How to Accept Credit Cards
Whether you are starting a small business or want to accept credit cards at your next yard sale, there are ways to do so without having to buy cumbersome machines. Courtesy of today's technology, well recognized companies have made it possible to serve your customers and receive payment with nothing more than Internet access, a telephone or a smartphone.
ProPay
- Go to the ProPay website and review the available account plans and fees. In deciding what type of plan you want, also consider what credit cards you would like to accept as some plans will accept some cards but not others. Once you've made a decision sign up for the desired plan.
- Determine how you would like to process your cards. There are several options that you can choose from, such as accepting credit cards via smartphone, a card reader, the Internet or by phone without Internet access.
- Purchase the card reader of your choice. As of 2011, ProPay offers the Flash Card Reader and the Jak Card Reader.
- Download any applicable software for the card readers.
PayPal
- Go to the PayPal website and sign up for a PayPal merchant account.
- Determine if you want Website Payment Standard or the Website Payments Pro if you want to accept payments on your website. To determine which is the best option for you, view the comparison chart on the PayPal website. Once you've made your decision click on the "Select" button to proceed.
- Select a payment button to place on your website. There are several payment buttons that are available from PayPal. Copy the code and follow the instructions given by PayPal to add them to your website.