Credit vs. Debit

Is debit cheaper than credit?

Yes, debit is almost always cheaper than credit. There are exceptions to this rule (very small transaction sizes can make debit more expensive) but typically, debit is much cheaper.

PIN-debit vs. Signature-debit

Debit cards can process with a PIN, or you can opt to run them "as credit" - this is known as Signature debit. PIN-debit is typically a bit cheaper, and more challenging to dispute.

How does PIN-debit work?

PIN-debit is different than a credit transaction. Funds are removed from the customer's account in real-time, which has a few implications for refunds/voids/chargebacks.

Why should I accept PIN-debit?

Typically, PIN-debit is the cheapest form of acceptance, and carries the most protection for merchants. If you can encourage PIN-debit usage, you'll usually see a reduction in fees.

Do I need an external PinPad?

External PinPads are not a requirement, and many merchants choose not to use them. But, if you have a lot of PIN-debit sales, PinPads can speed up the line significantly.

Can PIN-debit sales be disputed?

Yes, PIN-debit sales can be disputed. However, the process is much more challenging for your customer, and they have far less recourse than when using a credit card.

Can I accept PIN-debit on a mobile phone?

As of today, you are not able to accept PIN-debit sales through a mobile device. However, new standards were recently created for "PIN on Glass" so it's coming soon!

Are EBT sales the same as PIN-debit?

EBT (food stamp) sales are similar to PIN-debit transactions, but are not the same. EBT sales also require a PIN-number, but they don't have interchange fees like debit cards.