What is integrated merchant credit card processing?
Integrated merchant credit card processing connects payment acceptance with related business tools and workflows. Depending on the environment, this can include standalone terminals, ecommerce gateways, virtual terminals, back-office billing, recurring transactions, reporting, PCI compliance, and software integrations. Clearwater Processing develops tailored processing environments so merchants can manage payment activity across the channels relevant to their operations.
What types of payments can Clearwater Processing support?
Clearwater Processing supports payment environments for in-person, online, keyed-entry, back-office, recurring, and invoice-based transactions. Services include standalone terminals, ecommerce gateways, virtual terminals, recurring billing, and invoicing solutions. The company also states that its processing environments support all card types, subject to the applicable setup and merchant requirements.
Does Clearwater Processing offer API integration for developers?
Yes. Clearwater Processing offers API integration so businesses and developers can build card acceptance into websites, apps, and custom-built software. Sandbox accounts let developers test before going live, and Clearwater works with all major gateways. Larger-volume developers and software partners can also discuss a revenue share as an additional income stream.
Can payment processing integrate with QuickBooks or Xero?
Yes. Clearwater Processing offers integrations with QuickBooks and Xero. These integrations are designed to connect payment processing with existing accounting workflows, while statement analysis and fee optimization can help merchants better understand processing costs. Clients can pursue reported average savings without having to change their accounting software.
Does Clearwater Processing offer recurring billing?
Yes. Clearwater Processing provides recurring billing solutions through back-office billing capabilities. Merchants can use the service to process recurring or subscription-based transactions within a broader credit card processing environment, and Clearwater can automatically update customers’ cards that are about to expire, which saves time and helps retain recurring revenue. The platform also includes related capabilities such as PCI compliance, reporting, and US-based support.
What is merchant statement analysis?
Merchant statement analysis reviews statements from providers such as local banks or national processors. Clearwater Processing uses the review to identify confusing line items, hidden fees, and potential savings opportunities. On average, clients see 10%–30% in total savings from this analysis, although results vary by merchant statement and processing environment.
What should I look at before switching processors?
Your current merchant statement comes first. Clearwater Processing’s statement analysis shows what you pay today, line by line, and a representative can then talk through which processing environment fits, including ecommerce gateways, virtual terminals, and merchant reporting tools. If questions come up while you decide, you can call that representative directly.
What support is available for merchants?
Clearwater Processing provides US-based backend phone support available 24/7/365. Office hours are Monday–Friday from 7am–10pm EST and Saturday from 8am–10pm EST. Clients receive access to a dedicated representative’s personal cell phone number in addition to backend phone support.
Does the service include PCI compliance support?
Yes. Clearwater Processing offers PCI compliance solutions designed to support secure transactions and fraud-prevention best practices. Its listed capabilities include $100,000 breach protection insurance. Merchants should review the applicable program terms and requirements when selecting and implementing their processing environment.