair loss treatment centers can enjoy those same benefits. To get a closer look at the benefits of having a credit card surcharge program, let’s start with a realistic example. Let’s say:

  • Your hair loss treatment center does 150 restoration and transplant procedures per year.
  • The average cost per treatment or procedure is $9,000. Your yearly revenue from restoration and transplant treatment is $1,350,000.
  • On that $1,350,000 in revenue, you earn a profit of $250,000. You’re doing well, but you could be doing better.
  • 60% of your revenue comes via credit card payments. The rest is a mix of cash and insurance payments. That means $810,000 of your revenue is subject to credit card processing fees.
credit card transaction fees

After you calculate other fees, like the payment processor markup, average credit card fees can average over 3% and even reach 3.5%.

  • You pay an average credit card processing fee of 3.5% on that $810,000. That’s a total of $28,350 in transaction fees per year.

Now, your profits are $250,000. Per year, you pay $28,350 in credit card transaction fees. Imagine if you could implement a credit card surcharge program that gets rid of those processing fees. You’d make $28,350 more per year. That increases your profits from $250,000 to $278,350. That’s a salary increase of 11.3%! And all you had to do was change the way you accept payments. With that extra money on hand, think of what you could do. You could:

  • Expand your hair loss treatment center.
  • Save more for retirement.
  • Take a nicer vacation.
  • Pay off personal debt.

The point is this: That money should be in your wallet—not going to a credit card company.

Can your hair loss treatment center implement a credit card surcharge program?

Now, you may be wondering:

  • Is a credit card surcharge program legal?
  • Can my center use a credit card surcharge program?

The short answer is yes to both questions. Credit card surcharge programs are legal in 46 states in America. You currently can’t assess credit card surcharges if you operate in Connecticut, Colorado, Kansas, or Massachusetts, but that could change soon. Our page here has the latest updates on credit card surcharge rules and regulations. Now, you may worry if surcharge programs will upset your hair loss treatment clients. The answer is no. While your patients will have to pay a surcharge for using a credit card, they can save money by paying with cash or debit. As long as you follow the rules and are honest, your customers will appreciate having options. They can choose the convenience of swiping the card or save money by paying with cash. There are some rules you must follow when using a credit card surcharge program. These help with ensuring your clients have full transparency into how you accept payments. To comply with surcharge regulations, your hair restoration and transplant business must:

  • Accept major credit cards.
  • Display signage showing credit card fees.
  • Not assess a credit card fee greater than 4%.
  • Process the credit card fee and service together, with the fee listed separately.
  • Not apply a fee to payments made with debit cards.

As long as you follow those rules, your hair loss treatment center can enjoy the benefits of a credit card surcharge program. Over five to ten years, you could have more than $100,000 back into your wallet just by getting a surcharge program.

Ready to offset credit card processing fees?

Your hair restoration and transplant clinic can boost profits overnight with a credit card surcharge program. Each year, you could increase your salary by 10% or more. That’s simply too good of an opportunity to pass up. At NadaPayments, we’re ready to help you implement a credit card surcharge program. Our surcharge solution is best in class with:

  • 24/7/365 support: We’re always prepared to help you get the most out of our surcharge program. Contact us anytime.
  • Full transparency: We provide clear signage. Your customers will understand there's a 3.5% credit surcharge and learn how to save by paying with cash or debit card.
  • No setup costs: We have no hidden charges, and our virtual terminal is free. Our smart terminal works with most credit card installment plans and costs $35 per month. If you aren’t satisfied, you can cancel anytime.
  • Flexible payment processing: Our solution supports mobile, online, and virtual terminal credit card processing.

Our credit card surcharge program is 100% legally compliant and ready to be installed immediately. By next week, your hair loss treatment center could say goodbye to processing fees for good. Ready for NadaPayments’ credit card surcharge program? Dial +1 (929) 293-1800 or click the link below.

I Want The BEST Credit Card Surcharge Program

What if you could immediately boost profits at your medical business by 10% or more? And you don’t have to do all that much. You’re probably thinking, “I’m interested. But this isn’t possible.”Think again. We have some good news: a credit card surcharge program can boost your bottom line by double digits overnight. That’s because, with a credit card surcharge program, when clients pay for skin tightening, teeth whitening, or another cosmetic procedure, transaction fees won’t affect your bottom line. It’s like having free credit card processing. Want to learn more?In this article, you’ll get all you need to know about credit card surcharge programs for cosmetic surgery centers. Whether you specialize in skin tightening or nose jobs, your clinic can benefit from this payment strategy.

Wait, is it legal to surcharge on credit cards?

Credit card surcharge programs are legal in the vast majority of states. Merchants operating in a state where the program is legal can implement a surcharge program to get rid of credit card processing fees. However, remember surcharge programs aren’t legal everywhere. So the better question may be: what states don't have credit card surcharges? The following four states don’t allow credit card surcharges (as of early 2021):

  • Connecticut
  • Colorado
  • Kansas
  • Massachusetts

So, is it legal to surcharge on credit cards? The answer is yes for businesses in every state except four. If you live in a state that allows surcharging, you can implement a credit card surcharge for services you offer, whether that be skin tightening or stretch mark removal.

Note; State laws on how merchants can accept payments change frequently. Check our webpage covering the rules for credit card surcharging to stay updated on the latest news regarding surcharging programs.

If you implement a credit card surcharge program, know there are rules you must follow when accepting payments for services like skin tightening. This is for fairness and transparency.

Credit card surcharge program rules

If you want to apply a surcharge to credit card payments at your cosmetic or plastic surgery center, understand there are rules and regulations to follow. Write these five down and remember to adhere to them at all times.

  1. Have clear signage, so your patients know they’ll pay a surcharge if using a credit card. Transparency with surcharge programs is not only necessitated by law, but your patients will also appreciate it.
  2. The surcharge fee can’t exceed 4%. For instance, if your customer pays $2,200 for nonsurgical skin tightening, the surcharge fee cannot exceed $88.
  3. No surcharges are allowed for debit card payments. For debit card transactions, you have to pay the fee (though it’s not too high). For example, with NadaPayments’ surcharge program, merchants such as skin tightening clinics pay a fee of 1% plus $0.25 per transaction.
  4. Major credit card brands must be accepted. Your customers will appreciate this.
  5. You must process the service/product and the surcharge on the same payment invoice. However, those two charges must be on separate lines on the receipt. This ensures transparency for your clients. They’ll know the individual price of the surcharge and the service.

How can a credit card surcharge program boost profits by $20,000+?

It’s simple math. If you avoid credit card fees of roughly 3% per transaction, you’ll save $3,000 on every $100,000 of credit card payments. That’s $30,000 per year if $1,000,000 of your revenue comes from patients swiping the card. The reality is, whether you specialize in skin tightening, teeth whitening, or another medical field, chances are a large portion of your revenue comes from credit card payments. This is for two reasons:

  1. Most insurances don’t cover cosmetic and aesthetic procedures. Patients have to pay out of pocket.
  2. Cosmetic procedures, such as skin tightening and breast reduction, cost a lot of money. As Federal Reserve research notes, credit card usage rates rise as transaction values rise. So, your clients are more likely to pay with a credit card.

As a medical business owner, you have plenty of financial incentive to eliminate processing fees. To see the benefits of a credit card surcharge program, let’s do an example of a skin tightening clinic.

The example of the skin tightening clinic

Say you perform intense skin tightening treatment for a client. They decide to pay for the service all at once with a credit card. The price is $2,200, just around the average cost for nonsurgical skin tightening (obviously, costs will vary based on the method used, whether it’s radiofrequency, infrared light, laser technology, etc.).If you don’t have a surcharge program in place, your clinic will eat the processing fee. That means you would only receive about $2,130 from that skin tightening treatment.

credit card transaction fees

As you see in the chart above, credit card fees can average around 3% and sometimes reach 3.5% once you add in other fees.

You may think, “That’s only $60-$70 per skin tightening client. What’s the big deal?” Add up those fees over the course of a year, and you’ll see how much processing fees hurt your income.

  • If 300 of your patients pay with a credit card for their skin tightening treatment, $660,000 of your revenue comes from clients swiping the card.
  • If your effective rate, or average transaction fee, is 3.5%, then you pay $23,100 in credit card processing fees every year. That’s way too much!

What if you could get rid of those fees with a credit surcharge program?

  • You’d earn $23,100 more per year from skin tightening treatments.
  • If profits at your skin tightening clinic haven’t reached $200,000, then a credit surcharge program would boost your profits by 11.55%.

Do you see the benefit of having a credit card surcharge program?

Getting started with a credit surcharge program

Before implementing a credit surcharge program, you may have a few questions:What should my surcharge be? Your credit card surcharge should be based on your effective rate, which is the average fee you pay per transaction. This varies for every merchant, from skin tightening clinics to breast augmentation centers. Take time to calculate this so that it’s accurate and fair. It should be around 3-3.5%. Will a surcharge program anger clients?The short answer is no. The only thing is that you must be transparent about your surcharge program. Your customers will appreciate your honesty. They’ll also like the flexibility of being able to pay conveniently with a credit card or save by paying with cash or debit. It’s a win-win scenario for you and your clients. What payment processors have credit card surcharge programs?Search for no-cost credit card processors or credit card surcharge program providers, and you’ll find plenty of companies. Some of these merchant service providers (MSPs) are better than others. Since many of these processing companies still charge a lot in the form of software and hardware fees, customer service fees, subscription charges, and more, it’s vital that you shop around and compare rates. Know you can negotiate fees with MSPs, especially if you have high revenue (most cosmetic surgery clinics have lots of revenue).

The best credit card surcharge program

Whether you have a skin tightening clinic, rhinoplasty center, or facelift business, you can increase profits overnight with a credit card surcharge program. In fact, you could earn 10% or more per year. Just think of what you could do with that extra money in your hand. You could save more for retirement, take a nicer vacation, expand your medical business, and more. The point is this: That money belongs to you—not the credit card companies. At NadaPayments, we pride ourselves on having the best credit card surcharge program you can find. We have:

  1. Transparent surcharges: When a customer pays with a credit card, they pay a 3.5% surcharge. This is clearly marked for your clients.
  2. No setup costs: We have no hidden charges for our merchants. Our smart terminal, which works with most credit card installment plans, is only $35 per month. Our virtual terminal is free. Even better, you can cancel anytime.
  3. 24/7/365 support: We’re always here to help you get the most out of our credit card surcharge program.
  4. Mobile, online, and virtual terminal credit card processing: When your clients get skin tightening, rhinoplasty, or another service at your clinic, they can enjoy the convenience of paying in-person, over-the-phone, or online.

100% legally compliant, our credit card surcharge program can be set up immediately. Before next week, you can eliminate processing fees forever. And your medical business can become more profitable. Ready to implement the best credit card surcharge program? Call NadaPayments at +1 (929) 293-1800 or click the link below.

I Want the BEST Credit Card Surcharge Program

What is a credit surcharge program? And why do you, a small business owner, need it?A credit surcharge program is a strategy merchants can use to offset credit card processing fees. If the customer pays with a credit card, merchants add a fee to cover those fees. This way, transaction fees that go to the likes of Chase Bank, Visa, and others don’t end up hurting the business. Now, you may think, “What’s the big deal? Why do I need a credit surcharge program if it’s just a small fee?”Here’s why: when you actually crunch the numbers, you’ll see those fees kill your bottom line. Consider this example. You operate a rhinoplasty and plastic surgery clinic. Each year, you bring in $1,500,000 from all your procedures. To pay their bills, your patients frequently use credit cards. $750,000, or half of your revenue, comes from credit card transactions. If you pay an average fee of 3.5% on that revenue, you pay $26,250 per year just in credit card processing fees. A credit surcharge program, if used correctly, eliminates the problem of transaction fees. We’ll go over all you need to know below.

Are credit surcharge programs legal for my business?

Yes, credit surcharge programs are legal. They’ve been around for some time.Most likely, you can implement a credit surcharge program at your business, whether you run a rhinoplasty center or a clothing shop. Note: credit surcharge programs are currently legal in 46 states. The only four states where credit surcharges are illegal are Colorado, Massachusetts, Kansas, and Connecticut. Rules constantly change, so stay updated by checking our page that covers all the credit surcharge program rules. Before you implement a credit surcharge program, there are few guidelines you must follow:

  1. You must have clear signage showing your customers that you use a credit surcharge program.
  2. No merchant can assess a surcharge greater than 4% of the purchase price. For instance, if someone buys a piece of clothing for $50, you can assess a surcharge of up to $2.
  3. You can’t assess a surcharge if your client pays with a debit card. With debit card transactions, you have to pay the transaction fee. With Nadapayments’ surcharge solution, the merchant pays a 1% fee plus $0.25 per transaction.
  4. Your payment system must work with the major credit card brands.
  5. You must surcharge, and products/services must be processed together on the same receipt, being sure to show a separate charge for the surcharge.

As long as you’re in a state that allows credit surcharge programs and your company follows the rules, you can use a surcharge solution to get rid of transaction fees. Over time, the positive effects on your company’s bottom line will be substantial.

How much money can I save with a credit surcharge program?

Know that you can boost profits considerably with a credit surcharge program. But before we go through the numbers, let’s answer a few questions that you may have about implementing a credit surcharge program:

  • How much should your surcharge be? Whether you operate a rhinoplasty clinic or run a donut shop, your credit surcharge fee should reflect the effective rate of your credit card processing fees (which is the average CC fee you pay per transaction). This is probably between 3–4%.
  • Will a surcharge program push away customers? No! If anything, customers will appreciate the flexibility. They can save money by paying with cash or debit, or opt for the convenience of the credit card. Many will appreciate the transparency with your pricing too.

Overall, the benefits of a surcharge solution make such a program a must. The exact dollar value of a credit surcharge program varies by your type of business and how your customers prefer to pay. But every business sees a boost to their bottom line. At Nadapayments, merchants who partner with us have seen profits increase by $10,000 and more. For instance, let’s say your luxury fashion boutique does $1 million in sales per year, with $500,000 of that revenue being processed via credit card payments. If your effective rate is 3.5%, that means you pay $17,500 per year in credit card transaction fees. Eliminate those fees, and you’d have $17,500 more per year in your pocket.To give you an even better idea, look over the example below of a rhinoplasty and plastic surgery clinic.

The rhinoplasty and plastic surgery center example

For this example, let’s assume the following:

  • You have your own rhinoplasty center. The cost of a nose job at your center is just around the national average of $5,500.
  • You do 200 rhinoplasty procedures per year. That’s $1,100,000 per year in revenue.

Congrats, you’re doing quite well. But you could be doing better. Since insurance doesn’t typically cover rhinoplasty, most of your patients pay out-of-pocket. Considering the high cost of a rhinoplasty procedure, many of your patients probably choose to set up a payment plan with automatic credit card payments. As research from the Federal Reserve research shows, as the value of a transaction increases, the more likely a customer is to use a credit card. Considering all that, here’s how much credit card fees are impacting your financials:

  • 65% of your revenue comes from credit card payments. That means $715,000 of your revenue is subject to credit card fees.
  • If you pay a 3.5% average fee per transaction, you pay $25,025 per year in credit card fees. That’s way too much.

Now, think if you could eliminate those credit card fees completely. Your income from your rhinoplasty center would jump $25,025. If you make $200,000 per year (which is solid), your income will rise to $225,025. That’s an increase of 12.5%! You may be wondering, “Is it really that easy to boost profits by 12.5%?”The answer is yes. All you have to do to see that much more money in your pocket is implement a credit surcharge program.Just think of all that you could do with that extra $25K. You could:

  • Save more for retirement.
  • Put away money for your children’s college.
  • Take a nicer vacation.
  • Expand your rhinoplasty business and help more patients.

The point is this: that money belongs to you—not the credit card companies. So, take the step to take home 100% of your revenue by using a surcharge solution.

Ready for free credit card processing?

Whether you have a rhinoplasty center, eCommerce store, or ice cream shop, you can boost profits overnight simply by implementing a credit surcharge program. In fact, you could earn more than $25,000 more per year. How can you pass up that opportunity?At Nadapayments, we’re ready to help you make the most out of credit surcharge programs. Our solution easily integrates with your credit card installment plan and has all the capabilities you need, including mobile, online, and virtual terminal credit card processing. Even better, we can set up your credit surcharge program in days. Before next week, you can say goodbye to credit card processing fees for good. And you can make your business more financially sustainable. Ready to enjoy all the benefits of a credit surcharge program? Contact us at +1 (929) 293-1800 or click the link below.

I Want FREE Credit Card Processing

What if you could make 10% more from your hair removal business by making one change today? You may be wondering: is that even possible?Well, it is. You don’t even need new customers. And it won’t even take too much of your time. First, take a look at your revenue and how payments are made at your hair removal clinic. You’ll notice something: credit card transactions. With each transaction, you pay fees up to 4%! That’s ridiculous and unacceptable. Take those credit card fees away, and recalculate your profits. You’ll notice something: they’ve gone up by more than 10%! That brings us to the point of this article. We want to show you how to get free credit card processing and help your hair removal clinic earn more. In this article, we’ll tell you all your need to know about zero fee credit card processing for your hair removal salon.

Why your hair removal business should care about credit card processing fees

Whether you’re selling hair removal devices, run a wax center, or have a laser hair removal clinic, you’ve entered a good market. The hair removal devices market size is expected to reach $3.4 billion by 2025. Hair removal services generate billions per year, as well. The point is this: there are ample opportunities to make good money. Why squander it by paying too much in credit card transaction fees?More importantly, you’re helping people. Hair removal provides many benefits. It helps avoid ingrown hairs, softens the skin, and improves appearance and confidence. Again, the point is clear: you want to continue helping clients. To do that, you need to take care of your finances. Why let credit card transaction fees hurt your finances?Additionally, you’ve made a big investment to start your hair removal business.

  • Startup costs can easily exceed $100,000, especially if you need a laser hair removal system. You also have ongoing expenses, such as labor, rent, inventory, marketing, equipment, and insurance.
  • You probably spent a lot of time and money getting education, training, and certification from an organization like the Society for Clinical and Medical Hair Removal.
  • You had to obtain licenses and permits, and you must continually adhere to salon protocols.

Simply put, you’ve worked too hard to let something like credit card fees hurt your business. Here’s what you need to know: you can get rid of credit card processing fees and increase your hair removal company’s profits by more than 10%.

How much does your hair removal business pay in credit card fees?

Obviously, exact amounts vary among hair removal businesses. But we can say that, for most hair removal clinics, profits jump by 10% if you eliminate credit card fees. Calculate how much you pay in fees and see.To make this more clear for you, let’s do an example. Your hair removal clinic brings in $400,000 in revenue per year. After all expenses, including taxes, you have $80,000 left in profits. That’s solid and above the average beauty salon owner’s salary, which is $75,000 per year.Now, let’s say 60% of your revenue comes from credit card payments. That’s $240,000 per year subject to credit card processing fees. As research from ValuePenguin shows, credit card payment network fees can easily exceed 3%.

credit card transaction fees

There are other fees involved with a credit card payment, including the interchange fee (paid to the bank) and the assessment fee (paid to the brand). You also have the payment provider markup. Add it all together, and an average credit card processing fee of 3.5% per transaction is common for hair removal business owners. So, on $240,000 worth of hair removal salon revenue, you pay 3.5% in fees. That’s a total of $8,400 in credit card processing fees per year. What if you had free credit card processing? Your profits would jump from $80,000 to $88,400. That’s an increase of 10.5%!Clearly, independent businesses like your hair removal clinic need cheap credit card processing. It will make your salon much more profitable. The good thing is that zero fee credit card processing is possible. We’ll show you how you can get it.

Step 1: Find a better payment processor

Follow these steps to get the best merchant service provider (MSP) for your hair removal business:

  • Choose pass-through pricing: Avoid tiered pricing. Because you can’t always know how transactions will be categorized, you’ll often end up paying more than expected. Pass-through pricing charges you directly and is therefore much more transparent (and nearly always cheaper).
  • Know the fees: Look for MSPs with the lowest overall fees. When comparing, remember to add up the interchange fee, network fee, assessment fee, and MSP markup. Know you can negotiate the MSP markup to further reduce costs. Narrow down to three of the most affordable payment processors.
  • Examine the services: Don’t go with the cheapest MSP. Choose an affordable payment processor with quality hardware and software, good customer service, solid security, and all the payment capabilities you need, such as in-person point-of-sale, virtual terminal credit card processing (online), and mobile payment processing.

By negotiating with affordable, high-quality MSPs that offer pass-through pricing, you ensure your hair removal business gets the best possible payment processor. That will save you money and provide your clients with a better experience.

Step 2: Use a credit surcharge program

Even if your hair removal business has the best possible payment processor, you’ll still be paying credit card transaction fees. So, do you offset those fees to get to zero-fee credit card processing? Enter the credit surcharge program, your strategy to eliminate the impact of credit card fees on your finances. Here’s how it works:

  • A patient comes to your clinic for hair removal. They have the option to pay any way they want, but you have a credit surcharge program in place (marked by signage).
  • When the client makes a payment for hair removal services or a hair removal device, you give them a choice:
  • Save money by paying with cash or debit card.
  • Choose the convenience of a credit card and pay a fee to cover the processing fees. At NadaPayments, for instance, clients paying with a credit card pay a 3.5% fee, which offsets the impact of credit card fees on your bottom line.

Credit surcharge programs are 100% legal, thanks to the Dodd-Frank Act. Your hair removal clinic can utilize this strategy to stop the impact of processing fees and boost profits. Even better, a surcharge program will be welcomed by clients, as they can save money by paying with cash or debit card.

Ready for free credit card processing?

With a surcharge program, you give clients the convenience of using a credit card or the chance to save by paying with cash or debit. You also help your hair removal business avoid credit card fees. As you can see, credit surcharge solutions are truly win-win. At NadaPayments, we’re ready to help your hair removal clinic get free credit card processing. Our surcharge solution integrates with your credit card installment plans and only takes a day to implement. Free credit card processing is just a click away for your hair removal business. Call us at +1 (929) 293-1800 or click the link below.

I Want FREE Credit Card Processing

“How can I avoid credit card processing fees?”That’s the $20,000 per year question. Perhaps you run a laser eye surgery center and think that credit card transaction fees are part of the cost of helping others. You know the process: pay 3–4% in fees each time your patient pays with a credit card. It’s time you see a little clearer. Did you know you can get rid of credit card processing fees? You don’t have to lose hard-earned money to the bank and payment networks like Visa and Mastercard. You can keep 100% of your revenue. Now, you may be wondering: “How much will avoiding credit card processing fees help my business?” The answer? More than you think. From dermatologist offices to laser eye surgery clinics, we regularly see medical businesses boost profits by 10% or more just by eliminating credit card transaction fees. Have your attention now? In this guide, we’ll cover how you can pay zero CC fees with better medical payment processing. With just three simple, quick steps, you can avoid credit card processing fees forever.

1. Know how much you pay in credit card processing fees

How can I avoid credit card processing fees?That’s the question you wish to answer for your laser eye surgery center, treatment center, pediatrician’s office, or other healthcare facilities. To avoid credit card processing fees successfully, you must know the damage. It may be more than you think. First, consider the average credit card processing fee.

credit card transaction fees

Source

In addition to the network fee, you have to pay an interchange fee to the card-issuing bank, an assessment fee to the card-issuing brand, and a processor markup to your medical payment processor. Altogether, you may pay an average of 3.5% in fees per credit card transaction. Second, let’s examine how much of your revenue comes from credit card transactions. Different medical practices vary, as what insurance covers depends on your patients, the type of healthcare service you provide, and the cost of those services. For instance, if you specialize in rhinoplasty, chances are your patients have to pay out of pocket because nose jobs are elective surgeries. Given that the cost of a nose job exceeds $5,400, many of your patients probably set up a medical payment plan and pay their monthly installments with a credit card. In such a situation, it’s possible 70% of your revenue comes from patients swiping the credit card. Now, if you brought in $800,000 per year from rhinoplasty procedures, that means $560,000 of your revenue would come from credit card payments. If you pay an average CC transaction fee of 3.5%, that means you pay $19,600 per year in fees! That’s way too much. Add up the numbers at your healthcare organization, and you’ll see you pay a lot in CC fees. You don’t have to accept this.

The laser eye surgery clinic example

Think of all that you’ve invested in getting to where you are. For example, if you’ve entered the eye care field, you did four years of undergraduate study, followed by an additional four years of education and training to become a Doctor of Optometry. To pay for your education, you may have worked part-time, used hard-earned savings, and taken out student loans (optometrists graduate with an average student loan debt of $173,000). On top of that, you have startup costs associated with your laser eye surgery center, which can range from low six figures to a million-plus. Ongoing costs, which include rent, insurance, taxes, supplies, equipment, and labor, can reach $800,000 per year, according to CompHealth data. After all, specialized equipment and paying optometrists cost a lot of money. Needless to say, you have a lot at stake. So, you should be wondering, “How can I avoid credit card processing fees?” Because you shouldn’t let something like credit card fees hurt the financial sustainability of your laser eye surgery clinic. To give you extra motivation to get cheaper credit card processing, consider this example:

  • Your laser eye surgery center brings in $1,000,000 per year in revenue. Your income is $130,000 per year, around the optometrist salary average.
  • Since laser eye surgery, also known as LASIK, costs an average of $2,200 per eye, clients probably pay in installments with a credit card. Most insurances don’t cover laser eye surgery, as it’s mostly an elective procedure. Let’s say 60% of your revenue comes from credit card transactions. That leaves $600,000 subject to credit card fees.
  • For that $600,000 in revenue, you pay 3.5% in processing fees. That’s $21,000 per year in fees!

Imagine if you could get rid of those transaction fees. Your income would jump $12,000, from $130,000 to $151,000. That’s an increase of 16.2%! Motivated enough yet to get better healthcare credit card processing?

2. Find a better merchant service provider (MSP)

The medical payment processing industry still suffers from a lack of regulatory oversight. Whether you’re in laser eye surgery or addiction treatment, know there are merchant service providers who may not have fair and transparent fees and pricing structures. So, be careful and thorough when shopping for an MSP. Plenty of reputable, high-quality MSPs are ready to help your healthcare organization. You just need to do your research. When looking for an MSP, follow this process:

  • Choose only those MSPs that offer pass-through pricing. Pass-through pricing passes fees on to you, the merchant. That means you have a clear idea of how much you pay. Tiered pricing categorizes transactions into tiers, and you usually end up paying more fees than anticipated. So, the first step is to only look for MSPs with pass-through pricing.
  • Compare fees. Look at all the fees, from the network, interchange, and assessment fees to the processor markup. The processor markup can be assessed in a number of ways, such as through software fees, monthly subscription charges, 24/7 support fees, and more.
  • Look at services. You need an MSP that can process transactions quickly and securely online, in-person, and on mobile. Since many healthcare patients call to make payments, you definitely want an MSP that has affordable virtual terminal credit card processing. Additionally, the processor should have high-quality software and hardware, as well as excellent staff support.
  • Narrow down to 3-5 payment processing companies. The MSPs you choose should have the right combination of quality and affordability.
  • Negotiate the MSP markup. While you can’t negotiate the interchange fee with Chase Bank or the network fee with American Express, you can negotiate the MSP markup. We’ve seen laser eye surgery centers, treatment facilities, counseling services, and other medical organizations get 5-10% off the MSP markup.

After doing those steps, choose the most affordable MSP.

3. Utilize a credit surcharge program

Even if you have the best MSP, you still have to pay some CC fees. That brings us to the final tip to get rid of all your processing fees: implement a credit surcharge program. When the Dodd-Frank Act passed, it became legal for merchants to use credit surcharge programs to offset transaction fees. This includes healthcare organizations like laser eye surgery centers and pediatrician offices.How does this work exactly?At Nadapayments, for instance, we offer healthcare organizations a credit surcharge program that automatically charges patients an extra 3.5% when swiping the credit card. That eliminates the impact of processing fees from your bottom line. Now, you may be wondering: “Won’t this upset my patients?” The answer is no. As long as you have clear signage, transparent pricing, and don’t apply fees to debit card transactions (merchants still pay the fee), you’ll set clear expectations, and patients will appreciate that. Moreover, patients will enjoy the freedom to choose any payment method. They can opt for the convenience of the credit card or save 3.5% by paying with cash or debit card.In this sense, a credit surcharge program is a win-win for your healthcare organization and your patients.

Completely free credit card processing for your laser eye surgery clinic, treatment center, or pediatrician office

How can I avoid credit card processing fees? The steps are quite simple: know how much you pay, find the best possible MSP, and then implement a credit card surcharge program. That’s your path to completely free credit card processing. At Nadapayments, we’re ready to help you get to zero-fee credit card processing with our advanced credit surcharge program. Our 100% legally compliant surcharge solution integrates with your credit card installment plans, and patients can pay at your clinic, online, and via mobile. We also offer 24/7 support so that you can get the most out of our surcharge program.Ready to boost your profits by more than $20,000 per year? We can help you set up a credit surcharge program right away. By next week, you’ll be saving 3.5% per transaction. Give us a call at +1 (929) 293-1800 or click the link below.

I Want FREE Credit Card Processing

Whether you specialize in medical facials or tummy tucks, learning how to save money on credit card processing fees can bring your medical business great financial benefit. In fact, we’ve seen clinics increase profits by more than 10% just by learning how to avoid credit card processing fees. But how do you save money on credit card processing fees? Isn’t the 3–4% fee per transaction just part of the cost of doing business?Unfortunately, you can’t just tell Visa you’re no longer going to pay these fees. But what you can do is optimize your strategy for accepting payments. This will ensure that card transaction fees don’t impact your bottom line, allowing you to take home 100% of your revenue. In this guide, we’ll show you how to start saving money on credit card processing fees. After reading, you’ll know how to make your medical business more profitable overnight.

Examine the impact of credit card fees on your bottom line

Whether you own a spa offering medical facials or a plastic surgery center specializing in nose jobs, it’s important to understand how credit card fees impact your bottom line. After all, since many patients’ insurance plans don’t cover such procedures, most of them will pay out of pocket (and often with plastic). Calculating this shouldn’t take too long, as long as you have numbers on hand that detail your total revenue, revenue by payment type, and effective rate (percentage of all the credit card fees you have to pay per transaction). For your reference, you should understand the different types of fees your business pays. These include:

  • The interchange fee: Paid to the card-issuing bank, like Bank of America
  • The network fee: Paid to the payment network, such as Mastercard
  • The assessment fee: Paid to the card-issuing brand, such as Southwest Airlines
  • The merchant service provider (MSP) markup: Paid to the payment processor (they need their cut!)

Needless to say, these fees can add up—even if they don’t seem like that much at first glance. That’s why you’ve got to read the fine print when choosing a merchant service provider (MSP). If, for example, your healthcare clinic generates $1.5 million per year in revenue and 50% comes from credit card payments, that leaves $750,000 subject to processing fees. If your effective rate is 3.5%, you’re paying $26,250 per year in card transaction fees. That should be motivation enough to learn how to save money on credit card processing fees. Now, let’s take a look at a more specific example.

The medical facial example

The average medical facial costs between $175 and $500. Since they take just 30 to 90 minutes, your spa could perform many medical facial treatments each day. Let’s say you perform 1,000 medical facials at your spa per year at an average cost of $400 each. That means you generate $400,000 per year from medical facials. As part of this example, let’s assume the following:

  • You earn a profit of 20% per medical facial. That’s a yearly profit of $100,000 from medical facials alone.
  • Many of your medical facial clients pay out of pocket, so 70% of your revenue comes from credit card transactions. That’s $280,000 of revenue subject to credit card transaction fees.
  • If you pay an average fee of 3.75%, that means you pay $10,500 per year in credit card processing fees just on payments for medical facials.

Now, imagine if you could get rid of those credit card processing fees. Your profits from medical facials would increase from $100,000 to $110,500. That’s an increase of 10.5%!

Partner with a better payment processor to save money on credit card processing fees

The next step in how to save money on credit card processing fees is to find a better merchant service provider (MSP). Because the medical payment processing industry has a lack of regulatory oversight, you must exercise caution and look for only the most reputable, affordable MSPs. Otherwise, you may accidentally pick an MSP who has hidden surcharges and complex fee structures.When choosing an MSP for your medical spa, do the following:

  • Only choose MSPs with pass-through pricing: When learning how to save money on credit card processing fees, know that tiered pricing makes processing fees too complicated. Tiered pricing often ends up with you paying more than expected. So, only go with MSPs that have pass-through pricing.
  • Compare services: You want a payment processor with 24/7 support, the latest software and hardware, and the ability to process payments online, on-the-go, and in-person. Having virtual terminal credit card processing is a good idea for processing medical facial and other treatment payments over the phone.
  • Compare fees: After narrowing down to MSPs that offer the services you need, you should then compare fees. Make sure to look at all the fees. Choose the most affordable three to five MSPs.
  • Negotiate the MSP markup: We’ve seen med spas lower the MSP markup by 5-10%. Over time, this can save you thousands.

After doing all these steps, go with the MSP that offers the combination of quality and affordability you need. This way, you don’t spend too much on processing fees when clients pay for medical facials, microdermabrasion, and more.

Implement a credit card surcharge program

Here’s the last step to start saving money on credit card processing fees: implement a credit surcharge program. Thanks to the Dodd-Frank Act, merchants, including your med spa, can use credit surcharge programs to avoid credit card fees. The idea is simple. When a client pays for a medical facial, stretch mark removal, or another service, you give them the option:

  • Pay with a credit card and pay a surcharge fee, or
  • Pay with cash or debit and save money.

Now, you may be wondering: Won’t my patients get angry about having to pay a surcharge?But as long as you're transparent about how you process payments, your patients will actually appreciate being able to choose between the convenience of a credit card or saving by paying with cash and debit. For example, at Nadapayments, our surcharge program helps med spas and other healthcare clinics avoid CC fees with a solution that involves:

  • Clear signage at the door and point of sale
  • A 3.5% surcharge on CC purchases (you pay zero)
  • Payment processing on-the-go, in-store, and online
  • Full compliance with surcharge rules, such as creating a separate line for the fee on receipts, being registered with major credit card brands, and not charging a debit card fee (you pay 1% + $0.25)

As you can see, a credit surcharge program is a win-win for medical businesses and their clients. You give your customers flexibility with how they pay while ensuring CC fees don’t impact your bottom line.

Now that you know how to save money on credit card processing fees, let Nadapayments help boost your profits!

At Nadapayments, we’re ready to help you see how to save money on credit card processing fees. Through our surcharge program, we can help your business earn 10% or more per year. With 24/7/365 support, we’re with you every step of the way to ensure you get the most out of Nadapayments’ industry-leading surcharge solution. Even better, our solution can be implemented within days. Within a week, you could eliminate the impact of card transaction fees on revenue you get from medical facials, rhinoplasty procedures, and more. Ready for the best credit surcharge program? Dial +1 (929) 293-1800 or click the link below.

I Want the BEST Surcharge Program

Here’s why you should focus on getting no-fee credit card processing for Invisalign monthly payments:

  • Invisalign, or clear aligners, probably form an increasing percentage of your total revenue. The global market for clear aligners reached $2.31 in 2019 and is expected to reach $5.58 billion by 2027. That’s an average growth rate of 18.7%!
  • You already pay credit card processing fees of 3-4% per transaction. That may not seem like much, but it’s actually costing you tens of thousands per year.

Starting to see how you could save?Since a large part of your success depends on you offering Invisalign to your patients, you should take a smart approach to monthly payments. After all, Invisalign aligns the teeth of your patients; shouldn’t the payment plans you offer align with your practice’s financial goals?So, let’s take a look at how you can get no-fee credit card processing and start saving thousands on patients’ monthly Invisalign payments.

How no-fee credit card processing can help your orthodontist practice

We know you’re busy helping patients improve their dental health and feel more confident. Thank you for all the hard work you do!However, while you’re hard at work aligning teeth, something is happening that’s costing your practice money: Credit card processing fees are hurting your practice’s profits. You may not be concerned about shelling out a few dollars on each payment. But take a step back...Think about all the time and money you’ve invested in becoming an orthodontist. According to Colgate, it can take 10 to 11 years to get fully certified and licensed. You have four years of undergraduate school, four years of dental school, and then two to three years of residency. And you’ve not only invested a lot of time getting to where you are today—you’ve also spent a lot of money. The average dental school debt exceeds $292,000, according to NerdWallet. On top of that, you invested money to start your orthodontic practice, which can cost anywhere from $350,000 to $500,000 (or more).Given the investments you’ve made, it doesn’t make sense to let money continue to fly out the window. You should have full clarity of every expense your practice has—including credit card processing fees. While you may think paying a 3-4% fee each time your patients make a payment isn’t a big deal, it adds up. In fact, credit card processing fees on your patients’ monthly Invisalign payments could cost your practice more than $10,000 per year. Paying attention now? That kind of money could certainly help your orthodontic practice. With $10,000 more each year, you could:

  • Save more for retirement
  • Spend more on marketing
  • Take a nicer vacation
  • Expand your practice

The point is this: 100% of the revenue you make from Invisalign monthly payments should go to you—not credit card payment processors.

What a better strategy for Invisalign monthly payments looks like

Let’s take a look at an example of two Invisalign monthly payment plans. Before we begin, for both examples, we’ll say you run an orthodontic practice that generates $1.4 million in annual revenue, which is a good deal above the industry average (nice job!). And we’ll say 50% of that revenue, or $700,000, comes from clear aligner therapy. We should also factor in that Invisalign, like braces, is covered by insurance. You can expect insurance companies to pay 50%, according to Oral-B. But considering not everyone has dental insurance, it’s possible only 20% of Invisalign revenue overall comes from health insurance company payments. The remaining $540,000 is paid out of pocket by your patients. Now, let’s assume that when your patients make Invisalign monthly payments, an average of 60% pay with credit cards. So, each year, your orthodontic practice accepts $324,000 in credit card payments. Got it? Let’s get to both examples…

Example 1: You pay credit card processing fees on that $324,000

Take a look at average credit card processing fees:

see how no fee credit card processing can help your business

Source

As you can see, you would pay a lot of fees throughout an Invisalign monthly payment plan. The average cost of Invisalign treatment is between $3,000 to $7,000. After insurance, your patient will probably have around a $200 to $250 monthly payment. If they swipe with a credit card, you could pay roughly 3–4% in fees each time. Calculate a 3.5% credit card transaction fee on $324,000, and what do you get? You get $11,340. That’s right. Each year, you pay $11,340 in credit card processing fees on Invisalign monthly payments. That’s unacceptable.

Example 2: You have no-fee credit card processing for that $324,000 of revenue

What if you didn’t have to pay credit card processing fees? What if you had free credit card processing? Well, that $11,340 would stay where it belongs: in your pocket! You’d be able to take home 100% of your revenue from Invisalign treatments and payment plans. Now, you may be thinking: That this sounds nice, but it isn’t possible. Fees are just a part of accepting credit cards.But here’s the thing: You actually don’t have to pay fees when your patients make Invisalign monthly payments with a credit card. You just have to follow two steps to get no-fee credit card processing.

Step 1: Get a better payment processor

How do you take home all your revenue from the Invisalign monthly payment plans you offer patients?The first step is to lower your credit card transaction fees. This means you’ll need to find the right payment processor for Invisalign monthly payments and other transactions at your orthodontic practice. Here’s how to do that:

Opt for pass-through pricing

When looking for a merchant service provider (MSP), check out their pricing structure before doing anything else. You want an MSP that offers pass-through pricing, as the charges are passed on to your orthodontic practice and are very clear. Note: Avoid tiered pricing. This pricing structure categorizes transactions into tiers, and you don’t have much clarity on how they do that. Often, you end up paying more than anticipated.

Know the fees

To get no-fee credit card processing, you have to know what fees you pay when patients make their Invisalign monthly payments. Here’s what you need to know.

  • The card-issuing bank, such as Bank of America, gets an interchange fee.
  • The payment network, such as Visa, gets a network fee.
  • The card-issuing brand, such as United Airlines, gets an assessment fee.
  • The MSP, such as Square, collects a processor markup to cover hardware and software costs, as well as other expenses.

When shopping for an MSP, eliminate the most expensive ones first.

Look at the MSP’s capabilities

To further narrow down your search for a quality payment processor, analyze the services each one offers. You’ll want an MSP that can not only handle your transactions smoothly, but also provide solid customer service. They should also support the following types of payments:

Furthermore, the payment processor should have excellent security systems. You want to ensure your patients’ financial and personal data is fully protected.

Negotiate!

You should now have narrowed down to three or four payment processors that offer the best value. Once you’ve done that, start negotiating. Wait, can you really do that?Yes! Well, while you can’t tell Visa you’d prefer to pay a little less, you can negotiate the MSP markup. Since medical practices like orthodontic practices bring in healthy revenues, you may find that MSPs are willing to cut 5–10% off their markup in order to win your business. Over the course of time, that can save you thousands of dollars. After negotiating, go with the payment processor that offers the best value (a good price plus high-quality services).

Step 2: Implement a credit surcharge program

We’re not quite done yet. Even with the best payment processor, you’ll still have transaction fees. So, how do you offset those to get no-fee credit card processing?The answer is a credit surcharge program. Here’s how it works:

  • A patient gets clear aligners, and they opt for an Invisalign monthly payment plan with your practice.
  • When the patient makes their Invisalign monthly payments, you give them a choice: Pay with cash or debit card and save money. Or, pay with a credit card and pay an extra amount to cover the transaction fees.

Thanks to the Dodd-Frank Act, a credit surcharge solution is completely legal. Your orthodontic practice can use this strategy to stop the impact of transaction fees on your bottom line. You just need to provide clear signage at the door and point of sale.

Ready for no-fee credit card processing?

Now, you may worry that a credit surcharge program would upset patients. But it won’t. With a surcharge program, you give patients the opportunity to save by paying with cash or a debit card. And you get no-fee credit card processing. It’s a win-win for everyone. At Nadapayments, our credit surcharge program adds 3.5% if your patients pay with a credit card. If they pay with cash, they save 3.5%. Even better, our surcharge solution can be set up in a day and integrates with your credit card installment plans. And everything you need to get started is free.No-fee credit card processing is within reach for your orthodontic practice. All you have to do is give us a call to get started. Dial +1 (929) 293-1800 or click the link below.

I Want FREE Credit Card Processing

You’ve made a wise decision by offering tummy tucks at your plastic surgery center. First, you’re helping people live a higher quality of life. A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, tightens the stomach muscles, removes belly hang and excess skin, and eliminates abdominal creases. This not only helps patients achieve a flatter, more toned stomach, but also offers medical benefits, including improved posture and decreased back pain. Second, the tummy tuck industry is growing fast. According to market research, the body fat reduction market has reached nearly $8.5 billion. Growth rates are expected to average 12.32% through 2025. By offering tummy tucks at your plastic surgery clinic, you can capitalize on this growing demand. Now, the question is: How are your patients paying for their abdominoplasty procedure? Chances are, since tummy tucks are often elective, clients are paying out of pocket. This may not seem like something you need to worry about, but if you don’t have the proper plastic surgery payment plan for your patient, you could be losing revenue. After all, credit card payments mean your practice has to pay fees, which can get upwards of 4%! This is why the wrong plastic surgery payment plan could decrease profits by 10% or more at your tummy tuck center. You can’t allow that!In this article, we’ll show you , such as breast augmentations and nose jobs.

Why you need the right plastic surgery payment plan strategy

Think about all you’ve invested in becoming a plastic surgeon. You’ve done 10-plus years of training and education. You’ve completed a bachelor’s degree and a four-year doctor’s degree, as well as obtained a license and did a residency. You probably even did a fellowship in a subspecialty, such as aesthetic surgery. And on top of all that, you had to get board certification from an organization like the American Board of Medical Specialties. All that education and training cost you a lot of time, money, and energy. The average medical student has more than $201,000 in debt upon entering the profession, according to a NerdWallet study. In addition to your educational investment, you’ve spent money to start your plastic surgery center. On average, doctors spend at least $100,000 to open their surgical practice. Then, you have ongoing costs, including equipment, labor, rent, consultancy fees, marketing and advertising, and insurance. Expenses can run well into six figures per year, even for small practices. Needless to say, you’ve invested a lot to get here. Why waste it by having the wrong plastic surgery payment plan? Now, you may be asking: How are you offering the wrong plastic surgery payment plan? It begins with how your clients pay. If they’re using a credit card to cover their bill, it’s probably causing your profits to drop well more than 10%. Yes, credit card processing fees can eat into your income that much.Have your attention now?

How much do you pay in credit card processing fees on plastic surgery payment plans?

Here are the average credit card processing fees by network:

fee-free credit card processing app

So, you could pay somewhere between 1.3% and 3.4% per transaction to payment networks like Visa and Discover. In addition to the network fee, know that each credit card transaction involves other types of fees, including:

  • An interchange fee that goes to the card-issuing bank (like Bank of America)
  • An assessment fee that goes to the card-issuing brand (like Hilton Hotels)
  • A markup fee that goes to your merchant service provider (MSP)

Altogether, it’s possible you pay an average of 3.5% in credit card transaction fees when a client makes a payment on their plastic surgery payment plan. Now, let’s break down how much this could cost you over a year.

What credit cards cost your tummy tuck practice per year

First, let’s consider the average tummy tuck procedure cost. A tummy tuck costs an average of $6,092, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Given the high cost, many of your clients may choose to pay with a credit card, which leaves a good portion of your revenue subject to transaction fees. Second, let’s consider your profits. Say you earn an average net margin of 20%. That means you earn $1,218.40 per tummy tuck procedure. If you do 100 tummy tucks per year, that equates to $609,200 in revenue and $121,840 in income from that procedure. That’s solid, but you could be doing much better. To pay for their tummy tucks, the vast majority of your clients have to pay out of pocket (as tummy tucks are mostly elective). And it’s likely more than half of your clients set up a plastic surgery payment plan with recurring credit card payments. Others may clear the bill all at once by swiping their credit card. Let’s do some math to show how much you lose to credit card processing fees:

  • If 65% of that tummy tuck revenue comes from credit cards, that’s $395,980 in revenue from credit cards.
  • If you pay an average transaction fee of 3.5%, that’s $13,859 per year — just in credit card fees.

That’s way too much to be handing over in fees. What if you could eliminate credit card processing fees? You could increase your tummy tuck profits by $13,859, from $121,840 to $135,699. That’s an increase of 11.4%! Now, the question is: How do you get rid of credit card processing fees?

Your guide to free credit card processing on tummy tuck procedures

Here’s the good news: You can get free credit card processing on client payments for abdominoplasty procedures. You don’t need some sort of special plastic surgery payment plan. You just need the right merchant service provider and a credit surcharge program.Follow these steps:

1. Get the best merchant service provider (MSP)

Look for a reputable MSP that has low fees, offers high-quality equipment and software, provides good customer service, and has experience with medical credit card processing. Make sure they can provide seamless transactions with online payments, virtual terminal credit card processing, mobile credit card processing, and more. By finding the best payment provider, you ensure you don’t pay any more credit card fees than you must when your customer makes a payment for their plastic surgery payment plan. Quick tip: Negotiate the MSP markup. We’ve seen plastic surgery clinics get 5-10% off the markup, which can save hundreds per year.

2. Offer a surcharge program for your plastic surgery payment plan

Having the best MSP only gets fees lower. It doesn’t eliminate credit card fees altogether for plastic surgery payment plans. This is why you need a credit surcharge program.100% legally compliant, credit surcharge programs use fair, transparent pricing to give clients a choice: Pay with a credit card, and you’ll pay 3.5% more; or, pay with a debit card or cash, and you’ll avoid the 3.5% fee.This way, your tummy tuck clients can choose the convenience of paying with a credit card or save money by paying with cash or debit (note: with debit payments, you pay a 1% fee to $0.25). This ensures the client covers the credit card transaction fees and that your bottom line isn’t affected. Those fees are either paid by your client or avoided altogether with a cash payment. In this sense, with the best MSP and a credit surcharge program, you can take home 100% of your tummy tuck revenue. Each year, that will increase your profits by more than 10%.

Say goodbye to credit card processing fees with Nadapayments

At Nadapayments, we help plastic surgeons get free credit card processing at their practices through our smart surcharge program. Our credit surcharge program works with most credit card installment plans and works in-person and online. Contact us today at +1 (929) 293-1800 or click the link below to get started and finally say goodbye to credit card processing fees for good.

Get Free Credit Card Processing

Have you ever looked at your monthly credit card processing bill and wished that the transaction fees would just… disappear?It’s a common wish among business owners. And when you factor in the substantial revenue a successful clinic like yours brings in, we can’t blame you.Luckily, there’s a simple way to avoid these fees—one that’s overlooked by many businesses.Fee-free credit card processing apps can save you tens of thousands of dollars that you’d otherwise pay to payment processors. Here, we’ll go over how this approach works, how much you’d save with one of these apps, and how to get one for your cosmetic surgery practice in two easy steps.

How card payment processing apps save you money (100% legally, too)

Fee-free credit card processing apps allow you to pass your transaction fees on to your customers, so you can keep the entirety of the revenue you get from nose surgeries and other cosmetic procedures.This is possible thanks to credit surcharge programs, which offer lower prices to customers that pay with cash (and it’s entirely legal and compliant, thanks to the Dodd-Frank Act).So, how does a credit surcharge program work? With one in place, your patients will be presented with two options: pay with cash as normal, or pay with credit for an additional 3.5% fee.You might already be imagining the backlash you’d get once customers see this fee, considering how expensive plastic surgery is. But the truth is, it’s actually the better option for your customers. Credit card processing fees aren’t a new issue, and many business owners have searched for a way around this for years. Their workaround? Raising their base prices to cover not only these transaction fees, but also the price of their point-of-sale systems and any additional costs of running their business. These new prices often end up being much more than the amount customers would pay if they were responsible for credit card transaction fees alone. With a fee-free credit card payment processing app in place, your patients would actually save more money than with alternative options. And if they pay with cash, they could save even more.Unsure if this system is right for you? You may change your mind when you see just how much credit card transaction fees are costing you.

How much revenue you lose to credit card processing fees

For simplicity’s sake, we’ll focus on just one procedure offered at your clinic: nose surgeries, also known as rhinoplasty.According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of rhinoplasty in 2019 was $5,409. However, that number doesn’t take into account additional fees, like the initial consultation, anesthesia, and postoperative medication. If you charged the 2019 average for nose surgeries and performed 10 of these procedures every month, you’d be looking at $54,090 in monthly revenue. And because these surgeries cost a lot, you can expect to pay a comparable amount in credit card processing fees, as well. But how can we be so sure?Since rhinoplasty is a high-ticket expense, most of your patients will pay for their procedure with their credit card. In fact, a 2018 Federal Reserve study supports this: as the value of a purchase goes up, consumers become much more likely to pay with credit than with cash.So, let’s crunch the numbers. Most merchant service providers (MSPs) charge anywhere between 1.3% and 3.3% of every credit card transaction they process.

fee-free credit card processing app

For this example, let’s say your MSP charges you an even 3% fee. Since you made $54,090 this month, you can expect to pay $1,622.70 in credit card fees. That means that every year, you’d lose $19,472.40 to completely unnecessary fees—and that’s just from nose surgeries alone. It’s tough to consider how much more money your clinic is losing from other procedures on top of that. The worst part? You’d get much more use applying those funds to other areas of your business. What could you do with an additional $19K? Well, you could add another part-time receptionist to your team. You could upgrade your existing computer operating system or renovate your office. You could even use those funds to pay for training programs that improve your skills and allow you to charge more for your services.On the other hand, you could also use that money to pay off any lingering debt from medical school, take your partner on a nice trip to the tropics, or save for your grandchildren’s college tuition. No matter what you decide to do with the money, the point is that you have the freedom to choose. When you eliminate credit card processing fees, you free up additional funds to reach your financial goals sooner. Read on to learn how.

How to obtain a fee-free credit card payment processing app for your business

Getting started with a fee-free credit card payment processing app is much simpler than you might think. The process only takes two steps to complete, and if you already have a merchant account set up, you can start saving on transaction fees in as little as one business day.

Step 1: Apply for a merchant account

Because your business is one that readily accepts credit and debit card payments, you might already have a merchant account. If that’s the case, you’re well on your way to saving thousands of dollars in revenue for your business. Go ahead and skip to the next step.But if you don’t, not to worry—let’s take a look at how to get set up with a merchant service provider (MSP).Although it’s not a difficult process, you’ll want to take some time to make sure you choose the right MSP for your business. After all, when it comes to saving your business money, you want to ensure that you find the best possible solution.Some of the most important criteria to look out for when researching MSPs include:

  • Meticulous customer service (and 24/7 support, ideally)
  • Experience with medical credit card processing: These MSPs already understand your industry and are able to tailor their assistance to your specific needs right from the beginning, saving you time and effort.
  • Stellar reviews from satisfied clients
  • The latest in credit card processing technology, including virtual terminal credit card processing, to ensure seamless transactions for your customers—regardless of what your payment processing setup looks like.

Of course, you’ll also want to consider the prices and fees of each provider charges. Here are four of the most common fees you’ll encounter:

  • Interchange fee: What you pay the card-issuing bank (like Chase)
  • Network fee: What you pay the payment network (like Visa)
  • Assessment fee: What you pay the card-issuing brand (like Delta Airlines)
  • Markup fee: What you pay the MSP for their services

However, if you want to brush up on your negotiation skills, you can save additional money by negotiating on the markup fee.How’s that possible? Markup fees are how merchant service providers make a profit on their services. However, they may decide to lower their rates to accommodate highly-profitable businesses like yours. In some cases, you can see as much as a 5–10% decrease in markup fees. Once you decide on the right MSP for your business, they’ll set you up with your new merchant account in as little as a few business days. After that, you’ll connect your merchant account to your payment processor.

Step 2: Connect your fee-free credit card payment processing app to your merchant account

Your merchant service provider and payment processor will handle most of this for you, so all you have to do is wait for them to complete their work.However, there is one important thing you must take care of: you’ll need to ensure that your merchant account and payment processor can connect seamlessly. Otherwise, you’ll still be responsible for your transaction fees.Once your MSP and payment processor complete their setup (it should take a few business days at most), you can now accept credit card transactions without paying the fees for them.Not sure where to find a trustworthy fee-free credit card payment processor? We can help.

Save tens of thousands of dollars every year with Nadapayments

For an effortless way to save money, choose NadaPayments and pay “nada” on every credit card transaction.Our fee-free credit card payment processing app works with most POS systems and connects to wifi, so you can process transactions anywhere—in-store, online, or on the go. You’ll also receive 24/7/365 customer service—because technology issues are something that no one wants to deal with by themselves. And if you decide that NadaPayments isn’t right for you, you can cancel your services anytime. No hard feelings, and no complicated hoops to jump through. (Promise.)If you’re ready to save thousands of dollars every year in processing fees, contact our support team by calling +1 (929) 293-1800 or click the link below.

I Want FREE Credit Card Processing

What if there was a way to generate even more profit on breast reduction surgery and other cosmetic procedures?The great news? There is… and it’s simpler than you might think. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), breast reduction surgery ranks as one of the most expensive procedures performed today. But that hasn’t stopped people from getting them. The ASPS reveals that cosmetic surgeons performed 43,591 of these procedures in 2018 alone. And due to their high cost, chances are, most of your patients pay with their credit cards. But this puts you in a bind. Accepting thousands of dollars in credit card payments means you’re losing thousands of dollars in revenue to credit card processing fees.But imagine being able to pocket all the money you make for yourself.Luckily, you don’t just have to imagine: there’s a way to work around credit card processing fees, so you can take home 100% of your revenue. With a fee-free credit card processing app, you can boost your profits by as much as 10%. After all, you work hard for your money. You deserve to see every cent you earn. Keep reading to learn how to get rid of those annoying credit card transaction fees (completely legally!), so you can put that money to good use elsewhere in your business (or even toward a vacation—we promise not to tell).

What are fee-free credit card processing apps?

As their name implies, fee-free credit card processing apps allow you to process credit card transactions without incurring the pesky fees that usually accompany them.But credit card companies like Visa and MasterCard won’t just let you skate by without paying them their due. So what’s the secret to avoiding those expenses?Credit surcharge programs.These programs give customers a choice: Use credit and pay an additional fee, or pay with cash and avoid the fee entirely.In both cases, you take on none of the credit card transaction fees. So, if a customer pays you $1,000 for a procedure, all of that $1,000 is yours to keep.Best of all, thanks to the Dodd-Frank Act, these programs are 100% legal and compliant. That means you’ll never have to worry about fines or lawsuits down the road.Let’s take a look at a real-life example of what a fee-free credit card processing app can do for your private plastic surgery practice.

How you benefit from using a fee-free credit card processing app

The ASPS reports that, in 2018 alone, Americans spent more than $16.5 billion on cosmetic surgery. The industry is highly lucrative, with more and more people seeking out these procedures every year. But no profitable business is without its startup costs. The cost of higher education alone isn’t one to scoff at. NerdWallet docks the average amount of student debt for those graduating from medical school at a little over $200,000. And it isn’t until you’ve completed a residency or two and passed your board exams (which also cost several thousand dollars) that you can then open your own practice. This will put you at least another $220,000 in the red as well. As you know well, these costs quickly add up, so you’ll want to make your money back (and then some) as soon as possible. The ASPS states that the national average cost for breast reduction surgery sits at $7,655. Because of this high price tag, many of your patients may not feel comfortable paying for this procedure in cash. So, when you ask for their payment, out comes their credit card. That can take a real toll on your profits. Without a fee-free credit card processing app in place, you can expect to lose about 3% of every payment to transaction fees.

fee-free credit card processing app

Let’s say you perform 15 breast reduction surgeries each year. If you were to charge the national average for each procedure, you’d make a cool $335,665 from breast reductions alone. But before you celebrate, you need to factor in the credit card fees. The damage? A whopping $10,069.95 loss. With all of your costs to consider, every cent lost to fees is money that you could be reinvesting into your business. Imagine what you could pay for with that $10,000+:

  • A full year of malpractice insurance
  • Several months’ worth of rent for your office space
  • Upgrades to your office or computer system
  • Marketing costs or medical supplies

The list goes on and on.There’s no reason to wait around for this extra cash. You could save all of that money—or more—simply by switching to a fee-free credit card processing app like NadaPayments. Here’s how.

How to get rid of fees with a fee-free credit card processing app

You can complete the entire process in two easy steps:

  • Find the right merchant service provider (MSP)
  • Implement your credit surcharge program

That’s it. It really doesn’t get easier than this. In fact, if you’ve set up a payment processor before, you’re already familiar with half of the process. Let’s break this down further. Shop for the right merchant service providerWhen considering the best MSP for your business, price is certainly a factor to take into consideration—but don’t let it be the only one!Research merchant service providers that offer reasonable fees as well as all the capabilities you need for your business—and of course, impeccable customer service. If it helps, make a list of all the things you want in your ideal MSP and compare it to the options you find.Once you’ve narrowed down your list to a few top choices, you’ll want to take a closer look at each provider’s fees, including:

  • Interchange fee: What the merchant pays to the cardholder’s bank (for example, JPMorgan Chase)
  • Network fee: What the merchant pays to the payment network (for example, MasterCard)
  • Assessment fee: What the merchant pays to the brand issuing the card
  • MSP markup fee: What the merchant pays to your payment processing company

While the first three fees are set in stone before you even begin discussions with your MSP, the last one isn’t. You can try negotiating on the markup fee, potentially saving you 5–10% off the original rate. What’s up with that? Well, this fee is how these companies make a profit from their services, which means that there may be some leeway in how much lower you can negotiate the fee. After all, they may be willing to offer you a lower rate in order to gain your business. Once you’ve decided which company to go with, set everything up before moving on to the final step. Implement your credit surcharge programNext, you’ll connect your fee-free credit card processing app to your merchant service provider. Most importantly, you’ll want to make sure that you can integrate the app without any issues. You don’t want to go through the effort of setting up your payment processor only to find out that your app isn’t even compatible with it!The process of linking these two can be completed in as little as one day—which means that you can start saving money on your credit card transactions as soon as tomorrow. NadaPayments, for instance, effortlessly integrates with your payment processor and website for a seamless experience from the beginning of your transaction to the end. Plus, our surcharge program saves your customers an extra 3.5% off their purchase total when they pay with cash, check, or debit card. With NadaPayments as your fee-free credit card processing app, you’re not the only one saving money on each transaction—your patients do too.

Eliminate costly credit card processing fees today

NadaPayments is the credit card processing solution you need if you want to make nada payments on every credit card transaction. Our system is a cinch to set up, even if you don’t consider yourself tech-savvy in the slightest. There are zero setup fees involved, and our app works wherever you do: In-store, online, and even when you’re out and about. Now you can take home all of the money you earn from procedures like breast reduction surgery, with only the slightest tweak to your credit card transaction process. Plus, we’ll even cover the cost of your hardware, so all you need to do is set it up. And at every step of the way, know that we’re here to lend a hand if you need it.Get started today by calling us at +1 (929) 293-1800 or by clicking the link below.

I Want FREE Credit Card Processing

Chances are, you’re losing tens of thousands of dollars every year. The worst part? You probably don’t even realize it.Cosmetic surgery practices make hundreds of thousands of dollars a year. But this means that you’re paying an exorbitant amount in credit card processing fees, as well. In fact, for mini facelifts alone, you could be looking at a loss of about $21K a year.However, there’s a way to avoid paying these fees completely.The solution? Fee-free credit card processing apps. These apps let you stop paying tens of thousands of dollars in credit card fees every year and start taking home 100% of the revenue you earn.Here, we’ll show you everything you need to know about these lucrative programs. We’ll give you an idea of how much you can save with one, and even show you how to set one up for your plastic surgery practice. So, let’s get started!

How fee-free credit card processing apps save you money

Fee-free credit card processing apps allow you to accept credit cards without paying any of the fees you’d typically incur from traditional payment processors. How is this possible? It’s all thanks to credit surcharge programs. These programs let you offset transaction fees by giving your customers two choices: pay a small fee for using their credit card, or avoid these fees entirely by paying with cash, debit, or check. It’s that easy—and it’s completely legal, too, thanks to the Dodd-Frank Act.With a fee-free credit card processing app in place for your plastic surgery practice, you can completely eliminate credit card processing fees from your business’s expenses.But wait… Wouldn’t your patients object to paying more than they’re used to, especially if they’re regular clients of your clinic? Implementing a credit surcharge program would actually cost your customers less money than if you raised your prices to account for the costs of accepting credit card payments (which would include the hardware and software needed to accept cards, as well as credit card processing fees themselves). And because you give your customers the option to forego these fees entirely, they can save even more by paying with cash. But maybe you’re the type that isn’t swayed without cold, hard facts to back up a claim. To show you just how much you can save, we’ll break down how much transaction fees would cost you for a popular procedure performed at cosmetic surgery practices like yours.

The true cost of credit card processing fees

Mini facelifts are modified versions of traditional facelift surgeries. Incisions are made in the patient’s face, and the muscle underneath is pulled tighter, resulting in a visual “lift” in the neck and jawline. Mini facelifts are considered invasive procedures requiring anesthesia—and their price reflects this. These procedures typically cost between $3,500 and $8,000, although the exact price will vary depending on the surgeon and location of the practice. So, let’s say you charge $6,000 for every mini facelift. If you performed 10 of these procedures every month, you’d make $60,000 a month—just from these operations alone. However, $6,000 isn’t chump change for many of your patients. On top of that, these surgeries aren’t covered by health insurance because they’re considered cosmetic procedures.This means that your patients will most likely pay for their mini facelifts with credit. After all, a study performed by the Federal Reserve revealed that people tend to reach for their credit cards for more expensive purchases. So, although you might make $60,000 a month from your mini facelift procedures, you’ll lose a portion of it to credit card processing fees. Merchant service providers (MSPs), the vendors that process your card transactions, typically charge anywhere between 1.3% and 3.3% for every payment made with a credit card.

fee-free credit card processing app

Although that number seems inconsequential, the fees quickly add up for high-ticket procedures like mini facelifts. Let’s say your MSP charges you a 3% fee for every credit card transaction. When you take into account the $60,000 you make in mini facelift revenue, you’re losing about $1,800 to fees alone. That comes out to an annual loss of $21,600—and that’s not even taking into account the other procedures you’re performing.As an experienced business owner, you know that that money could be put to better use elsewhere in your cosmetic surgery practice. If you wanted to invest those funds back into your business, $21K could easily pay for malpractice insurance, hardware and software updates for your office, additional medical supplies and equipment, or even a part-time receptionist. On the other hand, you could set aside the extra money for personal use. Medical school is expensive, and if you haven’t paid off your loans yet, this money could bring down your total debt considerably. You could also use this money towards your dream home or car, or treating your family to a vacation in the tropics. With a credit surcharge program, you can say goodbye to credit card transaction fees and start putting that money to better use.Ready to get started? Keep reading to learn how to set up your own fee-free credit card processing app in two simple steps.

Setting up your fee-free credit card processing app is easier than you think

It only takes two easy steps to start saving money with a fee-free credit card processing app. Here’s how:

1. Apply for a merchant account with the merchant service provider of your choice

Considering the average cost of plastic surgery procedures, your business probably already accepts card payments. If this is the case, congratulations—you’ve already completed the first step! But if you don’t yet accept credit cards, no worries. Keep reading to learn how to find the right merchant service provider (MSP) for your practice.When shopping for merchant service providers, you’ll want to take a few things into consideration:

Of course, you’ll also want to keep an eye out for their fees. Here are three of the most common ones you’ll see:

  • Interchange fee: This fee goes to the card-issuing bank (like Chase).
  • Network fee: This fee goes to the payment network (like Visa).
  • Assessment fee: This fee goes to the card-issuing brand (like Delta Airlines).
  • Markup fee: This fee goes directly to the MSP for their services.

If this seems like a lot to pay for every credit card transaction, you’re right. Luckily, there’s a secret way to bring down your costs in this step. Markup fees are how merchant service providers turn a profit on their services. Because they’re the ones to set these rates, your agent may be able to lower them in order to gain your business. Successful negotiations can reduce your markup fees by as much as 5–10%, saving your practice even more money.Once you have your merchant account up and running, it’s on to the next step.

2. Connect your fee-free credit card processing app to your merchant account

In this step, your biggest priority is ensuring that your credit card processing app and your merchant account connect seamlessly. From there, your vendors will take care of most of the setup on their ends. Your main role here is acting as the liaison between the two vendors—but in some cases, even that’s not necessary.Once your app and merchant account are connected, you can begin accepting credit card payments with ease and avoid the annoying processing fees that come with them.

Simplify your credit card transactions with NadaPayments

If you’re in search of fee-free credit card processing apps for your business, turn to NadaPayments. Credit surcharge programs can be complicated to handle on your own. That’s why we handle all of the government regulations behind the scenes. All you have to do is plug in the hardware and let the software run. On top of that, our setup process is quick, simple, and free—we’ll even throw in the hardware and software you need free of charge, too. Our app is a breeze to use, even if you don’t consider yourself especially tech-savvy. And you can take NadaPayments with you wherever you need to process credit card transactions: use it in-store, online, or on the go.Best of all, if you don’t completely love it, you can cancel your plan any time—no hard feelings (and no convoluted cancelation process to deal with, either).So, what do you say? Give NadaPayments a try today and see why business owners across the United States choose us as their fee-free credit card processing app.Call +1 (929) 293-1800 or click the link below to get started.

I Want FREE Credit Card Processing

Every business owner knows that certain costs are inevitable. But chances are, you’re shelling out a lot of cash for something that could easily be eliminated: Credit card processing fees.Getting rid of this unnecessary cost isn’t hard. You can free yourself from the burden of paying fees on every credit card transaction you accept at your medical spa or cosmetic surgery practice in two simple steps. How? With a fee-free credit card processing app.Once you set one up for your business, you’ll no longer foot the bill when your patients pay with plastic. In one year, you can save $14K on your laser resurfacing procedures alone. Interested in learning more? We’ve got you covered. Read on to learn all about fee-free credit card processing apps and how to set one up for your medspa or cosmetic surgery practice in as little as one business day.

How fee-free credit card processing apps save your laser resurfacing business money

Let’s start with the basics first. What exactly are fee-free credit card processing apps?These payment processors help you bypass the fees that usually come with credit card transactions. They’re passed on to your customers instead, thanks to what’s called a credit surcharge program. These programs let you offset transaction fees by giving your customers two choices: pay a small fee for using their credit card, or avoid these fees entirely by paying with cash, debit, or check. So, if a customer spends $100 at your business, you get the full $100—no matter how they pay. You avoid paying credit card transaction fees and take home 100% of the money you make. Plus, it’s completely legal, thanks to the Dodd-Frank Act.At first glance, the idea sounds great. But what would your patients think? With some cosmetic procedures costing a pretty penny, they surely wouldn’t be happy paying even more for their treatments. But what if we told you that many customers actually prefer this arrangement?For many years now, business owners have looked for ways to work around the cost of accepting credit card transactions. Some of them have decided to increase their base prices to absorb the cost of these transaction fees, plus the cost of the hardware and software needed to process these payments. In most cases, this cost increase comes out to more than the fee that customers would pay through a credit surcharge program. The bottom line: Customers actually end up saving money with this method. And if they choose to pay in cash, they can save even more. Either way, you give them the choice to do so, rather than forcing a solution onto them that no one really cares for.Still unsure if fee-free credit card processing apps are right for you? That’s understandable.However, you might change your mind once you find out how much you’re actually losing to transaction fees. Let’s crunch the numbers in the next section.

Why medspas lose thousands of dollars with traditional payment processors

For simplicity, we’ll focus on one type of treatment offered at businesses like yours: laser resurfacing. This procedure is offered at many medspas and cosmetic surgery practices to reduce the look of lines, scars, and other irregularities on the skin’s surface. However, the cost of laser resurfacing alone means that not everyone has access to this sort of treatment. The average cost of laser treatments in 2019 ranged between $1,201 and $1,963 per session, depending on what kind of laser was used. But this number doesn’t include additional fees incurred from initial consultation, anesthesia, facility costs, and post-treatment medication. On top of that, one session may not remove more stubborn issues, so patients may come in several times before they’re satisfied with their results. Ultimately, laser resurfacing is a highly lucrative offering at medspas and clinics all over the country. So, let’s say you charged $1,963 for every laser resurfacing procedure and performed 20 of them every month. You’d make $39,260. Not bad, right?But then the credit card fees kick in. Because laser resurfacing typically costs a thousand dollars at minimum, many patients use their credit cards to pay for it. A study performed by the Federal Reserve supports this: It found that people prefer to pay with credit over cash for large purchases. Merchant service providers (MSPs), the companies that process your card transactions, typically charge between 1.3% and 3.3% for every swipe of plastic.

fee-free credit card processing app

So, if your MSP charges you 3% per transaction, you’re looking at a loss of $1,177.80 every month. In one year, that total balloons to a whopping $14,133.60.Just think about what you could do with that $14K instead.Would you put that money back into your business? Maybe you’re considering a remodel of your clinic to make it more appealing to your clients, or perhaps your marketing director has asked for an increase in your advertising budget.On the other hand, you could just as easily use that money for personal reasons. Maybe you’ve always wanted to take your partner to France, or your real dream is to become a winemaker. With an extra $14K in your pocket every year, you can reach your personal and professional goals that much quicker. Now that you know how much you’d save on laser resurfacing alone, imagine how much you’d save if you applied this line of thinking to the rest of your business. When you implement a fee-free credit card processing app, you can save tens (or maybe even hundreds) of thousands of dollars every year. If you think this could work for your business, here’s some good news: The whole process takes only two steps. Best of all, you might have already completed the first one, meaning you can start saving money even sooner than you thought. Find out how to get a fee-free credit card processing app below.

Follow these 2 steps to set up your credit surcharge program

It only takes two easy steps to start saving money with a credit surcharge program. Here’s how:

Step 1: Apply for a merchant account with a merchant service provider

Because laser resurfacing treatments cost a pretty penny, most of your patients pay with credit. This means you’re probably already working with a merchant service provider (MSP). If so, congratulations! You’re one step closer to saving thousands of dollars every year, and you didn’t even have to lift a finger. But if you don’t yet have an MSP, fear not. We’ll walk you through the process here. Your MSP has a direct impact on how your business processes transactions. Because of this, you’ll want to take extra care when deciding which one to go with. Here are some factors to consider when researching merchant service providers:

  • Customer service: If run into any issues processing transactions, you’ll want to solve them immediately. Look for a company that offers 24/7 support.
  • Experience with medical credit card processing: These MSPs already understand your industry and are able to tailor their assistance to your specific needs right from the beginning, saving you time and effort.
  • Up-to-date technology: Great MSPs provide the best hardware and software options, like virtual terminal credit card processing, to ensure seamless transactions for your customers—regardless of what your payment processing setup looks like.

Of course, you’ll also want to consider the costs of doing business with your provider. While price shouldn’t be the only deciding factor, choosing the wrong MSP can result in higher-than-expected costs, which defeats the purpose of getting started with fee-free credit card processing in the first place.MSPs charge a variety of fees for their services, so it’s beneficial to understand them before you shop around. Here are some of the most common fees to look out for:

  • Interchange fee: This fee goes to the card-issuing bank (like Chase).
  • Network fee: This fee goes to the payment network (like Visa).
  • Assessment fee: This fee goes to the card-issuing brand (like Delta Airlines).
  • Markup fee: This fee goes directly to the MSP for their services.

Here’s a tip that most people won’t tell you: Markup fees aren’t set in stone. Because MSPs are eager to work with highly profitable businesses like yours, you can potentially save even more money by negotiating on their fees. In fact, we’ve seen successful negotiations bring this fee down by as much as 5–10%.Once you find the right provider, you’ll set up your merchant account following their instructions. This process takes about a few business days to complete, on average. After you finish this step, you’ve done the majority of the legwork: The final step is much easier and involves very little work on your part.

Step 2: Connect your fee-free credit card processing app to your merchant account

This step involves more cooperation between your MSP and payment processor than anything else and should only take about one business day.However, you’ll want to make sure of one thing: That your merchant account and payment processor connect seamlessly. Otherwise, all of your hard work will be for nothing. Once setup is complete, you can now accept credit card payments with ease—no more throwing away money on unnecessary processing fees. You can now start saving even more money and make great strides towards your financial goals.

Achieve your financial goals quicker with Nadapayments

Our goal at Nadapayments is to make payment processing as simple and affordable as possible. When you choose us as your fee-free credit card processing app, we’ll take the reins on all things payment processing so you can focus on the things that matter most to your business. Our software and guidelines adhere to government regulations, so you’re always compliant with the latest changes in legislation. Our payment processing technology also interfaces seamlessly with most point-of-sale systems, ensuring that your precious time isn’t wasted. Even better? There are no setup costs. We offer free 24/7/365 support every step of the way, even after you’re all set up. We’ll even send you the necessary equipment free of charge so you can start saving money immediately. And if you decide you don’t like what we offer, no problem. Simply let us know you’d like to cancel your services, and we’ll take care of it immediately. No cancellation fees, and no hard feelings. To get started, contact our support team by calling +1 (929) 293-1800 or click the link below.

I Want FREE Credit Card Processing

If you had an extra $13K in revenue coming into your business every year, what would you do with it? Would you play it smart and reinvest it in your business? Or would you use it to improve your quality of life instead? Maybe you have credit card debt or medical school loans to pay off, or you’ve been planning a trip to Europe with your family in the near future. What if we told you that there really was a way to bring in this much additional money—and that it only takes minimal effort on your part?Well, you’re in luck, because there is.The secret to your newfound wealth? Fee-free credit card processing apps.Maybe you’ve never heard of them. In fact, most business owners haven’t. But these nifty programs help you avoid paying thousands of dollars each month in credit card processing fees, so you can pocket that money and do what you want with it instead.Keep reading to learn what fee-free credit card processing apps are and how you can hook your Fraxel laser business up with one in two easy steps. So, without further ado, let’s dive in!

The secret to saving money with a fee-free credit card processing app

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of things, let’s start at the beginning. What exactly are fee-free credit card processing apps?In short, these apps eliminate the burden of paying hefty credit card transaction fees so you can take home 100% of your credit card revenue. Best of all, it’s completely legal, thanks to the Dodd-Frank Act passed in 2010.So, how does it work?Fee-free credit card processing apps work using what’s called a surcharge program. As its name suggests, a credit surcharge program involves having your clients cover payment processing fees, allowing you to offset the transaction fees you’d normally owe on credit card payments. So, let’s say a client is paying for Fraxel laser treatment. By using a fee-free credit card processing app and a surcharge program, you will:

  • Charge them the sticker price, if they pay with cash or debit card (you pay a fee of 1% plus $0.25 per transaction for debit card payments).
  • Add up to 4% to the bill if your client pays with a credit card. At Nadapayments, for example, our solution adds 3.5% to credit card payments. That extra 3.5% covers the processing fee, ensuring that your business sees all of the revenue it’s earned.
  • Provide clear signage at the door and point of sale explaining your surcharge program pricing.

But how do you explain this to your customers? Surely, your clients won’t like this new system, will they?Chances are, they’ll actually prefer it. In many cases, business owners looking to avoid losing money to credit card transaction fees will actually increase their prices to account for this loss in revenue. What customers don’t know is that these new prices are often much higher than the amount they’d pay with credit surcharge programs.With one of these programs in place, your customers actually save money by paying only the transaction fee. And by paying with cash, they can save even more. Still not convinced that fee-free credit card processing apps are right for you? Let’s break down how much you’ll save by implementing one.

How much credit card processing fees really cost you

For our purposes, let’s focus on how much money you’re losing from just one type of treatment offered at your medspa or clinic. Although the cost for Fraxel laser procedures can vary between $500 and $5,000 per treatment, you can expect to pay about $1,500 on average per session in a New York City-based clinic. And because these procedures typically require multiple visits to fully correct scarring, texture, and pigmentation, you’ll probably see several of your clients a few times a year before they’re satisfied with their results. So, if you charged $1,500 per treatment and met with 25 patients every month, you’d make $37,500 in recurring monthly revenue. But here’s where those credit card transaction fees come in.A Federal Reserve study shows that, time and again, people would rather pay for expensive purchases with credit instead of cash. So, because Fraxel laser treatments are considered high-ticket purchases, most people will pay for these procedures with their credit cards. Most merchant service providers (MSPs) will charge you an additional 1.3–3% for every credit card purchase you process. For this example, let’s say your MSP charges you an even 3% in credit card transaction fees.

fee-free credit card processing app

That means that every month, you’ll pay $1,125 in processing fees. In one year, you can expect to pay a whopping $13,500 in fees on Fraxel laser procedures alone. That’s outrageous.You’ve already imagined what you’d do with an extra $13K in revenue. With a fee-free credit card processing app in place, those goals suddenly become much more attainable. Now that you know what fee-free credit card processing apps are (and how much you and your business stand to gain by implementing one), let’s take a look at how to set one up for your business. (Hint: It’s much easier than you think. So easy, in fact, that you can complete it in as little as one business day.)

How to set up your credit surcharge program in 2 stress-free steps

No hoops to jump through here—it really only takes two steps and a few days to eliminate credit card processing fees and start saving your business thousands of dollars.

Step 1: Set up your merchant account with a merchant service provider

Sound familiar? That’s because it is! Merchant service providers handle the credit and debit card transactions for every merchant (business). We mentioned them earlier—they’re the ones charging you an additional 1.3–3% for every credit card purchase you processIf your business accepts credit card payments, you’re probably working with an MSP already. That’s great! It means you’re one step closer to implementing fee-free credit card processing.But if you don’t have one yet, don’t worry. Let’s take a look at how you can get started with an MSP.Finding the right MSP for your business isn’t difficult, but you’ll want to make sure that you choose the right one for your medspa or clinic. The biggest point of contention for most business owners? Pricing. Merchant service providers tack on a variety of fees to their service offerings; choosing the wrong one can result in higher-than-anticipated costs. You should opt for pass-through pricing, which allows you to see what your fees will be, instead of tiered pricing. Tiered pricing organizes transactions into categories and charges you accordingly. And because you can’t always predict which category a transaction will fall into, you can end up paying much more than expected.While you shop around for MSPs with pass-through pricing, you’ll want to take a look at what they charge for these fees in particular:

  • Interchange fee: This fee goes to the card-issuing bank (like Chase).
  • Network fee: This fee goes to the payment network (like Visa).
  • Assessment fee: This fee goes to the card-issuing brand (like Delta Airlines).
  • Markup fee: This fee goes directly to the MSP for their services.

You might be thinking, “But wait… I thought you were supposed to help me save money!” And you’re right. We’ll let you in on a little secret: you can reduce your MSP’s markup fees, if you’re willing to engage in some negotiation.Markup fees are how merchant service providers make money on their offerings. But they may be willing to lower their markup rate in order to gain the business of a successful medspa or clinic like yours. In fact, we’ve seen businesses secure discounts up to 5–10%. Not bad, right? However, it’s not enough to choose an MSP based on cost alone. To get the best value for both you and your customers, you should take the following into account as well:

Once you find the MSP that’s right for your Fraxel laser business, they’ll walk you through the setup process. And in just a few business days, you’ll be able to accept card transactions and connect your merchant account to a fee-free credit card processing app (and, most importantly, start saving thousands).

Step 2: Link your fee-free credit card processing app to your MSP

Thankfully, this step requires less involvement from you and relies more on collaboration between your MSP and processing app provider instead. Your only responsibility lies in making sure that your fee-free credit card processing app is compatible with your merchant service provider. Once you get the go-ahead from your credit card processing app vendor, you’re now ready to accept credit card transactions without the burden of paying unnecessary processing fees.

Make credit card processing fees a thing of the past with Nadapayments

Choosing a fee-free credit card processing app like Nadapayments allows you to increase your revenue substantially without putting in an equivalent amount of effort. But that’s just one of the benefits you get from working with a company like ours.Our payment processing solution integrates seamlessly with most POS systems, so there’s no need to go back and forth with your MSP to try and figure things out. Our terminals connect to Wi-Fi as well, so you can process payments anywhere there’s a Wi-Fi connection—in person or online. The setup process is simple (and 100% free), but if you’re having some trouble, our customer support team is here to help you 24/7/365. And if you decide you don’t like what we have to offer, you can cancel your service anytime. Ready to start taking home 100% of what you earn?Get in touch with one of our support specialists and experience our VIP service for yourself by calling +1 (929) 293-1800, or click the link below to start your setup process today.

I Want FREE Credit Card Processing

There are many unavoidable costs that come with running a dermabrasion business: taxes, equipment, rent for your office space, payroll… the list goes on.But there are also many fees that aren’t necessary at all. One of the biggest of these is credit card processing fees. As they add up, credit card processing fees can seriously weigh your business down.Luckily, it’s easy to get rid of these fees and start taking home 100% of the revenue you earn from procedures like dermabrasion, microneedling, and more.The secret? A fee-free credit card processing app. Once you’ve eliminated credit card processing fees, you could start bringing in tens of thousands of dollars in additional revenue each year—all in a few simple steps. Here we’ll break down what exactly these apps are and how to set yourself up with one in as little as one business day. So, let’s get started!

How do fee-free credit card processing apps work?

First and foremost, what exactly is a fee-free credit card processing app?In short, it’s a 100% legal way of saving money on your credit card transactions, making it the savvy business owner’s solution to eliminating those frustrating fees. Technically speaking, fee-free credit card processing apps implement what’s called a credit surcharge program, which allows you to bypass the fees that usually come with credit transactions.Here’s how it works: when you implement a fee-free credit card processing app, your clients will have two options to choose from when paying for their services. They can pay with credit and incur a 3.5% fee, or they can choose to pay with cash, debit card, or check and avoid fees entirely.You may be wondering: Wouldn’t implementing a credit surcharge program and charging a 3.5% fee upset my clients? In reality, this isn’t the case. Many customers may actually prefer a credit surcharge program over traditional pricing structures (which may include the fees you’d usually have to pay for credit card transactions). They’ll also have the option to save money by paying with cash, debit, or check, and will appreciate your business’ transparency around payment options.

How a fee-free credit card processing app can benefit your dermabrasion practice

Let’s first take a look at how much money you’re really losing to credit card processing fees each year.The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) placed the average cost of dermabrasion at $1,296 in 2019. However, that only covers the cost of the procedure itself. When you factor in additional expenses (like anesthetics and operating room costs), that total can easily come out to $4,000 or more.Because dermabrasion is a cosmetic procedure, it’s not typically covered by medical insurance. For better or worse, your clients will likely have to pay out of pocket for it. And because of its high sticker price, many of those clients won’t feel comfortable paying for dermabrasion with cash or debit. In fact, a study conducted by the Federal Reserve revealed that, the higher the cost of a purchase goes up, the more likely a person is to reach for their credit card to cover it.Here’s where those credit card fees come in. While credit card fees will vary between payment networks, you can expect to shell out anywhere from 1.3% to 3.30% for every credit card purchase.

fee-free credit card processing app

So, let’s say you perform 15 dermabrasion procedures a month at $3,000 each. You’ll easily make $45,000 in just one month. But if credit card processors charged you 3% on every transaction paid for with a credit card, you’d lose $1,350 a month. In one year alone, you’d lose $16,200 of revenue. And that’s not even counting the money lost from the other services you perform too. Think about what you could do with an extra 16 grand.For one, you could take that money and put it back into your business. $16,200 could easily pay for an office renovation, medical supplies and equipment, additional employees, or malpractice insurance. Of course, you could just as easily spend that money on yourself and your family: you could pay for the home remodel you’ve always wanted, send your children or grandchildren to school, contribute to your retirement fund, or buy your dream car. When you don’t have to pay thousands of dollars in unnecessary fees every month, the opportunities are endless.

How to set up your fee-free credit card processing app in two easy steps

So you’ve decided to make the switch to fee-free credit card transactions. Where do you start?First, you’ll need to find the right merchant service provider (MSP), which handles all of your debit and credit card transactions. Given the price of dermabrasion procedures, chances are you already have one set up! But if you don’t, the process is relatively simple and takes a few business days (at most) to complete. Start by doing some research and creating a list of potential providers. You’ll want to keep an eye out for ones that specialize in medical businesses—especially if you accept insurance for some of your procedures. These MSPs are already up-to-speed on healthcare best practices and can help you with your most pressing transaction questions from day one. When looking for an MSP, you can gain some insight into pricing by taking a look at the following fees:

  • Interchange fee: This fee goes to the card-issuing bank, such as Bank of America.
  • Network fee: This fee goes to the payment network, such as MasterCard.
  • Assessment fee: This fee goes to the card-issuing brand, such as Delta Airlines.
  • MSP markup: This fee goes to the payment processor and is typically assessed through hardware and software fees, as well as subscription charges. Avoid MSPs who assess random charges, such as online reporting fees and customer service charges.

While you can’t negotiate with banks or payment networks, you may be able to score a deal by negotiating the MSP markup—we’ve seen practices get 5–10% off! Generally, however, you won’t want to automatically opt for the cheapest MSP. You should make sure they have all the features you need, including 24/7 customer service and the latest in payment processing hardware (such as mobile credit card processing, virtual terminal credit card processing, and contactless or chip payments).Now for the second step: once you get set up with your new merchant service provider, next you’ll need to find the best fee-free credit card processing app. As you look into different companies, make sure to choose one that integrates with your current MSP. Linking your merchant service provider with your new fee-free credit card processing app won’t take too long. In most cases, the process takes about one business day. This is great news, as it means you’ll be able to start saving money on credit card processing fees as soon as possible.

Never deal with credit card processing fees again

Eliminating credit card processing fees is one of the easiest things you can do to start increasing your revenue almost immediately. When you work with Nadapayments, you can rest assured that our services are completely above-board. Our surcharge program is 100% legal and compliant, thanks to the Dodd-Frank Act.And when you choose us, you get much more than just the money you save on credit card fees. Setup with Nadapayments is quick, painless, and completely free. You get 24/7/365 customer service, and we’ll even throw in the hardware you need for your transactions at no additional cost to you. And the best part? Our surcharge solution seamlessly integrates with your existing payment processing system and works on the go, in-store, and online.So, what are you waiting for?Get in touch by calling us at +1 (929) 293-1800, or click the link below to get started with your new credit card processing app.

I Want FREE Credit Card Processing

There’s a secret way to save your company thousands of dollars every year—one that most business owners know nothing about. Here, we’ll tell you how to cash in on these hidden revenue gold mines... and how to do it in as little as one business day.More than half of the adult population carries stretch marks on their body, and yet so many of us still feel self-conscious about them. Because of this, laser stretch mark removal is a hugely popular procedure at many medical spas. This treatment can easily earn your business tens of thousands of dollars every year. But here’s the thing: you could be earning even more if credit card transaction fees didn’t eat up so much of your revenues. Enter: fee-free credit card processing apps.With one of these programs set up for your business, you can take 100% of your stretch mark removal revenue home in one or two simple steps. Keep reading to learn what a fee-free credit card processing app is, how to get one set up at your medspa, and how it can save you tens of thousands of dollars a year.

How fee-free credit card processing apps work

So what are fee-free credit card processing apps? The answer’s in the name.These apps allow you to circumvent credit card processing fees. And, thanks to credit surcharge programs and the Dodd-Frank Act, they’re a 100% legal way to save your business money. But where do these fees go? Surely credit card companies won’t let you off the hook for them. When your patients pay for their stretch mark removal procedures, you’ll offer them two options:

  • Pay with credit and incur an additional 3.5% fee
  • Pay with cash, check, or debit and avoid paying the fee entirely

Either way, you no longer have to pay credit card transaction fees. It’s now up to the customer to decide whether or not they want to pay it—and if they don’t, they save some money on their end.But are fee-free credit card processing apps really worth it? Let’s break down how much you can save by implementing one at your medical spa.

How much can you save with a zero fee credit card processing app?

Laser stretch mark removals aren’t cheap. There are two main types of procedures, both costing over a thousand dollars on average. The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) states that non-ablative procedures average at about $1,410, while ablative laser treatments cost about $2,681. Of course, this doesn’t include additional costs like the consultation fee, anesthesia, and lab fees. The Federal Reserve found that people prefer to pay with credit for larger purchases (which laser stretch mark removals certainly qualify as). So, because these procedures can get pricey, many of your patients likely swipe their plastic instead of using cash or debit. So, let’s say you charge the national average ($2,681) for ablative laser treatments. These procedures can be done in as little as an hour and a half, so you find you’re able to conduct 15 of these treatments every month. After crunching the numbers, you realize you make $40,215 a month just from ablative laser treatments alone. But here come the credit card processing fees. These fees typically range between 1.3–3.3% of every credit card transaction your medspa processes. For our purposes, let’s say your merchant service provider (MSP) has set your rate at an even 3%.

fee-free credit card processing app

While 3% may seem small, that means you’re losing $1,206.45 to fees every month. That’s a painful $14,477.40 lost every year. Just think about all the things you could do with that money instead. If you wanted to be practical and reinvest these funds into your business, you could renovate your medspa to make it more appealing for your patients. You could update your office’s software or buy more medical supplies. You could even increase your marketing budget to bring in even more customers. Of course, you could always use that money for personal reasons, like paying down long-standing debt, treating yourself to a luxury purchase, or taking your family on vacation.But without a fee-free credit card processing app in place, you’ll continue to lose tens of thousands of dollars every year. If you want to stop throwing that money away, read on to learn how to start saving your medspa some money—potentially as soon as the next business day.

The two-step process for getting a fee-free credit card processing app

This insanely simple process only takes two steps. After you’re done, you’ll be well on your way to that new office remodel, family vacation, or whatever financial goal you’ve set for yourself. Best of all, if you already have a merchant service provider, you’re already halfway there. If you don’t, no worries—let’s go over how to find a merchant service provider.Finding the right MSP for your medical spa’s needs involves doing a little research and comparing your options. Your list of things to look for in your ideal provider should include:

You’ll also want to look at the fees they charge you, including:

  • Interchange fee: The fee paid to the cardholder’s bank (like Bank of America)
  • Network fee: The fee paid to the payment network (like Visa)
  • Assessment fee: The fee paid to the card-issuing brand
  • MSP markup fee: The fee paid to your merchant service provider

While the first three of these fees are pretty much set in stone, many merchant service providers are willing to adjust their markup fees to accommodate your business. Successful negotiations can easily save you 5–10% off the proposed rate. Not bad, right?Once you’ve set everything up with your MSP, you’ll want to turn your attention to your fee-free credit card processing app. This is a much easier process. The most important thing to keep in mind is to find an app that integrates seamlessly with your MSP. You don’t want to go through the hassle of finding the right one, only to discover they don’t match up at all.Because most of the work in this step takes place between your merchant service provider and your credit card processing app company, it will require minimal effort on your part. Setup can take as little as one business day to complete, and after it’s done, your medspa can process every credit card transaction while incurring none of their fees. But that’s not all. When you work with NadaPayments, you get a whole host of additional benefits on top of that.

Make today the last day you pay credit card transaction fees

Nadapayments is built on the premise of saving you as much money as possible.Not only do you save in credit card processing fees, but you also don’t have to worry about setup fees or the cost of your hardware and software. In fact, we’ll give you everything you need to get started with your credit surcharge program for free. Take your app anywhere you need to process a transaction—in-store, online, or on the go—so you can save on credit card fees anywhere. Plus, we offer 24/7/365 customer service, because let’s face it: Not all of us are as tech-savvy as we claim to be. But we can only say so much. Get started today and find out for yourself why businesses all over the country have chosen Nadapayments. Sign up for your very own fee-free credit card processing app by calling +1 (929) 293-1800 or clicking the link below.

I Want FREE Credit Card Processing

Why should your orthodontic practice focus on what braces payment plan you offer?In short, because braces account for nearly 50% of revenues at orthodontic practices. That means that if you’re like the average orthodontic practice and bring in around $1.1 million in revenue, about $550,000 of that comes from braces alone. Clearly, a large part of your financial success (and the orthodontic industry’s in general) depends on offering braces to patients. That’s why when it comes to providing your patients with braces, you have to take the best possible approach to payments. After all, braces set your patients up for long-term success—shouldn’t they do the same for you? Because braces are such a big investment, your patients—and your business—depend on it.

Too busy to worry about payment processing?

We do understand that you're busy. And as an orthodontist, you’re doing important work. You take extra care to properly align and straighten your patient’s teeth and improve their dental health. From the initial consultation and X-rays to putting on the braces and doing checkups, you’re helping people live healthier, happier lives. But while you’ve been busy improving your patients’ oral health, you may not have realized something: Credit card processing fees are killing your orthodontic practice’s profits from braces. You may not be worried. After all, you only owe 3% on each payment in a braces payment plan. But it adds up much more than you might think. In fact, credit card processing fees could actually be costing you more than $10,000 per year. Got your attention now? Let’s take a look at why you need free credit card processing software and a better braces payment plan for your patients. Ultimately, we’ll show you how you can earn much, much more from the application of dental braces.

Why you need a better braces payment plan

First, answer this question: How much does an orthodontist make?Not sure off the top of your head? According to ZipRecruiter, the average salary for an orthodontist is $290,000. Considering that the average orthodontic practice brings in around $1.1 million in revenue, that means that you achieve net margins around 26%. That’s a solid income. However, you could be doing even better with a smarter braces payment plan in place.

Many patients pay for braces out of pocket

Let’s examine a couple more questions: How do your patients pay for their braces payment plans? Does insurance cover them?For those with insurance, dental plans usually cover around 50% of the cost of braces, according to Oral-B. However, not everyone has dental insurance, and most health plans don’t cover orthodontic services for those over 18 years old. So, it’s possible that only 20% of your revenue from braces comes from health insurance plans. The remaining 80% is paid for out of pocket. And of that 80%, most patients probably sign up for payment plans.

Credit card payments account for a lot of your revenue

Exactly how much of your revenue comes from credit card payments? Let’s take a closer look at the numbers:

  • If half of your orthodontist practice’s $1.1 million in revenue comes from braces, that’s $550,000.
  • If 80% of that revenue is paid out of pocket, that’s $440,000 in out-of-pocket payments.
  • If 65% of out-of-pocket payments are paid for with credit, that’s $286,000 in credit card payments.

It’s in this $286,000 in credit card payments that you’re losing money on braces payments plans. But how? Well, when a customer swipes their plastic each month to pay off their braces payment plan, you don’t get 100% of that revenue. The credit card companies get a sizable chunk of that payment. The following chart from ValuePenguin details the average card processing fees charged by different networks:

average credit card processing fees

Source: ValuePenguin

After adding in the merchant service provider (MSP) markup, it’s possible that you’re paying an average of 3.5% in credit card processing fees per transaction. Let’s do the math: If $286,00 of your revenue comes from credit card payments, then you’re paying $10,010 in credit card fees each year. That’s money that could be going toward payroll, equipment, marketing, or even your retirement fund.Luckily, you don't have to keep throwing that money away. Let’s take a look at how you can implement a braces payment plan that’s not only more profitable for your practice, but also more convenient for your patients.

Partner with a better merchant service provider (MSP) to set up a smarter braces payment plan

As mentioned above, once you add in the markup assessed by the merchant service provider (MSP), your average credit card transaction fee for a braces payment plan could be as high as 3–4%. This is why your orthodontic practice should shop around for the best payment processor available. You don’t want to simply find the cheapest one—you want one that offers low pricing and quality services. So, what services should you look for?Since many patients may go online to manage their braces payment plans, your payment system will need virtual terminal credit card processing. The actual hardware should have chip and contactless capabilities, as well.Of course, while you won’t need the same kind of speed as retail stores, your credit card system should operate efficiently. You don’t want something to stall when other patients are waiting. Finally, the payment system you choose should be designed for medical credit card processing. They’ll be able to accept debit cards associated with health savings accounts (HSA) and flexible savings accounts (FSA).

Understanding credit card processing fees

There are four types of fees you’ll pay when a patient swipes the card for their braces payment plan. These are:

  • The network fee (for the payment network): Visa wants their cut.
  • The interchange fee (for the card-issuing bank): JPMorgan Chase wants some cash.
  • The assessment fee (for the card-issuing brand): If your patient has a travel rewards card, for example, Delta Airlines will take a little too.
  • The MSP markup (for the payment processing company): Think Square.

When you set up a braces payment plan for a patient, and then the patient pays with a credit card, you’re not going to get 100% of that revenue. 3% or more will have been snagged by the time the payment reaches your account. As you shop for an MSP, narrow down your choices to those who offer low, transparent pricing. You should opt for pass-through pricing, which allows you to see what your fees will be, instead of tiered pricing. Tiered pricing organizes transactions into categories, and you often end up paying more than expected. Filter your selection down to the best three MSPs for your orthodontic practice. Then, you can move onto the next step.

Negotiate pricing with your MSP

What? You can negotiate pricing on credit card processing fees? Well, somewhat…You can’t negotiate the network fee, assessment fee, or interchange fee. You can, however, negotiate the MSP markup and ask for discounts on things like hardware fees and subscription costs. And if you have good revenue (which, as an orthodontist, you likely do), chances are the MSP will be willing to drop 5–10% off their markup. Over time, that simple negotiation could save you thousands of dollars. How amazing is that? Now, even with the best possible MSP and a discount on their markup, you’ll still have to pay credit card transaction fees. But there’s a way to completely eliminate those fees and start taking home 100% of your revenue from braces payment plans. Let’s take a look at this simple yet powerful strategy now.

The credit surcharge program: Take home 100% of your braces payment plan revenue

Want to get rid of credit card transaction fees forever? Enter the credit surcharge program—a payment strategy that businesses can use to offset transaction fees. Here’s how it works:

  • A patient gets braces and decides to start a braces payment plan with your office.
  • Thanks to the Dodd-Frank Act, your orthodontic practice can structure payments to eliminate the impact of credit card processing fees on your bottom line.

You do this by:

  • Charging the sticker price, if the patient pays with cash or debit card (you pay a fee of 1% plus $0.25 per transaction for debit card payments).
  • Adding up to 4% to the bill if the patient pays with a credit card. At Nadapayments, for example, our solution adds 3.5% to credit card payments. That extra 3.5% covers the processing fee, ensuring that your practice sees all of its revenue from the braces payment plan.
  • Providing clear signage at the door and point of sale explaining your surcharge program pricing.

At your orthodontic practice, a credit surcharge program gives braces patients the chance for savings by paying with cash or debit card. If they want the convenience of the credit card, they can pay that way as well. There’s just a 3.5% surcharge. It’s as simple as that. And because of this simple strategy, your orthodontic practice could take home $10,000+ more in revenue each year.

Ready for free credit card processing?

With the right MSP and a credit surcharge program, you can increase your orthodontic practice’s profits and keep all of the revenue you earn from braces payment plans. All you have to do is take action with a few easy steps. With our credit surcharge program at Nadapayments, you can get free credit card processing set up within one day. We don’t charge any fees and work with your credit card installment plans.Want to get started? Call us at +1 (929) 293-1800 or click the link below. We’re ready to help your orthodontic practice stop losing money to unnecessary fees.

I Want FREE Credit Card Processing

Whether you’re a cosmetic dermatologist, plastic surgeon, or cosmetic dentist, medical payment processing can be a headache. Your priority is to provide top-notch medical care to your patients; details like how you process payments can be easily overlooked. That’s perfectly understandable. However, it’s really worth it to take a portion of your day to review your medical payment processing software. Here’s why: The wrong credit card processing system could affect your practice’s financial sustainability.How so? Well, chances are, you’re paying 3% or more in fees on each credit card transaction (along with other charges). That means you’re letting credit card fees cut into your medical practice’s pocketbooks.Furthermore, given the sensitive nature of healthcare services, protecting patient data is of the utmost importance. Partner with the wrong medical payment processing provider, and you risk losing everything. Simply put, you should view medical payment processing as a vital component of running a successful healthcare practice. In this guide, we’ll cover how using better healthcare payment processing can make your practice more secure and profitable. We’ll also discuss how to implement the best credit card processing for your medical practice in a few easy steps. Let’s get started.

Why you need better medical payment processing: the cosmetic dermatologist example

If you’re a cosmetic dermatologist, here’s why you should search for better medical payment processing:

  1. You’ve invested a lot of time and effort to get to where you are. You did four years of undergraduate study, then four years of medical school. After that, you did three to four years of residency. All said and done, you’ve devoted at least eleven years to your profession.
  2. You’ve also invested a lot of money into becoming a cosmetic dermatologist. You may even have student debt: According to NerdWallet, the average medical school debt nears $202,000.
  3. Opening a cosmetic dermatology office wasn’t cheap, either. Based on industry research, you likely spent anywhere from $70,000 to $100,000 (though it could be more or less based on the size of your practice, its location, and other factors).

As you can see, you’ve put it all on the line to become a cosmetic dermatologist. Why lose your hard-earned money just because you don’t have the right medical payment processing? But just how much money are you losing? Let’s take a look.

Bad payment processing can cost you $25K+ per year

To continue with the above example, let’s say:

  • You’re a cosmetic dermatologist with your own practice. Your practice generates $1.2 million in annual revenue (which is solid for your profession).
  • Let’s say your profit margins are 28%, which means you bring in $336,000 (just below the national average for dermatologists). That’s great—but you could be doing even better.

Since cosmetic dermatology procedures typically aren't medically necessary, insurance companies usually don’t cover them. That means your patients pay out of pocket for your services. So, how exactly do your clients pay? Well, considering that your services as a cosmetic dermatologist range in price from $75 (for services like microdermabrasion) to $2,500+ for Thermage, the chances are that your clients prefer to pay in installments and with a credit card. As research from the Federal Reserve notes, credit card usage rates increase as price does. Therefore, it’s possible that as much as 60% of your revenue comes from credit card transactions. That’s $720,000 from clients swiping plastic! This is why your medical payment processing system is so important: You’re paying fees on all of that $720,000.Take a look at average credit card processing fees below:

credit card transaction fees

Source

Add in what you pay your medical payment processing provider, and the transaction fees you’re paying probably reach 3.5%, on average. Paying a 3.5% fee on that $720,000 means forking over $25,200 per year in transaction fees! That’s unacceptable. Just think what would happen if you got free credit card processing. Your salary would jump $25,200 (7.2%, in this example). You may be thinking, “Free credit card processing? That’s impossible!” But that couldn’t be further from the truth. There’s actually a strategy you use—and it’s easier than you might think.

The strategy to get free medical payment processing

Let’s face it. Not all medical payment processing companies are good. Given the lack of regulatory oversight in the payments industry, merchant service providers (MSPs) can be vague about their fee and pricing structures. And that usually leads to you paying more. But the good news is that there are plenty of good merchant service providers out there. You just have to do your research and choose them carefully. When shopping for a medical payment processing provider, follow the process below. It will help you narrow your selection down to only the best processors for your practice.

Only go for those that offer pass-through pricing

There are two types of pricing for credit card processing:

  • Tiered pricing
  • Pass-through pricing

With tiered pricing, credit card payments are separated into tiers. You (the merchant) pay more for ‘unqualified’ rates and ‘mid-qualified’ rates, while ‘qualified’ rates are the cheapest. The problem with tiered pricing is that it’s hard to predict how a transaction will be classified (and, as a result, what you’ll pay). Too often, transactions fall within the more expensive tiers, meaning you’ll pay more. With pass-through pricing, you’re billed by the medical payment processor based on a fixed fee, plus a markup. It’s way more transparent, and almost always cheaper. So, the first step to finding the right payment processor is to avoid those that offer tiered pricing. Opt instead for medical payment processing companies that use pass-through pricing.

Select those with the services and capabilities you need

Pricing isn’t everything, however. You can’t just go with the most affordable medical payment processing system. You need a processor with flexible software that enables your patients to make payments in a variety of ways. Your medical payment processor should offer these types of payment methods:

By giving your clients convenience, you ensure that you get your revenue faster. In addition to pass-through pricing and top-of-the-line features, you’ll want a medical payment processor with excellent data security. Whether you’re a cosmetic dermatologist or a plastic surgeon, the services you provide your patients with should be kept private, and personal and financial data shouldn’t be vulnerable. Confidentiality isn’t just important to your clients—getting hacked could be devastating to your business. Furthermore, you should look for providers whose software can be upgraded. This way, you don’t have to continuously buy new hardware, and payments can be processed in as efficiently as possible at all times. After reviewing a list of medical payment processors with these criteria in mind, eliminate those that don’t meet your needs. Then, move on to the next step.

Analyze the credit card processing fees

You’ll pay the following fees for medical payment processing:

  • An interchange fee, which is paid to the card-issuing bank
  • A network fee, which is paid to the payment network
  • An assessment fee, which is paid to the card-issuing brand
  • A processor markup, which covers hardware, software, etc.

Since your list of processing companies already includes only those with the capabilities you need, you’ll have to examine each company’s total fees and narrow it down to the three best processors for your practice. Then, you can get in touch with them and negotiate!

Negotiate!

Wait, what exactly can you negotiate? While you can’t tell a medical payment processor that you’d rather not pay the interchange fee or network fee (Bank of America and Visa want their money, after all), you can get a discount on the processor markup. We’ve seen medical practices get 5–10% off the processor markup. Over time, that can save your practice tens of thousands of dollars. After negotiations, go with the most affordable payment processor who provides all the capabilities and services you need. Now, you may be thinking, “I’m still paying medical payment processing fees. Where does the free credit card processing come in?”There’s just one thing left to do…

Implement a credit surcharge program

Thanks to the Dodd-Frank Act, you can implement a credit surcharge program completely legally. As its name suggests, a credit surcharge program involves having your clients cover payment processing fees. With Nadapayments’ credit surcharge program, for example, clients at your cosmetic dermatology office would pay an extra 3.5% if paying with a credit card. This would offset the impact of credit card fees on your business.You may be wondering, “Won’t this upset my clients?”Actually, it won’t. This is because you’ll give them the option to pay with cash or a debit card and save money by not paying a fee. This way, they have the option of saving money or the convenience of swiping their plastic. Of course, you want to be transparent about your surcharge program. At Nadapayments, we set up cosmetic dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and others with clear signage at their doors and points of sale. This tells clients right away about the opportunity to save by paying with cash or debit. With a surcharge solution, your bottom line won’t feel the impact of medical payment processing fees. As a result, you’ll have completely free credit card processing. How wonderful is that?

Ready for free medical payment processing?

At Nadapayments, we’re ready to help you get rid of healthcare credit card processing fees for good. Our surcharge solution integrates seamlessly with your credit card installment plan. And we can get you up and running—and taking home more of your revenue—within just one day. Whether you’re a cosmetic dermatologist, plastic surgeon, or cosmetic dentist, the time to take control of patient payments is now. Call us at +1 (929) 293-1800 or click the link below. We’re ready to help you take home 100% of your revenue.

I Want FREE Credit Card Processing

how much does an optometry practice make

How much does an optometry practice make? It’s a question you may wonder while opening or managing your own optometry practice. According to data from Indeed, the average optometrist’s income in the USA is $121,050. A study of optometry practice finances also revealed the average office brings in more than $2 million per year in revenue from more than 4,100 patients. Clearly, you’ve picked a great profession. Running your own optometry practice can be highly lucrative. You also fill the huge demand for optometrists: over 200 million Americans use a vision-correction device, all of whom need to see an optometrist regularly. But most importantly, your work in diagnosing, treating, and managing visual injuries and diseases can help improve the lives of countless people.But when you’re busy helping improve others’ health, it can become difficult to pay attention to your practice’s finances. After all, why concern yourself with credit card processing fees when you have 10 patients to see today? While it may seem like an unnecessary effort, it’s truly worth it to take the time to implement a cheaper (or free) credit card processing system. Doing so could bring your business tens of thousands of dollars more per year.Interested now?Here’s some even better news: setting up fee-free credit card processing actually doesn’t take that long, and the benefits are enormous. Let’s dig a little deeper into how you can get free credit card processing at your optometry practice—and how doing so can start saving your business thousands.

Why eliminating credit card transaction fees benefits optometry practices

Let’s start by answering these two questions:

  • How much does an optometry practice make with traditional credit card processing?
  • How much does an optometry practice make with free credit card processing?

We can answer the first question with an example. Let’s say your optometry practice generates $2 million in revenue each year (about the industry average). A majority of your revenue probably comes from private insurance, Medicare, and Medicaid payments. But a sizable portion, perhaps 25%, could come from out-of-pocket expenses. Among that $500,000, you could expect 60% of that revenue to come from credit card transactions. That leaves $300,000 in revenue subject to credit card processing fees. If you look at the table below detailing average transaction fees, you’ll see that you could easily pay more than 3% per transaction.

credit card transaction fees

Add in the fees assessed by the payment processor, and you could end up paying 4% on average. If that’s the case, your optometry practice will hand over $12,000 per year in credit card transaction fees. That’s way too much! So, let’s go back to the question: How much does an optometry practice make with traditional credit card processing? If your practice brings in $2 million in revenue at a 10% net margin, you’ll make $200,000 per year. But you’ll also have forfeited $12,000 in fees. Why would you just give that money away? Now, let’s answer the second question: How much does an optometry practice make with free credit card processing?If your practice had exactly the same revenue and margins with no credit card transaction fees, you would make $212,000 per year—$12,000 more! That’s a salary increase of 6%. And all you had to do was eliminate credit card processing fees. Just think of what you could do with that extra money. You could:

  • Upgrade your practice’s equipment
  • Save more for retirement
  • Pay off your mortgage faster
  • Put away money for your children’s college
  • Take a nicer vacation

Now, you may be asking yourself: How do I implement free credit card processing at my optometry practice? Unfortunately, you can’t just tell Visa or American Express that you’re no longer going to pay them. It doesn’t work like that. However, there is a strategy for getting fee-free credit card processing that’s almost as easy (and perfectly legal). Let’s take a look at the steps for getting started.

Step 1: Get the best possible payment processor for your optometry practice

The payment processing industry remains plagued with merchant service providers who don’t have your best interests in mind. They aren’t transparent with pricing and charge unnecessary fees. Not only is that frustrating, it also hurts your business’ financial sustainability.So, although you’re busy, it pays (literally!) to pay attention to your choice of merchant service provider (MSP). While some aren’t so great, there are plenty of good MSPs out there to choose from. When looking for an MSP that provides services to medical businesses like your optometry practice, you can gain some clarity on their pricing by examining the following fees:

  • Interchange fee: This fee goes to the card-issuing bank, such as Bank of America.
  • Network fee: This fee goes to the payment network, such as MasterCard.
  • Assessment fee: This fee goes to the card-issuing brand, such as Delta Airlines.
  • MSP markup: This fee goes to the payment processor and is typically assessed through hardware and software fees, as well as subscription charges. Avoid MSPs who assess random charges, such as online reporting fees and customer service charges.

As you shop for MSPs, pay careful attention to the above fees. Get a good estimate on how much your optometry practice will pay in fees per transaction and overall each month. It’s important that you don’t automatically choose the cheapest payment processor. You’ll also want to make sure that the processing company has reliable customer service and that their system offers the functionality you need, including:

Also keep in mind that while you can’t negotiate fees with banks, Visa, or card brands, you can negotiate the MSRP markup. We’ve seen medical practices get 5–10% off the MSP markup, so don’t miss out on the chance to save money. Once you’ve seen the best offers from a few quality MSPs, go with the company that offers the best value to your business. This will put your optometry practice in the best position to get free credit card processing. After that, you can move on to step 2!

Step 2: Implement a credit surcharge program at your optometry practice

Want to end credit card processing fees once and for all? Then you’ll need to implement a credit surcharge program at your optometry practice. As its name suggests, a credit surcharge program involves having the customer cover the credit card processing fee. It’s 100% legal and compliant (thanks to the Dodd-Frank Act) and gives businesses like your optometry practice the chance to eliminate the impact of transaction fees on your bottom line. A credit surcharge program would give your patients the opportunity to save money by paying for out-of-pocket costs in cash. They’d still have the convenience of paying with a credit card, but would pay a bit more to cover that processing fee. Now, you may be wondering: How exactly does this work? At NadaPayments, our credit surcharge program does the following for optometry practices:

  • Adds 3.5% to the bill if the patient pays with a credit card: This adjustment is made automatically.
  • Provides signage at your door and point of sale: This way, patients know they can save money if they pay with cash.
  • Doesn’t charge a fee for debit card transactions: Credit surcharge programs aren’t allowed to assess a surcharge for debit card payments. Our program has your optometry practice pay 1% plus $0.25 per transaction on debit card payments.

Some businesses wonder if implementing a credit surcharge program will upset their customers. Luckily, this isn’t the case. In fact, many patients may prefer your credit surcharge program instead of traditional pricing structures. After all, they’ll have the option to save money and will appreciate your practice’s transparency when it comes to payment. Moreover, by using a credit surcharge program, your optometry practice won’t take a hit from credit card processing fees. The daily savings you get from a credit surcharge program will more than speak for themselves. And over the months and years, those savings will really add up. A credit surcharge program will not only help you build a financially sustainable optometry practice, but you’ll also reap the rewards personally. Bringing in an additional 6% or more of your annual income will open up a lot more possibilities for your business.

Get credit card processing at your optometry practice today

You have the opportunity to increase your profits by tens of thousands of dollars each year. All you need to do is find a better MSP and utilize a surcharge program. At NadaPayments, we can help you start eliminating credit card processing fees today. We can take your credit card processing bill to nada. On top of that, we don’t charge any setup fees. Our surcharge solution easily integrates with your existing payment system and works on the go, in-store, and online. And it only takes a day to get set up! Ready to get started?Call us at +1 (929) 293-1800 or click the link below. We’re ready to help you take home 100% of your optometry practice’s revenue.

I Want FREE Credit Card Processing

Credit card processing fees may seem minor. It’s easy to see that 3% fee and think, “That’s not too bad. I get to keep most of the money I make!”But here’s the thing: Those “tiny” fees quickly add up. Credit card processing fees can suck a surprising amount of revenue out of your business—tens of thousands of dollars, in fact.There’s a way around it, though. And it’s one that most people don’t even know about.You can start taking home 100% of your nose job revenue with a fee-free credit card processing app. Once you set yours up, you can start saving money as soon as tomorrow. Here, we’ll explain everything you need to know about fee-free credit card processing apps. We’ll even show you how to get started in just two easy steps.

What are fee-free credit card processing apps?

These payment processing apps help you avoid paying fees for every credit card transaction that your plastic surgery business processes. How? By taking advantage of what’s called a credit surcharge program. This allows you to pass credit card fees onto your clients—a completely legal and compliant practice, thanks to the Dodd-Frank Act.How does it work?When you implement a credit surcharge program, your patients will be presented with a choice the next time they pay for a cosmetic procedure: Either pay with credit and incur an additional 3.5% fee, or pay with cash or debit to avoid paying the fee entirely. You might be thinking, “Well, that’s not going to work. My patients wouldn’t be happy knowing I’m charging them more for every procedure.”But it all comes down to transparency. Most credit surcharge programs require you to set up a sign or placard explaining how it works, so customers are aware of it before ever swiping their cards. And in most cases, this 3.5% charge is less than what your customers would pay if you raised your prices to account for your credit card fees. Additionally, your clients will appreciate having the choice to save money by paying with cash or debit card.In a nutshell, credit surcharge programs benefit both you and your clients. So how would this play out in real life? Let’s break it down.

The hidden cost of running a plastic surgery practice

A nose job (also known as rhinoplasty) can run a patient anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000, depending on how much work is required during the procedure. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average price of a nose job in 2019 was $5,409, without taking into account additional expenses like anesthesia and operating room costs. So, if you charged the national average for every rhinoplasty and performed ten of these procedures every month, you’d bring in a cool $54,090 in just one month. Not too shabby!But here’s where you’ll need to factor in those credit card processing fees.These fees can range from 1.3% to 3.30% of each total transaction, but for our purposes, let’s say that you charge your patients 3% for every credit card purchase.

credit card transaction fees

And because of the high average cost of rhinoplasty procedures (and the fact that they’re often not covered by insurance), most patients will opt to pay with their credit cards. So, how much will credit card processing fees cost you? A whopping $1,622.70 a month (or $19,472.40 a year). Ouch.Think about what you could do with an extra $20,000 a year.Every business incurs monthly expenses, so if you wanted to be practical, you could use that money towards your own plastic surgery clinic. $20,000 would easily cover the cost of medical supplies, new surgical equipment and technology, office renovations, additional staff, or payroll for quite some time.Of course, you could also use that money for personal expenses—like paying down debt on your car or house, starting or contributing to a college fund for your kids or grandchildren, or even donating a portion to a good cause.Without credit card processing fees eating into your hard-earned revenue, you have the freedom to spend your money how you see fit.Now that you know how much money you stand to gain from fee-free credit card processing apps, here’s how to set one up for your own business.

Eliminate credit card processing fees in two easy steps

Get set up with your merchant service provider (MSP)

Before you can implement a credit surcharge program, you’ll need to partner with the right merchant service provider (MSP). These companies handle your credit and debit card transactions (for a fee). But here’s some good news: Because nose jobs are such high-ticket procedures, the chances are that you already work with an MSP. And if you do, you’ll be able to get your fee-free credit card processing app that much sooner.Don’t worry if you don’t—we’ll go over some tips to help you find one here.The process starts with finding the right MSP for your business. Some must-have features they should offer include superb customer service, experience working with medical practices, and additional features like contactless payments and mobile credit card processing to make every transaction easier. You’ll also want to take a look at your MSP’s rates to make sure they’re priced fairly. Some fees to look out for include:

  • Interchange fee: This goes to the card-issuing bank (like Chase)
  • Network fee: This goes to the payment network (like Visa)
  • Assessment fee: This goes to the card-issuing brand (like Delta Airlines)
  • MSP markup fee: This goes to the payment processor itself

What most people don’t know about MSP markup fees is that you can potentially negotiate a lower rate, allowing your business to save even more money. We’ve even seen some medical practices get 5–10% off the processor markup.Why? These fees are how merchant service providers make their profit. But because you’re the owner of a successful plastic surgery clinic, chances are they’ll be willing to make some pricing adjustments in order to earn your business.Once you’ve found the right MSP, it’ll take a few business days at most to set everything up for the next step.

Get your fee-free credit card processing app

The most important thing to keep in mind during this step is to find a credit card processing app that works with your MSP. After that, this step is an easy one. Most of the work will be done by your MSP and credit card processing app provider, which makes setup a breeze—even if you don’t consider yourself tech-savvy.You’ll find that this will take up just a few hours of your own time, as well as one business day for your app provider to set everything up on their end.Once they inform you that your credit surcharge program has been set up, you’re good to go. Your business is now ready to accept credit card payments without incurring tens of thousands of dollars in unnecessary fees.

Say goodbye to credit card processing fees

As you can see, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain by implementing a fee-free credit card processing app for your nose job business. But with NadaPayments’ surcharge program, you get even more benefits, including:

  • An app that works everywhere—in person, online, and on the go
  • 24/7/365 customer service
  • Fast, simple, and free setup

Best of all, you’ll get your hardware and software free of charge, so there’s literally no cost to set up your surcharge program.As a keen business owner, you can already tell that this is a great deal for you. So what’s holding you back?Get started with your fee-free credit card processing app by calling +1 (929) 293-1800 or clicking the link below.

I Want FREE Credit Card Processing

zero fee credit card processing app

You don’t want to waste money, right? Whether you run a liquor store, red light therapy clinic, or travel agency, you probably take steps to reduce expenses, such as cutting supply costs and optimizing business processes. After all, that’s how you boost margins and earn more profits. But chances are, you’ve overlooked one thing:Credit card processing fees.Before you say credit card transaction fees are just part of the game, hear us out. Because the truth is…You don’t have to pay these fees. You can get free credit card processing. And free card processing means taking home 100% of your revenue. It doesn’t take long to get started. All you need are the right tools and the right strategy. In this article, we’ll show you how you can get a zero cost credit card processing app and boost your profits by more than 10%. Yes, you read that right—more than 10%.

What is a zero fee credit card processing app?

Zero fee credit card processing apps can accept credit card payments without assessing fees. They’re easy to set up and can be installed on terminals, mobile devices, or online point-of-sale systems. Let’s say you’ve gotten started with a fee-free credit card processing app. In your next transaction, if a customer pays you $100, you’ll make $100. It’s that simple. Not having to pay fees means taking home every dollar you make. But what happens to those fees? There’s no way Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and others are processing payments for free, right?That’s true.Instead, free credit card processing apps use what’s called a credit surcharge program. 100% legal and compliant thanks to the Dodd-Frank Act, credit surcharge programs achieve zero-cost credit card transactions by:

  • Giving the customer a choice of paying with cash, debit, or credit card
  • Adding a surcharge if customers pay with a credit card: With NadaPayments’ surcharge program, for example, customers pay a 3.5% surcharge. This ensures that you don’t pay a dime in credit card processing fees.
  • Ensuring pricing transparency for each form of payment with clearly displayed signage
  • Listing credit card surcharges as separate line items on receipts
  • Not allowing the merchant to profit off of the credit surcharge
  • Not allowing the merchant to charge a fee for debit card payments: With Nadapayments’ surcharge program, the merchant pays 1.0% + $0.25 per transaction if the customer pays with a debit card.

Now that you know what a fee-free credit card processing app is and how it works, let’s dig into why you need one. Whether you own a red light therapy clinic, a hardware store, or a restaurant, you can benefit greatly from a free credit card processing app.

Why you need a fee-free credit card processing app: the red light therapy clinic example

Let’s say you own a red light therapy clinic. First off, congrats! You’ve entered a booming field. The red light therapy market is growing at nearly 5% annually and is expected to reach $1 billion by 2025. More importantly, your services are also helping people. As one WebMD article notes, red light therapy may help promote healing in muscle tissues, skin, and other parts of the body. Now, we know you’ve taken on risk to become a business owner. It can easily cost $150,000 to $300,000 to open a tanning salon, health and wellness center, or similar clinic where red light therapy is offered. Aside from startup costs, you also face ongoing expenses, such as staff, marketing, equipment, and insurance costs. You’ve invested a lot into providing red light therapy to your clientele. You can’t afford to let money fly out the window. But here’s the thing:You’re losing precious profits each time one of your clients swipes a credit card. You may think it’s just 3% per transaction. What’s the big deal? Butlet’s analyze the numbers…Red light therapy or LED light therapy costs between $25 to $85 per session. If you offer package deals, a client may sign up for 10 sessions at once. This can end up costing a pretty penny, so there’s a good chance your customer is using a credit card. After all, as Federal Reserve research shows, credit card usage rates rise as transaction values rise. For this example, let’s say your business generates $300,000 per year in revenue and 60% of that revenue comes from credit cards. Let’s also assume you pay an average of 3.8% in fees per credit card transaction, which is possible once you add on the payment processor markup (see the average fees per network below).

average credit card processing fees

In this case, $180,000 of your revenue is subject to payment processing fees of 3.8%. That means that each year, you pay $6,840 in credit card fees. If you earn profits of $68,000 per year on that current revenue of $300,000, that means you’re losing more than 10% of your potential profits, completely unnecessarily. By using a fee-free credit card processing app, you could earn $6,840 more per year—a salary increase of 10.05%.All you have to do is take the time to get started with fee-free credit card processing.

How you can get zero fee credit card processing

Getting a free credit card processing app is a two-step process. It involves:

  1. Finding the best merchant service provider (MSP).
  2. Integrating a high-quality credit surcharge program.

It’s that easy. So, how do you find the best MSP? First, you’ll want to search for payment processors that not only offer transparent, affordable pricing, but also have solid services and advanced capabilities. Whether you’re running a grocery store, a jewelry shop, or a red light therapy clinic, you want to find a payment processor that can handle transactions quickly and across multiple channels, from in-person payments to virtual terminal credit card processing. As you search for the right MSP, compare each one’s pricing and quality of services. Narrow your list down to the top three for your business. Then, analyze the following fees in detail:

  • Interchange fee: The merchant pays this to the card-issuing bank, such as Bank of America.
  • Network fee: The merchant pays this fee to the payment network, such as MasterCard.
  • Assessment fee: The merchant pays this fee to the card-issuing brand, such as Delta Airlines.
  • MSP markup: The merchant pays this to the payment processing company. These fees vary based on services and the MSP’s pricing structure. They could include everything from PCI compliance fees to 24/7 support fees.

With the addition of the MSP markup, you may feel that some of these fees are arbitrary. But here’s the good news: You can negotiate those fees! We’ve seen merchants get 5–10% off that MSP markup. That can save you thousands of dollars over time. So, after analyzing the fees, see if you can reduce the markup. Following those talks, go with the MSP that offers you the best value overall. Once you’ve found your MSP, it’s time for the fun part: Eliminating credit card processing fees for good. As mentioned above, it’s easy to get started with a fee-free credit card processing app. Most of them, such as our app at NadaPayments, integrate seamlessly with credit card installment plans. As you shop for a fee-free credit card processing app, make sure the surcharge solution can be successfully installed within your payment system.Once you’ve chosen the right one, a fee-free credit card processing app can be integrated into your payment system within one day. In less than 24 hours, you can finally get rid of transaction fees for good. Even better, your customers can avoid paying transaction fees by choosing to pay with cash or a debit card. This is what makes a surcharge program a win-win for everyone: It’s a fee-free credit card processing solution that boosts profits for merchants and helps customers save money.

Ready for a fee-free credit card processing?

You now know that no matter your business, you can boost your profits by more than 10% just by getting a fee-free credit card processing app.You also know that integrating most surcharge programs and free card processing apps into existing payment systems is a breeze. And, as mentioned earlier, surcharge programs are 100% legal. So, what’s stopping you?In reality: Nothing! You’re all set to get started with fee-free credit card processing. At NadaPayments, we’re ready to help you reduce your credit card processing bill to “nada.” We don’t charge any setup fees, and our app works in store, online, and on the go. We get your surcharge program up and running in no time, so you can start taking home 100% of your revenue. Want to get started? Contact us at +1 (929) 293-1800 or click the link below.

I Want FREE Credit Card Processing

offset credit card processing fees at your eyecare clinic

Perhaps you run your own golf course and think credit card processing fees are just par for the course. You know the drill: pay 3-4% in fees on each transaction and go on with your day.

Think again. Did you know that you can completely eliminate credit card processing fees? That’s right—you don’t have to give your hard-earned dollars to a payment network and bank. You can kee 100% of your revenue. You may be thinking, So what? It’s just 3%. Why bother? In reality, learning how to offset credit card processing fees will boost your profits more than you might think. While paying 3.5% on one transaction may not seem like a lot, these fees really add up over time (we’ll show you just how much they can add up down below). Why just throw that money away? With so much competition out there—especially in the eyecare, retail, and hospitality industries—margins can already be slim. Keeping as much revenue in your business’ pockets as possible can boost your profits by more than 10%. Got your attention now? In this article, we’ll show you how to offset credit card processing fees—no matter what industry you’re in. Whether you own an eyecare clinic or food truck, you can get rid of transaction fees, earn more money, and get on a path to a better financial future.So, let’s get to it!

A quick strategy for how to offset credit card processing fees

There’s a lot of advice out there on how to offset credit card processing fees. You could do any of the following to help reduce the financial impact of transaction fees on your business:

  • Lower operating expenses
  • Increase sticker prices
  • Set a minimum for using a credit card
  • Avoid manual entering of credit card info (this leads to higher fees)
  • Negotiate with your credit card processor
  • Find a cheaper payment processor
  • Implement a credit surcharge program

Many of these tips are time-consuming. And, ultimately, some just work better than others. In this article, we’ll outline a two-step strategy (involving a combination of some of the above tips) to offset your credit card processing fees quickly and easily.

Why you should know how to offset credit card processing fees

We’ll let the numbers speak for themselves.Let’s say your company generates $500,000 per year in revenue. Your net margin is 10%, which is considered average for a new business. That means that you, as the owner, bring in $50,000 each year. According to data from Statista, credit cards are used for 40% of payments. That’s more than any other form of payment, including cash and debit card!

average usage rate of credit cards

So, let’s assume that your customers’ credit card usage rates are roughly on par with the national average. In this example, that means that your business processes $200,000 in credit card payments each year. That leaves all that money subject to transaction fees. On that $200,000, you could pay as low as 1.29% or higher than 3.30% in fees, according to data from the Motley Fool. (See chart below.)

credit card transaction fees

Note that this fee chart also doesn’t include the fee charged by your merchant service provider (MSP). The payment processing company charges for hardware, software, customer service, online account services, and more. Altogether, you could easily pay near 4% in average credit card processing fees. So, let’s return to the example. Let’s say you pay an average of 3.5% in fees on that $200,000 in revenue. Do the math, and you’ll see you’re paying $7,000 per year in payment processing fees. Why continue to lose out on that much money? Now, imagine what it would be like with free credit card processing. Your income would jump from $50,000 to $57,000. That’s a salary increase of 14%! And all you have to do is take the time to implement zero-cost credit card processing.

Protect your investment by eliminating credit card fees: The eyecare clinic example

If you have your own eyecare clinic, congratulations! You’ve entered a wonderful field—one that helps change people’s lives. We know you’re busy helping your patients improve their quality of life. But it’s more than worth it to spend a few minutes analyzing how your business accepts payments. Learning how to offset credit card processing fees can benefit your eyecare practice immensely. Think back to all that you’ve done to enter the eyecare field and start your own practice. You likely started with four years of undergraduate study, followed by four more years of study to become a Doctor of Optometry. In order to fund your studies, you may have worked part-time and taken out student loans (the average optometry student loan debt is $173,000).Then, after completing your studies, you invested even more time and money into starting your practice. This isn’t cheap by any means: startup costs for a private practice range from $100,000 to $1 million. And now, you’ve got ongoing expenses to manage. According to a report from CompHealth, the cost of running a small private medical practice can easily exceed $800,000 per year. Employees, especially optometrists, will cost you a lot of money. Equipment, supplies, rent, taxes, and insurance add up too. The point is this: You’ve put in too much time and capital to not make the most of your investment. If you haven’t started saving money by offsetting credit card processing fees, now is the time to do so.

A closer look at the numbers

To understand why you must offset credit card processing fees, consider this example:

  • Your eyecare clinic brings in $920,000 per year in revenue, but you have $800,000 in expenses. Your income is $120,000—just near the average salary for an optometrist.
  • While half of your revenue comes from medical insurer payments ($460,000), $300,000 of the remaining revenue comes from credit card payments. That leaves all that money subject to healthcare payment processing fees.
  • The average transaction fee your eyecare clinic pays is 4%. That means you pay $12,000 per year in credit card fees.

Now, imagine if you could offset or even eliminate those fees. Your income would jump from $120,000 to $132,000. That’s an increase of $12,000 per year! Just think of all that you could do with 10% more in salary. You could:

  • Save more for retirement
  • Invest back into your eyecare practice
  • Buy a new house
  • Take a luxury vacation
  • Put more towards your kids’ education

Looking forward to getting started? Let’s take a look at our two-step process for offsetting credit card processing fees.

Step 1: Get the best merchant service provider for your eyecare clinic, retail shop, or other business

No matter what business you run, you can’t be in business with a bad payment processor. And trust us, there are plenty of bad payment processors out there. The reality is that some merchant service providers, or MSPs, are deliberately vague and complex when structuring their fees. When shopping for an MSP, always read the fine print and make sure you’re aware of all the charges they impose, especially the following:

  • Interchange fee (paid to the card-issuing brand, such as JPMorgan Chase)
  • Network fee (paid to the payment network, such as Visa)
  • Assessment fee (paid to the card-issuing brand, such as American Airlines)
  • MSP markup (what the payment processors make from monthly fees, hardware fees, software fees, etc.)

When discussing fees with an MSP, you should have a clear idea of how much you’ll pay per transaction and per month. There should be no surprises. Another thing to remember is that these fees aren’t set in stone. While you can’t negotiate the interchange fee, network fee, or assessment fee, you can negotiate the MSP markup. For instance, we’ve seen eyecare practices get 5–10% discounts on MSP markups. This has helped these companies save thousands of dollars over the years. So, negotiate that pricing! If your business has a lot of volume and revenue, getting the MSP markup down a little shouldn’t be too difficult. While deciding on an MSP, don’t automatically opt for the cheapest one. Cheaper MSPs may not offer the quality hardware or reliable customer service you need. Go for the MSP that provides the best value: The one that offers all the services you need, as well as a good pricing structure. Once you’ve chosen the right MSP for your business, you’re ready to move on to step two.

Step 2: Implement a surcharge program

100% legal and compliant, credit surcharge programs allow businesses to accept credit card payments without having to pay fees. A surcharge solution does this by:

  • Having the customer cover the processing fee if using a credit card: At NadaPayments, our surcharge solution automatically adds 3.5% of the transaction’s value to the bill if the customer pays with a credit card.
  • Giving the customer the option to avoid a fee by paying with cash or a debit card: This makes a surcharge program a win-win for the business and the customer.

Surcharge solutions can typically be integrated into your existing credit card processing system. For instance, the NadaPayments app works seamlessly with many credit card payment processors.With no technical barriers and plenty of financial incentives, what’s holding you back?

Offset credit card processing fees today

No matter what kind of business you own, understand that you have the opportunity to increase your profits by more than 10%. All you have to do is partner with a great MSP and implement a surcharge program. At NadaPayments, we can help you begin offsetting credit card processing fees today, bringing your credit card processing bill down to “nada.” We don’t charge any setup fees and our solution works in store, online, and on the go. Want to get started? Call us at +1 (929) 293-1800 or click the link below.

I Want FREE Credit Card Processing

fee-free credit card processing

It’s a known fact that increasing your company’s profits usually requires putting in an equal amount of work to see results. If you’re looking to bring some extra revenue into your dermal filler business, you’re likely anticipating hours of carefully-calculated work.But what you may not know is that there’s one effortless way to generate more revenue for your business—and you can implement it in a matter of days.According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), 2.6 million dermal filler injections were performed in 2018, making it the second-most popular minimally-invasive cosmetic procedure. (Only Botox injections outperformed it, with 7.4 million injections.) You can reasonably expect to perform many more dermal filler procedures in the years ahead. But no matter how successful your business is, one often-overlooked cost eats up tens of thousands of dollars in revenue every year. The culprit? Credit card transaction fees. Luckily, you don’t have to continue losing money on each transaction. With a fee-free credit card processing app, you can increase your bottom line with minimal time and effort.Here, we’ll show you exactly how much you’re losing out on in credit card processing fees—and, more importantly, how to start taking home 100% of your revenue in two easy steps.

Why eliminating credit card processing fees benefits cosmetic surgery practices

By offering dermal fillers, you’re providing your clients with one of the most in-demand cosmetic procedures on the market. According to the Aesthetic Society, hyaluronic acid dermal filler injections were the second-most popular nonsurgical aesthetic procedure in 2019, with total national spending on the procedure over $468 million. That’s great news—especially given the small fortune you’ve spent to get to where you are today.First, you invested in your education. By the time you finished medical school, you likely spent anywhere from $150,224 to $248,920. opening a medical spa or cosmetic surgery practice is another investment in itself, with startup costs for a med spa ranging from $700,000 to $1,000,000 (not to mention the hard work you put in to get started). And you probably didn’t turn a profit right away, either. Like most other small businesses, you can expect to make a profit starting at around the three-year mark. Along with the cost of equipment, renting your office space, and payroll, you can’t afford to spend money carelessly. Credit card processing fees are not only expensive—they’re also entirely avoidable. Why pay unnecessary fees when you’ve got so many more important costs to consider?

The true cost of credit card processing fees

Let’s take a look at the numbers. According to 2019 statistics from the ASPS, soft tissue fillers can cost anywhere from $652 to $2,163 per injection. And because most patients will require two to four of these injections to achieve the youthful look they want, the total cost of each session is usually even higher than this. So, let’s say a patient received four Juvederm Ultra injections at $652 each. This would come out to $2,608 per procedure. And because these minimally-invasive procedures take as little as 15 minutes to complete, you can do several of them in a day.If you see 10 dermal filler patients every week, you’d make $104,320 a month and $1,251,840 in a year. And that’s not counting the other procedures you’re doing on a daily basis.How would credit card fees stack up against your revenue? Much more than you might think.Typical transaction fees start at 1.3% but can easily soar to rates of 3% or higher. Although this number sounds small, the costs seriously add up.

fee-free credit card processing app

A study from the Federal Reserve also shows that people are more likely to reach for their credit card for more expensive purchases. Because of the high sticker price of some dermal filler sessions, many of your clients are pulling out the plastic to pay for their visits.So, let’s say 60% of your patients pay with credit. With a 3% credit card processing fee on each of these transactions, you could expect to lose $1,877.76 every month just from dermal fillers alone. That’s a staggering $22,533.12 every year. Wouldn’t you rather spend that money elsewhere? If were to reinvest that money into your business instead, $22,000 could get you:

  • Six months’ worth of treatments and merchandise
  • One month of business expenses, including payroll and rent
  • A lawyer or financial planner to help you with your business
  • Renovations for your office or clinic

You could even increase your marketing budget to bring in more customers or put that money toward a college fund for your children or grandchildren. As you can see, when you don’t give your hard-earned money away to credit card companies, a world of options opens up to you.Now that you understand the true cost of credit card transactions, let’s take a look at how you can stop paying processing fees for good and start using the money you earn as you see fit.The best part? Because this process can take as little as 24 hours to complete, you could start saving money by the next business day.

How to avoid credit card fees for your dermal filler business

You can start taking home 100% of your revenue in two easy steps. The best part? If you’re already accepting credit card transactions, the chances are that you’ve already completed the first (and most time-intensive) step.First, you’ll start by finding the right merchant service provider (MSP). You’ll want to look for providers that offer all the features you need, 24/7 customer service, and, of course, competitive prices. The best ones are those that specialize in the medical industry, as they’re the most knowledgeable on the guidelines and best practices for your business.While doing your research, you’ll want to keep in mind the different fees that merchant service providers will charge you for doing business with them, including:

  • Interchange fee: The amount charged by the card-issuing bank, such as Bank of America.
  • Network fee: The amount charged by the payment network, such as MasterCard or Visa.
  • Assessment fee: The amount charged by the card-issuing brand, such as Delta Airlines.
  • MSP markup fee: The amount charged by the payment processing company. This is typically assessed through subscription charges, as well as hardware and software fees.

Unfortunately, there’s nothing you can do about your interchange, network, and assessment fees, as these rates are controlled by the companies your provider works with. But the good news is that you can negotiate with your MSP for a lower markup rate. These fees are how merchant service providers turn a profit, which is why they’re sometimes able to lower your rate by 5–10%.And because medical spas and cosmetic surgery clinics can bring in upwards of $1 million in revenue every year, they’ll be willing to do more to gain your business.

The secret to fee-free credit card processing

Once you enable credit card transactions with your merchant service provider, you’ll want to look for a fee-free credit card processing app. These programs allow you to bypass the fees that come with every swipe of your patients’ plastic. But what happens to these fees? Fee-free credit card processing apps allow you to give your patients the option of paying with cash for no fee or paying with a card for a small fee. Here’s how it works: when the time comes to pay for their dermal filler procedures, your patients have the option to use their credit card and pay an additional 3.5% fee to cover the transaction. If they choose to pay with cash, debit, or check instead, they can forego these fees entirely and save money on their procedure. Best of all, this money doesn’t come out of your bottom line like it used to.Sound too good to be true? Thankfully, it’s not. This practice is 100% legal and compliant, thanks to the Dodd-Frank Act. And when you work with a fee-free credit card processing app like NadaPayments, you won’t have to pay for your hardware, software, or setup. This means you have absolutely nothing to lose—and tens of thousands of dollars to gain.Contact us at +1 (929) 293-1800 or click the link below to get NadaPayments set up for your cosmetic surgery clinic or med spa.

I Want FREE Credit Card Processing

increase auto repair profit margin with automotive credit card processing

Want your auto body shop to make more money? You probably answered yes. Who doesn’t want to make more money? Here’s the amazing thing: This money-saving strategy is so easy. You don’t have to bring in any new clients. You don’t even have to charge more. All you have to do is get the best credit card processing out there for automotive businesses. So, the question is: How can you get the best credit card processing? As the owner of an auto body shop, car dealership, car wash, or towing service, this question may not have even crossed your mind. But it should have! For far too many small business owners, credit card fees dig into profit margins and affect financial wellbeing. If you’ve been paying 3% or more per transaction in processing fees, you’re probably losing hundreds—if not thousands—of dollars per month. Have we gotten your attention now? In this guide about automotive credit card processing, we’ll discuss how you can eliminate credit card processing fees and take home 100% of your revenue. Read it, take action, and get your auto business on the path to greater prosperity.

Why you need the best automotive credit card processing

You know your auto business better than anyone. And you understand the amount of capital and work you’ve put in to launch and run it. You probably spent a good deal of money opening your auto body shop. According to small business experts, average startup costs for an auto body shop hover around $50,000, with the main expenses including your diagnostic machine, rental/mortgage fees, vehicle lift, tool sets, and insurance costs. Aside from that, you have to face ongoing expenses. From labor and equipment maintenance to rent and insurance, you most likely spend tens of thousands per month to run your auto body shop. Beyond the money, you’ve worked hard to give your clients the best possible service and ensure that your company continues to run successfully. From the early mornings to the late nights, you’ve given it your all to fulfill your dreams of being your own boss and doing something you love. Considering that, it only makes sense to protect your investment. That begins with handling your money well and taking steps to increase your auto repair shop’s profit margins. This is precisely why you should pay attention to how you process payments. Because having the right automotive credit card processing can increase profit margins and make your business more financially sustainable. That’s what you want, right?

How much revenue do auto body shops lose to credit card transaction fees?

Here’s the good news: You operate in a thriving industry. The automotive repair and maintenance service market is projected to reach $810 billion by 2026 (up from $516 billion in 2018).That presents a huge opportunity for continued success and growth. And as you know, in order for that to happen, you need to take care of your clients, strategize your business’ development, and watch your money carefully. This is where you have to think about your credit card processing. It’s one of the biggest keys to increasing your shop’s profit margin. You may be asking, “How so?”First, picture this scenario:

  • A wreck occurs near your auto body shop. You have a towing service and tow the vehicle to your repair center. The towing fee is $100, and the customer swipes their card. You pay a total of $3.50 in credit card transaction fees.
  • After labor and parts, you bill the car owner for $1,700. Since it’s a large bill, the customer pays with a credit card again. You pay a total of $59.50 in credit card transaction fees.

Overall, you’ve paid $63 in card processing fees on a total bill of $1,800.Now, you may think that’s not too bad. If you make a gross profit of 28% (the auto repair industry average), you’ll have made $504 on the transaction. You’re right—it’s not bad. But you could be doing better. Let’s take a step back and do a quick calculation:

  • $63 in card processing fees ÷ $504 in gross profits = 0.125 (12.5%)

Those credit card fees are eating up 12.5% of your profits. That’s ridiculous!So, how does this work out over a whole year for your auto body shop?Let’s say you generate $700,000 per year in revenue, and $400,000 of that revenue is paid with credit cards. According to ValuePenguin, average credit card processing fees can easily hit 3%.

increase auto repair shop profit margin by eliminating automotive credit card processing fees

So, of that $400,000 of credit card revenue, you’ll end up sacrificing $12,000 in fees. That much can easily kill your shop’s margins. Clearly, if you want to increase your profits, you’ll have to address credit card processing fees. If you were to completely eliminate credit card transaction fees, you could boost your profits by more than $10,000 per year. Just think about what that $10,000 could do: Not only would it increase your personal income, it would also put your shop in a better financial position.

How to find the best payment processing for your auto body shop

Now that you’re motivated to find the best credit card processing for your small business, let’s take a look at the first step in doing so: Shopping for a reliable, low-cost merchant service provider (MSP). Most importantly, you’ll need to find an MSP with the right capabilities. After all, auto repair centers (especially those that offer towing) have multiple points of service. You’ll need an MSP that offers speed and reliability, as well as:

In addition, you’ll want to find a payment processor that uses pass-through pricing (not tiered pricing). Here’s why:

  • With tiered pricing, the MSP marks transactions as ‘non-qualified,’ ‘mid-qualified,’ and ‘qualified.’ It’s hard to know how the MSP will mark each transaction, and, as a result, you can end up paying higher fees than anticipated.
  • With pass-through pricing, there’s much more transparency. With this model, you pay a fixed fee plus the MSP’s markup. This eliminates the guesswork, enabling you to better estimate your shop’s revenue and profit margins.

That said, you can’t just opt for any MSP that offers pass-through pricing. You need an MSP that provides great services at a low cost. That means that if you want to get the best automotive credit card processing, you’ll need to read the fine print. Here’s what to keep in mind when shopping for automotive credit card processing companies:

  • How much is the interchange fee? This is what’s paid to the card-issuing bank.
  • How much is the network fee? This small fee goes to Visa, Mastercard, Discover, etc.
  • How much is the assessment fee? This fee goes to the card-issuing brand (e.g., Delta, if it’s an airline miles card).
  • How much is the MSP markup? This is how the payment processor makes money.

When you’ve done your research on the different payment solutions for your auto body shop, you’ll want to narrow down to three low-cost, high-quality MSPs. From there, attempt to negotiate the MSP markup. While other fees aren’t negotiable (for instance, you can’t tell Visa you’re simply not going to pay them as much), it’s common for merchants to get a 5–10% discount on the MSP markup. So, it can never hurt to ask!

Implementing a surcharge program: How to increase your auto repair shop’s profit margins

Having the best credit card processing solution is the first step to eliminating credit card processing fees. However, if you want to increase your auto repair shop’s profit margins even further, consider implementing a surcharge program, as well.With a credit card surcharge program, the idea is simple: You sell $100 and see $100 in your business account. That’s right: You take home 100% of your revenue. So, how does it work? With a surcharge program, you give customers a choice: Pay with cash, debit card, or check and get the standard price, or swipe a credit card, and pay extra to cover the processing fee. By doing this, you give customers an option. You can save money by paying with cash, debit card, or check. Or, they can go with the convenience of swiping their card. As an added bonus, you get the benefit of not having credit card transaction fees eat into your bottom line. Yes, you read that right. With a surcharge solution, you can completely eliminate credit card fees from your expenses. That enables you to increase your auto repair shop’s profit margin and, ultimately, run a more successful business. Considering a surcharge program is 100% legally compliant and works with credit card installment plans, it makes perfect sense to add a surcharge solution to your credit card processing strategy.

Ready for zero processing fees?

At NadaPayments, we’re ready to help you implement a surcharge solution and increase your auto repair shop’s profit margin. We’ve done our homework and know all the rules of the game. Partner with us at NadaPayments and start taking home 100% of your revenue. With us, you’ll have the freedom to focus more on serving your clients and building your business. Contact us at +1 (929) 293-1800 or click the link below.

I Want FREE Credit Card Processing

veterinary credit card processing

Have you looked at your financial statements lately?As a small business owner, you’re probably always thinking of ways to boost profit margins. That means cutting costs and increasing revenue, right?It sounds easy enough. But as you also know, many things in business are easier said than done. What if we told you that there was a simple, risk-free (and 100% legal) way to immediately increase your profits? Of course that would be intriguing. But you may be thinking: Again, easier said than done. As it turns out, it’s not! All you need is to do is change how you accept payments. Whether you have your own veterinary clinic, run a fashion boutique, or operate a food truck, you can get zero-cost credit card processing by implementing a new payment system.Even better: Your customers will thank you for it. So, let’s dive deeper into how you can get zero-cost credit card processing and start seeing your revenue increase.

Why independent businesses need a better payment system: The veterinary credit card processing example

Consider this scenario: You’re a veterinarian. You have your own clinic that brings in $700,000 a year (the average for an animal hospital or vet clinic, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association). After paying your staff and covering rent, utilities, and equipment expenses, you have a net profit of $100,000 for yourself, which puts you slightly above the median average for veterinary salary. You may think: I’m doing just fine as a vet. And you’d be correct! But you could also be earning much more…Now, the average cost of a vet office visit can run anywhere from less than $40 to more than $300, depending on the reason for the visit. If it’s for an annual physical exam or just one or two vaccines, it won’t be too much. If it’s for surgery or a blood test, however, it could cost much more.Given the cost of many trips to the vet, your customers are more likely to pay with a credit card (according to Federal Reserve research, credit card usage rates increase as transaction values increase). And if credit cards are used for 40% of everyday retail transactions, it’s possible that as many as half of your clients pay with plastic. So, out of that $700,000 in veterinary revenue, as much as $350,000 may be left subject to credit card transaction fees (if 50% of your revenue comes from credit cards). To see how much that decreases your income, we need to calculate the cost of veterinary clinic credit card processing fees. According to data collected by the Motley Fool, you’ll pay anywhere from 1.29% to 3.30%—plus a per-transaction fee.

credit card transaction fees

And your credit card transaction fees don’t end there. The payment processing company will also charge you for hardware, software, and other services. All told, you could be paying more than 3% per transaction for your veterinary credit card processing system. If you pay an average of just 3.5% in processing fees on that $350,000 in revenue at your vet clinic, that’s $12,250 lost each year! That’s a lot of money to pay just for credit card processing. Now, imagine that you have totally free credit card processing. If this were the case, you would have $12,250 more each year. That’s a salary increase of 12.25%!You read that right. By getting zero-cost credit card processing, you could increase your profits by more than 10%.Think of all that you could do with that extra money:

  • Expand your veterinary business
  • Save more for retirement
  • Take a relaxing vacation
  • Buy new property

The point is this: With the best credit card processing, you can put money back into your wallet (or your business). The money you make should be yours—not the credit card company’s.

How to get zero-cost credit card processing as a veterinarian, store owner, restaurant owner, and more

No traditional merchant service provider (MSP) is going to offer zero-cost credit card processing. If they did, they would lose money and, eventually, go out of business. So, you have to look elsewhere for free payment processing. Fortunately, we know the best strategy for doing so. First, you’ll want to research and identify good merchant service providers. The ideal MSP will have experience with small businesses, charge minimal fees, and provide the hardware and software capabilities your business needs. You’ll want to make sure that the MSPs you’re researching provide mobile credit card processing, PIN debit card processing, and all types of e-commerce credit card processing. From there, filter out any payment processing companies that use a tiered-pricing model. While tiered pricing may make transactions appear cheaper at first glance, you won’t necessarily know how each transaction will be categorized. All too often, purchases are marked as ‘non-qualified’ or ‘mid-qualified,’ meaning you’ll pay higher fees. Instead of dealing with tiered pricing, opt for pass-through pricing. Under this model, businesses pay a fixed fee, plus an MSP markup. It’s much more transparent—and almost always cheaper. Once you’ve narrowed down your research, select your top three MSPs. Then, compare the following:

  • Interchange fee: You pay this fee to the card-issuing bank, such as JPMorgan Chase.
  • Network fee: You pay this small fee to the payment network. Visa wants its cut!
  • Assessment fee: You pay this fee to the card-issuing brand. For instance, Southwest Airlines gets a small cut for every transaction in which their branded cards are used.
  • MSP markup: The payment processing company has to make money too. Fees vary and can include a lot of different things, such as PCI compliance fees, account fees, and 24/7 support fees.

Now, you may think there’s no way to get rid of these credit card transaction fees. The truth is: There isn’t. You’ll still have to pay the interchange, network, and assessment fees. You can, however, negotiate the MSP markup. We regularly see business owners get 5–10% off payment processor’s fees. That could save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars per year. It may be even easier for you to negotiate the MSP markup if your business generates a certain amount of revenue. For instance, if your veterinary clinic brings in $1,000,000 in revenue each year, you can leverage that high revenue to get a better deal with your payment system provider. After negotiating the markup, go with the credit card processor that will bring the most value to your business. In many cases, this is the cheapest MSP. Keep in mind, however, that if you complete many transactions each day, you’ll want to make sure that the processing system has the speed you need. Once you’ve found the right MSP, you’re ready for the next step: Implementing a solution that will deliver zero-cost credit card processing.

A surcharge solution: our key to zero-cost credit card processing

You may be wondering: What’s a surcharge solution?In short, it’s your path to taking home 100% of your revenue. Whether your credit card processing system is for a restaurant or a veterinary clinic, a surcharge program allows you to completely eliminate transaction fees. So, how does it work? Your customers still have the option to pay with a credit card, debit card, cash, or check. However, if they pay with a credit card, they’ll have to cover the processing fees. So, if a customer pays you $100, you’ll see all $100 at the end of the day.To help you better understand this, take a look at how we implement our surcharge solution at NadaPayments:

  • If the customer pays with a credit card, the NadaPayments app automatically pays a 3.5% surcharge. This enables you to take home 100% of your revenue.
  • If the customer pays with cash, they pay the standard price for the product or service. With a surcharge program like ours at NadaPayments, customers are more likely to use cash, since they’ll save 3.5%. That works for you, as you won’t have to pay transaction fees!
  • If the customer pays with a debit card, the merchant can’t apply a fee—instead, they pay just 1.0% plus $0.25 per transaction.

Now, let’s revisit the vet clinic example. Let’s say you perform a surgery on a dog that costs $1,000. By using a veterinary credit card processing system with an integrated surcharge program, you’ll save $35 in transaction fees. How awesome is that?

Ready for zero-cost credit card processing?

Surcharge programs are 100% legal and work seamlessly with credit card installment plans. No matter your business, signing up for a surcharge program will allow you to start taking home 100% of your revenue. At NadaPayments, we’re ready to help you get started right away. We’ll get you set up in no time so that you can focus on what matters: Running your business. Contact us at +1 (929) 293-1800 or click the link below.

I Want FREE Credit Card Processing

Could lower credit card processing fees boost your profits from chemical peel treatments? The short answer is yes! But is looking for a way to accept payments even worth it? Your dermatology clinic or medical spa must prioritize your patients. That’s a busy and honorable job. After all, by offering chemical peels, you’re improving lives. As the American Society of Plastic Surgeons notes, chemical peels can improve acne scars, wrinkles, sun damage, and irregular skin pigmentation.Before you say forget changing payment systems, hear us out. Because you have to stay financially viable to keep helping clients. And the truth is credit card processing fees are probably eating way too much into your revenue. Let’s discuss what you can do.

Remember your investment to get into chemical peel treatments

First, think of all you’ve done to get here. To become a dermatologist or plastic surgeon and perform chemical peels, you had to go to school and train. You may even have debt to pay off (average student debt approaches $200,000, according to NerdWallet data). To open a medical spa or cosmetic dermatology clinic, you spent a lot of money too. Startup costs for a medical spa average well into six figures, with some owners spending $1 million. You certainly want to see a return on that investment.Second, you offer chemical peels to help people look and feel better. It’s a good thing to do. You also can reap the benefits of the fast-growing chemical peel market, which eclipsed $2.1 billion globally in 2018. Statista estimates chemical peel revenue to exceed $3 billion by 2025. As an aesthetics professional, you can profit from this boom. So, you’ve made an investment to give yourself opportunity. Why let credit card processing fees risk your profitability and sustainability? The damage credit card fees are doing to your business may be more than you think...

How much chemical peel revenue do you lose to credit card processing fees?

Since chemical peels are considered aesthetics treatments, insurance doesn’t cover your clients. That means all your chemical peel revenue comes from out-of-pocket payments. Now, the average cost of a chemical peel is $669, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Given that it’s such a high expense, chances are a good portion of your clients swipe a credit card to pay for the treatment. As consumer research from the Federal Reserve shows, credit cards are more commonly used with purchases from $50-$100 or more. Look at the average transaction value of various credit card brands.

Average value of transaction per credit card worldwide in 2016, by brand (in U.S. dollars)

Source: Statista

Knowing this, it’s fully possible 50% of your chemical peel revenue comes from credit cards. If you do 1,500 chemical peels per year at an average cost of $670, that equates to $1,005,000 in revenue from the treatment. That’s great! If you have net margins of 15%, you earn $150,750 in profits from chemical peel treatments. But you could do much better.Consider that half of that revenue came via credit card. That’s $502,500. On that chemical peel revenue, you pay the following fees:

average payment network fees

Source: Motley Fool

Once you account for processor markups, you probably pay around 3% per transaction. In the example we’re discussing here, that means you’d pay $15,075 in credit card processing fees per year. Do we have your attention now?Clearly, you stand to gain a lot with lower credit card processing fees. Imagine if you could eliminate those fees altogether... Your profits would jump from $150,750 to $165,825. That’s an increase of 10%!The only question remains: How do you get lower credit card processing fees?

Step one: Shop for lower credit card processing fees

Ideally, you want a payment processor that offers low credit card processing fees along with the capabilities you need. To get that, you must learn how to find the best merchant service provider (MSP).To start, check the MSP’s pricing model. They’ll either offer tiered pricing or pass-through pricing. Go with pass-through pricing! Here’s why:

  • Tiered pricing groups all transactions into tiers: Qualified, Mid-Qualified, and Non-Qualified. MSPs often set rates as they deem correct. And it can be confusing for you to understand.
  • Pass-through pricing passes the cost of processing onto the business. You pay fixed fees plus a processor markup. The benefit is you know what you’re paying with pass-through pricing.
  • Tiered pricing often costs more, as non-qualified transactions cost a lot more to process. You may have more of those than you think.

Once you have a list of viable MSPs with pass-through pricing, examine the following fees:

  • Interchange fees: The card-issuing bank charges these fees.
  • Assessment fees: The card brand charges these.
  • Processor markup: The MSP has to make money. They do so through monthly subscription costs, per-transaction fees, same day funding fees, and other charges.

As you can see, processor fees get complicated. But why? While reputable MSPs will offer transparency with their fee structures, the fact is the industry remains unregulated. There may be fees you overlook or don’t calculate. That could add to the cost of having a payment system. Thoroughly examine each MSP’s fee structure. Calculate how much you’ll pay each year in fees for chemical pee revenue. Then, make a shortlist of potential payment systems to purchase. Finally, negotiate. Leverage your high revenue as a medical spa to get lower credit card processing fees. Payment processors may offer surprisingly lower credit card processing fees to get your business. Just note: Only the processor markup can be negotiated (not the interchange and assessment fees). Many businesses have been known to get 5-10% knocked off the markup. So why not try it?

Step Two: Implement a cash discount program

How does a cash discount program get you lower credit card processing fees? Well, the cash discount concept is simple yet smart. You give your chemical peel clients a choice: pay for the chemical peel treatment in cash or pay a surcharge for using a credit card. You still give your chemical peel clients still have the convenience of swiping the plastic. But they can save if they pay in cash. At NadaPayments, for instance, our cash discount program saves cash-paying customers 3.95%. Completely legal and compliant, thanks to the Dodd-Frank Act, a cash discount program ensures your spa or dermatology clinic can take 100% of your chemical peel revenue. With that extra revenue, you can expand your business, save more, or take a longer vacation. Sounds nice, right? If you’d like to learn more, contact us at NadaPayments. We’re ready to help get you lower credit card processing fees through a cash discount program. Give us a call 1 (929) 293-1800 or click the link below.

I Want FREE Credit Card Processing

How can you make more from permanent makeup services? Here’s the secret: Get the best credit card processing for salons. Yes, it’s that simple. Before you say it’s not worth the time and effort, and you’ll still have to pay credit card transaction fees anyway, here us out. Because if you can actually stop paying credit card processing fees, you could boost your salon’s profits by more than 10%.Got your attention? The fact is you’ve invested a lot to become an entrepreneur in the permanent makeup space. Starting a permanent makeup salon costs between $100,000 to $500,000, according to Sage, an accounting software company. You also have ongoing costs, such as license fees, labor, equipment, marketing, and insurance. Simply put, you shouldn’t let money fly out the window! By handling your finances well, you can live your dream as a highly successful salon owner. So, stop paying too much in credit card processing fees!In this guide, we’ll show you how you can take home 100% of your revenue from permanent makeup services like microblading. After reading, you’ll be ready to take your business to the next level.

Why do credit card processing fees at your salon matter?

You work in a growing field. The permanent makeup field is part of the beauty and aesthetics market, which is expected to exceed $26.5 billion in value by 2024. If you have a good marketing strategy and do good work (which we know you do), you most likely get a decent amount of permanent makeup clients. That’s great! Now, think about this question: How many of your permanent makeup clients pay with a credit card? Probably a good portion, right? Credit cards are used for 44% of transactions, according to Statista. Since the average cost of permanent makeup services is around $800, your clients are more likely to use a credit card. And as Federal Reserve research shows, credit card usage rates increase as transaction values increase. Considering that permanent makeup application is a high-value transaction, a higher percentage of your customers will pay with a credit card. 50-60% of your revenue could come from credit card transactions. If you have to pay fees on more than half your permanent makeup revenue, you stand to gain a lot from eliminating those expenses. It literally pays to pay attention to your salon’s credit card processing. So, why do credit card processing fees at your salon matter? Because lowering them could improve the financial health of your business greatly.

How much higher would your profits from permanent makeup services be with better credit card processing?

With the best credit card processing for salons, you can boost your profits by 10% or more. First, understand you probably pay 3% or more in fees per transaction. Take a look at average network fees below. That doesn’t even include the merchant service provider markup.

Average credit card processing fees

Source

So, how can you increase profits by more than 10% at your salon? Let’s do an example so you can get a clear idea of what you stand to gain.

  • Your permanent makeup studio serves 3 people per day at an average cost of $800. Your studio earns $2,400 per day in revenue. You’re open 290 days per year, so your studio generates $696,000 per year in revenue.
  • After all business expenses, you achieve a net margin of 12.5%. As the permanent makeup studio owner, you earn $87,000 per year. That’s solid! But you could do much better.

Here’s what you could make if you get rid of credit card processing fees. Let’s say:

  • 60% of your permanent makeup studio’s revenue comes via credit card transactions. That’s $417,600 of your revenue subject to credit card processing fees.
  • If you pay an average of 3.5% in card fees, you pay $14,616 per year in credit card fees. That’s ridiculous!

What if you could pay $0 in fees instead of $14,616? Your permanent makeup salon profits would jump from $87,000 to $101,616. That’s an increase of 16.8% in profits!Imagine what you could do with that extra money. You could expand your studio’s business, take a nicer vacation, put more money away for retirement, buy a bigger house, and more. The point is this: That money deserves to be in your pocket. Here’s the good news: By getting the best credit card processing for salons, you can get stop paying those fees. In the next two sections, we’ll explain how this is done.

How to get the best credit card processing for permanent makeup salons

The first step to free credit card processing is finding the best merchant service provider (MSP). To do that, you must understand how fees work. You should begin by looking for MSPs with pass-through pricing. This pricing model is more transparent and typically more affordable than tiered pricing. With tiered pricing, many transactions end up in the higher fee range, and you won’t notice that until you look at the bill. With pass-through pricing, you pay set rates and don’t have to worry about what “tier” the transaction is. Additionally, know there are three credit card transaction fees you have to pay:

  • The interchange fee, which is paid to the card-issuing bank
  • The network fee, which is paid to the card network (i.e. Visa)
  • The assessment fee, which is paid to the card-issuing brand

You also have to pay the MSP markup. That’s how the card processing company makes money. That fee is usually collected as a per-transaction fee, a monthly fee, software fee, hardware fee, and/or other sorts of charges. To get the best credit card processing for your salon, you should look for MSPs with the lowest fees, of course. You want good customer support and quality hardware and software too. Narrow down your choices to two or three. Then, it’s time for the fun part: Negotiation!Wait! You can negotiate credit card processing fees. So, what can you negotiate? Well, you can’t tell Mastercard you’re going to pay 5% less. But you can negotiate a discount on MSP fees. In fact, we’ve seen permanent makeup studios get 5-10% off the MSP markup. It’s that simple. By understanding fee structures, shopping for the best MSP, and negotiating the markup, your permanent makeup salon can save thousands per year.

Take home 100% of your permanent makeup revenue with a cash discount program

The second step to getting the best credit card processing for your salon is implementing a cash discount program. A cash discount program can complement your MSP and enable you to keep all your permanent makeup revenue. How does this work? As the name implies, your permanent makeup clients who pay with cash get a discount. At NadaPayments, for instance, our cash discount program gives clients up to 3.95% off their bill. The client still has the option to pay with a credit card. However, they’ll pay the non-discount price (which includes the cost of processing the credit card). By offering a cash discount, you ensure your salon doesn’t lose any revenue to credit card transaction fees. And you still offer your customers the convenience of choosing their payment method.Now, you may wonder: Is this legal? Yes, it is! Thanks to the Dodd-Frank Act, merchants can give discounts for cash payments. This gives you the opportunity to eliminate credit card processing fees. Interested to learn more? At NadaPayments, we’re ready to help permanent makeup salons get the best credit card processing. Call us at +1 (929) 293-1800 or click the link below.

I Want FREE Credit Card Processing

Credit card transaction fees aren’t cheap. Do you know how much you pay?If you offer cosmetic dental procedures, you probably should know. Because dental insurance typically doesn’t cover cosmetic services. That means your patients are paying out of pocket, making it likely that credit card processing fees take a noticeable chunk out of your revenue. You may think this is just the reality of doing business. But the truth is this: You don’t have to pay credit card processing fees. Here’s why you should care about dental credit card processing fees and how your dentistry can stop paying them.

You made a big investment to enter dentistry! Take care of it

You’ve made a good decision to offer cosmetic dentistry services at your practice. Most importantly, you can boost the oral health and confidence of many people. You can improve lives and literally help people smile brighter. Also, the market is truly great. As research shows, the cosmetic dentistry market already nears $20 billion and is expected to eclipse $32 billion by 2026. With solid growth and incredible revenue, you can help people and earn good money. To get to where you are, you’ve made a massive investment in yourself. You attended dental school for four years, did countless hours of training, and obtained a license in your state. Getting started also costs you a lot of money. After all, dental school tuition is expensive. That’s why, according to the American Student Dental Association, the average debt of a dental school graduate exceeds $285,000. In addition to education expenses, you made a big investment to start your practice. As a Bank of America report notes, opening a dentist office costs between $350,000-$500,000.On top of all that, you have to care for patients and manage the office and staff every day. With so much on your plate, it can be hard to pay attention to how you process credit card transactions. But you should take some time to make sure you have the best possible point of sale system and strategy. Without the best credit card processing for dentists, you're losing money for no good reason. Here’s why: If you earn a good deal of revenue from cosmetic dental procedures, such as dental implants and teeth whitening, credit card processing fees definitely eat at your margins. If you can get rid of those fees, you stand to gain a lot. In fact, you could boost your profits by more than 5-10% (or even more). That equals a better return on your investment and the opportunity for your dentistry to enjoy greater success.Motivated yet?

How much cosmetic dental revenue do you lose to credit card transaction fees?

Cosmetic dentistry involves a lot of different procedures, from dental bonding and dental crowns to inlays and onlays. Prices for these services vary from under $100 to more than $5,000.Considering the high cost of services, it’s very possible 50% or more of your revenue comes from credit card transactions. As data from the Federal Reserve shows, the higher the purchase, the more likely people are to use credit cards. The chart below shows the average transaction value of various credit cards.

Average value of transaction per credit card worldwide in 2016, by brand (in U.S. dollars)

Source: Statista

So, a significant portion of your revenue is subject to credit card transaction fees. But how much do you actually pay in credit card transactions? According to industry data, you probably pay 3%+ per transaction. The chart below details fees for each credit card. Add in the merchant service provider (MSP) markup, and you’ll get to 3%+ on average.

Average credit card processing fees

Source: ValuePenguin

That may not seem like a lot. But if you do thorough analysis of your finances, you’ll see it is. This makes it even more crucial you have the best credit card processing for dentists. So that you have a better idea of how much dental credit card processing fees affect your practice’s finances, let’s do an example with actual numbers. Let’s say your practice offers all types of cosmetic dental procedures and achieves the following revenues and margins:

  • The average patient spends $800 and you serve 900 patients per year. Your total revenue is $720,000, which is just over the average revenue for dental practices.
  • Your total overhead is 70% of your revenue, or $504,000. So you earn $216,000 per year in profits. Not bad! But you could do much better.
  • 60% of your revenue comes via patients swiping the plastic. That leaves $432,000 subject to credit card transaction fees. If you pay an average fee of 3.5%, you fork over $15,120 in card processing fees per year. That’s a ton of money you’re leaving on the table!

Now, imagine you could eliminate those credit card transaction fees. Your profits would jump from $216,000 to $231,120. That’s an increase of 7%! And all you had to do was get the best credit card processing for dentists. Now, think of all you could do with that extra money. You could improve benefits for staff, save more for retirement, add to your children’s college funds, take a vacation, and more. As you can see, you can benefit tremendously from not paying credit card transaction fees. But how do you eliminate those fees? Isn’t it impossible? It’s actually not. By taking two steps today, your cosmetic dental practice can stop paying credit card processing fees.

Step one: Find the best credit card processing for dentists

You need two things from your merchant service provider (MSP):

  1. The ability to handle your transactions. Since cosmetic dental offices aren’t high-traffic retail stores, you don’t need the latest system. But you also don’t want something that has clients waiting a minute for the transaction to process.
  2. The lowest possible credit card transaction fees. Why pay more than you need?

So, you must shop for an MSP. Fee structures can get confusing, as many MSPs aren’t as transparent as they should be and the industry remains unregulated. Moreover, they know dental practices are busy places, and therefore may not inspect the fine print! Be sure to look for all potential fees and ask the MSP questions so you’re clear on how much you’ll pay per transaction. As you shop for a credit card processor, check pricing models. Some offer pass-through pricing and others offer tiered pricing. Only opt for those with pass-through pricing because credit card transaction fees are more transparent with this model. You know what you pay with pass-through pricing. Tiered pricing often results in business owners paying high fees for mid- and non-qualified transactions. Once you have a list of MSPs with pass-through pricing, compare their fees. Look at the following:

  • Interchange fees (charged by the card-issuing bank)
  • Assessment fees (charged by the card brand)
  • Processor markups (how the MSP makes money)

Processor markup charges can get confusing, as MSPs may assess extra fees through monthly subscriptions, same day funding fees, online funding charges, and more. After you’ve gathered all the data on those fees, crunch the numbers. Narrow down your selection to a few MSPs with the lowest credit card transaction fees! Then, you get to the fun part: Negotiation!Yes, you can negotiate how much you pay in credit card transaction fees. While you can’t negotiate interchange fees and assessment fees, you can negotiate the MSRP markup costs. We’ve regularly seen business owners get a 5-10% discount on MSP fees. Lastly, choose the best MSP for your cosmetic dentistry. That should be a processor with low fees and good services.

Step two: Use a cash discount program

What’s a cash discount program? Like it sounds, a cash discount program offers cosmetic dental clients a discount for paying in cash. At NadaPayments, for example, our cash discount gives patients 3.95% off.But how does that eliminate credit card transaction fees? It’s simple! When clients take care of their bill, you can offer them a discount for paying in cash or have them pay a slightly higher price for using a credit card. The slight markup covers the credit card transaction fees, ensuring your bottom line doesn’t take a hit. The passing of the Dodd-Frank Act makes cash discount programs completely legal and compliant for cosmetic dental practices. That gives you a strategy for taking home 100% of your cosmetic dental revenue! Interested in learning more? Feel free to contact us at NadaPayments. We’re ready to help you boost your profits with a cash discount program. Call us at 1 (929) 293-1800 or click the link below.

I Want FREE Credit Card Processing

What’s the best credit card processing for therapists?It’s a question you may not have pondered a lot. After all, your first priority is to help your patients live well. But you are a business owner. And as a business owner, you must handle your finances well. That’s how you ensure sustainability. That’s how you ensure you can continue helping your patients. Handling your finances well begins with keeping as much revenue as possible from your therapy sessions. Your therapy practice has ongoing expenses, such as liability insurance, office rent, website maintenance, continuing education, and referral fees. These are necessary, but could be reduced a little over time. But did you know you have a way to save lots of money immediately? All you have to do is change how you accept payments. By implementing the best credit card processing system at your therapy practice, you can boost your income by thousands, if not $10K+, per year. Got your attention? Let’s dig a little deeper…

Why therapists should look for the best credit card processing

You may think: What’s the big deal? We’re just talking about a few percentage points in fees. That’s true. But it adds up. These credit card processing fees eat into your therapy practice’s profits. There are many reasons why you should care about this. First, you spent more than six to nine years or more in school to obtain your Master’s degree or PhD. That’s a massive investment in time and energy. But you did it, and your efforts will benefit lots of people. Second, it’s not just a time commitment that you made, but also a financial commitment. The average doctor of psychology, for instance, graduates with a debt load of $200,000. Additionally, to start your private therapy practice, you spent money and time developing a business plan, finding an office, hiring assistants, and more. Depending on how you run your therapy clinic, that investment could have been anywhere from a few thousand dollars to more than $50,000. Third, you have ongoing expenses and there’s simply no reason to spend more than you have to on something like credit card processing. By paying those fees, you’re letting money fly out the window. As you can see, you have a lot on the line. That’s why you need to eliminate credit card processing fees. That money can go towards protecting your investment.

How much do therapists lose to credit card transaction fees

Here’s the good news: You work in a growing and important field. The behavioral therapy market has been growing at an annual rate of 8.2%. As long as you market your services well and set up referrals with primary care providers, you should have a steady flow of clients. Now, that brings us to accepting payment. Let’s first break down how much therapy costs, as fees can vary. Therapy sessions cost anywhere from $75 to $200 or more, according to Healthline. How much you charge depends on your location, your specialty, your experience, and whether or not you accept health insurance. For example, if you specialize in sleep therapy, your services may cost a lot more. Since most of your patients suffer from insomnia, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and other sleep disorders, therapy probably includes a polysomnogram (overnight sleep study). During a polysomnogram, medical equipment is used to monitor brain activity, breathing, heart rate, nasal airflow, and muscle movements. Given all that’s involved, a polysomnogram can cost a lot of money (from $600 to $5,000). Health insurance will cover a good portion of that, but chances are some patients will have a high out-of-pocket expense. Why would that matter to your revenue at your sleep therapy clinic?Well, credit cards have the highest usage rate for consumer payments, with a 40% share of payments.

credit card processing for therapists

As transaction values increase, Federal Reserve research finds credit card usage rates increase as well. So, more than 50% of your clients could pay with a credit card. Now, imagine this scenario:

  • 40% of the revenue you collect at your sleep therapy clinic comes from health insurance claims.
  • The remaining 60% comes from patients’ copay, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket payments.
  • Among that 60%, two-thirds, or 40% of your total revenue, comes from credit card transactions.

That leaves 40% of your sleep therapy revenue subject to credit card transaction fees. These fees can easily exceed 3% per transaction. That adds up over time and kills your bottom line.But you don’t have to pay these fees. There is a solution for all therapists. You can get free credit card processing.

How much more could therapists make with free credit card processing: An example of a sleep therapist

Let’s continue with the example of a sleep therapist. And let’s say the sleep therapist treats 60 patients per year at an average cost of $1,500. That equates to $900,000 in revenue per year. Like the example in the above section, let’s assume 40% of that revenue comes from credit card transactions. The sleep therapist also uses one of the following merchant service providers, paying an average credit card fee of 3.25% per transaction:

credit card processing for therapists

That means the sleep therapist pays a 3.25% fee to the merchant service provider on $360,000 worth of revenue. That’s $11,200 per year in credit card transaction fees.How much would eliminating credit card processing fees increase the sleep therapist’s salary? Well, let’s say, after accounting for equipment, labor, insurance, marketing, legal, and other expenses, the sleep therapy clinic has net margins of 10%. The sleep therapist earns $90,000 per year. That’s quite solid. But if the sleep therapist got rid of credit card transaction fees, her income would jump from $90,000 to $101,700 per year. That’s a salary increase of 13%!Imagine what you could do with a salary increase of 13%. You could get more resources for your patients and expand your therapy clinic. Or, you could use the money for yourself. Save more for retirement, buy a nicer house, or take a better vacation. The choice is yours! The bigger point is this: That’s your money. It deserves to be in your wallet. And you don’t have to waste it on credit card transaction fees.

How therapists can find the best credit card processing

The first step to getting free credit card processing is finding the merchant service provider (MSP) that provides the best value. Ideally, you want an MSP with low fees, quality service, and reliable hardware and software. You may even want mobile credit card processing and virtual terminal processing capabilities. To find the best MSP for your therapy clinic, follow these steps:

  1. Avoid tiered pricing. While tiered pricing may seem cheaper, too many transactions get marked as ‘mid-qualified’ or ‘nonqualified’, and not ‘qualified’. Your average fees will be hard to predict and could be much higher than anticipated. What to do instead: Look for MSPs that offer pass-through pricing. The interchange fees are passed on to you, the business owner. This ensures transparency. You’ll know how much you’ll pay in fees and can plan accordingly.
  2. Choose three to five MSPs with low fees and quality service. Don’t immediately choose the MSP with the lowest fees. Read the fine print. Take note of pricing for:
  3. interchange fees (paid to the bank)
  4. network fees (paid to the card network)
  5. assessment fees (paid to the card brand)
  6. MSP markup (MSPs have complex surcharges and other markups, like a monthly fee)
  7. Negotiate the MSP markup. Do you see the four fees listed above? You can’t negotiate the first three, but you can negotiate the last one. We’ve seen small businesses get 5-10% off the MSP markup. See which credit card processing lowers their price the most, and go with them. By negotiating, you can save lots of money over the long run.

Now that you know the processing for getting the best credit card processing for therapists, let’s get to the next step: Ensuring you don’t lose any revenue when patients pay with a credit card.

The cash discount program—the strategy for therapists to bring home 100% of their revenue

Whether you’re a sleep therapist, psychologist, or addiction specialist, know this: You can still accept credit cards and avoid processing fees.How can you do that? You already know the first step: Get the most affordable credit card processor possible. Here’s the second step: Use a cash discount program. As the name suggests, you give your patients a discount for paying with cash. At NadaPayments, our cash discount program gives therapy patients a discount of up to 3.95%. Your patients can still pay with a credit card, but they save when they pay with cash. Even better, how your therapy patients pay doesn’t matter. Your revenue remains the same, as the credit card price Now, you may be wondering: Is this legal? Yes! It is, thanks to the Dodd-Frank Act. You can give discounts based on payment method. Interested in learning more? At NadaPayments, we’re ready to help your therapy clinic get free credit card processing. That way, you can focus more on what matters: helping your patients. Contact us at +1 (929) 293-1800 or click the link below.

I Want FREE Credit Card Processing

Every dollar matters, especially when you run a business like a tanning salon. The tanning salon industry has enjoyed an average growth rate of 7.5% from 2014-2019, according to IBISWorld, a market research firm. And more than 35% of American adults say they have used a tanning bed. So, you’ve made a smart choice by starting a tanning salon. Not only can you earn solid money, but you can help people improve their appearance and self-confidence. But to keep those tanning booths in operation, you must manage the business well. And you must find ways to increase your tanning salon’s profits. You may think that’s easier said than done. Guess what? It’s not.With just one simple change in how you do things, you can increase your tanning salon’s profits by 10%. All you have to do is eliminate credit card processing fees.In this article, we’ll discuss why and how you can do that:

How much do tanning salons make?

First, let’s look over your finances. So, how much does the average tanning salon make?Market data shows the tanning salons earn profits of around $65,000 per year. Depending on your location and size of your operation, you may earn more or less than that. The average tanning booth or bed generates roughly $15,000-$20,000 in revenue per year. Now, how much does it cost to start a tanning salon?According to Palm Beach Tan, tanning salon startup costs often exceed $400,000. That amount includes expenses for tanning booths, salon construction, insurance, labor, POS systems, marketing and advertising, and more. The point is this: You’ve made a big investment to start a tanning salon. As the owner, you can’t afford to lose tanning booth revenue to expenditures like credit card processing fees. Sure, you could do employ other strategies to increase your tanning salon’s profits, such as:

  • Marketing campaigns to bring in more customers
  • Negotiating discounts with suppliers and vendors
  • Increasing your prices or not offering discounts
  • Reducing operational costs

However, none of these are a sure bet. Eliminating credit card processing fees is a sure bet to increase your tanning salon’s profits.

How much more can your tanning salon make if you get rid of credit card processing fees

Every small business, from tanning salons to botox clinics to e-commerce shops, should make the effort to reduce credit card transaction fees. Because the fact is this: These fees kill your bottom line!Just look at the average credit card processing fees below. On every credit card transaction, you pay between 2.40% and 3.15% in fees, depending on the payment network. And that doesn’t even include the merchant service provider fees.

average payment network fees

You may think that it’s just 3% or so. No big deal, right? But it is a big deal, especially when you consider your operating costs, margins, and how much tanning booth revenue comes from credit card transactions. If your tanning booth customers pay like the average consumer, 40% of your customers will swipe the credit card.

tanning salon profits and credit card usage

Source

Considering that credit card usage rates increase as transaction values increase, it’s possible 60% of your tanning booth revenue comes via credit card transactions. Many of your higher paying customers will swipe the plastic. To give you a clear idea of how much you could increase tanning salon profits, let’s do an example. Let’s say:

  • Your tanning salon generates revenue of $350,000 and $65,000 in profits.

And let’s say:

  • 60%, or $210,000, of your revenue comes from credit card transactions.

If you pay an average of 3.5% in processing fees, that means:

  • You pay $7,350 in credit card processing fees each year. That’s a lot!

Now, imagine if you could wipe away that $7,350 in fees overnight. This is what would happen:

  • Your tanning salon profits would jump from $65,000 to $72,350! That’s a salary increase of 11.13%!

Think of all that you could when you don’t have to pay credit card fees on tanning booth revenue. You could expand your business, save more for retirement, take a nice vacation, and more. The important thing is you’ll have more money back in your pocket. And that should make you jump for joy!Need any more motivation to start looking for the best credit card processing? Because you can take home 100% of your tanning booth revenue.

How to find the best credit card processing company for tanning salons

Your tanning salon business depends on you finding the best merchant service provider (MSP). To do that, follow our guide on finding the best credit card processing. Do these three steps:

  1. Look for quality MSPs that offer pass-through pricing. Do not go with a processor that has tiered pricing. Here’s why:
  2. Pass-through pricing is transparent. You know how much you pay in fees per transaction, and it’s usually cheaper than tiered pricing.
  3. Tiered pricing bases fees on how the transaction is categorized (qualified, mid-qualified, or non-qualified). Too often, you’ll pay non-qualified tier fees, which are higher.
  4. Select 3-5 MSPs that have high-quality software and hardware, low fees, and reliable customer service. Be sure to read the fine print with credit card processing fees. Look at the following:
  5. Interchange fees: paid to the card-issuing bank
  6. Network fees: paid to the card network
  7. Assessment fees: paid to the card brand
  8. MSP markup: The MSP makes money by assessing various fees, such as monthly or annual fees, 24/7 support fees, hardware fees, etc.
  9. Negotiate with the MSPs. While American Express’ fees are set in stone, you can negotiate the fees the processing company charges. We’ve seen plenty of small businesses get 5-10% off the MSP markup. That’s money back in your wallet.

After doing these three steps, it should be clear which MSP is the best for your tanning salon business. Of course, you’ll still have to pay some credit card processing fees. But you got them as low as possible. Even better, you still have another strategy to employ. And this is what will get you free credit card processing...

Enter the cash discount program—the key to taking home 100% of your tanning booth revenue

Did you know you can offer tanning booth clients discounts for paying in cash?Thanks to the Dodd-Frank Act, cash discount programs are legal. And they can help you get free credit card processing. So, how does it work?At NadaPayments, our cash discount program would give your tanning booth clients up to 3.95% off for paying in cash. They can still use a credit card, as our program works with most MSPs. However, they’ll have to pay the non-discounted price, which accounts for credit card processing fees. This ensures your revenue doesn’t take a hit from credit card processing fees.As you can see, a cash discount program still offers your tanning booth clients the convenience of using their preferred payment. But they can also save money by paying with cash. Even better, you can guarantee you take home 100% of your tanning booth revenue. Interested in a cash discount program? At NadaPayments, we can help tanning salon owners get the best credit card processing. Contact us at +1 (929) 293-1800 or click the link below.

I Want FREE Credit Card Processing

Offer breast augmentation at your plastic surgery center? You’ve made a wise choice. Most importantly, you can help people. As a WebMD article notes, breast augmentation has the potential to improve body image, self-esteem, and sexual satisfaction. Those benefits can even motivate one to live a happier, healthier lifestyle. Second, offering breast implants is a good way for plastic surgery centers to boost revenue. Breast augmentation is the most common cosmetic surgery, with nearly 350,000 operations performed in America each year. The breast augmentation market reached $2.6 billion in 2018 and is expected to exceed $4.3 billion by 2026, according to a MarketWatch report. To ensure your plastic surgery center has the success it should, you must learn about medical credit card processing. You may not realize it, but credit card fees are eating into your revenue.Before you say it’s just 3-4% on the transaction, consider this: Choosing the wrong medical credit card processing company can decrease your profits by 5-10% (or even more). Does that get your attention? Know it doesn’t have to be this way. You can eliminate credit card processing fees at your medical practice, make more money, and keep your business running smoothly (which means you can help more people!). In this article, we’ll show you all you need to know about how to get the cheapest credit card processing for your plastic surgery center.

How much are credit card processing fees at your plastic surgery center?

You probably accept payments for breast implants in numerous ways, including:

  • In-person
  • Online
  • Over-the-phone

In-person credit card payments should cost you the least for breast augmentation payments. According to CreditDonkey, you’ll pay between 1.5%-2.9% plus a markup to the merchant service provider (MSP). For online credit card processing, average fees range around 2.9% plus $0.30 per transaction. Fees are more than in-person medical credit card processing to account for the higher likelihood of fraud with online payments. For over-the-phone and potentially online payments, you’ll use virtual terminal credit card processing (where the customer or you type in the card information). MSPs usually charge more for the convenience and added security needed to process these online payments. Here’s an example of average fees from a few major vendors:

In addition to those fees, you have to factor in initial equipment costs and any ongoing expenses, such as software fees. For example, Square, though transparent with their pricing, does charge $60 per month for their point-of-sale hardware.

Square credit card processing fees

Now that you know what medical credit card processing fees you pay per transaction, let’s dig a little deeper. How much do these fees decrease your profits from breast augmentation procedures?

How much of your breast augmentation revenue is lost to fees?

You know you’re probably paying about 3%-4% per transaction for medical credit card processing. If someone pays their full breast augmentation bill with a credit card, that’s a lot of money that’s slipping away. After all, the average cost of breast augmentation surgery nears $3,900, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. If you charge a patient $4,000 and they pay with a credit card, that could mean you pay $120+ in medical credit card processing fees. That’s alarming. But you may ask: How many patients pay for breast augmentation with a credit card?Obviously, some pay with a check, debit card, or cash. But since breast augmentation costs a lot and some patients may have payment plans, it’s possible a significant portion of your revenue comes from credit card payments. For consumers, credit cards are the most common payment method for purchases. They make up 40% of transactions, according to Statista.

medical credit card processing for plastic surgery centers

Moreover, as a Federal Reserve study states, credit card usage increases as transaction values increase. Considering breast implants are a large transaction, your plastic surgery center likely processes a higher percentage of credit card transactions than average. So, you could have 60% of your breast augmentation revenue come from credit card transactions. That’s half your revenue subject to medical credit card processing fees. Chances are such fees affect your plastic surgery center’s finance greatly...

How much more could you earn if I eliminate medical credit card processing fees?

To give an idea of how much medical credit card processing fees affect your plastic surgery center, let’s do an example. Let’s say you do 400 breast augmentations per year at an average cost of $4,000. That’s $1.6 million in revenue from breast augmentation. Not bad, right? But consider the following:

  • You have a net profit margin of 20%, which is just below the top performers in the healthcare industry. That means you earn $320,000 per year from breast augmentation. That’s solid!
  • 60% of your revenue—$960,000—comes from credit card transactions. You pay an average fee of 3.5%. That’s $33,600 in medical credit card processing fees per year!
  • If you eliminate those medical credit card processing fees, your breast augmentation income would jump from $320,000 to $353,600. That’s an increase of more than 11%!

Over a decade, you could put $336,000 back into your pocket—just by eliminating medical credit card processing fees. That’s a lot more money. And you could use that to expand your business, save more for retirement, pay for your child’s college, take nicer vacations, and more. Need any more motivation to get better medical credit card processing?

How do you find the cheapest medical credit card processing?

First, educate yourself about medical credit card processing. That means understanding the fees you pay and the types of pricing models.Here’s what you need to know:You have to pay three types of credit card transaction fees:

  • Interchange fee: These are charged by the card-issuing bank.
  • Assessment fee: These are charged by the card-issuing brand. Did you know Delta makes billions with their American Express credit cards?
  • Processor markup: This fee goes to your merchant service provider (MSP). It’s how they make money.

There are two types of MSP pricing models:

  • Pass-through pricing: You pay a fixed interchange fee plus a markup and variable fee. This model doesn’t have tiers or complicated surcharges.
  • Tiered pricing: Also called bundle pricing, this model uses categories to separate payments (qualified, mid-qualified, non-qualified). While it may appear more affordable at first glance, many business owners find their transactions are rated in higher fee ranges more often than anticipated.

Many medical practices opt for pass-through pricing as it provides pricing transparency and simplicity, and is often more affordable. At your plastic surgery center, consider MSPs that offer the pass-through pricing model.So, how do you find the cheapest medical credit card processing and take home more of your breast augmentation revenue? Here’s what should do:

  1. Shop and compare MSPs. Look for those that can do what you need as well as have the lowest fees. Read the fine print and account for all potential fees. Narrow down your selection to three or so MSPs.
  2. Negotiate! While you can’t get a discount on the interchange fee or assessment fee, you can ask to reduce the MSP markup. We’ve seen plastic surgery groups get 5-10% off that markup.
  3. Go with the MSP that offers you the best value. For your plastic surgery office, that should be a credit card processor that has low fees, superior customer service, and quality hardware and software.

Take home 100% of your breast augmentation revenue with a cash discount program

How can you take home all your 100% of your breast augmentation revenue? After all, even with the cheapest medical credit card processing, you still pay fees when patients pay for their breast augmentation. That’s true.But we have a solution…Implement a cash discount program, and eliminate medical credit card processing fees altogether. With a cash discount program, you give your breast augmentation patients a discount for paying in cash. At NadaPayments, for instance, our system offers patients a discount of up to 3.95%. For a $4,000 breast augmentation, that’s savings of $158.When you make that offer, your patients will be enticed, and more likely to pay with cash. And if they don’t pay in cash, you charge the non-discounted price (which accounts for credit card transaction fees). What a cash discount program gives you is essentially free credit card processing at your plastic surgery center. You can stop paying fees and earn more income from breast augmentation procedures.Want to learn more? We’re ready to help your plastic surgery center eliminate medical credit card processing fees. Contact us at +1 (929) 293-1800 or click the link below.

I Want FREE Credit Card Processing

Can sole proprietors accept credit card payments? The answer is absolutely yes. But you have to be aware of payment processing fees. Because they’ll hurt your bottom line. For instance, let’s say you’re a professional organizer. You’ve undergone lots of training and spent money marketing your services. You even got a mobile credit card processor to make payments easier for your clients. But after getting a steady flow of clients, you discover one thing: You’re not earning as much as you’d like as a sole proprietor. To earn more, you could increase your prices, but that may lead to fewer clients. Fortunately, there is another option. You could get rid of credit card processing fees. In fact, if you stopped those fees, you could boost your profits as a professional organizer by $2,000 to $5,000 per year. Yes, you read that right! But wait! How can you eliminate credit card processing fees?In this article, we’ll show you how self-employed individuals can get free credit card processing and begin earning more (and living better).

Why you need the best credit card processing for sole proprietors

Let’s go back to the example of the professional organizer. Let’s say you’re a sole proprietor and do good business tidying and arranging offices, homes, and retail spaces. Each year, you see roughly 200 clients and earn an average of $500 per client. That means you have revenue of $100,000 per year. After expenses, you have $60,000 left as your own income. That’s about 15% more than the average salary of a professional organizer (PayScale).You have all the reason to be happy with that sort of pay. However, you could be doing much better as a professional organizer. And all you have to do is stop paying credit card transaction fees...As consumer data from Statista shows, 40% of people prefer to swipe the plastic.

credit card processing for sole proprietors

Moreover, credit card usage rates increase as the value of the transaction goes up, according to Federal Reserve research. So, if you accept credit cards for your professional organization services, it’s possible 60% of your revenue comes from credit card transactions.If you have $100,000 in revenue from your professional organizer services, that means $60,000 is subject to fees! So, how much are credit card processing fees?

Average credit card processing fees

Source

After adding in the merchant service provider markup, chances are you’ll pay more than 3% on average. If you pay an average fee of 4% on average across that $60,000 in revenue, that means you pay $2,400 in fees! Now, imagine if you could make that $2,400 in fees go away. Poof! It’s gone…Your income would jump from $60,000 to $62,400. That’s a salary increase of 4%! And all you had to do was get better credit card processing. Think of all that you could do with that extra $2,400. You could save more for retirement, take a nicer vacation, or put money away for your child’s education. You could even expand your business and achieve greater success as a professional organizer. The point is this: You earned that money. You don’t have to give 3% or more to payment processing companies. You can take home 100% of your revenue!Motivated to look for better credit card processing for sole proprietors yet? Let’s discuss how self-employed people can get the best credit card processing. Here’s the good news: It’s not that complicated. It actually involves two easy steps...

Step 1: Find the best payment processor for sole proprietors such as professional organizers, tutors, and artists

To find the best merchant service provider (MSP) for professional organizers, tutors, artists, and other self-employed workers, do the following:

  • Narrow your selection to MSPs that offer pass-through pricing (and avoid tiered pricing). Here’s why:
  • Generally, pass-through pricing is not only more affordable, but the fees are made clear as they’re passed directly to your business.
  • With tiered pricing, transactions get categorized as ‘qualified’, ‘mid-qualified’, or ‘non-qualified’, and it’s not always clear how a client’s payment gets classified in a certain category. You often end up paying the higher fee ranges, which makes tiered pricing both confusing and more expensive.
  • Select a few MSPs with a good combination of low fees, quality software and hardware, good customer service, and experience with sole proprietors like professional organizers. Here’s what you should look for with processing fees:
  • Interchange fee: The card-issuing bank charges this.
  • Network fee: The card network charges this.
  • Assessment fee: The card-issuing brand charges this.
  • MSP markup: The payment processing company charges this in the form of per-transaction fees, 24/7 support fees, PCI compliance fees, software subscription fees, and other charges.
  • Negotiate the MSP markup. While you can’t negotiate what you pay Visa or Mastercard, you can negotiate with payment processing companies to lower their markup. We’ve seen sole proprietors cut 5-10% off the MSP markup, which could save you hundreds, if not thousands, per year.

After doing all that, you should know which payment processing company to choose. There are many good credit card processing companies that serve sole proprietors. You just have to shop for the best ones and negotiate!

Step 2: Implement a cash discount program at your sole proprietorship

Now, you may think: Even with the best credit card processing for sole proprietors, I still have to pay fees. So, how can I get rid of payment processing fees altogether? Here’s how to close the gap: Implement a cash discount program. As the term suggests, cash discount programs give clients a discount for paying in cash. For instance, if you’re a professional organizer and use NadaPayments’ cash discount program, your clients could get up to 3.95% off by paying in cash. If they pay with a card for your professional organization services, they pay the standard price (which accounts for payment processing fees). Since the credit card price offsets fees, this means you don’t lose any money to payment processing fees as a professional organizer. Thanks to the Dodd-Frank Act, sole proprietors can implement cash discount programs. It’s completely legal! And it’s quite easy to do. Interested in a cash discount program? At NadaPayments, we’re ready to help sole proprietors get the best credit card processing. Contact us at +1 (929) 293-1800 or click the link below.

I Want FREE Credit Card Processing

Does your cosmetic institute or medical spa offer microdermabrasion? If so, you’ve made an excellent choice. As market research shows, the industry should enjoy average annual growth of 8.6% through 2026. By that time, the market will reach $650 million in market size.As the owner of a spa or salon, you undoubtedly want to tap into that market. First of all, as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons notes, by offering microdermabrasion, you can help patients exfoliate the skin, reduce wrinkles, eliminate enlarged pores, and treat acne and scars. You’re doing a good thing. You can help people treat skin issues and give them more confidence. Second, you can make good money. And that will benefit your medical spa or salon. Of course, to get the most financial benefit from microdermabrasion treatments, you need to handle your finances well. That begins with ensuring you don’t waste money on unnecessary expenses. If you look closely at your balance sheet, you may see that you waste money on something you don’t want to be: credit card processing fees! Now, you may think there’s no way to stop that. Think again!Read on—we’ll teach you why you should care about microdermabrasion credit card processing fees and how you can take home 100% of your microdermabrasion revenue.

Why you should care about microdermabrasion credit card processing fees?

If you look at average credit card processing fees, you may think: What’s the big deal? It’s just 1.43-3.5% per transaction.

Average credit card processing fees

Source: ValuePenguin

Well, it’s not that simple. Chances are you pay more than the credit card processing fee rates listed above. That’s because merchant service providers (MSPs) charge markups in the form of monthly subscriptions, hardware fees, and other services. Still, even if you pay 3-4% in credit card processing fees per transaction, what’s the big deal? Well, consider what you’ve sacrificed to get here. To offer microdermabrasion and run your own medical spa, you’re either a professional dermatologist or plastic surgeon. So you’ve put in a lot of work and money to get to where you are. Remember the investment you’ve made in yourself. After all, starting a medical spa easily costs six figures, and could even near $1 million. That doesn’t even account for the student debt you’ve taken on to become a dermatologist or plastic surgeon (according to NerdWallet research, average medical student debt nears $200,000).Moreover, you have ongoing expenses at your medical spa. That includes technician salaries, insurance, rent, equipment, and more. The point is this: You’ve put it on the line to offer microdermabrasion and become an entrepreneur in the cosmetics industry. Don’t let money slip away unnecessarily…

What you stand to gain with free credit card processing on microdermabrasion treatments

Since microdermabrasion is almost always considered cosmetic, it’s not covered by insurance. Most of your clients will pay out-of-pocket. Considering the average cost of a microdermabrasion treatment ranges from $75-$200+, your clients are more likely to pay with a credit card. As research from Statista shows, credit cards are most often used for transactions around the price of microdermabrasion treatments.

Average value of transaction per credit card worldwide in 2016, by brand (in U.S. dollars)

Source: Statista

Given the data, it’s possible a good portion of your microdermabrasion revenue comes via credit card transactions. If you haven’t yet, calculate the numbers. So that you can more clearly see how credit card processing fees impact your business, let’s say 50% of your microdermabrasion revenue is from credit cards.And let’s say your medical spa does 2,000 microdermabrasion treatments per year. Clients pay an average of $150 per microdermabrasion treatment. That means you generate $300,000 per year in microdermabrasion revenue. Now, think about this:

  • 50%, or $150,000 of your revenue, is through credit card transactions.
  • Your net margins, after every possible expense, are 15%. That means your medical spa has made $45,000 from microdermabrasion.
  • On that $150,000 of credit card revenue, you’ve paid 4% in credit card processing fees. That’s $6,000 per year!

Obviously, you can’t let that happen. To maximize your revenue from microdermabrasion, you must eliminate credit card processing fees.Just think: If you eliminate that $6,000 per year you pay in credit card processing fees, your microdermabrasion revenues would increase from $45,000 to $51,000. That’s a profit increase of 13.3%!Now, you may wonder: Can I really eliminate all credit card processing fees? The answer is yes. Yes, you can!

Don’t lose microdermabrasion revenue to expensive payment processors

By hiring the right payment processor, you can ensure you take home more of your microdermabrasion revenue. When looking at third-party credit card processors, examine the following:

  • Interchange fees: These are fees paid to the card-issuing bank.
  • Assessment fees: These are fees paid to the card brand.
  • Processor markup: This is an extra fee paid to the merchant service processor (MSP). It could be per-transaction fees, software costs, monthly subscription costs, etc.

For your medical spa, choose the payment processor that offers the best combination of low fees and quality processing. Also, check to ensure they don’t assess additional fees, like cancellation fees. Because if a transaction is canceled, you shouldn’t have to pay credit card processing fees. Additionally, look out for rate increases in the contract with your MSP. Credit card processing fees are a percentage of each transaction, and therefore do not correlate with inflation. Credit card processing fees should remain the same, regardless of how much the dollar is worth. Make sure of this when hiring an MSP for your dermabrasion clinic. To summarize, look for the credit card processor that offers efficient credit card processing and low fees. And don’t be afraid to negotiate the MSP markup. Many business owners have been able to get 5-10% off the processor markup.

Implement the cash discount program to take home 100% of your microdermabrasion revenue

Obviously, you can’t eliminate credit card processing fees just by finding the cheapest processor. You need an additional strategy. Enter the cash discount program⁠—your strategy to ensure you never lose money to credit card processing fees. As the name implies, your microdermabrasion clients get a discount for paying in cash. With NadaPayments’ cash discount program, that discount equals 3.95%. If they pay with a credit card, they pay a markup fee to offset the credit card processing fees. In this sense, the cash discount program benefits both the spa owner and client. The client can still pay with a credit card—just at an additional cost. If they want to save money, they can pay in cash. And, in the end, the salon owner can ensure they collect the right amount of revenue. Worried about whether you can really offer this? The good news is this: The cash discount program is 100% legal and compliant.Want to learn more? At NadaPayments, we can help your medical spa or clinic take home 100% of their microdermabrasion revenue. Just call us at +1 (929) 293-1800 or click the link below to message us.

I Want FREE Credit Card Processing

It’s smart business to offer electrolysis hair removal at your salon or spa. As the only FDA-endorsed hair removal method, electrolysis has become increasingly popular. Market research predicts a 17% growth rate through 2025. By providing electrolysis treatment to clients, you can not only profit from this multi-billion market, but you can also help clients become more comfortable, confident, and healthy. Electrolysis is a permanent hair removal solution that enables your clients to finally get rid of unwanted hair growth. Of course, to ensure your business can continue electrolysis treatments well into the future, you must take care of finances. That means analyzing every unnecessary expense. For instance, have you looked at your electrolysis credit card processing fees? Sure, you may only pay 3-4% per transaction, but those fees cost your business more than you think. By getting the cheapest credit card processing possible, you can increase your hair removal clinic profits by 10% or more. In this article, we’ll detail why you should pay attention to credit card processing fees, and teach you how to take home 100% of your electrolysis revenue.

Why you should care about electrolysis credit card processing fees

You’ve made quite the investment to become an electrologist. As cosmetology experts note, you have to undergo training and get certification in most states to become an electrology professional. This can take months of your time and typically costs more than $10,000.For example, in Michigan, you must do 400 hours of an electrology education program or six-month apprenticeship. Then you must pass an exam to get certification. In addition to education and training requirements, you have to spend a lot of money to start your own medical spa or electrolysis hair removal clinic. When you include equipment, legal fees, office supplies, and more, startup costs often exceed $100,000. That doesn’t even include ongoing expenses, such as technician salaries, marketing, insurance, and rent. Simply put, you’ve invested a lot of time and money to become an entrepreneur in the hair removal industry. Don’t reduce your chances of success by not paying attention to your payment processing system. Take steps to get the cheapest credit card processing you can. As research finds, you may lose more than 3% of your electrolysis revenue to fees, even with the best credit card processing apps.

lowest credit card processing fees

Source: ValuePenguin

You may still think: It’s only about 3%. What’s the big deal? Avoid that line of thought. Because these electrolysis credit card processing fees decrease your profits more than you think.

How much more can you make from electrolysis with free credit card processing

So you can understand what you stand to gain, let’s go through an example. First, remember that most insurance doesn’t cover electrolysis hair removal, as it’s an elective treatment. So your clients will pay out-of-pocket. As consumer surveys find, a good portion of your clients will pay with a credit card (34%).

Which payment method do you primarily use for everyday purchases

Source: NerdWallet

While a little more than one-in-three of your clients will pay for electrolysis treatment with a credit card, chances are your revenue from credit card transactions will be a bit higher. After all, credit cards account for more than 55% of the total value of card payments, according to Federal Reserve research. Research indicates clients are more likely to pay for higher-value purchases with a credit card. And electrolysis is a high-value transaction, with the average cost often exceeding $100 per session. Most patients will also sign up for multiple treatments, making the final price much higher. For the purpose of this example, let’s say 50% of your electrolysis revenue comes from credit card transactions. Let’s also say the average customer spends $150 per session, and you do 2,000 electrolysis treatments per year. That means you generate $300,000 per year from electrolysis treatments. Now, consider the following:

  • After all expenses, including labor, you achieve a net margin of 20% on electrolysis treatments. That means your medical spa or hair removal clinic earns $60,000 per year from the treatments. That’s quite solid. But you could earn a lot more.
  • 50% of your revenue comes from credit card transactions, or $150,000 per year. You pay a total fee of 4% on that revenue. That equals $6,000 per year in electrolysis credit card processing fees.
  • If you eliminate that $6,000 in electrolysis credit card processing fees, your profits would jump from $60,000 to $66,000. That’s a salary increase of 10% for you!

As you can see, it pays to pay attention to credit card processing fees. Because you can⁠—and should—take home more of your electrolysis revenue. The good news is you have solutions. Follow the two steps below!

Step 1: Find the best credit card processing for electrolysis and hair removal clinics

As an electrology professional, you’re busy. But as we’ve shown, you can benefit from doing your research and shopping for the best credit card processing. Here’s what you need to know:

  • The payment processing industry lacks regulations. Merchant service providers (MSPs) can charge high markups and implement complex fee structures. This is how they make more money. And MSPs do this because they can.

So, at your electrolysis and hair removal salon, educate yourself about credit card processing. When analyzing third-party credit card processors, ask about:

  • Total fees: This is the average total of all the payment processing fees, and includes the following:
  • Interchange fee: This is collected by the card bank (not negotiable).
  • Assessment fee: This is collected by the card brand (not negotiable).
  • Payment processor markup: This is how the MSP makes money, and typically comes in the form of subscription fees, per-transaction fees, hardware costs, etc (can be negotiated).
  • Cancellation and refund charges: If a transaction is canceled, will the MSP refund fees? If you have to refund an electrolysis client, will the MSP waive some of the fees?
  • Rate increases: These shouldn’t exist, as fees are commonly a percentage per transaction. Check for them.

Know you can negotiate certain fees too, such as the payment processor markups. Many business owners have been known to knock 5-10% of the markup fees. Leverage your position here. To summarize, read through all the fine print when choosing an MSP for your medical spa or electrolysis salon. Opt for the best yet cheapest credit card processing possible. You want a quality payment processor that doesn’t overcharge you. They exist, but you have to do the legwork to find them. Once you do that, you’ll be in a position to take home 100% of your electrolysis revenue. Just follow step two!

Step 2: Establish a cash discount program at your electrolysis and hair removal salon

As the name suggests, a cash discount program gives your electrolysis clients a discount for paying in cash. At NadaPayments, that discount is 3.95%. Don’t worry—if your electrolysis clients still want the convenience of swiping the credit card, they can do that. But they’ll pay a markup to offset credit card processing fees. A cash discount program automatically ensures free credit card processing. That’s because you take home 100% of your electrolysis revenue on every transaction, regardless of if cash or credit is used. In this sense, a cash discount program benefits both you and your electrolysis clients. It’s also 100% legal and compliant.Interested to learn more? At NadaPayments, we can help your electrolysis clinic implement a cash discount program. Call us to learn how you can eliminate credit card processing fees. Our phone lines are always open at +1 (929) 293-1800. Or click the link below to message us.

I Want FREE Credit Card Processing

Why does having the best mobile credit card processing matter? Well, if you work as an independent house painter, HVAC specialist, or in another role where you go to clients, you have to accept payments away from your office or workplace. To make payments easy, you probably have a mobile credit card processor, in addition to accepting cash and checks. Mobile credit card processing offers convenience for your clients. It also ensures you can get paid, even if a customer doesn’t have the cash on them. They can just swipe the card!There’s just one problem…Each time you swipe the card on your mobile credit card processor, you’re letting money fly out the window. You may think you have to pay those credit card processing fees, that it’s just part of the game. Want to know a secret? You don’t have to pay those credit card transaction fees. In this article, we’ll show you why you should pay attention to those fees, how to shop for the best mobile credit processing, and ultimately how to get free credit card processing. Read on!

Why contractors should pay attention to mobile credit card processing fees

Picture this: You’re a house painter. Since you run your own operation and manage a team, you bring in $230,000 in revenue from your house painting operation. Your net margins are 30%, which is considered good in the house painting industry. That means you make $69,000 in profits per year—a good deal above the national average salary for house painters. You may think: I’m doing quite well as a house painter. You are! But you could do even better…Now, the average cost to paint a house is nearly $2,900, according to Home Advisor. Given the high cost, many homeowners probably don’t pay you in cash (that’s a lot of cash to have on hand). They most likely write a check or swipe the credit card. Given that Statista data shows credit cards are the preferred payment method for 40% of purchases, and that Federal Reserve research finds that credit card usage increases as transactions values increase, it’s possible 50-60% of your revenue comes via credit card transactions. So, out of that $230,000 in house painting revenue, you could have left $138,000 subject to credit card processing fees (if 60% of your revenue came from credit cards). To understand how much that dents your salary as a house painter, first understand how much mobile credit card processing fees are. According to CreditDonkey, you’ll pay between 2.4-3% or more for even the best mobile credit card processing. After adding in other fees, such as monthly software fees and same-day funding fees, you could pay almost 4%. That’s a lot to pay just to accept payment. To give you a clearer picture, take a look at what Square charges business owners.

Square credit card processing fees

Square is transparent with pricing, which is good. But you still have software fees, hardware costs, and per transaction fee of $0.10 (on top of the 2.5%). Fees are higher if you have to key in the payment. Now, let’s go back to the house painter example. Here’s ho