When choosing a Payment Service Provider (PSP), make sure you choose one that supports all the features you require.

For example, does your PSP offer a virtual terminal that allows you to process mail order and telephone order (MOTO) payments?  Having a virtual terminal allows merchants to process transactions while exhibiting at trade shows and while selling on the move, and is a cost effective alternative to a PDQ machine.

Can your PSP enable you to target the unbanked and youth markets by enabling you to process cash transactions on your website?  Can it process cards that are widely used in your target markets?  For example, if you sell your goods or services in Ireland, you might want to accept Laser card payments.

Can you be sure that your PSP is available and reliable, with a dedicated support team on hand to help you whenever you have a question?  Will you be able to speak to the support team in person in real time, without having to press 1 for this and 2 for that?  Will you be able to speak to the same member of the support team every time you call in, if you want to?  Will you be account managed by helpful, knowledgeable people who know your case history?

Is your PSP able to offer impartial advice on anything from obtaining an Internet Merchant ID to effective marketing of your web shop?

Does your PSP provide you with clearly written, easy to understand documentation to enable seamless integration?

Is pricing transparent, with all features included in one straightforward annual fee and no hidden charges for any of its service/product features?  And are your transaction charges simple to understand?

Is your PSP partnered with some of the UK’s biggest brands and Government agencies to increase public awareness of, and diligence against, Internet fraud?