Accept In-Person Payments

Card-Present Interchange Rates Are Lower

In-person transactions are less risky than online payments because the card is physically present and verified. Card networks reward this with lower interchange rates. A Visa debit card swiped in person costs as little as 0.05% + $0.21, compared to 0.65% + $0.15 for the same card used online.

On interchange-plus pricing through the Payment Gods Partner Network, you pass through these lower rates directly. Businesses with significant in-person volume save thousands annually compared to flat-rate pricing from processors like Square.

Terminal Options and Hardware

Modern payment terminals support EMV chip insertion, NFC contactless tap, magstripe swipe, and PIN debit. Countertop terminals work for fixed checkout locations. Wireless terminals connect via WiFi or cellular for tableside payments, delivery, and field service.

• Countertop terminals: best for retail stores, restaurants, and service counters
• Wireless terminals: ideal for restaurants with tableside payment, delivery services, and mobile businesses
• Mobile card readers: plug into smartphones for markets, pop-ups, and field sales
• Self-service kiosks: automated checkout for quick-service restaurants and retail

EMV Chip Technology and Liability

Since the EMV liability shift in 2015, businesses that do not accept chip cards are liable for fraudulent transactions that a chip-enabled terminal would have prevented. All terminals provided through our partner network support EMV chip, contactless, and mobile wallet payments.

Chip transactions generate a unique cryptogram for each purchase, making counterfeit card fraud nearly impossible. This technology has reduced in-person fraud by 76% since adoption.

Getting Set Up for In-Person Payments

Terminal setup takes 1 to 3 business days after account approval. Terminals are pre-configured and ship ready to process. Our partners provide free terminal placement programs for qualifying merchants.

Get a free quote that includes terminal options and pricing for your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

What equipment do I need to accept in-person card payments?

You need a payment terminal that supports EMV chip and NFC contactless payments. Countertop terminals start at $0 with free placement programs. Wireless and mobile options are also available.

How much does in-person credit card processing cost?

In-person processing on interchange-plus pricing costs the interchange rate (as low as 0.05% for debit) plus a small markup. This is significantly cheaper than flat-rate pricing from Square or Clover.

Do I need internet for my payment terminal?

Most terminals require WiFi or ethernet. Wireless terminals with cellular backup can process transactions without WiFi. Some terminals support offline batch processing for limited connectivity.

Can I accept Apple Pay and Google Pay in person?

Yes. Any NFC-enabled terminal accepts Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay. Customers tap their phone or watch on the terminal to complete the payment in under two seconds.

What is the cheapest way to accept debit cards in person?

PIN debit transactions have the lowest interchange rates, often just $0.21 flat for small tickets. Interchange-plus pricing passes through these low rates directly to your business.