Before you start accepting payment cards
Create a merchant account
Contact a payment card processing company, otherwise known as an acquirer. This could be a bank or some other financial institution. Once you set up your merchant account, you will receive a unique account number.
Learn about card processing methods
Depending on whether you will be accepting payment cards in store, online, or over the phone, your point of sale configuration could include a terminal, an electronic register, a software program, or a mobile device.
Did you know?
Almost every terminal in the marketplace today can support American Express®.
See an overview of the transaction process
Select the steps below to learn more about how payment card transactions are processed.
Authorization
Transaction is approved or denied
Submission
Transactions are sent for payment
Settlement
Merchant receives payment
Authorization
Transaction is approved or denied
Submission
Transactions are sent for payment
Settlement
Merchant receives payment
Did you know?
American Express is a closed loop network, operating in all parts of the payment chain, making transactions more secure.
Apply for American Express® merchant account
Service and support
Having a merchant account will ensure that your payment card transactions are processed and your business gets paid. But not all merchant accounts are equal. Most offer basic maintenance and support. An American Express merchant account gives you access to tools and services that can help you run your business.
Monitor monthly activity
Manage your merchant account
Receive customer support
Did you know?
You can learn more about payment card processing terms by viewing the