A timeshare merchant account gives travel companies the ability to accept payments online. From a banking standpoint, companies that offer timeshare services are considered high risk and require custom merchant accounts. Find out how you can apply and quickly get credit card processing for your timeshare business.
Many timeshare companies accept credit cards as their main way of receiving payments. As an online company, this is also the preferred payment method for customers. Having the ability to accept multiple forms of payment is key for online businesses. Within the travel sector, there are a number of types of payments buyers have used.
Historically, check and MOTO payments were mainstream for travel agencies. For example, many companies were set up to receive payments over the phone after multiple calls and shared information. As technology changed the payments world, check payments became echecks which serve a similar purpose but are done through online channels much like a wire transfer.
One obstacle timeshare companies face with credit cards is a chargeback. Customers who aren’t happy with their services have the ability to dispute a transaction directly with the bank. If they win, they can get their payment back entirely which causes reputational issues for businesses with merchant accounts.
Timeshares have an interesting reputation when it comes to financial transactions. Some companies use unique sales tactics to bolster revenue and get more customers through the buying cycle. As a result, some people may decide they didn’t want the service in the first place and if a refund isn’t issued, they’ll go directly through your banking channel with a dispute.
On the other hand, timeshares can offer a great way for people to explore vacation locations at a convenient time. Moreover, travel itself is based on long term planning and elastic economic decisions. The unfortunate side is that some people cancel trips or flights are delayed. As a result, customers often want their money back for something they couldn’t attend.
With high levels of chargebacks being an underlying characteristic in the industry, many standard banks refuse to take on travel merchant accounts. Not to worry, there are custom processors like Zen Payments who provide the resources you need to accept payments. Their team of experts and underwriters knows exactly what it takes to approve your account.
Getting low rates depends on a few key factors, but is achievable for larger long-term businesses. Follow these steps to get a reduction in your payment processing fees:
Reduce Chargebacks – Setting up the right chargeback reduction program can help you stop fraud in its tracks. Moreover, certain providers have predictive AI so you can see which customers have a higher likelihood of chargebacks.
