What is Interchange-plus pricing?

"Interchange plus" or "Interchange+" is a pricing model used in the merchant services industry that is widely considered to be the most fair and transparent model out there.

 

We recommend refreshing on what interchange is, here. Essentially, Interchange+ pricing simply adds a static margin onto the underlying interchange fees incurred through any given month. Since you know that interchange fees are the same no matter where you go, being on an interchange+ pricing model allows you to compare "apples to apples". All providers will charge whatever interchange rates you'll incur, that's a given - all you need to worry about it what they'll charge you  above interchange. This is the provider's margin, and it's the "plus" in "interchange-plus!"

 

Interchange-plus processing is great for merchants for a few reasons:

​

• It keeps your provider honest. You can see their margins on your statement every month. So you can keep an eye on those margins, and make sure they don't creep up!
   

• It allows you to fairly compare providers. When looking at two competitors, you can simply compare their margins above interchange, giving you full transparency into what you're paying each potential provider before you sign up.
   

• It's transparent. Having interchange-plus pricing is like knowing the invoice price of a new car before you buy it. You know how much your provider pays for a sale! So, you also know how much they make on the sale. It's the way business should be - transparent and open. You know how much your provider makes, there are no surprises.