How to Accept Credit Cards by Phone

By Contributing Writer

  • Overview

    Many different types of businesses like pizza delivery shops and florists have a need to only accept credit cards over the phone. The concept is simple. A customer calls in, places an order, supplies his credit card number, the card is approved and the delivery driver drives the order to its final location. Because of the crackdown against credit card fraud, it is sometimes difficult to pass the snuff test for a new business wanting to have the ability to accept credit cards over the phone. But it certainly can be done.

    • Step 1

      Find a merchant account that allows your business to process credit card orders over the phone or Internet like Unibul Merchant Services. Fill out the initial application form, including your name and contact information, information about your business and what type of business you are.

    • Step 2

      Receive the phone call from the merchant sales representative when he calls. The merchant sales rep will ask for additional information about your business. He will then notify you of all the fees and disclaimers.

    • Step 3

      Fax the merchant sales representative information that he needs to approve your account with his credit card processing firm. He will need you to fax your business articles of incorporation, a copy of your driver's license, other information that proves who you are, a voided check from your business checking account and a signed agreement form.

    • Step 4

      Receive your credit card order over the phone by a customer. Take down the customer's name as it appears on the credit card, billing address, telephone number, credit card number, expiration date and the three-digit security code as it appears on the back of the credit card.

    • Step 5

      Log in to your merchant account on the Internet or call in the order on another phone line at your business. Provide all the customer's credit card information. If you use the Internet, click "Process Credit Card" and wait for the merchant credit card processing company to approve the customer's credit card. Your money will be deposited into your business checking account.
    • Skill: Moderate
    • Ingredients:
    • Business incorporation papers
    • Business checking account

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