If you’re unfamiliar with common secure payment options and secure payment processing solutions, the idea of shopping around for a good merchant account provider can be a daunting task for any business owner and it’s understandable if you’re a bit intimidated by it. There’s a lot at stake — not only do you have to protect your consumers with a good credit card payment system, but you also have to make sure that you protect your own business by using merchant chargeback protection features and secure payment gateway solutions.

Here are just a few of the most important things to look for when you’re shopping for a new merchant account provider:

• Make sure to pick a provider that has a history of good security and good customer service. Picking out a merchant account provider is less about making a one-time purchase, and more about deciding which provider you’d like to have an ongoing relationship with. When security issues come up, you want to make sure that you’re working with a service that will vouch for you and protect you.
  

• On a related note, you’ll want to make sure that they offer superior tech support as well. It’s always best to be able to talk to a real-life customer service representative or IT support employee, rather than dialing into a 1-800 number and maybe getting some IT support soon-ish. Tech problems can materialize overnight so it’s essential that the provider’s IT support team is available and willing to help.
  

• Last but not least, think about what your business needs now in terms of credit card payment systems, and also what you think you’ll need in the future. Maybe you’re interested in implementing mobile POS systems, or maybe you’re expecting to experience a huge period of growth when you begin selling items online. Whatever your needs may be, make sure that you find a provider that will grow with your company.