Payment aggregation is a type of merchant account that allows businesses to process credit and debit card payments through a single account. This can be very beneficial for businesses because it simplifies the payment processing process and can save the business money on fees.
There are two types of payment aggregators: Level 1 and Level 2. Level 1 aggregators are the most common type of aggregator and allow businesses to process credit and debit card payments through a single account. Level 2 aggregators are less common but offer businesses more benefits, such as lower processing fees and the ability to process electronic checks.
How Does Payment Aggregation Work?
Payment aggregation works by allowing businesses to accept payments from multiple credit and debit cards through a single account. When a customer makes a purchase with their credit or debit card, the payment is processed through the aggregator’s account and then deposited into the business’s bank account.
The main benefit of using a payment aggregator is that it simplifies the payment processing process for businesses. Instead of having to set up and manage multiple merchant accounts, businesses can use a single account to accept all major credit and debit cards. This can save the business time and money on merchant account fees.
Another benefit of using a payment aggregator is that it can lower the cost of processing credit and debit card payments. Level 2 aggregators typically charge lower processing fees than Level 1 aggregators. This can save businesses a significant amount of money on their credit and debit card processing costs.
What Are the Disadvantages of Payment Aggregation?
There are a few disadvantages to using payment aggregation. One disadvantage is that businesses may not have as much control over their credit and debit card processing. This can be a problem if the business needs to process a high volume of transactions or if the business wants to offer special discounts for certain types of payments.
Another disadvantage of using payment aggregation is that businesses may not be able to use all of the features that are available with merchant accounts. For example, businesses that use Level 2 aggregators may not be able to offer rewards programs or accept international payments.
Finally, businesses that use payment aggregation may be at a higher risk for fraud. This is because the aggregator’s account information is available to all of the business’s customers. If a customer’s credit card is stolen, the thief can use the aggregator’s account to make unauthorized charges.
Should Your Business Use Payment Aggregation?
Whether or not your business should use payment aggregation depends on your specific needs. If you need a simple way to process credit and debit card payments, then payment aggregation may be a good option for you.
However, if you need more control over your credit and debit card processing or if you want to offer special discounts for certain types of payments, then you may want to consider a merchant account. Merchant accounts typically offer more features and benefits than payment aggregators.
If you’re not sure whether payment aggregation is right for your business, then you should speak with a merchant account provider. A merchant account provider can help you understand the benefits and disadvantages of payment aggregation and can help you decide if it’s the right solution for your business.