One of the most common things I hear from business owners is: "I'd love to switch processors but I don't know how, and I'm worried about downtime." The truth is, switching is almost always simpler than business owners expect – and the savings are usually worth every minute of effort. Here's a straightforward step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Review Your Current Contract
Look for early termination fees (ETFs) and contract end dates. Many contracts auto-renew with a notification requirement – if you've missed it, you may be locked in for another term. We can help you read the fine print.
Step 2: Get a Statement Analysis from a New Provider
Before you commit to switching, have your new provider analyze your current statement. This tells you exactly what you're paying now, and what you'll pay (or stop paying) with a new program. Custom Payments does this for free.
Step 3: Choose Your New Equipment or Confirm Compatibility
If your current terminal is unlocked, it may be reprogrammable to a new processor. If not, most providers offer terminal placement or rental programs. We can assess your current hardware.
Step 4: Set a Go-Live Date and Notify Your New Processor
Give yourself a low-volume day (Monday morning, after a slow week). Your new processor will handle the technical onboarding.
Step 5: Run a Test Transaction
Before you go fully live, run a test transaction and confirm the funds settle correctly.
Step 6: Close Your Old Account Properly
Formally cancel your old account in writing and keep the confirmation. This prevents future charges.
Serving Small Businesses Across the Region
Custom Payments helps businesses in Wayne, Devon, Malvern, the Main Line, West Chester, King of Prussia, and throughout the greater Philadelphia area navigate this process from start to finish. We handle the complexity so you can stay focused on your customers. Ready to explore your options? Visit custompayments.biz for a free, no-obligation statement review.