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Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat is the process that a merchant must follow in order to utilize AscentZeroCost? How hard is the process to start?

The card brands (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express) have specific rules for merchants to follow in order to be 100% compliant. Ascent, with its expert support and technology solution, makes this a simple process for you.

When a merchant elects to apply a surcharge to customers who pay with credit cards, they must provide Visa, MasterCard, and their acquirer with a minimum of thirty (30) days advance written notice of their intention to surcharge prior to implementing a surcharge. Merchants can satisfy the notice requirement by accessing the respective websites.

Visa

MasterCard

The card brands have specific rules for merchants to follow in order to be 100% compliant.  Let’s take a look at some of them, as well as seeing how Ascent makes this an easy process for you!

The merchant must also disclose the surcharge as a merchant fee and, for both in-store and online transactions, clearly alert consumers to the practice at the point of entry, the point of sale or transaction, and on every receipt.  Merchants should also consider whether they comply with all applicable state and/or federal laws. Currently, several states have laws that prohibit or limit surcharging. Ascent will assist in this process.

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