Comments on: Authorize.Net is NOT a Payment Processor

by: Robert Chamberlain

Tue, 03 Jul 2007 06:57:35 +0000

Authorize.net is to the Web as POS terminals (the things you swipe your credit or debit cards in) are to brick and mortar retail stores. Authorize.net and other payment gateways just connect your merchant account to your business checking account to process the payments. When selecting a payment processor it is a good thing to evaluate what services are most important to you and to your business. Most businesses will do just fine with Authorize.net; but there are cheaper alternatives out there if you just search for them and do not need all the bells and whistles. The most important thing to consider is how easy it will be to implement into your current software and what plugins, support and upgrades will be available in the future.

by: John Conde

Wed, 30 May 2007 14:13:46 +0000

Their pages doesn’t say much so I am unsure how they are doing it. It couldn’t hurt to give them a call and ask some questions. That definitely doesn’t commit you to anything.

by: Konan

Tue, 29 May 2007 12:33:27 +0000

Haha..I’m going to hope that’s the case (no one’s said anything too bad about them). I got in touch with them late last week and have had quick responses thus far. Let’s hope they keep up their enthusiasm!

So if I understand you correctly when the text on the first atlantic commerce website says: “Our international merchant accounts offer multi-jurisdictional”: I wouldn’t actually have a merchant account with them but rather with a bank they partner with and doing so will make transactions smoother for them? Will I gain anything by opening an account with one of their partners? Here’s the link, maybe you could look at it if you have a moment and tell me if I’ve understood it correctly. Thanks!
http://www.firstatlanticcommerce.com/merchants/international_merchant_accounts.aspx

by: John Conde

Wed, 23 May 2007 14:49:28 +0000

Gateways aren’t usually associated with banks directly but rather have a working relationship to ensure transactions can go from the gateway to the processor and back again smoothly. Otherwise they typically do not prefer one bank over another.

I haven’t heard of First Atlantic Commerce but that can be a good thing as that means they haven’t had anything too bad said about them.

by: Konan

Wed, 23 May 2007 11:17:30 +0000

Hi,
What you’ve said about the difference between payment gateways and procesors has helped clear things up for me a great deal.
Do specific gateways have links or partnerships with specific banks that make it easier or even necessary to open merchant accounts with their partner banks? I’ve been shopping around for a gateway and merchant account for a little while now and am considering First Atlantic Commerce…are they any good? I’m hoping to get more personalised service by going with a smaller firm.