
Based on looking at the website, ABC Global Systems appears to be a company specializing in credit card processing and merchant services, aiming to provide businesses with solutions for accepting various forms of payment. The site highlights offerings such as “Zero Pricing,” which aims to eliminate processing fees for merchants, and “Merchant Cash Advance” options. While the convenience of modern payment systems is undeniable, and businesses need efficient ways to handle transactions, it’s crucial to approach financial services with a clear understanding of their underlying mechanisms. Some aspects of conventional financial systems, particularly those involving interest-based transactions or certain types of “cash advances,” can introduce complexities that are not aligned with ethical financial principles. Instead, businesses should prioritize solutions that emphasize transparency, fair exchange, and avoidance of speculative or interest-bearing arrangements.
The core of business should always revolve around honest trade, clear value exchange, and a commitment to equitable dealings.
While the pursuit of efficiency and cost-saving is valid, it should never come at the expense of sound financial principles.
For businesses seeking payment processing solutions, it’s wise to explore options that are built on a foundation of ethical practices, ensuring that transactions are mutually beneficial and free from any elements that could lead to unforeseen burdens or financial instability.
Focusing on legitimate, value-driven services that support the real economy is always a superior approach compared to those that might rely on complex interest structures or potentially deceptive terms.
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
ABCGlobalSystems.com Review & First Look
Upon a preliminary review, ABCGlobalSystems.com presents itself as a long-standing player in the merchant services industry, claiming experience since 1990. The website is designed to convey a sense of professionalism and expertise, positioning the company as a leader in credit card merchant account acquisition.
They emphasize innovative and cost-effective solutions for businesses needing to accept credit card payments.
- Longevity Claim: The “since 1990” claim suggests a significant history in the industry, which can be a trust-builder for potential clients. However, the exact nature of their growth as “one of the fastest growing” acquirers is not immediately quantifiable on the homepage.
- Target Audience: Their services are clearly aimed at merchants, both small and large, who need to process credit, debit, and other digital payments.
- Core Promise: The overarching promise is savings and high-quality service, aiming to provide solutions without compromising the merchant’s business needs. This aligns with a common business objective of reducing operational costs while maintaining efficiency.
Initial Impressions of the Website Interface
The website’s structure is fairly standard for a business-to-business B2B service provider.
It features clear navigation menus, prominently displaying contact information, and outlining their main services.
- Navigation: Key sections like “Services,” “Products,” “Help,” and “About” are easily accessible from the header.
- Contact Information: A phone number 800 315 9306 is consistently visible at the top and bottom of the page, encouraging direct contact.
- Visuals: The site uses a clean layout with some stock imagery related to business transactions and payment terminals. It’s functional rather than flashy, which is typical for a B2B financial service.
- Call to Action: Phrases like “Contact Us Today” and “Everything You Need To Start Selling” are direct calls to action, guiding users toward engagement.
Stated Goals for Merchants
ABCGlobalSystems.com outlines several clear goals for its merchant clients, primarily focused on cost reduction and operational efficiency. Cheaplicensing.com Reviews
- Cost Elimination: The “Zero Pricing” model is aggressively advertised as a way to “eliminate all your processing rates completely,” specifically mentioning 0% on Visa, MasterCard, Amex, and Debit Cards, along with 0% transaction fees. This is a bold claim that would require detailed scrutiny of terms and conditions.
- Guaranteed Savings: For those not on the “Zero Pricing” model, they claim to guarantee “a saving of 30% to 75% on the interchange markup.” This suggests a competitive pricing structure compared to industry averages.
- Free Equipment: The offer of a “Free EMV Apple Pay and Android Pay Terminal” or an upgrade to a “Smart Terminal for Free” for qualified merchants is a significant incentive, reducing upfront costs for businesses.
- No Locked-in Contracts: The promise of “NO Locked in contract condition with our Service Satisfaction Guaranteed Addendum applied” aims to address a common pain point for merchants wary of long-term commitments with payment processors.
Transparency and Disclosure Overview
While the website highlights numerous benefits, a deeper dive into the specific terms and conditions would be necessary to fully assess transparency.
- Terms and Conditions/Privacy Policy: Links to “Privacy Policy” and “Terms and Conditions” are available in the footer, which is standard practice. Reviewing these documents is crucial for understanding the fine print, especially regarding the “Zero Pricing” model and “Merchant Cash Advance” services.
- “Zero Pricing” Mechanics: The website briefly explains “Zeropays Software” as a program “designed to have your customer pay you cash or purchase your gift card.” This implies a shift of the processing fee to the customer, rather than an outright elimination, which needs clear communication to merchants and their customers. This model, while potentially beneficial for the merchant, could impact customer experience and loyalty if not handled transparently.
- Merchant Cash Advance: The mention of “Merchant Cash Advance” immediately raises a flag for those adhering to ethical financial practices. These are often structured as high-cost, short-term advances against future sales, and can easily involve implicit interest rates that are not transparently disclosed as such. Businesses considering such options should be extremely cautious and explore alternatives rooted in ethical lending principles or profit-sharing arrangements.
Understanding Merchant Cash Advances: A Critical Look
ABCGlobalSystems.com prominently features “Merchant Cash Advance” MCA as one of its services.
While presented as a solution for businesses needing quick capital, it is imperative to understand the nature of MCAs and why they often represent a financially precarious option, particularly when viewed through the lens of ethical financial conduct.
Unlike traditional loans, MCAs are not governed by the same usury laws, and their cost can be exceptionally high, often blurring the lines of what constitutes interest.
What is a Merchant Cash Advance?
A Merchant Cash Advance is essentially a lump-sum payment provided to a business in exchange for a percentage of its future credit and debit card sales. Thirteen-thirtyone.com Reviews
The provider advances funds, and in return, they take a fixed percentage of daily or weekly sales until the advance is repaid.
- Repayment Mechanism: Repayment is typically done through automated daily or weekly debits from the merchant’s processing account. This means if sales are high, repayment is faster. if sales are low, repayment is slower.
- Factor Rate: Instead of an interest rate, MCAs use a “factor rate” e.g., 1.25. If a business receives $10,000 with a factor rate of 1.25, they will repay $12,500. This $2,500 difference is the cost of the advance.
- No Fixed Term: Unlike a loan with a set repayment schedule, an MCA’s repayment timeline is variable, depending on sales volume. This can create uncertainty for the business.
Why Merchant Cash Advances Are Often Detrimental
While a quick infusion of cash might seem appealing, MCAs carry significant risks and often lead to a cycle of debt.
The structure of MCAs makes them inherently problematic from an ethical standpoint due to their high cost and lack of transparency regarding the true “interest” equivalent.
- Exorbitant Costs: When converted to an equivalent Annual Percentage Rate APR, the cost of an MCA can range from 40% to 350% or even higher. For example, a $10,000 advance with a factor rate of 1.25 repaid over six months effectively translates to an APR well over 50%. This can severely erode a business’s profitability.
- Debt Spiral Risk: Businesses often resort to MCAs when traditional financing isn’t available due to poor credit or cash flow issues. The high cost of the MCA can then exacerbate these problems, forcing businesses to take out additional advances to repay the first, leading to a dangerous debt spiral. Data from various financial advisory groups indicates that businesses that rely on MCAs often face recurring cash flow shortages.
- Aggressive Collection Practices: If sales decline, the daily debits can become crippling, leading to default. MCA providers can be aggressive in their collection efforts, which may include seizing assets or pursuing legal action.
- Lack of Regulation: Unlike traditional loans, MCAs are largely unregulated, meaning they don’t always fall under usury laws designed to protect borrowers from predatory lending. This regulatory gap allows providers to charge exorbitant fees.
- Impact on Cash Flow: The daily or weekly repayment debits can significantly strain a business’s cash flow, making it difficult to cover operational expenses, payroll, or invest in growth.
Better Alternatives for Business Funding
Rather than resorting to high-cost merchant cash advances, businesses should explore ethically sound and financially sustainable alternatives for funding.
These options align with principles of fair exchange and transparent dealings, fostering long-term stability. Akornature.fr Reviews
- Equity Financing: Seeking investment from partners or venture capitalists where they gain a share of the business’s ownership. This involves sharing profits and risks, rather than incurring debt.
- Profit-Sharing Agreements: Structuring agreements where external capital is provided in exchange for a share of future profits, without the burden of fixed interest or aggressive repayment schedules. This can be more flexible and align incentives.
- Revenue-Based Financing: Similar to profit-sharing, but based purely on a percentage of revenue. While some structures might mimic MCAs, truly ethical revenue-based financing focuses on lower, transparent percentages and mutually agreed-upon terms, without the predatory factor rates.
- Community Loans/Crowdfunding: Exploring local community development financial institutions CDFIs or ethical crowdfunding platforms that connect businesses with individuals or groups interested in supporting local enterprises, often with favorable terms.
- Trade Credit: Negotiating longer payment terms with suppliers can free up cash flow without incurring interest. Building strong relationships with suppliers can lead to more flexible arrangements.
- Leasing Equipment: Instead of buying equipment outright or through high-interest financing, leasing can be a cost-effective way to acquire necessary assets without significant upfront capital or debt.
- Optimizing Cash Flow: Implement strict budgeting, manage inventory efficiently, accelerate accounts receivable collections, and negotiate better terms with suppliers. A robust cash flow management strategy can often negate the need for external financing. Studies show that businesses with strong cash flow management can reduce their need for external funding by as much as 20-30%.
By focusing on these ethical alternatives, businesses can secure the necessary capital for growth without compromising their financial integrity or falling into the trap of predatory lending practices.
Zero Pricing and Interchange Plus Models: What They Mean
ABCGlobalSystems.com highlights two primary pricing models: “Zero Pricing” and “Interchange Pricing.” Understanding these models is critical for any merchant, as they dictate how processing fees are structured and ultimately affect a business’s bottom line.
Both have their nuances, and it’s important to see beyond the initial allure to the operational reality.
The “Zero Pricing” Model Explained
The “Zero Pricing” model, also referred to as a “cash discount program” or “surcharge program,” is designed to shift the cost of credit card processing directly to the customer.
While attractive on the surface to merchants, it requires careful implementation and transparency to avoid negatively impacting customer relations. Creersocietedubai.com Reviews
- How it Works:
- Customer Pays Fee: The merchant advertises a cash price for goods or services. If a customer chooses to pay with a credit card, a small service fee typically around 3-4% is added to the transaction to cover the processing costs.
- Merchant Savings: The merchant effectively pays 0% of the processing fees themselves, as the fee is passed on.
- POS System Integration: This requires a point-of-sale POS system capable of automatically calculating and applying this service fee. ABCGlobalSystems mentions “Zeropays Software,” which likely facilitates this.
- Benefits for Merchants:
- Eliminate Processing Fees: This is the primary draw, potentially leading to significant savings for businesses with high credit card transaction volumes.
- Increased Profit Margins: By removing processing costs, the gross profit margin on credit card sales can increase.
- Transparency Potentially: If implemented correctly, customers are made aware of the fee, which can be seen as transparent, though some customers may perceive it negatively.
- Drawbacks & Considerations for Merchants:
- Customer Perception: Some customers may view the added fee as an inconvenience or an unfair charge, potentially leading to decreased satisfaction or even lost sales. Research from consumer behavior studies indicates that up to 15-20% of consumers express reluctance or frustration when confronted with surcharges.
- Compliance: There are specific rules and regulations regarding surcharging in various states and by card networks Visa, MasterCard. Merchants must be compliant, which often means clear signage and proper disclosure at the point of sale. Currently, a handful of states still have surcharge bans, though these are diminishing.
- Impact on Sales: For businesses relying heavily on credit card payments, introducing a surcharge might deter some customers who prefer the convenience of plastic without added cost.
- Technical Implementation: The “Zeropays Software” must be robust and seamlessly integrated to avoid errors or customer confusion.
The “Interchange Pricing” Model Explained
Interchange Plus, also known as Interchange Pass-Through, is generally considered one of the most transparent pricing models in the payment processing industry.
It breaks down the processing fee into two main components: the interchange fee and the processor’s markup.
* Interchange Fee: This is a non-negotiable fee set by the card networks Visa, MasterCard, Discover, Amex and paid to the card-issuing bank. It varies based on card type rewards, corporate, debit, transaction type card-present, online, and merchant category. These rates can range from 0.05% + $0.20 to 2.50% + $0.10 or more per transaction.
* Processor Markup: This is the fee charged by the payment processor like ABCGlobalSystems for their services. It's typically a small percentage e.g., 0.10% to 0.50% plus a per-transaction fee e.g., $0.05 to $0.15.
* Total Cost: Merchant pays Interchange Fee + Processor Markup per transaction.
* Transparency: Merchants can clearly see what goes to the card networks interchange and what goes to their processor markup. This makes it easier to compare pricing across different processors.
* Cost Efficiency for High Volume: For businesses with high transaction volumes or high average ticket sizes, this model can often be more cost-effective than flat-rate pricing models.
* Negotiation Power: The processor's markup is negotiable, allowing merchants to potentially secure better rates.
* Complexity: Understanding the hundreds of different interchange rates can be daunting for merchants. The bill can be complex to interpret.
* Fluctuating Costs: Since interchange rates vary by card and transaction, the per-transaction cost is not fixed, which can make budgeting slightly more challenging compared to a flat-rate model.
* Processor Markup Variability: While transparent, the markup itself can still vary significantly between processors, requiring careful comparison. ABCGlobalSystems claims to guarantee savings of 30% to 75% on this markup, which is a significant boast.
Choosing the Right Model
The best pricing model depends heavily on a business’s specific needs, transaction volume, average ticket size, and customer base.
- Zero Pricing: Best for businesses with:
- A strong desire to eliminate processing fees entirely.
- A customer base that is likely to accept or already accustomed to surcharges/cash discounts.
- Lower transaction volumes where the per-transaction fee of other models might add up.
- Caution: Requires clear communication to customers and strict compliance with regulations.
- Interchange Plus: Best for businesses with:
- High transaction volumes or high average ticket sizes.
- A preference for transparency and control over their processing costs.
- The ability to monitor and understand detailed processing statements.
- Caution: Requires diligent comparison of processor markups.
Businesses should engage in thorough due diligence, requesting detailed quotes, understanding all potential fees monthly fees, PCI compliance fees, gateway fees, and reading the fine print of any contract.
Opting for models that offer clear transparency and avoid hidden costs aligns with sound financial principles. Tradebitcapital.com Reviews
ABCGlobalSystems.com Alternatives
Given the critical considerations around financial services, especially those involving potentially high-cost mechanisms like Merchant Cash Advances, exploring ethical and transparent alternatives to ABCGlobalSystems.com is paramount.
Businesses should seek out solutions that foster long-term financial health rather than quick, expensive fixes.
Halal-Compliant Payment Solutions
For businesses seeking payment processing that aligns with Islamic financial principles, the focus is on avoiding riba interest, gharar excessive uncertainty, and maysir gambling. While direct “halal payment processors” for credit cards are not yet mainstream in the same way Islamic banks are, the principles can be applied to how payment services are structured and chosen.
- Key Principles:
- Fee-Based, Not Interest-Based: The payment processor’s income should derive from clear service fees e.g., a flat per-transaction fee or a fixed monthly fee, not from interest levied on transactions or advances.
- Transparency: All fees should be clearly disclosed and understood, avoiding hidden charges or complex calculations that obscure the true cost.
- Asset-Backed or Service-Based: Any financing should be based on real assets or clear service exchanges, not purely on money lending with interest.
- How to Seek Them:
- Focus on Interchange-Plus with Low, Transparent Markups: This model, if the processor’s markup is genuinely a service fee and not disguised interest, comes closest to ethical transaction processing. Seek processors that charge a transparent, flat per-transaction fee or a low, fixed percentage markup.
- Avoid High-Interest “Cash Advance” Products: As discussed, these are highly problematic. Businesses should explicitly avoid any service that resembles an interest-bearing loan or high-cost short-term financing.
- Investigate Business Practices: Look for processors with a reputation for ethical dealings, clear contracts, and responsive customer service.
- Consider Peer-to-Peer P2P Lending Platforms Ethical Model: Some P2P platforms are emerging that focus on profit-sharing or ethical investment models for small businesses, where investors share in the business’s success rather than earning fixed interest. These are still developing but represent a promising ethical alternative.
Traditional Merchant Account Providers
Many established and reputable merchant account providers offer competitive rates and a variety of services, often with more transparency than the most aggressive “zero-cost” or cash advance models.
- Stripe:
- Focus: Online businesses, e-commerce, software platforms.
- Pricing: Simple, flat-rate pricing e.g., 2.9% + $0.30 per online transaction, but also offers custom enterprise pricing.
- Pros: Developer-friendly APIs, robust platform, supports global payments, comprehensive suite of tools invoicing, subscriptions.
- Cons: Can be more expensive for high-volume, low-ticket transactions, customer support can be less personalized.
- Data Point: Stripe processes hundreds of billions of dollars annually for millions of businesses, indicating a massive global footprint.
- Square:
- Focus: Small businesses, mobile payments, in-person sales.
- Pricing: Flat-rate pricing e.g., 2.6% + $0.10 for in-person transactions, 2.9% + $0.30 for online. Offers a free magstripe reader.
- Pros: User-friendly, free POS software, easy setup, comprehensive ecosystem payroll, invoicing, online store.
- Cons: Flat-rate pricing can be more expensive for larger businesses. limited customization for complex needs.
- Data Point: Square reported gross payment volume of $48.9 billion in Q4 2023, showcasing its widespread adoption by small and medium-sized businesses.
- Fiserv formerly First Data:
- Focus: Enterprise-level businesses, large retailers, banks.
- Pricing: Often custom, typically Interchange Plus, requiring negotiation.
- Pros: Robust infrastructure, global reach, wide range of solutions, high processing capacity.
- Cons: Less suitable for small businesses, contracts can be complex, often involves multiple layers of resellers.
- Data Point: Fiserv is one of the largest payment processors globally, handling billions of transactions annually.
- PayPal Zettle formerly iZettle:
- Focus: Small businesses, mobile POS, in-person sales.
- Pricing: Flat-rate per transaction, similar to Square.
- Pros: Easy to use, integrates with PayPal ecosystem, portable card readers.
- Cons: Can be more expensive for high-volume, lower-margin businesses.
- Helcim:
- Focus: Small to medium-sized businesses, e-commerce, in-person.
- Pricing: Interchange Plus with transparent, tiered markups that decrease with volume.
- Pros: Known for transparency and customer service, no monthly fees for low volume, good for online and in-person.
- Cons: Might not offer the same level of integrated ecosystem as Square or Stripe.
Ethical Business Funding Alternatives
Instead of relying on high-cost cash advances, businesses should consider funding options that are more aligned with sustainable growth and ethical principles: Ebcbrakes.com Reviews
- Bootstrapping: Self-funding through initial personal savings, retained earnings, and careful management of expenses. This builds resilience and self-reliance.
- Traditional Bank Loans Conventional: While traditional loans can involve interest riba, businesses should prioritize those with the lowest possible, transparent interest rates, and ideally, those with clear, fixed repayment schedules. For those strictly avoiding riba, these are still problematic.
- Community Development Financial Institutions CDFIs: These organizations offer financial services to underserved communities and small businesses, often with more flexible terms and lower interest rates than conventional lenders, though interest may still be involved.
- Angel Investors & Venture Capital Equity: For high-growth businesses, seeking equity investment means giving up a portion of ownership in exchange for capital. This aligns with profit-sharing and mutual benefit, avoiding debt.
- Small Business Grants: Government agencies and non-profit organizations offer grants that do not need to be repaid. These are highly competitive but ideal. For example, in 2023, the U.S. Small Business Administration SBA disbursed over $450 million in grant funding through various programs.
- Friends and Family Ethical Investment: If approached as an ethical investment or partnership with clear terms e.g., profit-sharing, or a qard hasan – benevolent loan without interest, this can be a viable option.
When choosing a payment processor or seeking funding, comprehensive research, comparison of detailed proposals, and a thorough understanding of all terms and conditions are paramount.
Prioritizing transparency, fair fees, and sustainable financial practices will always lead to better long-term outcomes for any business.
Contract Terms: Understanding “No Locked-in Contract” and Addendums
ABCGlobalSystems.com makes a significant claim: “NO Locked in contract condition with our Service Satisfaction Guaranteed Addendum applied.” This statement aims to alleviate a common fear among merchants—being tied into long, inflexible agreements with payment processors.
However, the mention of an “Addendum” necessitates a closer look, as these often contain crucial details that can alter the perceived flexibility.
Deconstructing “No Locked-in Contract”
The phrase “no locked-in contract” is highly appealing, especially in an industry notorious for multi-year commitments, early termination fees, and automatic renewals. Hannoverspots.com Reviews
For merchants, this implies freedom and control over their service provider choice.
- What it Typically Means:
- Month-to-Month Service: Ideally, it means the service operates on a month-to-month basis, allowing the merchant to cancel with a short notice period e.g., 30 days without incurring penalties.
- No Early Termination Fees ETFs: A major benefit is the absence of hefty fees often hundreds or thousands of dollars for canceling before a contract term expires.
- Flexibility: It grants businesses the flexibility to switch providers if they find better rates, improved service, or if their business needs change.
The Role of the “Service Satisfaction Guaranteed Addendum”
The inclusion of an “Addendum” alongside the “no locked-in contract” promise is a red flag that warrants meticulous examination.
Addendums are supplementary documents that modify or add to the main terms of a contract.
They can introduce conditions that subtly negate or limit the apparent benefits of the primary agreement.
- Potential Clauses to Look For in the Addendum:
- Equipment Leases: While ABCGlobalSystems.com offers “Free Terminal” for qualified merchants, this “free” offer might be contingent on a separate, non-cancelable equipment lease agreement. These leases can sometimes extend for several years and carry their own early termination penalties, effectively locking a merchant in even if the processing agreement is “month-to-month.” Equipment leases often have high implicit interest rates when the total cost is factored in.
- Minimum Processing Volumes/Fees: The addendum might stipulate minimum monthly processing volumes or minimum monthly fees. If a merchant falls below these thresholds, they could be charged a penalty or a higher effective rate, even if they aren’t technically “locked in.”
- Cancellation Notice Periods: While there might be no “locked-in” term, the addendum could specify an extended cancellation notice period e.g., 60 or 90 days or require cancellation in a specific format e.g., certified mail that can make leaving more cumbersome.
- Non-Compete or Exclusivity Clauses: Less common in basic processing, but possible, are clauses that limit a merchant’s ability to use other processors for a certain period.
- Price Adjustment Mechanisms: The addendum might outline conditions under which pricing can be unilaterally adjusted by the processor, potentially leading to unexpected cost increases despite the initial “satisfaction guarantee.”
- Automated Renewal Clauses: Even if the initial term is short or month-to-month, automatic renewal clauses can silently extend the agreement unless explicit action is taken to cancel.
The Importance of Reading the Fine Print
For any business, especially when dealing with financial services, the importance of reading and understanding every single document, including addendums, cannot be overstated. Meetafricasafari.com Reviews
- Request All Documents Upfront: Before signing anything, demand copies of the primary service agreement, the “Service Satisfaction Guaranteed Addendum,” and any equipment lease agreements.
- Scrutinize “Free” Offers: “Free terminals” often come with strings attached, such as long-term equipment leases or specific processing volume commitments.
- Understand Total Cost of Ownership: Look beyond the advertised processing rates to understand all monthly fees, annual fees, PCI compliance fees, gateway fees, and potential early termination fees from any part of the agreement e.g., equipment leases.
- Seek Independent Review: If possible, have a trusted legal or financial advisor review the contract before committing. This is especially true for small business owners who may not have legal expertise.
Statistic: A study by the Electronic Transactions Association ETA revealed that nearly 25% of merchant complaints regarding payment processing services stem from undisclosed fees or misunderstood contract terms, highlighting the critical need for due diligence.
While “no locked-in contract” is an attractive promise, true flexibility and transparency lie in the details of the “Addendum” and overall terms.
Businesses should prioritize clarity and avoid any agreements that could trap them in unforeseen financial obligations or predatory practices.
How to Approach Canceling an ABCGlobalSystems.com Subscription/Service
Should a merchant find themselves needing to cancel services with ABCGlobalSystems.com, or any payment processor for that matter, a structured and meticulous approach is essential.
Despite claims of “no locked-in contracts,” the presence of addendums and potential equipment leases means that careful steps must be followed to avoid unforeseen charges or complications. Sighs.dk Reviews
General Steps for Canceling Merchant Services
The process for canceling merchant services generally involves several key stages, each requiring documentation and persistence.
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Review Your Contracts Thoroughly:
- Identify all agreements: This includes the primary service agreement, the “Service Satisfaction Guaranteed Addendum,” and any separate equipment lease agreements.
- Note cancellation clauses: Look for specific instructions regarding notice periods e.g., 30, 60, or 90 days, required methods of notification e.g., written notice, certified mail, specific email address, and any potential early termination fees ETFs or other charges.
- Check equipment return policies: Understand if you need to return any “free” terminals or leased equipment, where to send them, and by what deadline. Failure to return equipment can result in significant unreturned equipment fees or continued lease payments.
- Identify auto-renewal clauses: Determine if your contract automatically renews for a specific term e.g., one year unless you cancel before a certain date.
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Contact Customer Service:
- Initiate contact: Call ABCGlobalSystems.com customer service 800 315 9306 to express your intent to cancel. Be polite but firm.
- Request confirmation: Ask for the exact cancellation procedure and the name/ID of the representative. Request that all details be sent to you in writing via email or postal mail.
- Be prepared for retention efforts: Processors often have a “retention” department. They may offer incentives to keep you. Evaluate these offers carefully, but stick to your decision if you’re set on canceling.
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Submit Written Cancellation Notice:
- Follow contract specifics: Send a formal written cancellation notice as per the instructions in your contracts – usually via certified mail with a return receipt requested. This provides undeniable proof of delivery and the date it was received.
- Include essential information: Your business name, merchant ID, account number, contact information, and a clear statement of your intent to cancel.
- Keep copies: Retain copies of the notice, postal receipt, and any communication.
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Verify Account Closure and Final Bill: Totallytradedirect.co.uk Reviews
- Monitor bank statements: After the expected cancellation date, meticulously check your bank accounts for any further debits from ABCGlobalSystems.com or its affiliates.
- Request a final statement: Ask for a zero-balance statement or a confirmation of account closure in writing.
- Address any discrepancies: If unauthorized charges appear or you don’t receive confirmation, immediately follow up with the company and consider contacting your bank to dispute charges if necessary.
Specific Considerations for “Free Trial” Cancellation
While the ABCGlobalSystems.com website doesn’t explicitly advertise a “free trial” in the traditional sense, some of their offers, such as “free terminals” or initial “guaranteed savings,” might implicitly function like trial periods for a new service.
If such a trial exists or if you’re in the initial phase of a service that feels like a trial, the cancellation process is similar but often has stricter timelines.
- Identify Trial End Date: Be acutely aware of the exact end date of any trial or introductory period.
- Early Cancellation: Initiate cancellation well before the trial period ends to avoid being automatically converted to a paid service or incurring unreturned equipment fees. A good rule of thumb is to send cancellation notice at least 7-10 business days before the trial concludes.
- Specific Trial Terms: Review the trial terms for any unique cancellation requirements, such as contacting a specific department or using a dedicated cancellation portal.
- Equipment Return If Applicable: Ensure any equipment provided during the trial is returned exactly as stipulated to avoid charges.
Example Scenario: A business signs up for “Zero Pricing” with a “Free Terminal” and discovers after two months that their customers are unhappy with the added surcharge. Even if the processing agreement is “month-to-month,” they must confirm there isn’t a separate equipment lease that locks them in for 2-3 years, making the “free” terminal quite costly upon early termination. The average equipment lease for a payment terminal can range from $30 to $100 per month, often totaling $1,000-$3,600 over a 3-year term for a device that could be purchased outright for $300-$600. This hidden cost can effectively negate the “no locked-in contract” promise.
A proactive and well-documented approach to cancellation is key to a smooth transition and avoiding unexpected financial burdens.
Comparing ABCGlobalSystems.com Pricing and Offerings
When evaluating ABCGlobalSystems.com, it’s essential to compare their pricing models and core offerings against competitors to determine their actual value proposition. Baristaparts.ca Reviews
While specific rates are often customized and require direct contact, their public claims about “Zero Pricing” and “Interchange Pricing” set the stage for comparison.
ABCGlobalSystems.com Pricing Overview
Based on the website, ABCGlobalSystems.com primarily pushes two distinct pricing models:
- “Zero Pricing” Surcharge/Cash Discount Program:
- Claimed Benefit: “Eliminate all your processing rates completely. 0% on Visa, MasterCard, Amex, and Debit Cards. 0% transaction fees, no locked-in contract, free state of the art terminal. No more annual rate increases and No hidden fees.”
- Mechanism: Customers pay a service fee when using a credit card, effectively shifting the processing cost away from the merchant.
- Implicit Cost: While the merchant pays 0%, the customer incurs a surcharge typically 3-4%, which can impact customer satisfaction and loyalty. The true cost is transferred, not eliminated.
- “Interchange Pricing” Interchange Plus:
- Claimed Benefit: “Guarantees a saving of 30% to 75% on the interchange markup.”
- Mechanism: Merchant pays the direct interchange fee set by card networks plus a transparent markup from ABCGlobalSystems.com.
- Implicit Cost: While more transparent, the actual markup percentage and per-transaction fee charged by ABCGlobalSystems.com are not publicly disclosed and would require a direct quote. The “30% to 75% saving” claim is a comparison to undisclosed benchmarks.
Comparing Against Industry Standards
Let’s put ABCGlobalSystems.com’s stated offerings into context by comparing them to common industry pricing models and what leading competitors provide.
1. Flat-Rate Pricing e.g., Square, Stripe
- How it Works: A single, fixed percentage plus a per-transaction fee e.g., 2.9% + $0.30 for online, 2.6% + $0.10 for in-person.
- Pros: Simplicity, predictability, easy to understand. Ideal for small businesses or those with fluctuating volumes.
- Cons: Can be more expensive for high-volume, high-ticket transactions compared to optimized Interchange Plus.
- Comparison to ABCGlobalSystems.com:
- Zero Pricing: Fundamentally different. Zero Pricing shifts cost to customer, while flat-rate absorbs it into merchant’s operating expense. A business using Zero Pricing might save more on direct fees but risk customer backlash, while a flat-rate user has clear, predictable costs.
- Interchange Pricing: Flat-rate is less transparent than Interchange Plus as it doesn’t break down interchange from processor markup. However, the simplicity often outweighs this for smaller businesses.
2. Tiered Pricing Less Common, Often Problematic
- How it Works: Transactions are categorized into “qualified,” “mid-qualified,” and “non-qualified” tiers, each with different rates. Non-qualified rates are significantly higher.
- Pros: Can appear low at first glance for “qualified” transactions.
- Cons: Extremely opaque, difficult to predict costs, many transactions fall into higher-cost “non-qualified” tiers. Often viewed as a predatory model.
- Comparison to ABCGlobalSystems.com: ABCGlobalSystems.com doesn’t explicitly mention tiered pricing, which is a positive. Their Interchange Plus model is superior to tiered pricing in terms of transparency.
3. Equipment Offerings
- ABCGlobalSystems.com: Offers “Free EMV Apple Pay and Android Pay Terminal or upgrade to a Smart Terminal for Free” for qualified merchants.
- Competitors Square, Stripe:
- Square: Offers a free magstripe reader to start. More advanced POS hardware terminals, registers are purchased outright e.g., Square Terminal for $299, Square Register for $799.
- Stripe: Primarily focused on software, but partners with hardware providers. Businesses typically source their own compatible hardware.
- Comparison: The “free terminal” offer from ABCGlobalSystems.com is competitive on the surface, but requires verification of any associated equipment lease agreements, which can negate the “free” aspect with long-term, high-cost commitments if not purchased outright. Many processors offer “free” or low-cost equipment in exchange for a contract.
Conclusion on Pricing and Offerings
ABCGlobalSystems.com’s “Zero Pricing” model is an aggressive strategy to attract merchants by appealing to the desire to eliminate processing fees.
However, this comes with the potential trade-off of customer dissatisfaction and requires strict compliance. Tacticalthings.co.uk Reviews
Their “Interchange Pricing” model, if truly transparent with a competitive markup, could be a solid option.
Key Questions for ABCGlobalSystems.com:
- What is the actual surcharge percentage under “Zero Pricing”?
- What are the exact markup percentages and per-transaction fees under “Interchange Pricing”?
- Are there any monthly, annual, PCI compliance, or gateway fees for either model?
- What are the terms of the “Free Terminal” offer? Is it a true gift, or is it tied to an equipment lease with early termination penalties?
Before committing, a business should obtain a detailed, written quote that breaks down all potential fees and thoroughly review the contract, including any addendums or separate equipment agreements, to ensure full transparency and avoid hidden costs.
Always prioritize clear, ethical financial arrangements over seemingly attractive, but potentially complex, deals.
How to Cancel ABCGlobalSystems.com Subscription
While the website does not explicitly detail a “subscription” service in the traditional sense, merchant services often imply an ongoing agreement. Cursosenpromocion.com Reviews
Canceling any ongoing service with ABCGlobalSystems.com, particularly if it involves processing accounts or equipment, requires a clear, systematic approach.
The Cancellation Checklist: Ensuring a Smooth Exit
To avoid lingering charges or contractual disputes, follow this detailed checklist when aiming to discontinue services with ABCGlobalSystems.com.
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Retrieve All Contract Documents:
- Main Service Agreement: This is the primary contract outlining the terms of your merchant account.
- “Service Satisfaction Guaranteed Addendum”: This supplemental document may contain critical clauses about cancellation notice periods, penalties, or conditions for the “no locked-in contract” claim.
- Equipment Lease Agreement: If you received a “free terminal” or leased any equipment, there will likely be a separate lease contract. This is the most common source of hidden long-term fees when canceling. Verify if it’s a true lease, a rental, or an outright purchase. Many equipment leases are non-cancelable for the term e.g., 36 or 48 months, meaning you’d owe the remaining payments even if you stop processing.
- Application/Sign-up Forms: Sometimes these contain fine print regarding initial terms or cancellation.
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Identify Key Cancellation Terms:
- Notice Period: Most merchant service agreements require a 30-day, 60-day, or even 90-day written notice prior to cancellation. Failure to provide adequate notice can result in charges for an additional billing cycle.
- Method of Notification: Does the contract require certified mail, a specific email, or a phone call followed by written confirmation? Always opt for methods that provide proof of delivery.
- Early Termination Fees ETFs: While ABCGlobalSystems.com claims “no locked-in contract,” examine the “Service Satisfaction Guaranteed Addendum” and the equipment lease for any ETFs. These can range from a few hundred dollars to thousands. A 2022 industry survey indicated that over 30% of small businesses who experienced issues with payment processors cited unexpected fees, including ETFs, as a major concern.
- Equipment Return Policy: Confirm how and where to return any terminals or hardware. Document the return shipping tracking numbers, photos of packaged equipment. Keep proof of shipment indefinitely.
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Prepare Your Cancellation Communication: Wave-computer.de Reviews
- Formal Written Letter: Draft a clear, concise letter stating your intent to cancel all services.
- Include all relevant details: Your business legal name, DBA Doing Business As name, merchant ID number, account numbers, and the effective date of cancellation allowing for the required notice period.
- State the reason optional but helpful: Briefly stating your reason e.g., “switching providers,” “business closure” can sometimes streamline the process.
- Request Confirmation: Explicitly request a written confirmation of your account closure and that all associated fees have been settled.
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Execute the Cancellation:
- Send Certified Mail Highly Recommended: Mail your written cancellation letter via certified mail with a return receipt requested. This is undeniable proof of delivery and the date it was received.
- Follow Up with a Phone Call: After mailing the letter, call ABCGlobalSystems.com customer service. Reference your mailed letter and reiterate your cancellation request. Note the date, time, and name/ID of the representative.
- Return Equipment if applicable: Ship any equipment as per the contract terms, again using a trackable method and retaining proof.
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Monitor Your Bank Statements:
- Post-Cancellation Period: For several months after the expected cancellation date, diligently check your business bank account for any debits from ABCGlobalSystems.com or its affiliated entities e.g., equipment lease companies.
- Dispute Unauthorized Charges: If you see any charges you believe are unwarranted after cancellation, immediately contact your bank to dispute them and provide all your documentation cancellation letter, certified mail receipt, equipment return tracking, call logs.
By adhering to these steps, a merchant can navigate the cancellation process with minimal friction and maximum protection against unexpected costs, upholding the principles of clear, ethical financial disengagement.
Essential Due Diligence for Any Payment Processor
Regardless of who you choose for payment processing, conducting thorough due diligence is paramount. This isn’t just about finding the cheapest rate.
It’s about securing a transparent, reliable, and ethically sound partnership for your business’s financial transactions. Easydna.fi Reviews
1. Understand All Fees and Their Structure
The advertised “rate” is often just one piece of a complex puzzle.
Hidden or obscure fees can quickly inflate your actual costs.
- Request a Full Fee Disclosure: Ask for a comprehensive breakdown of every single fee you might incur. This includes:
- Transaction Fees: Per-transaction fee, percentage markup for Interchange Plus, or surcharge for Zero Pricing.
- Monthly Fees: Account fees, statement fees, gateway fees.
- Annual Fees: Often called “annual membership” or “compliance” fees.
- PCI Compliance Fees: Charged monthly or annually for maintaining Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard compliance. These can be additional if you’re not compliant.
- Batch Fees: Fee for settling your daily transactions.
- Chargeback Fees: Fees incurred when a customer disputes a transaction can range from $15-$50 per incident.
- Setup Fees: One-time fees to establish your account.
- Early Termination Fees ETFs: Fees for canceling your contract before its term expires.
- Unreturned Equipment Fees: Charges if leased equipment isn’t returned properly.
- Ask for an Effective Rate Calculation: Provide your average monthly processing volume and average transaction size, and ask the processor to calculate your “effective rate”—your total fees divided by your total processing volume. This gives you a true cost. For example, a business processing $10,000 monthly with $250 in fees has an effective rate of 2.5%.
- Understand Pricing Models: Confirm if the pricing is Interchange Plus, Tiered avoid if possible, or Flat-Rate, and know how each will impact your specific business.
2. Scrutinize Contract Terms and Length
This is where many businesses get trapped.
A verbal promise of “no locked-in contract” can be entirely negated by fine print.
- Contract Length: How long is the initial term? Does it automatically renew? If so, for how long e.g., 1 year, 2 years?
- Cancellation Policy: What is the required notice period for cancellation? Does it need to be in writing always assume yes?
- Equipment Lease vs. Purchase: If you’re getting a “free” terminal, is it truly free owned by you, or is it part of a separate, non-cancelable lease agreement? Many businesses sign separate, long-term equipment leases for devices that cost a fraction of the total lease payments. Always request a copy of the equipment agreement.
- Rate Increase Clauses: Does the contract allow the processor to unilaterally increase rates or introduce new fees?
- Holdbacks and Reserves: For some businesses, processors might hold back a percentage of transactions as a reserve. Understand if this applies to you and the terms of release.
3. Evaluate Customer Support and Service
When issues arise and they will, responsive and knowledgeable customer support is invaluable.
- Availability: Is support available 24/7, or only during business hours?
- Channels: Phone, email, chat, dedicated account manager?
- Reputation: Check online reviews e.g., Google Reviews, Better Business Bureau, industry-specific forums for feedback on customer service quality. Look for recurring themes of difficulty resolving issues or long wait times. Pay attention to how the company responds to negative feedback.
4. Consider Technology and Integration
The payment processor’s technology should seamlessly integrate with your existing systems and support your operational needs.
- POS System Compatibility: Will their terminals and software work with your current point-of-sale POS system?
- E-commerce Integration: If you sell online, do they offer easy integration with your e-commerce platform e.g., Shopify, WooCommerce, Magento?
- Reporting: What kind of reporting and analytics do they provide? Can you easily track transactions, analyze sales data, and reconcile accounts?
- Security Features: What security measures are in place to protect sensitive cardholder data e.g., tokenization, encryption, fraud prevention tools?
- Mobile Processing: If you need to accept payments on the go, do they offer reliable mobile solutions?
5. Check Reputation and Complaints
Researching a company’s standing in the industry and how they handle disputes can provide significant insight.
- Better Business Bureau BBB: Check their BBB rating and read customer complaints and resolutions.
- Online Review Sites: Look at industry-specific review sites e.g., Merchant Maverick, Capterra, G2, Trustpilot as well as general review platforms. Look for patterns in complaints, particularly regarding hidden fees, misleading sales tactics, or cancellation difficulties.
- Regulatory Actions: Search for any regulatory actions or lawsuits against the company.
By meticulously going through these due diligence steps, businesses can make informed decisions, protecting their financial health and ensuring a transparent and ethically sound payment processing partnership.
This thorough approach is far more beneficial than solely focusing on a low advertised rate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ABCGlobalSystems.com?
ABCGlobalSystems.com is a company that provides credit card processing and merchant services, helping businesses accept various forms of payments for their goods and services.
They offer solutions like “Zero Pricing” and “Merchant Cash Advance.”
How does ABCGlobalSystems.com’s “Zero Pricing” work?
The “Zero Pricing” model is designed to eliminate processing fees for the merchant by having the customer pay a small service fee when they choose to use a credit or debit card.
The merchant advertises a cash price, and a surcharge is added for card payments.
Is “Zero Pricing” truly 0% for the merchant?
Yes, for the merchant, the direct processing fees are effectively 0% as they are passed on to the customer as a surcharge.
However, it’s crucial to understand that the cost is simply transferred, not eliminated, and requires transparency with customers.
What is Interchange Pricing with ABCGlobalSystems.com?
Interchange Pricing, also known as Interchange Plus, is a transparent model where the merchant pays the direct interchange fee set by card networks plus a fixed markup from ABCGlobalSystems.com for their processing services.
ABCGlobalSystems.com claims to guarantee savings on this markup.
Does ABCGlobalSystems.com offer free terminals?
Yes, ABCGlobalSystems.com advertises that qualified merchants can receive a “Free EMV Apple Pay and Android Pay Terminal” or upgrade to a “Smart Terminal for Free.” It is important to confirm the terms of this offer, including any associated equipment leases or hidden fees.
Are there hidden fees with ABCGlobalSystems.com?
While ABCGlobalSystems.com states “No hidden fees” on its website, any financial service requires a thorough review of the full contract, including any addendums and equipment lease agreements, to identify all potential charges e.g., monthly fees, PCI compliance fees, annual fees, early termination fees for equipment leases.
What is a Merchant Cash Advance MCA offered by ABCGlobalSystems.com?
A Merchant Cash Advance is a lump-sum payment provided to a business in exchange for a percentage of its future credit and debit card sales.
Repayment occurs through automated daily or weekly debits from the merchant’s processing account.
Are Merchant Cash Advances ethical or beneficial for my business?
Merchant Cash Advances are generally not considered beneficial or ethically sound due to their extremely high effective APRs often 40% to 350% or more and potential to lead businesses into a debt spiral.
They are largely unregulated and can be very costly compared to traditional financing.
What are better alternatives to Merchant Cash Advances?
Ethical alternatives include equity financing, profit-sharing agreements, revenue-based financing with transparent terms, community loans, trade credit, optimizing cash flow, or seeking small business grants.
How can I cancel my service with ABCGlobalSystems.com?
To cancel, you should review your entire contract including addendums and equipment leases for cancellation terms, required notice periods e.g., 30-90 days, and preferred notification methods e.g., certified mail. Send a formal written cancellation letter and keep all documentation.
What is the “Service Satisfaction Guaranteed Addendum”?
This is a supplemental document that likely accompanies your main service agreement.
While ABCGlobalSystems.com claims “NO Locked in contract condition,” this addendum may contain specific terms related to cancellation, equipment returns, or other conditions that clarify or modify the main agreement.
Can I be charged an Early Termination Fee ETF by ABCGlobalSystems.com?
While they state “no locked-in contract,” it’s crucial to check the “Service Satisfaction Guaranteed Addendum” and any separate equipment lease agreements for clauses regarding ETFs.
Equipment leases, in particular, often have non-cancelable terms that can result in significant fees if terminated early.
Do I need to return the terminal if I cancel service?
Yes, if the terminal was provided as part of a lease or rental agreement even if initially advertised as “free”, you will likely need to return it as per the terms of that agreement to avoid unreturned equipment fees or continued lease payments. Always get proof of shipment.
How does ABCGlobalSystems.com compare to Square or Stripe?
ABCGlobalSystems.com offers “Zero Pricing” and “Interchange Pricing,” which differ from Square’s and Stripe’s typical flat-rate pricing models.
Square and Stripe are known for their ease of use, integrated POS systems, and simple pricing, while ABCGlobalSystems.com focuses on potentially deeper cost savings through specific pricing structures.
What kind of POS systems does ABCGlobalSystems.com support?
ABCGlobalSystems.com lists various products like Clover Station, Clover Flex, Clover Mini, Clover Mobile, Clover Go, UP-Solution, POYNT Smart Terminal, and products from Verifone, Dejavoo, and PAX Technology, suggesting broad compatibility with common POS hardware.
Does ABCGlobalSystems.com offer services for mail, phone, or web processing?
Yes, the website lists “Mail, Phone, Web Processing” under its services, indicating that they support various channels beyond just in-person transactions.
Is ABCGlobalSystems.com suitable for small businesses?
ABCGlobalSystems.com aims to serve a wide range of merchants.
Their “Zero Pricing” could be attractive to small businesses looking to eliminate direct processing costs, but small businesses should carefully weigh the impact of customer surcharges.
What should I look for when signing a contract with any payment processor?
Always look for:
- Full Fee Disclosure: All fees listed in writing.
- Clear Contract Length: Understand the term and auto-renewal clauses.
- No Hidden Equipment Leases: Ensure “free” equipment isn’t tied to a long-term, non-cancelable lease.
- Transparent Cancellation Policy: Clear notice periods and no hidden ETFs.
- Reputation and Support: Check reviews and customer service quality.
How quickly can I get set up with ABCGlobalSystems.com?
The website doesn’t specify setup timeframes, but payment processor onboarding typically ranges from a few business days to a couple of weeks, depending on the complexity of your business and the required documentation.
Does ABCGlobalSystems.com offer virtual credit card processing?
Yes, “Virtual Credit Card” is listed under their services, suggesting they offer solutions for processing transactions securely without a physical card present, often through a virtual terminal on a computer.
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