Frequently Asked Questions

General & Setup
What is the difference between a payment processor and a payment gateway?

A payment processor handles the movement of funds between a customer’s bank and a merchant’s bank. It ensures that payments are authorized, settled, and transferred securely. 
A payment gateway is the digital tool that securely captures a customer’s payment details online and sends them to the processor. Think of the gateway as the “front door” for online transactions, while the processor works behind the scenes to move the money. 

  1. Apply with a provider: Submit an application with a payment processor or acquiring bank. 
  2. Provide business details: Share company information, financial history, and documentation.
  3. Undergo underwriting: The provider assesses risk, verifies identity, and reviews your business.
  4. Approval and account setup: Once approved, you’ll receive a merchant ID and tools to begin processing payments.
  5. Integration: Connect your account to your point-of-sale system, e-commerce platform, or invoicing software. 

Requirements vary by provider, but most will ask for: 

  • A valid business license or registration. 
  • An active business bank account. 
  • Financial records (such as bank statements or tax returns). 
  • A responsible personal credit history for the business owner(s). 
  • A clear description of products or services being sold. 

Yes, you can switch payment processors without disrupting business. However, the process requires some planning. Transition steps usually include: 

  • Setting up your new merchant account. 
  • Updating your point-of-sale or e-commerce integrations. 
  • Ensuring old and new systems don’t overlap to avoid double billing. 

With proper coordination, switching processors can be seamless and cause little to no downtime for your business. 

Getting Started
What is Valmar Merchant Services?

Valmar Merchant Services is a financial technology company that provides secure, reliable payment processing solutions for businesses of all sizes operating in all industries. We help you accept credit cards, debit cards, contactless payments, ACH, and more, both in-store and online. 

Valmar prides itself on transparent pricing, unmatched reliability, and superior customer service. We also support high-risk industries that other providers won’t touch. Our merchants stick with us, which is why Valmar has the highest retention rate in the industry.

We serve a wide range of industries, including retail, restaurants, e-commerce, professional services, and healthcare, and high-risk. If you’re unsure whether your business qualifies, reach out to our team.

Getting started is simple. Contact our sales team and they’ll walk you through the entire process. We’ll outline our transparent pricing model, collect the required documents, and start the underwriting process. Once approved, you’ll receive your merchant account details and can begin processing payments.

A high-risk industry is a type of business sector that payment processors and banks view as carrying greater financial or regulatory risk. This can be due to higher chargeback rates, legal or compliance complexities, reputational concerns, or volatile market conditions. Because of the elevated risk, businesses in these industries may face stricter underwriting, higher processing fees, or specialized merchant accounts. Many high-risk merchants experience shutdowns and terminations, with little to no warning, since their processor does not have the proper banking relationships. That’s where Valmar can help. 

Examples of high-risk industries include:  CBD & Hemp retailers, Kratom & Botanical Shops, Seed Banks, Smoke & Vape Shops, Consumer/B2B Lending, Tribal-Owned Businesses, Gun & Tactical Gear Retailers, Telemedicine & Online Pharmacy, Debt Collection Agencies, Adult Products, High-Risk E-Commerce, and Subscription Products.

Valmar serves high-risk and specialty industries. These include CBD & Hemp Retailers, Kratom & Botanical, Seed Banks, Smoke & Vape Shops, Consumer/B2B Lending, Tribal-Owned Business, Gun & Tactical Gear Retailers, Telemedicine & Online Pharmacies, Debt Collection Agencies, Adult Products, Subscription Products, and more. Don’t see your industry listed? Contact us and we’ll help you out. 

Payment Processing
What payment methods are supported?

We accept major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express), mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay), ACH payments, and more.

Valmar offers a range of hardware options to support all types of businesses. We have card readers, handheld terminals, full workstations and more. Visit our hardware page for more information.

Pricing & Fees
How are fees structured?

We offer transparent, competitive pricing with no hidden fees. Options include flat-rate, interchange-plus, and custom enterprise pricing depending on your business needs.

Valmar offers a range of hardware options to support all types of businesses. We have card readers, handheld terminals, full workstations and more. Visit our hardware page for more information.

Security & Compliance
What happens if I experience a chargeback?

Our team provides guidance and support throughout the chargeback process, helping you respond quickly and minimize financial impact.

We use advanced fraud detection, tokenization, and end-to-end encryption to keep transactions safe.

Support & Account Management
How can I reach customer support?

Our U.S.-based support team is available by phone, email, and live chat. Call 1-866-825-6271 or email [email protected]

Yes, we support integrations with popular POS systems, accounting tools, and e-commerce platforms. 

Have more questions? Contact sales at [email protected], support at support@valmarmerchants.com, or call 1-866-825-6271 for personalized assistance.