Do you wish to take your online business to the next level by accepting secure payments with Authorize.Net? This payment gateway offers a robust and user-friendly solution for businesses of all sizes.
The online payment ecosystem is vast, which can be overwhelming for newcomers. It’s important to make online payments easy for your customers. With the right tool integrated into your e-commerce store, you can help your customers make error-free and secure transactions on your website. One of the most popular payment gateways is Authorize.net. To get started, all you need to do is create an Authorize.net merchant account and then integrate the right plugin into your store.
Authorize.net allows merchants to accept online payments through credit cards and electronic checks securely. It also offers an advanced fraud detection suite. The gateway works for stores located in Europe, the UK, the US, Australia, or Canada, and accepts payments from major credit cards like JCB, Diner’s Club, Master Card, Visa, and American Express.
Authorize.net offers a secure solution for handling transactions. If you want to start accepting payments online, Authorize.net is a robust payment gateway that simplifies the process. This guide will walk you through creating an Authorize.net Merchant account so you can process transactions securely and efficiently.
What is a Merchant Account?
To receive payments, a company requires a merchant account. This is a specialized form of bank account that enables companies to receive payments using payment cards, eChecks, and digital wallets from various platforms such as websites, POS terminals, and mobile devices. The bank holding the merchant account is referred to as a merchant acquiring bank or acquirer.
This bank facilitates customer payments through the payment processor and credit network. When applying for a merchant account, the underwriter will consider factors such as the industry, processing history, personal credit, and the creditworthiness of the business. Once approved, the company can commence accepting payments.
Authorize.net offers merchant accounts and payment gateways. Companies can select an all-in-one plan covering both services or choose them separately. Whether you establish your new merchant account through them or your own bank, they are available to assist your business in receiving payments.
Why Choose Authorize.net?
When using Authorize.net, you can process payments in different methods that are suitable for your business, whether it’s via your website, mobile app, or manual transactions. Authorize.net makes credit card acceptance easier and guarantees that payments are made on time. Whether you’re a small startup or a large enterprise, Authorize.net can scale with your business. The platform is designed to handle increasing transaction volumes, making it a suitable choice as your business grows.
For large businesses, Authorize.net offers enterprise solutions that provide advanced features and dedicated support. These solutions are tailored to meet the demands of high-volume merchants, ensuring reliable performance at scale. Authorize.net supports international payments, allowing businesses to expand their customer base globally. It processes transactions in multiple currencies, making it easier for international customers to purchase your products or services.
The platform offers multi-language support, enhancing the user experience for customers around the world. This feature is particularly beneficial for businesses operating in diverse markets. Authorize.net ensures compliance with various regulatory requirements, including GDPR, CCPA, and PCI DSS. This compliance helps businesses avoid legal issues and maintain trust with their customers.
The platform offers advanced fraud management tools to detect and prevent fraudulent activities. These tools include Address Verification Service (AVS), Card Code Verification (CCV), and IP filtering, which help mitigate risks and protect your business.
Highlighted features
Here are some of the features that make Authorize.net an ideal choice :
- The platform offers an advanced fraud detection suite that helps identify and prevent fraudulent transactions. AFDS uses customizable filters and tools to monitor and control transaction activities, providing an extra layer of security for your business.
- Authorize.net employs tokenization and encryption to safeguard sensitive payment data. Tokenization replaces card details with a unique identifier, while encryption secures data during transmission, reducing the risk of data theft.
- One of the standout features of Authorize.net is its round-the-clock customer support. Whether you encounter technical issues or have questions about your account, their support team is available via phone, email, and live chat to assist you at any time.
- Authorize.net supports a wide range of payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, e-checks, and digital payment options like Apple Pay and PayPal. This flexibility allows you to cater to a diverse customer base.
- With Authorize.net’s mobile payment solutions, you can accept payments on the go. Their mobile app and hardware solutions enable you to process transactions from anywhere, making it ideal for businesses that operate in multiple locations or at events.
- The Authorize.net dashboard is designed to be user-friendly and intuitive. It provides a clear overview of your transactions, account status, and various tools at your disposal, making it easy to manage your payment processing activities.
- Authorize.net offers transparent and competitive pricing plans. You can choose between the all-in-one option, which includes both the payment gateway and a merchant account, or the gateway-only option if you already have a merchant account.
How to create an Authorize.net merchant account?
Before setting up the Authorize.net payment gateway on your store, you will need to have an Authorize.net merchant account. This article will explain how to create one. Remember that your Authorize.net merchant account is unique to you and your business. Now, let’s proceed with the step-by-step process to create your Authorize.net Merchant account.
Step 1 – Equip Necessary Information
The following information should be available before you begin the registration process to create your Authorize.net Merchant account:
- Business Information: Legal business name, physical address, phone number, and email address.
- Bank Account Details: Your bank’s routing number and your account number where funds will be deposited.
- Tax Information: Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Social Security Number (SSN) for tax purposes.
Having these details ready will streamline the application process.
Step 2 – Visit the Authorize.net Website
- Go to the Authorize.net website using your preferred web browser.
- You can begin the registration process by clicking the “Sign Up” or “Get Started” button on the homepage.
Step 3 – Choose a Pricing Plan
Authorize.net offers various pricing plans tailored to different business needs:
- All-in-One Option: Includes both the payment gateway and a merchant account, ideal for businesses that need a complete solution.
- Payment Gateway Only: Suitable if you already have a merchant account and only need the gateway services.
Comparing Pricing Plans
All-in-One Option:
- Setup Fee: $0
- Monthly Gateway Fee: $25
- Per Transaction Fee: 2.9% + $0.30
Payment Gateway Only:
- Setup Fee: $49
- Monthly Gateway Fee: $25
- Per Transaction Fee: $0.10 + daily batch fee of $0.10
Review the features and costs associated with each plan to determine the best fit for your business.
Step 4 – Submit the application
Personal Information
Fill out the form with your full name, email address, and phone number. This information is crucial for account setup and communication.
Business Information
Provide detailed information about your business:
- Legal business name
- Business address
- Phone number
- Website URL
Financial Information
The following bank account details will be used to deposit the funds:
- Bank routing number
- Bank account number
Tax Information
For tax reporting purposes, provide your EIN or SSN. This information is mandatory for compliance with tax regulations.
Business Details
Answer questions about your business, such as the type of products or services you offer, the average transaction amount, and the estimated monthly transaction volume.
Business Owner Information
Provide personal details of the business owner(s), including name, home address, date of birth, and SSN. Ensure all information is accurate to avoid any delays in the approval process.
Step 5 – Review and Agree to Terms and Conditions
Carefully read through the terms and conditions. This includes the Merchant Service Agreement, which outlines the fees, service terms, and your obligations as a merchant. You can accept the terms and conditions by checking the box. You should review the following clauses:
- Fees: Ensure you understand the transaction fees, the monthly fees, and any additional fees.
- Termination: Know the terms for terminating the agreement.
- Liability: Be aware of your responsibilities and liabilities as a merchant.
Step 6 – Submit Your Application
Once you’ve completed the form and agreed to the terms, click the “Submit” button. Authorize.net will review your application and may contact you for additional information or documentation if needed.
Step 7 – Wait for Approval
A few business days are usually required for approval. Your information will be verified and necessary checks will be performed during this time by Authorize.net. An email notification will be sent to you once your account has been approved.
Common Verification Steps
- Business Verification: Confirming the legitimacy of your business.
- Credit Check: Conducting a credit check on the business owner(s).
- Bank Account Verification: Verifying the provided bank account details.
Step 8 – Set Up Your Payment Gateway
Once your account is approved, log in to your Authorize.net merchant account to set up your payment gateway.
Configure API Settings
- Go to the API Credentials & Keys section.
- Obtain your API Login ID and Transaction Key. These credentials are necessary for integrating Authorize.net with your website or e-commerce platform.
Set Up Payment Methods
- Navigate to Payment Methods in the settings.
- Configure the payment methods you wish to accept, such as credit cards and e-checks.
Customize Payment Settings
- Adjust fraud detection settings.
- Choose transaction types (e.g., authorization only, authorization, and capture).
- Set up email receipts for customers.
Step 9 – Integrate Authorize.net with Your Website
To start accepting payments, integrate Authorize.net with your e-commerce platform. Most platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and Magento offer built-in integrations or plugins for Authorize.net.
Integration Steps
- Shopify: Go to Settings > Payments and select Authorize.net. Enter your API Login ID and Transaction Key.
- WooCommerce: Install the Authorize.net plugin from the WooCommerce marketplace. Configure the plugin with your API credentials.
- Magento: Install the Authorize.net extension from the Magento Marketplace. Set up your payment settings and enter your API credentials.
Follow the specific integration guide for your platform to complete the setup.
Step 10 – Test Transactions
You should perform a few tests before going live to ensure that everything is working properly. Authorize.net provides a sandbox environment for testing purposes.
Testing Steps
- Create Test Transactions: Use test credit card numbers provided by Authorize.net to simulate transactions.
- Verify Transactions: Check that transactions are processed correctly and funds are deposited into your test account.
- Adjust Settings: Make any necessary adjustments based on test results.
Last Shot
Setting up an Authorize.net Merchant account is a vital step for any business aiming to accept online payments securely and efficiently. By following this comprehensive step-by-step guide, you can navigate the setup process with ease and confidence. From gathering the necessary information and selecting the right pricing plan to configuring your payment gateway and integrating it with your e-commerce platform, each step is designed to ensure a seamless and secure payment processing experience.
Choosing a payment gateway is crucial. Authorize.net offers a reliable, secure, and versatile option for businesses of all sizes, with robust security features, comprehensive support, flexible payment options, a user-friendly interface, and detailed reporting tools. Opting for an Authorize.net merchant account ensures a seamless and secure payment experience for your customers, helping you succeed in today’s competitive market. Consider Authorize.net merchant account as your payment processing partner to elevate your business.
FAQ’S
- Are there any requirements for Authorize.net merchants?
Merchants are required to have merchant bank accounts that allow Internet transactions. Merchants must be registered with Authorize.Net as a Card Not Present Payment Gateway. CIM must have been signed up for by the merchant. - Is Authorize.net able to provide merchant accounts?
You can get a merchant account and payment gateway account with an Authorize.net reseller, and they can answer your payment service questions and provide quotes. - Is Authorize.net PCI compliant?
Authorize.net products are PCI compliant, but you should also ensure that your business handles payment card information safely through PCI compliance certification. - Can Authorize.net process international payments?
You can accept international payments from anywhere in the world if your business is based in the United States, Canada, or Australia. - When does Authorize.net pay out?
Upon capture of the transaction, Authorize.net settles it within 24 hours. A merchant’s bank account is credited with the captured funds after settlement is complete.
