Starting An Online Business - Do You Need A Merchant Account?

Online Business And Payment Processing

Most small businesses assume they need a merchant account to accept credit card payments. The fact of the matter is a merchant account comes in handy when you want to boost sales and accept credit card payments. You don't however have to sell a product or set up a merchant account to make money on the Web. There are a number of different choices including affiliate marketing that can help you earn commissions and a paycheck when you are just starting out on the Web.

You could for example set up a site that providers users and visitors with information about certain products and services. You could then send them to one of your affiliates using affiliate marketing techniques and earn a commission on every sale made.

Why do this instead of setting up your own sales portal and merchant account business? For one you won't have to deal with testy customers, store inventory or figure out how to deal with payment processing problems. There are multiple different programs on the web that can meet just about anyone's needs and interests.

Other Payment Options

If you are committed to selling your own product you can set up a merchant account inexpensively and easily, you just have to shop around. Another alternative is accepting payments through a third party processor. While there are advantages and disadvantages to both, it pays to explore all of your options when starting out on the Web so you invest as little as possible but realize the highest possible rate of return.

Article by Frank Owen, visit his web site on merchant account for more information on merchant accounts http://www.merchantaccountinsiders.com