Securing reliable payment processing for your online business is quite the challenge. Considering online dating deals with some of the highest chargebacks, it’s no surprise.
If you’re a business looking for an online dating merchant account, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will break down 5 of the best merchant accounts you can secure.
At CB-ALERT, we also offer chargeback prevention services specifically designed for the needs of your online dating business.
Key Takeaways
- Our top choice for the online dating industry is Corepay, offering over 20 years of experience in the online dating/adult field.
- Dating services are considered high risk due to potential chargebacks, disputes, and illegal activities, making it difficult to obtain payment processing services.
- To apply for an online dating merchant account, businesses must provide identification documents, incorporation certificates, business processing histories, banking statements, and bank details.
- Contact multiple companies regarding merchant accounts, as every company offers different services and pricing.
What Are Online Dating Merchant Accounts?
An online dating merchant account is designed to accept payments that traditional banks and processors would not. Many banks and processors steer clear of the online dating industry due to the high volume of chargebacks and reputational risk.
Why Do Dating Merchants Struggle With Chargebacks?
Merchants struggle with chargebacks in this space for several reasons. Unfaithfulness is the leading reason in which most chargebacks occur.
When a spouse is caught by their partner on an online dating site, they will call their bank and claim the charge was fradulent. This is a scenario that happens all too often.
Another reason is if the merchant needs to have proper billing descriptors. If the customer doesn’t recognize your billing descriptor, they will likely call their bank to dispute the charge.
Why Are Dating Merchants High-Risk?
It’s primarily due to the potential for chargebacks and the possibility of illegal activities happening on these platforms.
If a dating service fails to deliver as promised, dissatisfied clients can demand refunds, leading to chargebacks. Some fraudsters might also use dating platforms for illegal purposes such as fraud or money laundering.
Furthermore, disputes often arise when married individuals deny involvement with a dating site, resulting in more chargebacks. These issues make dating services risky for banks and credit card processing companies.
Best Online Dating Payment Processors
Choosing the best payment processors for your online dating business can significantly improve your service and boost customer satisfaction. The exemplary processor provides secure transactions, reduces fraudulent activities, and offers seamless payment experiences to your users.
Corepay
Corepay has been a leader in online dating payments since 2017 and works with merchants to ensure they get approved and stay approved.
They leverage various banking relationships in the USA and Europe to provide the lowest fees and most forgiving rolling reserves.
Corepay advertises its extensive partnerships with online dating merchants and has reigned as the online dating payment processor.
Pros
- No application or account setup fees (high and low-risk businesses)
- No annual fees
- Variable monthly fees
- Variable processing rates (starting at 2.95%/transaction for high-risk merchants)
- 24/7 customer support
CC Bill
CC Bill is a great choice if you’re looking to get approved with little to no experience. Since the dating industry is heavily scrutinized, CC Bill remains one of the few processors that will work with a startup.
Consumers are familiar with and trust the CCBill name for securing their payment data and delivering exceptional service. This established level of trust adds immediate credibility to your website or business, effectively alleviating any hesitation when customers reach the checkout stage.
The recognition of CCBill as a reliable payment partner not only enhances the overall perceived security but also contributes to a positive and seamless user experience for your clientele.
Pros
- Poor credit is usually fine
- High approval rate for merchants
- Automation
- Growth support
Verotel
Verotel is a fantastic option for those with poor credit and no prior experience in the industry. They are known for their ability to board merchants, similar to CC Bill.
With this being said, the drawback is that the pricing will be higher than that of Corepay or Payment Cloud.
The Basic Account offered by Verotel includes a convenient turn-key subscription management system along with access to their affiliate marketing system. Verotel also provides complimentary technical setup for your account as part of the service.
Pros
- Accepts most merchants
- Frequently works with poor credit merchants
- Established 1998
- High volume discounts
Payment Cloud
Payment Cloud is similar to Corepay as both offer extremely competitive pricing.
PaymentCloud strategically collaborates with a multitude of banks and processors, enhancing your chances of securing initial approval and ensuring the ongoing stability of your account.
This extensive network of partnerships reflects PaymentCloud’s commitment to providing clients with diverse options and increased flexibility in the ever-evolving landscape of payment processing.
Pros
- No application or account setup fees
- Reasonable rates and fees
- No monthly minimum for low-risk merchants
- Free credit card terminal available
- Few public complaints
How To Choose A Payment Processor
While considering the options of top-notch online dating payment processors, it’s vital to understand how to choose a payment processor that best fits your business needs. Look for a provider specializing in high-risk businesses, as they’ll understand your unique challenges. Ensure they offer secure transactions to protect your customers’ data.
Ask about their fraud detection and prevention measures. High chargeback rates are standard in the dating industry, so find a processor that offers chargeback management – Additionally, we offer chargeback management services and work closely with all payment processors.
Check their pricing structure. Hidden fees can quickly add up. Look for transparency in their pricing and contract terms.
Closing Requirements For Your Online Dating Merchant Account
Per card brand network guidelines, your websites will need to have the following to apply for payment processing:
- Contact information
- Pricing page
- Cancellation policy
- Terms and conditions
- Refund policy
- Age verification
- Privacy policy
- Secure checkout page featuring card brand logos
Closing Thoughts
After spending nearly 20 years in the payment processing space, these are our top five picks. Be sure to inquire with each to find the best option for your business.