More Businessess are Riding the ACH Rails

Businesses aiming to optimize their payment method mix have undoubtedly explored ACH among their expansion options. In this article, Everyware takes you on the ACH railway journey, highlighting bank funds transfers as an alternative to the ever-popular card payment method. We'll explore the unique advantages that ACH payments bring to various types of businesses. And we'll show how Everyware merchants in particular, benefit from the innovative fusion of verified ACH transactions and text messaging, the express route to accelerating business operations along the increasingly popular ACH payment rails.

ACH Defined

First, let's take a moment to revisit the definition of ACH. ACH is short for 'Automated Clearing House.' Governed by NACHA, ACH is essentially an electronic funds transfer (EFT) system designed to enable the movement of funds between US bank accounts.

ACH is Going Strong

Since 2020, consumers have shifted more toward online and remote payments. Digital bank transfers are more commonly used now beyond consumer auto-billpay and payroll direct deposits, though these are still the scenarios in which ACH-based money movement are seen most. Even with new tracks being laid with the introduction of Real-Time-Payments, Nacha reports that in 2022 $9.49 trillion in consumer bill payments and $13.67 trillian in direct deposits were made over ACH rails.

ACH vs. Card Payment Benefits Galore

While credit and debit card payments continue to reign as the most popular payment method among consumers, ACH payments have gained traction for several reasons.

Higher Security

One of the standout advantages of ACH payments is enhanced security compared to card payments. ACH transactions often involve robust fraud prevention measures, including stringent authentication of both parties involved in the transaction. Card payments can be more susceptible to unauthorized use as they rely on cardholder data alone. Unfortunately card skimming and data breaches do happen in spite of PCI DSS compliance.

Fewer Declines and Reversals

Merchants may worry less about ACH payment declines or reversals, which can be common with credit card transactions. The process for disputing ACH payments is often more extensive and requires strong evidence. Cardholders have more straightforward dispute processes for card payments, making it easier to dispute and reverse unauthorized or incorrect charges. While this can be consumer-friendly, it can also be exploited by fraudsters.

Scale and Efficiency

ACH payments are a no-brainer for businesses with a large customer base or a high volume of recurring transactions. They can be processed efficiently and reliably in batches, saving time and resources. They can be used for various billing models, including fixed monthly subscriptions, variable usage-based charges, and one-time payments. This flexibility is essential for businesses with diverse pricing structures.

Lower Costs

ACH processing fees are typically lower than those associated with card payments. Add the savings from potential card chargeback, extra card processing fees, card update overhead expenses, and bank transfers prove to be a very cost-effective choice for businesses.

Why the Wait? ACH Payment Setup & Settlement Timing

Making a card payment is fast

Cardholders simply provide their credit or debit card number, expiration date, and a security code so verification is nearly instant and validated card payments can be immediately approved.

Making a standard ACH payment is not as fast (but is getting faster)

Traditionally, customers who want to pay by bank transfer will provide their bank routing and account numbers and then must complete a Microdeposit account verification. This method involves sending small trial deposits of a few cents to the customer's bank account over one to two business days. The customer must check their bank statement, verify the amounts of the microdeposits, and report them back to the business.

Thankfully, companies like Everyware offer integrated Instant Account Verification technology for faster automatic account setup and near-instant verification, which is crucial for businesses seeking a seamless onboarding process for customers.

Same Day ACH payments can settle even faster, down to just one day rather than the typical three day wait.

ACH payments take more time to settle

ACH payments can take several days to fully settle for a handful of reasons.

• They are typically processed in batches, not in real-time. Batches gather throughout the day and are transmitted to the ACH network on a schedule. Transactions initated later in the day might not process until the following day. And batches don't settle on weekends or bank holidays.
• They must clear a series of stages including origination (initiation by the sender), submission to the ACH network, clearing (verification of funds and account balances), and settlement (the actual transfer of funds between financial institutions).
• They are subject to risk management measures and regulatory compliance requirements like anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) checks, which can prolong the settlement process.
• Some financial institutions require settlement holds to ensure the availability of funds and mitigate the risk of fraud or insufficient funds.

How Everyware Seamlessly Integrates ACH Payments with Secure Text Messaging

Everyware merchants gain advantages from a range of essential ACH payment capabilities:

1. Available Balance Threshold Controls: Merchants can dictate available funds thresholds to prevent insufficient fund issues. Most elect to require 50% over the Amount Due as a rule, but merchants in higher risk industries set higher available balance thresholds.
2. Instant Account Verification (IAV): Seamless verification of customer bank accounts so they can select the ACH/Bank Transfer payment option and connect to their verified bank account in seconds.
3. Real-time Balance Checks: Ensures sufficient funds are available before payment completion. If a consumer's account lacks sufficient funds at checkout they'll need to provide an alternative payment method or connect a different bank account. Not to worry; Everyware supports multiple payment method alternatives including card, digital wallet and pay-over-time plans.
4. ACH Automated Text Messages: Everyware's (optional) text message communication throughout the ACH payment experience keeps customers informed about their transactions, payment confirmations, and upcoming deductions. Merchants can customize, personalize and schedule their ACH text templates.

• ACH Payment Confirmation Message: Sends after an account is connected and sufficient funds are available. Informs the payer that funds may take around two days to fully process their successful payment.
• ACH Payment Receipt Message: Sends after the bank transfer settles thanking the customer for their payment provides bank descriptor details, and a link to view their receipt.
• ACH Debit Failure Alert Message: Sends if a bank transfer cannot be finalized post-initial confirmation of account details and balance threshold during checkout. This situation may arise if a customer initially had sufficient funds but their account balance falls below the required amount before full settlement. In response, customers can choose an alternative payment method or indicate that they've resolved the balance shortfall.

Speedy, secure bank transfers paired with a direct line of communication enhances transparency and customer engagement for an excellent overall experience. Many fintech platforms and financial institutions also offer Same Day ACH or RTP solutions which present even more benefits to merchants and consumers alike.

In the digital era, accepting credit card payments online is not just a convenience but a necessity for businesses. The process has evolved significantly over the past three decades, making it easier than ever to accept credit cards. This guide will walk you through the essentials of accepting credit card payments online, covering various methods and considerations.

Steps to Credit Card Processing Accepting credit card payments online involves a series of steps:

• Customer Inputs Information: The customer enters their credit card number or uses a mobile device for payment.
• Payment Processor Verification: The payment processor communicates with the card's issuing bank to ensure available funds and detect potential fraud.
• Bank Approval: If the bank approves the transaction, the payment processor debits the customer's account and credits the merchant's account.
• Settlement: The funds are transferred to the merchant's account, completing the transaction.

In-Store vs. Online vs. Mobile Payment Processing

In-Store Credit Card Payments Modern Point-of-Sale (POS) systems like Square and Clover include hardware and software that allow processing both card and cash transactions in physical retail locations.

Online Payments For e-commerce, you need an account with a payment service provider (PSP) like Everyware, PayPal, Stripe, Square, or Shopify. Many modern website builders, such as Squarespace and Shopify, are designed to integrate easily with payment processors.

Mobile Payment Processing Mobile payment processing apps like Square enable accepting physical cards anywhere using a mobile phone. Square's card reader is a tiny attachment that fits into the headphone jack on your smartphone.

Credit vs. Debit Card Transactions While they look similar, credit and debit card transactions differ. Debit card transactions pull money from the customer's bank account immediately, while credit transactions do not. Debit card transactions usually settle faster, and the fees might differ depending on the payment provider.

Merchant Account vs. Payment Service Provider Traditionally, businesses needed a merchant account to accept credit card payments. Today, payment service providers like PayPal and Stripe simplify this process, often making it more affordable.

Credit Card Processing Fees Typical fees include:

• Interchange Rate: A percentage of the sale that goes to the credit card company, usually 1.5% to 3.5% or even higher.
• Transaction Fee: A fee paid to the payment service provider, in addition to the interchange rate.
• Service Fee: Some providers might charge a monthly or annual subscription fee.
• Security Considerations
• Security is paramount in online payment processing. Many website builders come with a secure sockets layer (SSL) certificate to ensure customer security. If not, a standalone service might be required.

FAQs and Common Concerns about payment processing

• What is the best way to accept credit card payments? It depends on factors like sales volume and customer preferences.
• How can I accept credit cards on my phone? Mobile payment processing apps like Square allow this functionality.
• What is the cheapest way to take credit card payments? Flat-rate transaction fees are usually the most affordable for small businesses.

Accepting credit card payments online is a multifaceted process that involves understanding various methods, fees, and security considerations. With the right tools and knowledge, businesses can provide a seamless and secure payment experience for their customers. As technology continues to advance, the process of accepting credit card payments online will likely become even more streamlined and user-friendly.

In the fast-paced world of digital commerce, online payment processing has become a cornerstone of modern business. It's a complex system that enables seamless financial transactions, allowing businesses to accept payments from customers through various channels like credit cards, debit cards, or bank accounts. Let's explore the basics of online payment processing, its evolution, and its significance in today's business landscape.

What is Online Payment Processing? Online payment processing is a method that facilitates financial transactions electronically. It involves multiple steps and parties, including the customer, merchant, payment gateway, payment processor, and financial institutions. The process ensures that the payment details are securely transmitted, verified, and settled.

Front-End and Back-End Processors Payment processors are typically broken down into two types: front-end and back-end. Front-end processors have connections to various card associations and provide authorization and settlement services to the merchant banks' merchants. Back-end processors accept settlements from front-end processors and move the money from the issuing bank to the merchant bank.

Evolution of Payment Technology The journey of payment technology has been fascinating. From metal coins to paper currency in China during the Tang dynasty, to the introduction of checks in the 17th century, payment methods have evolved significantly. The first payment card was created in 1950, followed by the emergence of ATMs in the 1960s and 1970s. The first online payment processing company was founded in 1998, initially named Confinity, later changed to PayPal in 2014.

Modern Implementations Modern payment processors are often partnered with merchants through a concept known as software-as-a-service (SaaS). They offer a single, regulatory-compliant electronic portal that enables various payment methods, including check scanning, credit card payments, ACH, and cash transactions.

Security Measures Electronic payments are highly susceptible to fraud and abuse. Payment processors use methods like Tokenization, where merchants can process charges without storing payment card data, and Point to Point Encryption, which encrypts cardholder data to protect against breaches.

The Future of Payment Processing The future of the payment processing industry is being shaped by trends like vertical-specific processors, the accelerated adoption of contactless payment methods, and the trend toward customer choice and autonomy.

Why Online Payment Processing Matters?

• Convenience: It allows customers to pay for goods and services online, anytime, anywhere.
• Security: With advanced encryption and anti-fraud measures, it ensures the secure handling of sensitive information.
• Global Reach: Businesses can accept payments in multiple currencies, facilitating international transactions.
• Integration: It can be integrated with other business systems, streamlining operations and enhancing efficiency.

Online payment processing is more than just a technological tool; it's an integral part of the modern business ecosystem. Its evolution reflects the continuous innovation in the financial industry, adapting to the changing needs of consumers and businesses alike. Understanding the basics of online payment processing is essential for anyone involved in the digital commerce space, as it continues to shape the way we buy, sell, and interact in the online world.

References Wikipedia - Payment Processor Krishnan, Srinivasan. "EVOLUTION OF CURRENCIES". "The History of Credit Cards". Experian.com. PYMNTS. "The History Of PayPal: Important Company Dates". PYMNTS.com. "P2PE: Point to Point Encryption for PCI Compliant Payments". Bluefin Payment Systems. Kashyap, Vinay. "2020 Will Be a Transformational Year in Payments Technology". Payments Journal.

In today's digital age, the way we handle money and conduct transactions has evolved dramatically. At the heart of this transformation is the payment gateway. But what is a payment gateway, and why should businesses of all sizes and industries pay attention to it? Let's explore the fundamental aspects of payment gateways and their significance in the modern business landscape.

What is a Payment Gateway? A payment gateway is a technology that facilitates the transfer of transaction information. It acts as a middleman between merchants and financial institutions, ensuring that payment data, such as credit card details, are securely transmitted and processed. While they are commonly associated with e-commerce, their applications extend far beyond online shopping.

How Does a Payment Gateway Work?

• Initiation: When a customer decides to make a payment, they provide their payment details, which could be through a website, mobile app, or even an automated phone service.
• Encryption: The payment details are encrypted, typically using Secure Socket Layer (SSL) technology, ensuring that sensitive data is protected from potential breaches.
• Authorization: The encrypted data is sent to the payment gateway, which then forwards it to the payment processor. The processor sends the transaction details to the card association (like Visa or MasterCard), which then routes it to the issuing bank.
• Verification: The issuing bank verifies the transaction, checking if the customer has sufficient funds or credit. It then sends a response back, either approving or denying the transaction.
• Completion: The payment gateway receives this response and conveys it to the merchant, completing the transaction process.

The Broad Spectrum of Uses While e-commerce is a significant user of payment gateways, their utility spans various sectors:

• Retail: Brick-and-mortar stores use payment gateways integrated with Point-of-Sale (POS) systems to process credit and debit card transactions.
• Subscription Services: Companies offering subscription-based services, like magazines or online software tools, use payment gateways to handle recurring payments.
• Government Services: Many government agencies employ payment gateways to facilitate payments for services, fines, or taxes.
• Charities: Non-profit organizations use payment gateways to securely process donations from supporters.

Why Should Businesses Care?

• Security: Payment gateways employ advanced encryption technologies, ensuring that sensitive customer data remains secure. This not only protects customers but also shields businesses from potential legal issues arising from data breaches.
• Credibility: Having a reliable payment gateway boosts a company's credibility. Customers are more likely to trust and transact with businesses that offer secure payment solutions.
• Global Reach: For businesses looking to expand internationally, payment gateways facilitate transactions in multiple currencies, opening doors to global markets.
• Efficiency: Automated transaction processes mean quicker, error-free operations. This efficiency can lead to faster order processing and improved cash flow.
• Integration: Many payment gateways can seamlessly integrate with other business systems, such as CRM or accounting software, streamlining various business operations.

Payment gateways are more than just transaction facilitators; they are an integral part of the modern business infrastructure. By understanding their fundamental aspects and significance, businesses can make informed decisions, ensuring their operations are secure, efficient, and customer-friendly. In a world where digital transactions are becoming the norm, the importance of payment gateways cannot be overstated.

The world of commerce is rapidly evolving, with businesses moving away from cash-only transactions towards a variety of payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and mobile or text based payments. Central to this evolution is merchant processing. But what exactly is it? Let's explore the basics of merchant processing, also known as payment processing.

Understanding Merchant Processing

Merchant processing, or payment processing, is the handling and transferring of payment transactions between customers and businesses. In its simplest form, it's the system that enables businesses to accept and process credit and debit card payments in-store, online and by text..

Components of Merchant Processing

Merchant processing involves various components that work together seamlessly to ensure successful transactions:

1. Merchant: This is the business that is selling goods or services and wants to accept credit or debit card payments.
2. Customer: The individual or entity making the purchase and providing their credit or debit card information for the transaction.
3. Payment Processor: This is the company (like Everyware) that provides the infrastructure and services to process payments.
4. Payment Gateway: This is the technology that encrypts and securely transmits the cardholder's data from the point of sale to the payment processor.
5. Issuing Bank: This is the bank that issued the customer's credit or debit card.
6. Acquiring Bank: This is the bank that receives the payment on behalf of the merchant.

How Merchant Processing Works

When a customer makes a purchase with a credit or debit card, the merchant's payment intake system (pay by text, POS, online portal or hosted payment pages) captures the cardholder's information. This information is then transmitted through a payment gateway to the payment processor.

The processor forwards the transaction information to the issuing bank, asking for transaction approval. The bank then approves or denies the transaction based on the customer's available funds or credit. This response is sent back to the processor, which relays it to the merchant's system. If approved, the transaction proceeds, and the funds will be transferred from the issuing bank to the acquiring bank, and ultimately to the merchant's account.

Why Merchant Processing is Crucial

Merchant processing plays an essential role in modern business operations for several reasons:

• Expanding Payment Options: By enabling credit card processing, businesses can cater to a broader customer base, including those who prefer cashless transactions.
• Boosting Sales: With more payment options available, customers are more likely to make purchases, boosting overall sales.
• Enhancing Customer Convenience: Merchant processing facilitates fast, easy, and secure transactions, enhancing the customer experience.
• Improving Cash Flow: With payment processing, businesses can ensure timely, efficient receipt of funds.

Choosing a Merchant Processing Provider

When selecting a provider for your business, consider factors such as transaction fees, contract terms, customer support, and security measures. The provider should offer a robust, reliable, and secure payment processing platform that fits your business's unique needs.

In today's digital age, understanding and integrating merchant processing into your business operations is crucial. Whether you're a small business owner or a large corporation, having a firm grasp on the basics of payment processing can help you navigate the evolving commerce landscape and meet your customers' payment preferences.

At Everyware, we offer advanced, secure merchant processing solutions designed to meet the unique needs of businesses of all sizes. We're committed to providing efficient, reliable payment processing to help you enhance customer satisfaction, boost sales, and improve cash flow.

Are you ready to take the next step in your business's evolution? Contact Everyware today to learn more about our merchant processing solutions. Experience the benefits of efficient, secure payment processing and elevate your business operations to new heights.

In the non-profit sector, building and maintaining trust with stakeholders is crucial. Donors, volunteers, and board members alike want to know their resources are being used effectively and for the intended purposes. A significant way to foster this trust is through financial transparency, and real-time payments can play a pivotal role in facilitating this. In this blog post, we'll explore how integrating real-time payments into your non-profit's financial reporting can enhance transparency and solidify trust.

Understanding Real-Time Payments

Real-time payments, or RTPs, are instant payments that are processed and settled immediately, day or night. Unlike traditional payment methods that may take several days to clear, RTPs offer immediate confirmation, updating your financial records instantaneously. In the context of non-profit management, RTPs can prove invaluable in providing accurate and timely financial reporting.

Organizations that integrate real time payment technology can gain a competitive advantage over other non-profit fundraisers by offering a convenient instant donation option for their supporters.

The Role of Transparency in Building Trust

Transparency is the cornerstone of trust in the non-profit sector. When donors see that their contributions are being used judiciously, they're more likely to continue supporting the organization. Likewise, board members and other stakeholders want assurance that funds are managed effectively_ and expeditiously_. Transparent, up-to-date financial reporting is key in providing this assurance.

Benefits of Real-Time Payments in Non-Profit Financial Reporting

• Instant Updates: With real-time payments, your financial status is updated instantly. This allows for an accurate snapshot of your organization's financial health at any given moment, enabling informed decisions and effective strategic planning.
• Enhanced Accountability: Real-time payments offer detailed transaction data, providing a clear trail of incoming and outgoing funds. This level of detail can improve financial auditing and accountability.
• Improved Donor Relations: Donors appreciate knowing their contributions are being put to good use promptly. With RTPs, you can provide donors with immediate confirmation of their donation, enhancing their giving experience and building trust.

Implementing Real-Time Payments

If you're wondering how to integrate real-time payments into your non-profit's operations, consider the following steps:

• Choose a Provider: Find a payment provider offering RTPs that align with your organization's needs. Be sure to consider transaction fees, security measures, and support services.
• Integration Process: Integrate the RTP system with your existing financial management software. The provider will typically assist with this process, ensuring a smooth transition.
• Staff Training: Train your team to handle RTPs and understand their impact on financial reporting. This will ensure accurate and efficient handling of transactions.
• Promote RTPs to Donors: Communicate to your donors the availability of RTPs. Highlight the benefits, such as instant confirmation and the ability to see their contribution put to use immediately.

By integrating RTPs into your non-profit's financial reporting, you're taking a significant step toward improved transparency and trust. The instantaneous nature of these payments offers an enhanced level of visibility into your organization's financial operations, allowing for better accountability and donor relations.

Real-time payments provide an effective way for non-profits to increase financial transparency and build trust with stakeholders. By offering instant, secure transactions and real-time updates on financial status, RTPs ensure donors, board members, and other stakeholders have an accurate, timely view of the organization's financial health.

At Everyware, we offer robust payment solutions designed to enhance non-profit operations, including secure, real-time payments. Our solutions are designed to streamline financial management and promote transparency, helping you build and maintain trust with your stakeholders.

Real-time payments aren't just a technological advancement; they represent a shift towards greater financial transparency and improved stakeholder relations in the non-profit sector. By offering an instantaneous, accurate view of your organization's financial status, RTPs pave the way for improved decision-making, strategic planning, and donor satisfaction.

At Everyware, we're committed to providing solutions that meet the unique needs of non-profit organizations. Our real-time payment services integrate seamlessly into your existing systems, offering not only immediate transactions but also comprehensive, instant updates for your financial records. This level of integration ensures that all stakeholders, from board members to donors, have access to the most accurate, up-to-date financial information possible.

By choosing Everyware as your real-time payment provider, you're not just getting a service; you're choosing a partner dedicated to helping your non-profit succeed. With our secure, efficient payment solutions, we can help you enhance your financial reporting, build trust with stakeholders, and ultimately, achieve your mission more effectively.

Are you ready to take your non-profit's financial transparency to the next level? Contact Everyware today to learn more about our real-time payment solutions. Experience the difference that instant, accurate financial reporting can make in your non-profit's operations and stakeholder relations.

It's no secret that Millennials and Gen Z, also known as the "mobile generations'', have distinct ways of interacting with the world around them. Known for their affinity for technology, these cohorts are prompting non-profits to rethink their donation strategies. Let’s explore how Pay By Text, a modern mobile donation method, aligns with their preferences and motivations, thus enhancing non-profit donation solutions.

Understanding Pay By Text

Pay By Text is a cutting-edge donation approach that allows non-profits to accept contributions via SMS. This mobile donation technique simplifies the giving process by facilitating donations directly through a text message link, making the procedure as easy as sending a text.

Why Pay By Text Appeals to Millennials and Gen Z

Mobile-First Mentality: Born into a digital world, both Millennials and Gen Z are tethered to their smartphones. They use these devices for various activities, from socializing to shopping and even philanthropy. Pay By Text aligns with this mobile-first approach, fitting seamlessly into their lifestyle.

Efficiency and Speed: These digitally-savvy generations value their time. They appreciate efficiency and quick responses, which is precisely what Pay By Text offers. By enabling real-time payments, Pay By Text fulfills their need for speedy transactions.

Security Focus: Raised in the era of data breaches, both generations are acutely aware of digital security risks. Pay By Text platforms prioritize high-level encryption, ensuring secure transactions that appeal to these security-conscious donors.

Understanding the Millennial and Gen Z Donor

Millennials and Gen Z are known for their social consciousness and eagerness to effect change. They want to contribute to causes they care about, but the traditional donation process often hinders their willingness to give. Lengthy forms, unclear donation pathways, and security concerns can deter these tech-savvy generations from donating.

Pay By Text addresses these barriers. It provides a simplified, secure, and quick donation process that appeals to their digital preferences. It doesn't require them to navigate away from their comfort zone (their mobile devices) and allows them to contribute instantly to causes that resonate with them. By offering a donation method that fits their lifestyle, non-profits can unlock the generous potential of these generations.

Implementing Pay By Text for Millennial and Gen Z Donations

Here's how non-profits can embrace Pay By Text:

1. Select a Pay By Text Provider: Opt for a provider that offers robust non-profit donation solutions, including Pay By Text. Consider transaction fees, customer service quality, security protocols, and integration capabilities.
2. Integrate Pay By Text: Merge the Pay By Text system with your existing donation software. Your provider will typically assist with this process.
3. Donor Registration: Encourage Millennial and Gen Z donors to sign up for Pay By Text. They'll provide their mobile number and link a payment method.
4. Send Donation Requests: Use text messages to send donation requests to registered donors, including a secure link for payment.
5. Accept Donations: Donors click the link, enter their payment details, and submit their donation. The real-time payment is instantly reflected in your organization's account.

Incorporating Pay By Text into your donation strategy can significantly increase contributions from Millennials and Gen Z. It provides a modern, seamless donation process that aligns with their digital preferences and desire for impact.

Today's nonprofits need to adapt to the preferences and motivations of the younger generations to tap into their desire to make a difference. The simplicity and immediacy of Pay By Text, paired with its mobile-centric approach, make it an ideal solution for engaging the digital natives in the way they know and prefer.

By aligning your donation strategies with the tech-savvy, socially-conscious mindset of Millennials and Gen Z, you can motivate them to contribute to your cause. You not only provide them with a hassle-free way to donate but also build trust and a lasting relationship by respecting their digital preferences.

Ready to elevate your non-profit donation strategies? Contact Everyware to schedule a demo and explore the potential of our Pay By Text solutions. Engage with the mobile generation on their terms and experience the transformative impact of efficient, real-time donations. Make giving easy, secure, and instant. Embrace the future of mobile donations today with Pay By Text.

As we continue to navigate the digital age, businesses are continuously seeking innovative ways to streamline processes and enhance customer experiences. Among these innovations, SMS payment systems, popularly known as 'Text to Pay', have emerged as a practical, efficient, and secure payment method. Let’s take a deeper dive on Text to Pay and demystify it, highlighting its features and benefits, and guiding businesses on how to accept payments via SMS text.

What is Text to Pay?

Text to Pay is a payment method that allows businesses to send invoices to customers via SMS, and customers can then pay directly from their mobile devices. The entire transaction occurs over a secure platform that encrypts customer data, providing a safe, secure, and convenient way to make payments.

The Advantages of Text to Pay

1. Convenience: In today's fast-paced world, convenience is king. Customers can make payments anytime, anywhere, with just a few taps on their smartphones. This process removes the need for physical cards or cash, making it incredibly user-friendly.
2. Speed: Traditional payment methods can be time-consuming. With Text to Pay, transactions are completed almost instantaneously, leading to faster checkouts and improved customer satisfaction.
3. Security: Text to Pay services employ top-notch security measures, such as encryption, to ensure the safety and confidentiality of customer data. This security significantly reduces the risk of fraud or data breaches.
4. Improved Cash Flow: Businesses can get paid faster with Text to Pay. Quicker payments can significantly improve cash flow, a critical aspect of any successful business.

How to Accept Payments via SMS Text

To accept payments via SMS text, businesses need to partner with a payment processing provider that offers a Text to Pay service. The following steps give a broad overview of the process:

1. Choose a Payment Processor: The first step involves selecting a payment processor that supports Text to Pay. Businesses should consider factors like transaction fees, customer service, security measures, and integration with existing systems when choosing a provider.
2. Set Up the System: Once a provider is chosen, businesses need to set up the Text to Pay system. This process usually involves integrating the payment system with the business's existing CRM or billing software. The payment processor can typically assist with this process.
3. Customer Registration: For customers to use Text to Pay, they need to register their mobile numbers and link their preferred payment methods, such as a credit card or bank account. This process usually involves sending an initial text or filling out a form on the business's website.
4. Sending Invoices: When a customer makes a purchase, the business can send an invoice via text message. This invoice should include the amount due, a brief description of the purchase, and a link or instructions for making the payment.
5. Receiving Payments: The customer clicks the link or follows the instructions in the invoice to make a payment. The funds are then transferred from the customer's account to the business's account, completing the transaction.

Text to Pay is revolutionizing the payment industry, providing a secure and convenient method that benefits both businesses and customers. By integrating Text to Pay into their operations, businesses can streamline their payment processes, improve cash flow, and enhance customer experiences.

To fully leverage the benefits of Text to Pay, businesses must partner with a reliable payment processor. Everyware is a leading provider of comprehensive payment solutions, including Text to Pay. With advanced security measures and seamless integrations, Everyware can help businesses transition smoothly into the future of payments.

Ready to empower your business with Text to Pay? Contact us to schedule a demo and see how our solutions can elevate your business operations.

In the increasingly digitized world of commerce and transactions, non-profit organizations can also reap the benefits of emerging payment solutions. One such option is Pay By Text, a mobile payments method that offers convenience, security, and real-time payments. Let’s explore how Pay By Text, an innovative approach to merchant processing, can be a game-changer for non-profit management.

Understanding Pay By Text Pay By Text, as the name suggests, enables payments through SMS text messages. As part of an integrated merchant processing system, it allows businesses and organizations to send invoice links to donors or clients, who can then use their mobile devices to complete the transaction. Given the proliferation of smartphones, this method capitalizes on familiarity, making the payment process as straightforward as sending a text.

Why Non-Profits Should Consider Pay By Text

• Real-time Payments: Non-profits thrive on donations, and timely payments are crucial. Pay By Text enables instantaneous transactions, providing non-profits with real-time visibility of their funds and enhancing cash flow.
• Convenience for Donors: Pay By Text makes it simple for donors to contribute. They can make a donation anytime, anywhere, with just a few taps on their phone. This ease of use can encourage more frequent and spontaneous giving.
• Increased Security: Pay By Text services use advanced encryption to protect donor data, providing a safe payment method. With increased assurance, donors may feel more comfortable making contributions.

Integrating Pay By Text into Non-Profit Management

Here's how non-profits can accept mobile payments via Pay By Text, streamlining their operations:

1. Select a Merchant Processing Provider: The first step is choosing a merchant processing provider that supports Pay By Text. When evaluating options, consider factors such as transaction fees, customer support, security measures, and compatibility with your existing systems.
2. System Setup: After selecting a provider, integrate the Pay By Text system with your existing donor management software. The payment processor will usually assist with this process, ensuring a smooth transition.
3. Donor Registration: Encourage your donors to register for Pay By Text. They'll need to provide their mobile number and link their preferred payment method. This one-time setup simplifies future donations, making it even easier for donors to support your cause.
4. Requesting Donations: Now, you can send donation requests via text message. Include the amount needed, a brief description of the cause, and a secure link for payment.
5. Receiving Donations: Donors can click the link and follow the instructions to complete their contribution. As soon as they confirm the payment, the funds transfer to your account in real-time.

Incorporating Pay By Text into your non-profit operations can make giving easier for your donors and payment processing more efficient for your organization. It's a win-win that can ultimately drive your mission forward.

As a leading merchant processing provider, Everyware offers a comprehensive Pay By Text solution designed to streamline operations and enhance donor experiences. With our focus on security and seamless integration, we can support your non-profit in leveraging the power of real-time mobile payments.

Ready to simplify your operations with Pay By Text? Contact us to schedule a demo and explore how our solutions can enhance your non-profit management.

The face of digital commerce is constantly changing and businesses are continually seeking innovative ways to simplify transactions and enhance the customer experience. One such innovation that's been gaining traction is 'Pay By Text'. But what exactly is it, and how can businesses leverage this technology to their advantage? Let's dive in.

Pay By Text is a payment method that allows customers to make transactions via SMS messages. It's as simple as it sounds - a customer receives a text message with a payment request link, and they can complete the transaction right from their mobile device. This method is not only convenient but also highly efficient, making it a win-win for both businesses and consumers.

The beauty of Pay By Text lies in its simplicity and accessibility. With over 5 billion people worldwide owning a mobile device, according to a report by GSMA Intelligence, the potential reach of this payment method is vast. Furthermore, Pew Research Center reports that 96% of Americans own a cellphone of some kind, making Pay By Text a highly accessible option for businesses targeting the U.S. market.

So, how can businesses leverage this technology? Here are just a few ways:

Enhancing Customer Convenience In today's fast-paced world, convenience is king. Pay By Text allows customers to make payments anytime, anywhere, without the need for physical cards or cash. This ease of use can significantly enhance the customer experience, leading to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Streamlining Business Operations Pay By Text can also streamline business operations by reducing the need for manual payment processing. This can lead to cost savings and increased efficiency, allowing businesses to focus more on their core operations.

Improving Payment Security Pay By Text also offers robust security features. Transactions are encrypted, and customers typically need to authenticate their identity before making a payment. This can help reduce the risk of fraud and increase customer trust in your business.

Increasing Payment Speed With Pay By Text, payments can be processed almost instantly. This can improve cash flow for businesses and reduce the time spent chasing unpaid invoices.

While Pay By Text offers numerous benefits, it's essential for businesses to implement it correctly to maximize its potential. This includes ensuring compliance with relevant regulations, investing in secure technology, and providing clear communication to customers about how Pay By Text works and how their data will be protected.

Pay By Text is and will continue to be a powerful tool that businesses can leverage to enhance the customer experience, streamline operations, improve security, and increase payment speed. As the digital commerce landscape continues to evolve, businesses that adapt and leverage innovative payment methods like Pay By Text will be well-positioned to thrive.

Remember, the key to successful implementation lies in understanding your customers' needs and providing solutions that make their lives easier. So, whether you're a small business owner or a large corporation, consider how Pay By Text could fit into your business strategy.