Business Financial Stuff

On this page you’ll find some resources associated with the financial elements of running a business.

Updated in June 2020.

Taking Credit Cards

Many people today expect craft people to accept credit and debit cards. If you are exhibiting at craft fairs or shows, the ability to accept cards could mean the difference between making a sale or not. Here are some companies who offer mobile or wireless business card systems.

1st National Processing – USA

Credit card processing for all sizes of organization. Credit card machines and processing.

Charge.com – USA

Real-Time credit card processing with a Virtual Terminal, computer ecommerce software for either PC or Macintosh, or an electronic keypad terminal. No application fee. Accept checks from your customers over the phone, by fax or through the Internet via email or the World Wide Web – all set up for free. Easy on-line application process.

First American Bank – USA

Merchant services including processing online credit card transactions.

iZettle – UK, Europe, International

iZettle, the social payments company, creates services for person-to-person and business-to-consumer commerce. The first service includes an app and a mini chip-card reader that lets anyone take secure card payments anytime, anywhere.

Merchant Associates – USA

Mobile and wireless solutions for Crafters and Mobile Merchants. Units work with or without electricity and with or without a phone line. You pay a low swipe rate.Touch tone phone programs which allow you to process without a machine. Great program for low volume or seasonal merchants.

PayaTrader – UK

Payatrader is an affordable way for small businesses to accept payments by credit or debit card. This means you have more choice in the payment types you can accept from your customers, giving them greater flexibility and convenience.

Paypal – Worldwide

PayPal Commerce Platform is a comprehensive solution designed to help serve the needs of your business and your customers, whether you’re just getting started or already a thriving enterprise or marketplace. The platform lets you connect with more than 295 million PayPal customers around the world and across many platforms and marketplaces. Now you can find new markets, new channels, and new high-value customers. All while giving your customers the freedom to buy how they want—nearly anywhere in the world.

ProPay – USA

With ProPay, merchants can set up an account online and begin accepting credit cards without buying special equipment and making long-term commitments or investments. Once their accounts are set up, they can process transactions using ProPay’s online interface (virtual terminal), an API, a touch-tone telephone or an email invoice. You pay an annual fee based on the value of transactions you expect and the specific facilities you want to use. There is also a per transaction fee. Very cheap to set up for start ups. Highly recommended by metal clay artists.

Sam’s Club – USA

Merchant services provided by First Data. They provide credit card processing terminals. Apply online.