Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is it to apply for a merchant account?

Applying for a merchant account with us is very quick and easy with our online application. We do not request irrelevant or burdensome information.

Can I be approved for a merchant account if I have a low credit score?

We offer very high approval rates and understand there are other important factors beyond an individual’s credit score.

How do I operate my processing solution / credit card terminal?

Your Account Manager, or one of our other Support Experts, will patiently guide you through every aspect of the operation of your terminal or processing solution.

Are you able to help me integrate your gateway and shopping cart into my website?

Yes! After your account is approved, you will receive detailed instructions that will walk you through the implementation process. However, if you have any questions or issues with implementation, we have gateway and technical support experts who are ready to help you with your integration needs. Please contact your Account Manager or Customer Service with any questions about your online processing solution.

What types of businesses does First Merchant Payment Systems service and support?

We approve all types of merchants such as E-Commerce, Phone / Mail Order, Retail, Restaurant, and Mobile. Please contact one of our Account Managers and we will provide you with all of the help and information you need to start accepting credit cards for your business.

When can I start accepting my customers’ credit cards?

We’re able to approve many merchants within a couple of hours and others in a couple of days, depending on your business type and other factors.

What is the best processing solution or terminal for my business?

Our Account Managers are true experts in the field of payment processing and will easily be able to recommend the best terminal or processing solution for your business.

Can I view my statements online?

Absolutely! With our online portal, www.myfmps.com, our merchants are able to view their account activity and monthly statements online and we provide instructions on accessing your account once your account is approved. You can also click on the “Merchant Login” blue button at the top right hand corner of our page to direct you to the website.

When are my transactions deposited into my account?

If your transactions are processed and settled by 7:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, you will be funded the next day.

When will my monthly fees be charged to me?

Your fees are ACH’d from your account on the first of the month.

What are the steps for updating my checking account?

Please contact Customer Service and we will help you update your business’ account information.

What is Interchange?

Interchange is a term used to describe the percentage rates and transaction fees charged by Visa and MasterCard, to any and every business owner who accepts credit cards. These rates and fees are variable because they are based on the different types of credit cards provided to consumers from card-issuing banks. Please contact your Account Manager if you need any assistance in understanding your pricing or contact customer service.

What does PCI compliance mean?

PCI is an abbreviation that stands for Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). This standard was designed to ensure all merchants process and store their customers’ credit card information in a safe and secure manner.

What are the requirements for PCI compliance?

In order to become PCI compliant, all you must do is complete a PCI DSS self-assessment questionnaire once a year and perform quarterly scans of your processing solution by an approved scanning vendor.

Do I still need to be PCI compliant if I only process credit cards a few months out of the year?

All merchants, no matter how large or small they may be, must complete the PCI DSS self-assessment questionnaire once a year, in order to not be charged PCI non-compliance fees.

What are PCI non-compliance fees?

PCI Non-Compliance fees are assessed to any merchant who does not receive their PCI Validation Certificate by completing their PCI DSS self-assessment questionnaire. If you have any questions on or about this process, please contact your Account Manager or customer service.

If I already have a “PCI compliant” processing solution or terminal, why do I have to become PCI compliant?

There are multiple factors that are taken into consideration when evaluating whether a merchant is PCI compliant, which is why the PCI Security Standards Council has implemented a set of requirements to help assist in the verification of PCI compliance.

Will I receive confirmation, once I become PCI compliant?

Yes! Once you successfully complete your PCI DSS self-assessment questionnaire, you will receive a PCI Validation Certificate and a logo to display on your website if you so desire.