Using credit and debit cards to pay for services online is something consumers do on a regular basis. The more consumers have embraced the digital world, the faster businesses have had to make a seamless ecommerce experience a priority. However, this is much easier said than done for a lot of industries, including the adult industry.
The adult industry expanded very rapidly following the advent of the internet. Despite this, these businesses struggle to secure basic business services like a merchant account. Without a merchant account a business is unable to process credit and debit card payments. Essentially, a merchant account serves as a middleman between your customers’ bank account and your business bank account.
Merchant accounts are also hooked up to your website shopping cart via an online payment gateway. With a secure merchant account, your customers can safely enter their card information to purchase your products and services. It also ensures you have the backing of a supporting bank.
Why Adult Merchants are Labeled “High Risk”
If you’re struggling to secure merchant services and you own an adult business, it’s likely due to your industry. Adult merchants are considered a high risk venture for traditional payment service providers. The industry is known for high chargeback rates and fraud. Another huge reason is the reputational risks for those who choose to offer services to adult merchants. Fortunately, there are alternative options out there today and strategies you can use that will help you solve this problem.
How to Increase Your Chances of Getting Approved
While there’s no way to prevent being considered high risk, there are some things you can do that will help your business’ chances of getting approved for an adult merchant account. For example, make sure you secure and maintain a favorable credit score and credit history. It’s also important to pay your taxes in a timely manner to avoid tax liens being imposed, and be honest on your application about everything.
Why You Should Seek Out Alternative Providers
While traditional service providers are hesitant to work with you, high risk credit card processing providers are not. There are many providers out there today that specialize in working with high risk businesses, including adult businesses. While they may involve higher fees, they will want to work with your business, give it the tools you need to grow and can provide access to an account very quickly – in some cases, in as little as 24 hours.
Before you commit to an adult merchant account, just make sure you compare high risk providers. Find out what their current and past customers are saying about them. And make sure they have years of experience in offering industry-leading services and support.
Blair Thomas has been a music producer, bouncer, screenwriter and for over a decade has been the proud Co-Founder of eMerchantBroker, the highest rated high risk merchant account processor in the country. He has climbed in the Himalayas, survived a hurricane, and lived on a gold mine in the Yukon. He currently calls Thailand his home with a lifetime collection of his favorite books.