Question 1

What is a merchant surcharge program?

Accepted Answer

A merchant surcharge program allows businesses to pass credit card processing fees (up to 3%) directly to customers who pay with credit cards. This is fully legal in 47+ states and can save merchants $20,000–$60,000 per year in processing fees.

Question 2

What is a cash discount program?

Accepted Answer

A cash discount program offers customers a discount for paying with cash or debit, while customers who pay with credit cards pay the posted price which includes a service fee. This effectively eliminates credit card processing costs for the merchant.

Question 3

How does Centurion compare to Square, Stripe, and Clover?

Accepted Answer

Centurion Payment Services consistently beats Square (2.6%+10¢), Stripe (2.9%+30¢), Clover (2.3-2.6%), and Heartland on effective rates. With our interchange-plus or surcharge programs, most merchants save 20-40% over their current processor.

Question 4

Do you work with high-risk merchants?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Centurion specializes in high-risk merchant accounts including CBD, firearms, nutraceuticals, vape, adult content, travel, gaming, and more. We have dedicated high-risk banking relationships and fast approval times.

Question 5

How quickly can I get set up with Centurion?

Accepted Answer

Most merchants go live within 48 hours of approval. We handle the entire setup process including equipment programming, gateway integration, and staff training.

Question 6

What credit card processing rates does Centurion offer?

Accepted Answer

Centurion offers interchange-plus pricing, flat-rate pricing, and zero-fee/surcharge programs. Rates are customized based on your industry, volume, and processing history. We guarantee to beat your current rate or we'll pay you $500.

Question 7

Is the merchant surcharge program legal?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Credit card surcharging is legal in 47+ US states. It is currently prohibited only in Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Puerto Rico. Centurion ensures full compliance with state laws and Visa/Mastercard regulations.

Question 8

What types of businesses do you work with?

Accepted Answer

Centurion works with all business types: restaurants, retail stores, medical practices, law firms, auto dealers, salons, hotels, e-commerce, contractors, healthcare, dental offices, veterinarians, gyms, nightclubs, dispensaries, and more.

credit-card-processing-how-it-works-and-why-it-is-the-best-option | Centurion Payment Services