Accept High-Risk Payments

What Makes a Business High Risk

Payment processors classify businesses as high-risk based on industry type, chargeback rates, average ticket size, business model, and regulatory environment. Industries with above-average chargeback rates (over 1%) or legal complexity are automatically flagged.

• CBD and cannabis-related products
• Firearms and ammunition
• Supplements and nutraceuticals
• Adult entertainment
• Online gambling and gaming
• Travel and timeshare
• Debt collection
• Tech support and SaaS with free trials

Mainstream processors like Stripe, Square, and PayPal routinely terminate high-risk merchants, often freezing funds for 90 to 180 days. Our partner network underwrites high-risk accounts from day one with no surprises.

High-Risk Processing Rates

High-risk processing rates are higher than standard rates, typically ranging from 2.5% to 4.5% per transaction. Through the Payment Gods Partner Network, high-risk merchants access competitive interchange-plus pricing starting at 1.5% above interchange. Get a quote to see your specific rate.

Chargeback Management

Chargebacks are the biggest threat to high-risk merchant accounts. Exceeding the card network's 1% threshold puts you in a monitoring program with escalating fines.

Our partners provide chargeback alert services (Ethoca and Verifi), prevention tools, and dispute management. Read our blog for chargeback prevention strategies.

Getting a High-Risk Merchant Account

High-risk underwriting requires 3 to 6 months of processing statements, business financials, a valid business license, and a detailed description of your products or services. Approval typically takes 3 to 7 business days.

Submit a free quote request and our partner will evaluate your business for the best high-risk processing solution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was my merchant account terminated?

Common reasons include operating in a prohibited industry, exceeding chargeback thresholds, or misrepresenting your business type. High-risk specialists underwrite your actual business model to prevent terminations.

How long does high-risk merchant account approval take?

High-risk approvals typically take 3 to 7 business days for specialized underwriting that evaluates your industry, volume, and chargeback risk profile.

What are the fees for high-risk payment processing?

High-risk processing rates range from 2.5% to 4.5%. The Payment Gods Partner Network offers interchange-plus pricing starting at 1.5% above interchange for qualifying businesses.

Can I accept credit cards if my business is high risk?

Yes. High-risk payment processors specialize in providing merchant accounts to industries that mainstream processors reject.

How do I reduce chargebacks on a high-risk merchant account?

Use chargeback alert services (Ethoca, Verifi), implement clear billing descriptors, require CVV and AVS on all transactions, and respond to disputes promptly.