Author: Mallory Halley

  • ACH vs. Wire Transfers: What Business Owners Should Know

    ACH vs. Wire Transfers: What Business Owners Should Know

    Reading Time: 4 minutes

    When it comes to moving money for your business, ACH transfers and wire transfers are two of the most common methods. The right choice depends on what your priorities are : speed, cost, or security. ACH transfers are well suited for routine business payments such as payroll or vendor invoices, offering low fees and reliable timing (usually one to three business days). Wire transfers, by contrast, are designed for urgent or high‑value business payments. They settle faster, often same‑day for domestic transfers, but come with higher fees.

    Here is a brief comparison:

    FeatureACH TransfersWire Transfers
    Speed1–3 business daysSame‑day domestically
    Cost~$0.20–$1.50 or minimal~$15–$50 domestic, higher internationally
    ReversibilityLimited reversibilityGenerally irreversible
    Best forRecurring, non‑urgent paymentsUrgent or large payments

    Understanding the difference helps you make smarter decisions for your business payments. Let’s dive into how each method works and when to use them.

    Key Differences Between ACH and Wire Transfers

    Transaction Speed

    ACH transfers operate on a batch‑processing system. Funds are collected, processed, and settled in groups, resulting in typical settlement times of one to three business days. In many cases this timing is acceptable for routine business payments. Some banks or services offer same‑day ACH for an extra fee, which reduces the delay.

    Wire transfers move funds directly between financial institutions, often settling the same day for domestic transfers if initiated within banking hours. When speed is critical, such as for a high‑value supplier payment or real estate closing, wire transfers are often appropriate.

    Cost Structure

    Cost can vary significantly between the two methods and has a direct effect on your business’s bottom line. For ACH transfers, per‑transaction cost is typically very low. Reports show many banks charge between $0.20 and $1.50 for business ACH transactions, and some waive the fee. Wire transfer fees are significantly higher. Domestic wire transfers often cost between $15 and $50; international wires may cost $35 to $75 or more depending on banks, currency conversion and correspondent banks.

    If your business makes high volumes of payments, especially of modest value, those fee differences can add up.

    Security Features and Reversibility

    Security and risk differ between ACH transfers and wire transfers, and these differences matter for business payment methods. The ACH network is regulated by the National Automated Clearing House Association (NACHA), and the fact that transactions settle over one to three days gives banks time to detect and flag suspicious activity. Many ACH transfers allow limited reversals or corrections when errors occur.

    Wire transfers, however, are processed in real time and once completed they are typically irreversible. That means if there is fraud or a mistake you may be unable to recover funds. Because of that, while wire transfers are efficient, they carry higher risk if you are sending funds to new vendors or unfamiliar accounts.

    Use Cases for Small and Mid‑Sized Businesses

    When to Use ACH Transfers

    ACH is ideal for recurring payments, regular vendor invoices, payroll, and other predictable payments. For example, a business that pays monthly subscriptions to vendors or processes payroll weekly may favor ACH due to its low cost and automation potential.

    Because the processing time is one to three business days, ACH works best when payment deadlines are not immediate.

    Check out our guide for, ACH for Small Business, and see how one of our clients saved $20,000 in their first year with us using ACH.

    When to Use Wire Transfers

    Wire transfers make sense in situations where receiving the funds immediately is critical. This might include:

    • High‑value one‑time payments (such as equipment purchases or business acquisitions).
    • Time‑sensitive payments (for example, a supplier needs funds same day to release goods).
    • International payments where speed and reach are required.

    In those cases the higher cost may be justified by the benefit of immediate settlement.

    Cost and Fee Comparison

    Here is a summary of typical fee ranges:

    • ACH transfers: $0.20 to $1.50 per domestic transaction in many business‑bank accounts.
    • Wire transfers: $15 to $50 domestic, $35 to $75 or more for international transfers.

    For example, if your business issues 50 vendor payments a month and chooses wire transfers instead of ACH, the additional cost difference can run into thousands annually.

    Choosing the Right Payment Method

    When deciding between ACH and wire transfers for your business payments consider:

    • Timing requirements: How soon must the recipient receive funds?
    • Transaction size and volume: Large individual payments may justify wire transfers; frequent modest transactions may favour ACH.
    • Cost sensitivity: Are the fees materially impacting your margins?
    • Risk profile: Are you sending funds to trusted vendors? Is there an opportunity to use ACH reversals in case of error?
    • Geographic reach: ACH is primarily U.S. domestic; wires support international transfers and currencies.

    Strategically, many businesses use both methods: ACH for routine payments, wires for urgent or high‑value payments.

    Summary

    ACH transfers and wire transfers are both effective business payment methods, but they serve different priorities. If cost efficiency and predictability matter more than speed, ACH is often the better choice. If you face time‑sensitive or large transactions, a wire transfer may be worth the cost. By aligning your payment method with your business’s payment size, frequency and urgency, you can optimize both cost and operational efficiency.

  • How Modern Sporting Goods POS Systems Improve Inventory, Checkout Speed and Customer Loyalty

    How Modern Sporting Goods POS Systems Improve Inventory, Checkout Speed and Customer Loyalty

    Reading Time: 3 minutes

    Running a sporting goods store involves much more than simply displaying gear. You manage changing inventory, seasonal trends, and a diverse customer base. A POS system built for the sporting goods and outdoor sector brings together inventory tracking, payment processing, customer engagement tools and operational efficiency in one solution. In this article you will learn:

    • How a POS system handles inventory by size, color and seasonal shifts
    • Why real‑time stock updates, mobile checkout and integrated payments matter
    • How CRM tools and automated reordering contribute to customer retention and increased sales

    Core Features of a POS System for Sporting Goods

    Inventory Management Tailored to Sport Retail

    Sporting goods stores deal with complex inventory: products may vary by size, color, style, season and brand. A POS system designed for this environment offers precise tracking across all these dimensions. Real‑time stock updates help avoid out‑of‑stock or overstock situations. Industry sources cite that such systems reduce stockouts and overstock significantly. Vendor management workflows also support timely reordering and supplier coordination, helping ensure the most needed gear is in stock when demand peaks.

    Integrated Payment Processing

    A modern POS supports multiple payment methods and integrates them seamlessly into the sales and inventory flow. It allows mobile checkout, contactless payments and ensures that payment‑data automatically links back to inventory and customer records. With digital wallets growing rapidly as a share of transactions, sporting goods retailers benefit when their POS supports these options. Automated reconciliation of payments and inventory removes manual work and reduces errors, freeing staff to focus on service and sales.

    CRM Tools & Customer Loyalty

    POS systems with embedded CRM capabilities enable you to track each customer’s purchase history, preferences and size/brand affinities. This data can power loyalty programs, personalized offers and email campaigns that turn casual buyers into repeat customers. When CRM is integrated into POS, you gain both operational efficiency and stronger customer engagement.

    Improving Operations, Productivity & Omnichannel Management

    Faster Checkout and In‑Store Efficiency

    Speed at the register matters, particularly during busy retail periods. Mobile POS devices allow staff to check out customers anywhere in the store, reducing lines and enhancing service. One report found checkout time reductions of up to 20 % with mobile POS in peak hours.

    Unified Inventory and Omnichannel Sales

    When you carry multiple store locations or sell online and in‑store, inventory synchronization is critical. A single POS system with real‑time updates across channels prevents overselling, supports “buy online, pick up in store” or ship‑from‑store models, and scales easily as you grow. The global market for sporting goods POS solutions is projected to grow significantly in the coming years as retailers adopt omnichannel capabilities.

    Employee Productivity

    Systems that automate repetitive tasks—such as stock counting, reorder alerts, sales tracking and returns handling—let your staff spend more time with customers, advising on gear, upselling, and building loyalty. Studies show productivity improvements of up to 30 % when such tools are adopted.

    Best Practices for Sporting Goods Retailers

    Assess Store Needs

    Start by reviewing your inventory complexity (sizes, colors, seasonal lines), sales channels (in‑store vs online), and any additional services you offer: equipment rentals, custom fittings, or repair services. These factors help determine your POS requirements.

    Train Staff and Adapt Workflows

    Ensure your team understands how the system works, especially key functions like inventory lookup, mobile checkout and customer loyalty tracking. Simulate real‑world scenarios—returns of seasonal gear, stock transfers between stores, or mobile checkout at events—to make staff comfortable with the workflow.

    Monitor Performance and Scale Over Time

    Track key metrics: inventory turnover, average transaction value, number of loyalty engagements, and staff productivity. Use these insights to refine your assortment, adjust staffing during peak periods, and optimize promotions. As your store expands into multiple locations or expands online, ensure your POS system is ready to handle increased volume and complexity.

  • How ISO Agent Programs Support SMBs and Strengthen Modern Payment Operations

    How ISO Agent Programs Support SMBs and Strengthen Modern Payment Operations

    Reading Time: 4 minutes

    ISO agent programs play an important role in helping small and mid‑sized businesses navigate an increasingly complex payment landscape. These programs connect merchants with knowledgeable agents who can explain payment systems, guide compliance, and recommend tools that improve efficiency. For many SMBs, an ISO agent becomes an ongoing partner who helps streamline daily payment operations and supports long‑term growth.

    This guide explains how ISO agent programs work, the core responsibilities of an agent, the types of payment solutions agents support, and how strong partnerships lead to better outcomes for merchants.

    How ISO Agent Programs Work

    ISO agents operate under the umbrella of a registered Independent Sales Organization. This structure allows agents to represent payment solutions without establishing their own sponsor bank relationships or directly registering with card networks. The arrangement sets clear compliance requirements and ensures that agents and merchants follow industry standards.

    Approval and Compliance

    Before bringing merchants on board, ISO agents complete an approval process with their ISO partner. Agents receive guidance on card network rules, data security expectations, and state and federal regulations that affect payment processing. This foundation helps agents provide merchants with accurate information and reduces the risk of compliance errors.

    How ISO Agents Generate Revenue

    ISO agents earn income by supporting merchant accounts and helping SMBs adopt the right payment tools. Revenue typically comes from residuals tied to payment processing activity. To grow their earnings, agents expand their portfolios by offering modern, adaptable solutions that reflect how SMBs operate today.

    Expanding Through Modern Payment Options

    Mobile payments have become essential for many businesses, particularly food trucks, market vendors, home service providers, and pop‑up retail. Tap‑to‑pay technology allows merchants to accept payments through a smartphone or small mobile reader, eliminating the need for larger terminals. ISO agents who offer these tools help merchants stay competitive while building more stable relationships with their clients.

    Technology Resources for ISO Agents

    A strong technology infrastructure is central to an ISO agent’s success. It allows agents to manage portfolios efficiently and respond quickly to merchant needs. Modern platforms often include reporting tools, merchant onboarding workflows, integrated payment acceptance, and features that support compliance.

    Where Aurora’s ARISE Platform Fits In

    When relevant, ISO agents can use Aurora’s ARISE platform to support SMBs. ARISE combines payment processing, merchant management, and account oversight into a single system. It provides:

    • Embedded payments for software integrations
    • Real‑time analytics for monitoring transaction trends
    • Centralized onboarding and documentation management
    • Subscription and invoicing tools for service‑based merchants
    • Mobile payment capabilities for on‑the‑go businesses
    • PCI Level 1 security and network tokenization for data protection
    • High system reliability at 99.999 percent uptime

    These capabilities help ISO agents deliver consistent support and simplify daily payment operations for SMBs.

    How ISO Agents Support SMBs

    The strongest ISO agents take the time to understand a merchant’s business model and specific pain points. SMBs often operate with small teams, lean budgets, and limited time, so the right payment tools can make a visible difference.

    Building Long‑Term Partnerships

    Effective agents approach merchant relationships as ongoing collaborations rather than one‑time sales. Regular check‑ins allow agents to review transaction activity, discuss changes in customer behavior, and identify opportunities to improve payment operations. This might include:

    • Adding mobile payments to reduce checkout times
    • Enabling ACH acceptance for recurring billing
    • Improving compliance documentation
    • Adjusting pricing structures based on transaction volume
    • Providing guidance on chargebacks or dispute trends

    Specializing in certain industries can also strengthen results. Agents who understand sectors like healthcare, automotive, fitness, or professional services can recommend solutions that fit industry workflows rather than generic payment setups.

    Customizing Payment Solutions for SMBs

    ISO agents tailor solutions so merchants get payment options that match their customer base, cash flow needs, and operational demands.

    Aligning Payment Methods with Customer Preferences

    A younger customer base may expect digital wallets and mobile payments, while professional services may prefer ACH for recurring invoices. By recommending the right mix of payment methods, agents help merchants improve acceptance rates and reduce friction at checkout.

    Supporting Software Integrations

    SMBs often rely on specialized software. Integrating payment acceptance directly into scheduling tools, service management systems, or EHR platforms can eliminate manual reconciliation and reduce errors. This creates more consistent workflows and better financial visibility.

    Addressing Cash Flow Challenges

    Some businesses face seasonal fluctuations or need quick access to capital. Programs that provide working capital based on processing history allow agents to support merchants beyond payment acceptance alone.

    Optimizing Fee Structures

    Zero‑cost processing or cash discount options may benefit merchants with high average ticket sizes, while loyalty programs or integrated CRM tools can support repeat business. ISO agents help SMBs choose the structure that aligns with their margins and customer expectations.

    Best Practices for Merchant Support and Compliance

    ISO agents improve merchant outcomes by maintaining clear communication and staying ahead of compliance requirements.

    Clear Communication

    Merchants should know how to reach their agent and what response times to expect. This transparency strengthens trust and prevents confusion when issues arise.

    Compliance Guidance

    Helping merchants stay compliant with PCI requirements protects customers and limits risk. Agents who track updates from card networks and regulatory bodies provide value that extends beyond processing.

    Documentation and Follow‑Up

    Maintaining organized merchant records makes renewals easier and helps identify opportunities for improvement over time. Training merchant staff on payment procedures also reduces errors and speeds up workflows.

    ISO agent programs provide a structured way for SMBs to access reliable payment solutions and informed support. Agents benefit from recurring revenue and the opportunity to work closely with a diverse set of businesses. SMBs gain tailored payment setups, dependable guidance, and improved efficiency.

    Success for ISO agents comes from a combination of industry knowledge, strong communication, and a commitment to long‑term relationships. As payment technology continues to evolve, merchants need advisors who can interpret changes, recommend practical solutions, and ensure smooth day‑to‑day operations. ISO agent programs offer a pathway for professionals who want to play that role, and a resource for SMBs seeking clarity in an increasingly complex payments environment.

  • From Expense to Advantage: Turning Credit Card Fees Into Zero with No-Fee Processing

    From Expense to Advantage: Turning Credit Card Fees Into Zero with No-Fee Processing

    Reading Time: 4 minutes

    Credit card fees can feel like an unavoidable cost for small and mid-sized businesses. Every swipe takes a portion of your revenue, making it harder to invest in growth or cover daily operations. But no-fee processing offers an alternative: shifting the cost of credit card acceptance to customers using transparent pricing methods.

    This guide explains how no-fee processing works, outlines key strategies like surcharging, cash discounts, and dual pricing, and shows how small businesses can apply these models to reduce or eliminate card processing fees while maintaining compliance and customer trust.

    Understanding Credit Card Processing Fees

    Before you can eliminate card fees, you need to understand what you’re paying for. Credit card processing costs typically include:

    • Interchange Fees: Set by card networks and paid to the customer’s bank. These vary based on the card type and transaction method.
    • Assessment Fees: Small charges collected by the card networks themselves.
    • Processor Markup: What your payment processor charges for managing the transaction. This includes support, technology, and service fees.

    Processors may advertise low base rates, but final costs often include hidden fees, such as charges for PCI compliance, batch processing, or even monthly minimums. Equipment leasing or cancellation fees may also apply. These extras add up and can erode profit margins over time.

    What Is No-Fee Credit Card Processing?

    No-fee or zero-cost processing uses pricing strategies to pass credit card fees to the customer, while offering non-credit payment options without added costs. This model can be implemented in three main ways:

    • Surcharging: Adds a visible fee to credit card transactions at checkout. Debit and cash payments are unaffected.
    • Cash Discount: The listed price includes card fees, and customers who pay with cash or other non-credit methods receive a discount.
    • Dual Pricing: Displays two prices—one for credit cards and one for cash or debit—allowing customers to choose based on payment preference.

    Each of these models requires clear disclosure and compliance with federal, state, and card network regulations.

    Choosing the Right Payment Platform

    Adopting no-fee processing is easier with technology that supports it. A good platform will:

    • Display both cash and card prices.
    • Automatically apply fees only to eligible transactions.
    • Generate compliant receipts and signage.
    • Offer real-time transaction reporting.

    Look for a provider that integrates with your existing systems and supports compliance with tools like tokenization and PCI Level 1 security. Some platforms also offer industry-specific features, such as HIPAA-compliant billing for healthcare or support for high-ticket transactions in jewelry sales.

    Surcharging is not allowed in all states. For example, Connecticut and Massachusetts prohibit it, while others require specific disclosures. Card networks like Visa and Mastercard also require advance notice (usually 30 days), and caps on surcharges (usually 3%) must be followed.

    Receipts must show surcharges as separate line items. Businesses must never apply surcharges to debit cards and should ensure pricing is consistent across all locations and payment methods.

    Implementing No-Fee Processing: Step-by-Step

    1. Review Laws and Rules: Understand local regulations and card network rules.
    2. Notify Networks: If using surcharges, notify Visa and Mastercard before implementation.
    3. Select Your Pricing Model: Choose between surcharging, dual pricing, or cash discounting based on your business type and customer base.
    4. Update Systems: Configure your POS to calculate and display fees correctly.
    5. Train Staff: Educate employees on the policy and how to communicate it to customers.
    6. Add Signage: Clearly display pricing policies at the point of sale and on your website.
    7. Test Transactions: Ensure fees are applied only where appropriate, and receipts reflect accurate pricing.

    Real-World Applications

    Healthcare: A family practice processing $50,000 in monthly credit card payments can use dual pricing to eliminate fees without disrupting workflows. ARISE’s platform integrates with electronic health record systems to simplify this transition.

    Wellness and Fitness: A yoga studio with $120 monthly memberships can use cash discount pricing. ACH and debit payments are fee-free, while credit card users pay a slightly higher amount.

    Jewelry Retail: For a $5,000 ring, dual pricing allows the listed cash price to remain unchanged while adding a clear card fee. ARISE enables split payments so customers can use multiple methods with full transparency.

    Final Thoughts

    No-fee processing turns a common business expense into a strategic advantage. With the right setup, you can eliminate card fees, maintain compliance, and give customers more payment options. This approach is particularly effective for businesses with tight margins, high transaction volumes, or price-sensitive clients.

    Whether you’re running a medical practice, a fitness studio, or a retail store, reducing processing fees can unlock new resources for growth and improvement. With careful planning and reliable technology, no-fee processing becomes more than a savings tool—it’s a business advantage.

    By understanding your options and implementing them carefully, no-fee processing can help small businesses control costs and grow more efficiently.

  • Building Embedded Payments: What ISV and SaaS Dev Teams Need to Know

    Building Embedded Payments: What ISV and SaaS Dev Teams Need to Know

    Reading Time: 4 minutes

    What Are Embedded Payments?

    Embedded payments are payment processing capabilities built directly into a software platform so that customers can complete transactions without leaving the application or being redirected to a third-party payment portal. For an independent software vendor (ISV) or a SaaS company this means your product not only manages core business operations but also handles billing, payment submission, tokenization, settlement or workflows, all within the same user interface.

    When done well the payment experience feels natural and seamless. Your user schedules a service, uploads a file or selects a subscription tier, and the payment is handled behind the scenes in the same flow.

    Embedded vs integrated vs traditional

    It helps development teams to draw three clear categories of payment experience:

    Traditional payments: The user is redirected out of the software environment or uses a separate payment application to complete payment. The payment provider may not be tightly integrated with your workflow.

    Integrated payments: Your software connects to a payment system via API or plugin. Payment functions appear inside your product but often via a hosted page, redirect or a separate UI module. The user may still feel a third-party element.

    Embedded payments: The payment flow is built into your product under your brand, without redirect, with full control of UX, user data, onboarding, tokenization and settlement, often designed for the exact vertical or workflow your platform serves.

    If the user never leaves your product and you control the payment interaction as part of your workflow, you are doing embedded payments.

    Why Embedded Payments Matter for ISVs

    For ISVs and SaaS companies building platforms for other businesses, embedded payments offer meaningful strategic advantages.

    Customer retention

    When payments are integrated into your product the user remains in your environment, reducing friction at checkout or renewal. That seamless experience improves the likelihood of renewal and reduces churn. Platforms that embed payments tend to keep users engaged because there is one less point of vendor handoff.

    Additional revenue streams

    By embedding payments you open up monetization beyond your core subscription or license fee. Your platform can earn a share of transaction fees, offer premium payment-related services such as fraud monitoring, analytics and payouts, or move into a payments facilitation model. Research shows that non-financial software platforms embedding payments can meaningfully shift their revenue mix.

    Better UX control

    When the payment experience is part of your software you control branding, workflow, styling, user journey, error handling and reporting. That leads to higher satisfaction and fewer support issues. You also avoid the dilution of brand when a third-party redirect or external page is used.

    Developer Considerations

    From a technical and product standpoint, embedding payments requires specific considerations beyond simply hooking up a gateway.

    APIs and SDKs

    A proper embedded payments setup demands developer-friendly APIs such as RESTful endpoints, webhooks and SDKs for mobile or native apps if applicable. These allow you to integrate capture of payment methods like credit cards, ACH and digital wallets. They also support tokenization, subscription lifecycle, refunds and payouts. Your development team must evaluate the SDKs, sandbox environment, documentation, versioning and how the partner supports your stack such as JavaScript or backend languages.

    Webhooks and data latency

    Payment systems operate asynchronously. Success or failure of transactions, chargebacks, refunds, declines and disputed transactions often trigger events via webhooks. Your platform must subscribe, handle retries, apply idempotency, update UI, reconcile records, alert users and reflect state in your system. Poor webhook handling leads to stale data, confusion, mismatches and support issues.

    Multi-currency support

    If your SaaS product serves global markets you will need support for multiple currencies, local currencies, settlement currency, exchange rates, fees and regulatory or cross-border compliance. Some embedded payment providers offer multiple currency acceptance and global settlement. Make sure you plan for user experience including display currency and rounding as well as settlement such as the currency you receive and any FX risks.

    Risk, Compliance and Liability

    Embedding payments pulls in financial operations which means you must still manage risk, compliance, underwriting and payment data security even if you outsource much of it.

    Who owns KYC and fraud risk?

    When you integrate embedded payments you must decide responsibility lines. Are you the merchant of record? Are you underwriting sub-merchants or using a sponsor or acquirer? If you become a payment facilitator, you assume underwriting, KYC or AML and merchant monitoring. If you partner with a PayFac-as-a-Service you offload much of the compliance burden but still need visibility and governance. Clarify early who owns merchant onboarding, underwriting, risk monitoring, chargebacks, reserves and termination.

    Tokenization and PCI scope

    Since you are handling payment flows inside your product you must pay attention to PCI-DSS scope. Use tokenization so you do not store raw cardholder data. Use hosted fields, token vaults or gateways that remove card data from your scope. Reducing your PCI footprint is an important risk mitigation and compliance step.

    Integration Models

    Your path to embedded payments will vary based on how much control you want and how much responsibility you are willing to take.

    Build vs partner

    You can attempt to build the payment infrastructure yourself, including merchant accounts, acquiring relationships, underwriting and settlement. That gives full control but comes with significant operational burden and regulatory risk. Alternatively you can partner with a payments provider or PayFac-as-a-Service that handles much of the payments stack while you focus on product. This is the most common path for ISVs.

    Hosted vs full stack vs hybrid

    Hosted payments: A third-party payment page or widget is embedded inside your application. The redirect or the backend is managed by the provider. It requires less effort but offers less control.

    Full stack embedded: Your product owns the UI, workflow and tokenization. You manage the experience while the payment partner runs the processing behind the scenes. This offers maximum control.

    Hybrid model: Some parts are embedded and others are hosted. For example, onboarding might be hosted while recurring billing is embedded. This approach balances speed and customization.

    Choose the model that fits your product roadmap, regulatory goals, vertical needs and monetization strategy.

    What to Look for in a Payments Partner

    When selecting a payments partner for embedded payments there are key criteria to evaluate:

    • Developer-friendly APIs, SDKs, documentation and sandbox access
    • Support for your verticals such as medical spas, transportation, automotive, jewelers, gyms and health or wellness
    • Multi-currency and international payment support
    • Tokenization, encryption and PCI-DSS compliance
    • Clarity on responsibilities including underwriting, KYC, chargebacks and reserves
    • Transparent monetization options including revenue share and flexible rate structures
    • Ability to scale across new markets, payment types and user volumes
    • Brandable experience to maintain consistent UX and design
    • Technical support for webhook management, event handling and implementation guidance

    Embedded payments for ISVs are not just a convenience. They are a competitive advantage. If you are building software for vertical businesses, embedding payments gives you a better product experience, stronger customer retention and new monetization opportunities. By choosing the right architecture and payment partner, your team can build a better platform without losing focus on your core product.

  • Dual Pricing: A Merchant Guide for Small Businesses

    Dual Pricing: A Merchant Guide for Small Businesses

    Reading Time: 4 minutes

    For small businesses looking to manage rising card processing fees, dual pricing provides a practical and transparent solution. By offering two prices, one for cash and one for card payments, merchants can cover transaction costs without raising prices across the board. This strategy gives customers a clear choice and helps preserve profit margins.

    This merchant guide explains how dual pricing works, how to implement it, and how it compares to other payment methods like traditional cash discounts. It also outlines legal and compliance requirements to help small businesses make informed decisions.

    What Is Dual Pricing?

    Dual pricing is a payment model where businesses display both a cash price and a card price for each product or service. The card price includes a small adjustment to cover processing fees, while the cash price offers a discount. This method gives customers the freedom to choose their preferred payment method based on transparency and cost.

    How Dual Pricing Works

    Setup and Implementation

    To implement dual pricing, your point-of-sale (POS) system must be configured to display both prices. Receipts should clearly show the cash discount (e.g., “Cash Discount (3%): -$1.20”). Clear signage at the entrance and checkout areas is essential to explain the policy.

    Pricing displays on menus, shelf tags, websites, and digital menus must reflect both prices. Staff should be trained to process transactions accurately and explain the pricing model confidently.

    Dual Pricing vs. Cash Discount vs. Other Payment Models

    Dual pricing differs from surcharging and cash discounting in how prices are presented and perceived by customers. In a dual pricing model, both cash and card prices are clearly displayed, for example, “$10.00 cash / $10.30 card,” which offers customers a transparent choice between payment methods. Cash discounting, on the other hand, typically involves advertising a higher base price and then applying a discount at checkout for customers who pay with cash, such as “$10.30 base price, $10.00 with cash.”

    Surcharging works by adding a fee to the total at the time of payment when a card is used. This method might be seen more negatively by customers since it adds unexpected costs during checkout. In contrast, dual pricing is often perceived as more fair and transparent, while cash discounting can be framed positively as a reward for using cash.

    From a compliance standpoint, dual pricing requires that both prices be visible and consistent across all sales channels. Surcharging is subject to more legal restrictions and requires additional disclosures. Cash discounting must be carefully labeled to ensure the discount is presented as such and not a penalty.

    Benefits of Dual Pricing for Small Businesses

    • Reduces Card Processing Fees: Card fees, typically ranging from 1.5% to 3.5%, are passed on to card users.
    • Preserves Profit Margins: Helps maintain margins without increasing all prices.
    • Improves Cash Flow: Cash payments are immediate, minimizing delays.
    • Reduces Fraud and Chargebacks: Cash transactions carry fewer disputes.
    • Attracts Price-Sensitive Shoppers: Competitive cash pricing can increase sales.

    Challenges and How to Overcome Them

    • Customer Understanding: Some customers may not be familiar with dual pricing. Clear signage and consistent messaging are key.
    • POS System Upgrades: Choose a system that supports automatic dual pricing and receipt formatting.
    • Regulatory Compliance: Ensure you follow federal, state, and card network rules.
    • Staff Training: Your team must be able to explain the system confidently.
    • Monitoring Results: Regularly track performance, payment method trends, and customer feedback.

    Compliance Considerations

    Federal and State Regulations

    Dual pricing is legal in most U.S. states if pricing is presented clearly and consistently. The cash price must be positioned as a discount, not a penalty for card use.

    Card Network Requirements

    Card networks like Visa and Mastercard require clear display of both prices. The same rules must apply across all card brands.

    Consistency in signage, receipts, and staff explanations supports compliance and customer satisfaction.

    How to Get Started

    1. Analyze Fees: Understand your current card processing costs.
    2. Select Technology: Use a POS system capable of dual pricing and detailed reporting.
    3. Train Staff: Ensure employees understand and can communicate the pricing model.
    4. Update Displays: Signage, digital menus, and receipts must reflect both prices.
    5. Communicate with Customers: Use simple, positive messaging that emphasizes the benefit of paying with cash.

    Why Use Dual Pricing?

    Small businesses often operate with narrow margins and high card transaction volume. Dual pricing gives them more control over how they manage fees and serve customers. By aligning payment methods with operational goals, this strategy helps merchants maintain competitiveness and build trust with customers.

    Dual pricing is an effective tool for small businesses to manage card processing fees while offering fair, visible pricing for all payment methods. With the right systems, training, and communication, merchants can adopt this model with confidence.

  • How “No Fee” Credit Card Processing Can Reshape Small Business Payments

    How “No Fee” Credit Card Processing Can Reshape Small Business Payments

    Reading Time: 5 minutes

    High credit card processing fees continue to squeeze small business profit margins. For every $100 a customer spends, you could be losing $3 or more in transaction costs. What if you could shift those costs off your ledger without simply raising prices? That’s the promise of “no fee” credit card processing.

    This model typically uses one of two options: surcharging or cash discounting, to transfer the cost of credit card fees to customers. Businesses keep more of what they earn, and customers choose how they pay. This approach is gaining traction in sectors where tight margins meet heavy payment volume.

    In this article, we’ll explain how no fee processing works, what tools and compliance measures you’ll need, and how the model impacts payment technology, small business payments operations, compliance and profit margins. Whether you run a local café, a service-based business, or a professional services firm, this guide will help you assess whether this payment strategy fits your operations.

    How No Fee Credit Card Processing Works

    Understanding this model requires separating surcharging from cash discounting. Both aim to reduce credit card fees, but they do so in very different ways. Each has its implications for operations, customer experience and compliance.

    Surcharging vs. Cash Discounting

    Surcharging means you add a fee to the credit card payment amount. For example: a $50 bill becomes $51.45 because a 2.9 percent fee is added.

    Cash discounting, by contrast, presents a higher “default” price and offers a discount when the customer chooses cash or another low-cost payment method. For example: a latte is listed at $5.50, but if paid by cash (or debit/ACH) the price drops to $5.00. Clients perceive a reward rather than a penalty.

    Both strategies require payment technology support and regulatory compliance, but cash discounting often involves fewer legal hurdles. In many U.S. states, surcharge programs are restricted or regulated more heavily.

    Required Tools & Setup

    Adopting a no fee processing model means configuring your payment systems and customer experience accordingly:

    • Payment terminals / POS: Your system must clearly distinguish payment types and automatically apply the correct surcharge or discount logic.
    • Software integration: The payment software must connect with your existing platforms (eCommerce, POS, accounting) to reflect correct pricing and transaction flows.
    • Compliance tools: You’ll need visible signage, customer disclosures at checkout, and printed receipts that reflect surcharge or discount amounts.
    • Hardware costs: Some providers offer low-cost or free terminals; others charge hundreds. For many small businesses, equipment under $600 is common.
    • Payment technology: A well-integrated gateway that supports dual pricing, surcharge rules, and reports on payment method shifts is key.

    Staying Compliant with Regulations

    Compliance is essential. Missteps can raise liability and reputational risk.

    • Transparent disclosures: Any surcharge must be clearly disclosed in advance of transaction completion. For cash discounts, the posted price should reflect the real cost and the discounted amount must be clearly visible.
    • State and card network rules: Some states prohibit surcharges altogether, while others allow them under specific limits.
    • Card network rules: Networks like Visa require at least 30 days’ notice before implementing a surcharge and specific receipt labeling.
    • Avoid misclassification: Surcharges apply only to credit card transactions, not to debit or prepaid cards in many cases.

    Before implementing, it’s wise to consult legal counsel and your payment processor representative to ensure your state statute, card brand rules and your workflows align.

    Benefits and Challenges for Small Businesses

    Main Benefits

    • Reduced credit card fees: By shifting the fee to customers or encouraging lower-cost payment methods, you improve profit margins and cash flow consistency.
    • Automated workflows: Modern payment systems can handle surcharges or discounts with minimal staff overhead, freeing you to focus on operations and customer experience.
    • Incentivizing alternative payments: Offering a cash discount encourages cash, ACH or debit payments. These methods carry lower processing costs.

    Potential Challenges

    • Customer reaction: Some customers may view added fees negatively when they appear unexpectedly. Clear upfront communication is critical.
    • Competitive pressure: If rivals do not pass on fees or appear to offer “free” card payments, you may face price perception risks.
    • Regulatory complexity: The compliance burden for surcharging is higher than for cash discounting. Mistakes can lead to chargebacks, fines or account termination.

    Which Industries Benefit Most?

    Businesses with narrow profit margins, frequent credit card transactions or high-ticket services often see the greatest gains from a no fee processing model. These include sectors like professional services, specialty retail, field service contractors and other operations where payment volume and fees combine to affect profitability.

    Implementation: Tools & Methods

    Here’s a practical roadmap to launch no fee processing:

    1. Assess fit: Review your transaction volume, average ticket size, customer payment habits and margin sensitivity.
    2. Select technology: Choose a payment platform that supports dual pricing logic, surcharge rules, integration with your POS/accounting system, and robust reporting.
    3. Draft communication plan: Prepare signage, online messaging and staff guidance so customers understand the payment method choice and fee or discount structure.
    4. Compliance review: Verify your state’s surcharge or cash discount laws, card brand notification requirements, and ensure your processor is configured correctly.
    5. Pilot and monitor: Launch in a controlled environment, track payment method shifts, monitor customer feedback and adjust pricing or messaging as needed.
    6. Scale: Expand once you’re confident in your technology, communication and compliance workflows. Then analyze impact on profit margins and cash flow.

    Decision Checklist: Is Your Business Ready?

    • Do you accept a high volume of credit card payments and feel that fees are eroding your margins?
    • Are many customers or transactions larger in value, making fee recovery more meaningful?
    • Will your customer base accept variable pricing depending on payment method?
    • Can you clearly communicate the structure, such as “Card price” and “Cash or ACH price”?
    • Are you operating in a state that allows surcharging, or are you prepared to implement cash discounting instead?

    If you answered “yes” to most of these, a no fee processing model may make sense.

    Choosing the Right Payment Technology Partner

    Your choice of payment technology and partner matters. Look for:

    • Integration with your existing POS, eCommerce or billing system.
    • Built-in support for surcharges or cash discounts, automated calculation and reporting.
    • Compliance features such as notice display, receipt formatting and card brand registration.
    • Real-time analytics showing how the payment method mix is shifting and how fees are being managed.
    • Transparent terms and full disclosure of how fees, discounts or alternative payments affect your finances.

    Final Thoughts

    Adopting a “no fee” credit card processing strategy is more than a pricing tweak. It is a structural change in how you manage payment technology, customer communications and profit margins. When executed well, it can shift processing costs away from your bottom line, reduce administrative overhead and give your business a stronger financial foundation. Success depends on transparent messaging, strong technology integration and strict compliance with payment industry rules and state law.

    If you’re feeling the squeeze of credit card fees, this model deserves a serious look. Like any operational strategy, the details matter.

  • Aurora and BusinessMind Are Simplifying Payments for Jewelers

    Aurora and BusinessMind Are Simplifying Payments for Jewelers

    Reading Time: 2 minutes

    This integration brings unified payments, inventory, and customer workflows to one of the jewelry industry’s most trusted management systems. 

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

    Tempe, Ariz., November 12, 2025 — Aurora Payments, a full-service payments provider, today announced a partnership with DCIT, the creator of BusinessMind, a cloud-based software solution for jewelry retailers and manufacturers. 

    The integration embeds Aurora’s ARISE payments technology directly into BusinessMind, allowing jewelers to manage payments, inventory, customer records, and reporting in a single system designed specifically for the jewelry industry. 

    “BusinessMind has been a trusted platform in the jewelry industry for years,” said John Badovinac, SVP of Embedded Commerce at Aurora Payments. “Integrating ARISE delivers a modern payment experience that simplifies operations and enhances financial visibility.” 

    BusinessMind is known for supporting complex workflows such as repairs, custom orders, and shared inventory across multi-store environments. With ARISE now embedded, users can accept payments securely without relying on external terminals, while ensuring full PCI compliance and real-time data sync across transactions, inventory, and customer accounts. 

    “By integrating ARISE, we’re giving our customers an even more seamless experience. Payments, inventory, and customer data all stay in one place.” said Raffi Minassian, President of DCIT. “It streamlines operations with integrated inventory management, CRM, and POS, specifically designed for multi-store environments. Adding ARISE gives our customers a fully integrated solution that keeps everything in one place.” 

    The partnership enhances BusinessMind’s value as a complete business management system while expanding Aurora’s presence in the jewelry industry. Together, the two companies deliver a powerful combination of industry-specific tools and embedded financial technology. 

    About Aurora Payments 

    Aurora Payments is a full-service payments provider delivering the financial infrastructure that powers embedded commerce for small and medium-sized businesses and the software platforms that serve them. Aurora’s platform combines payments, instant settlement, capital access, and risk management tools into a single, ready-to-use solution. Supporting more than 30,000 merchants, Aurora is headquartered in Tempe, Ariz., and backed by Corsair, a leading private equity firm focused on payments, software, and financial services. 

    About DCIT BusinessMind 

    DCIT’s BusinessMind is a cloud-based business management platform designed for the jewelry industry. It combines point of sale, inventory tracking, repair and workshop management, CRM, and analytics in one application available for both Windows and macOS. BusinessMind supports complex workflows and helps jewelers manage day-to-day operations with clarity and control. 

    Media Contact 
    Sherrie Bryant 
    Aurora Payments 
    +1 833-287-6722 
    Sherrie.Bryant@risewithaurora.com 

  • Is Free Credit Card Processing Really Free?

    Is Free Credit Card Processing Really Free?

    Reading Time: 4 minutes

    Credit card processing fees can feel like a constant drain on your business’s revenue. So when you hear about “free credit card processing” it sounds like a no‑brainer. But here’s the catch: it is not exactly free. It’s simply a different way to handle the cost by passing it to your customers. For some businesses this approach can save thousands each month. For others it might cause friction at checkout.

    This guide breaks down how zero‑cost processing works, its pros and cons, and how to determine whether it is a fit for your business. You will learn how these models shift fees, what to watch out for, and how to prepare if you decide to make the switch.

    How Zero‑Cost Credit Card Processing Works

    Zero‑cost credit card processing is a method that aims to protect your full sales revenue by shifting credit card fees to the customer at checkout. Instead of your business absorbing those fees and seeing a reduced deposit, the system adds them to the customer’s total. This way you receive the complete purchase price while being upfront about the added cost.

    Service Fees and Surcharges Explained

    When a customer pays with a credit card the system calculates the processing fee and applies it as a service surcharge at the point of sale. Modern point‑of‑sale systems can detect credit card payments and apply surcharges only when required. The receipt shows the breakdown, listing the base price and the added fee, which helps customers see that the extra charge is tied to their payment method.

    Passing credit card fees to customers is allowed under federal rules if the charges are disclosed clearly at checkout. This means merchants can adopt a zero‑cost processing model as long as they communicate the fee and comply with any state‑specific regulations.

    Day‑to‑Day Operations for Business Owners

    Adopting zero‑cost processing involves several operational steps. Train your staff to explain the surcharge policy confidently and clearly. Make sure your receipts separate the base purchase amount from the surcharge. Clear separation builds trust and simplifies bookkeeping. You will see full sales amounts in your deposits while surcharge revenue is tracked separately for reconciliation.

    Hidden Costs and Trade‑Offs to Consider

    Zero‑cost processing may sound appealing because it claims to eliminate merchant fees, but it includes its own hidden costs and trade‑offs. These factors are important when assessing whether this model suits your business.

    Common Hidden Costs

    • Equipment and system upgrades: Your POS must handle automatic surcharge calculations.
    • PCI compliance and reporting: Security and compliance costs remain even when you shift fees.
    • Chargeback and dispute fees: These still apply and may be more visible under a surcharge model.
    • Monthly service fees or contract terms: Some processing agreements carry ongoing fees or penalties for early termination.

    Customer Reactions and Sales Impact

    Adding surcharges at checkout can create customer friction — especially for lower‑ticket items where the fee feels more noticeable. For example a two dollar surcharge on a ten dollar purchase may drive abandonment, whereas the same fee on a large purchase may pass with little notice. Customer loyalty may also suffer if regular clients feel the change is unfair. Research shows that surcharges are more likely to cause buyer resistance than pricing that already includes the cost.

    Traditional vs Zero‑Cost Processing Comparison

    The main differences between standard credit card processing and zero‑cost models include the following areas:

    • Fee burden: Traditional processing absorbs fees. Zero‑cost shifts the fee to the customer.
    • Customer experience: Traditional is seamless. Zero‑cost requires clear disclosures.
    • Cash flow: Traditional sees fees deducted. Zero‑cost delivers full sale amount to merchant.
    • Accounting complexity: Traditional fee deduction is simple. Zero‑cost requires tracking surcharge revenue.
    • Regulatory compliance: Traditional follows standard rules. Zero‑cost adds disclosure and state law compliance layers.

    Is Zero‑Cost Processing a Fit for Your Business?

    Zero‑cost processing can be transformational for certain industries, but it is not suited to every business. It works best when transaction amounts are large, processing fees are significant, and customers understand value and payment choice.

    Industries That Benefit Most

    Service‑based firms such as law, accounting or consulting frequently handle large invoices where a surcharge feels minimal. Healthcare practices, auto repair shops, and B2B companies often fall in the same category because the transaction sizes justify the model. By contrast businesses with frequent low‑ticket sales such as convenience stores or coffee shops may find more customer push‑back and less net benefit.

    What You Need Before Getting Started

    • Upgrade your POS system to apply surcharges or discounts automatically.
    • Train staff on explaining the payment model and supporting customer questions.
    • Review state surcharge laws and card‑network rules.
    • Display clear signage at checkout and on receipts.
    • Adjust cash‑handling workflows and accounting systems.
  • See What’s New at Aurora: Built for the Business You’re Running Today

    See What’s New at Aurora: Built for the Business You’re Running Today

    Reading Time: 2 minutes

    At Aurora Payments, we build technology that helps businesses of all sizes get paid faster, operate more smoothly, and keep more of what they earn. And if you haven’t looked at us recently, now’s a great time. We’ve made some powerful upgrades to the Aurora platform that give you more control and more value, without adding more complexity.

    Here’s what’s new and how it can help your business work smarter.

    Simplified ACH for Streamlined Payments

    Many small and mid-sized businesses are shifting to ACH to reduce credit card processing costs. Aurora makes it easy. Our platform lets you accept ACH payments from your customers with just a few clicks. It’s ideal for recurring billing, high-ticket items, or any service where bank transfers make more sense than swiping a card. And because ACH payments are supported directly inside the Aurora platform, there’s no need for a third-party tool or separate login. Check our case study about a client who offered ACH to their customers and saved $20,000 in the first year of using it.

    Next-Day Payouts to Improve Cash Flow

    Waiting three to five days to access your funds is a problem we’ve solved. With Aurora, many merchants are seeking working capital and now qualify for next-day payouts. That means you get your money faster and can use it to cover payroll, buy inventory, or reinvest in your business. It’s a small shift that makes a big difference, especially if your revenue depends on daily cash flow.

    Built-In Invoicing That Saves You Time

    Our built-in invoicing tool helps you send professional, branded invoices directly from your dashboard. You can add payment links for cards or ACH, track invoice status in real time, and send reminders automatically. This feature is designed for businesses that need flexible billing options without the cost or complexity of an outside invoicing app. Whether you’re a med spa, funeral home, gym, or auto service shop, this makes it easier to get paid on time.

    A Unified Platform for All Payment Types

    Aurora’s all-in-one platform called ARISE now supports more ways to accept payments than ever. You can offer mobile tap-to-pay, countertop terminals, online checkouts, and invoicing, all in one place. You don’t need to juggle multiple vendors or systems. Everything is managed in your Aurora dashboard, giving you clear visibility into your transactions, your customers, and your cash flow.

    Technology That Works for You

    We know that payments should never be the bottleneck in your business. That’s why we’ve focused on refining our core features to give you tools that work how you do. From ACH and invoicing to faster funding and real-time reporting, Aurora is built to meet the needs of real businesses, not just big enterprises.

    Learn More

    What’s new at Aurora isn’t flash. It’s features that actually help your business run better. Simplified ACH. Next-day payouts. Built-in invoicing. Unified reporting. And flexible payment options that work in the field, at the front desk, or from your phone.

    If you’re looking for a payments partner that puts your business first, now is a great time to take a closer look at Aurora Payments. Learn more about what Aurora Payments can do for your business.