What is a virtual terminal credit card machine?

A virtual terminal credit card machine refers to the presence of an online based credit card processing service that enables a merchant to accept credit card and personal/business check transactions directly on their website. This is a very convenient way for businesses both large and small to do business online, and since research has shown that consumers are more likely to make purchases that are convenient, it would behoove any business to jump on board with online credit card processing. Using a virtual terminal credit card machine is a secure, effective way to boost sales and generate new leads.

Who can use a virtual terminal credit card machine?

Virtually anyone who is looking to receive payments for goods purchased or services rendered can use a virtual credit card machine! Some good examples of virtual terminal credit card machine usage includes accepting credit card transaction via phone, fax and email, handling orders for a mail order company, processing credit card payments, and collecting donations for charities and other good causes. Of course, you'll also find everyday businesses, and many utility companies, taking advantage of the convenience and round-the-clock service that a virtual terminal credit card machine has to offer.

So, what can I do with a virtual terminal credit card machine?

With a virtual terminal credit card machine, you can handle transactions without having a customer physically in front of you quickly and flawlessly. You can use the service to manually process credit card transactions for phone and mail orders, process refunds when needed, set up recurring bills for customers who wish to have such an agreement, check on the status of transactions and sales, and pull up previous transactions as needed. As you can see, you can do a lot with a virtual terminal credit card machine!

What services come with a virtual terminal credit card machine?

While the exact specifications and costs can vary from one merchant provider to the next, in general you can expect to benefit from the following features of a virtual terminal credit card machine:
- Being able to accept all major bank issued credit cards and bank debit cards (these are debit cards that are connected to checking accounts, but can be run as a credit card for ease of use), and also personal checks
- Offer all of your services and receive payments for those services in one place
- Choose the equipment and/or software that's right for you!
- Competitive per transaction charges and other fees
- 24/7 customer support