Transparent Pricing: Understanding Interchange Plus

Interchange Plus (often called Cost Plus) is widely considered the most transparent and fair pricing model in credit card processing. It clearly separates the actual interchange fees (paid to the card-issuing banks) and card network assessments from the processor's fixed markup (the "plus" component). This model provides unparalleled clarity on your true costs, making it easier to verify that you're getting a competitive and equitable rate for your payment processing services.

Why Transparency Matters: The Interchange Plus Pricing Advantage

Unlike tiered or bundled pricing models that obscure the true cost of each transaction, Interchange Plus provides a detailed breakdown. You see the exact interchange fee that Visa, Mastercard, Discover, or American Express (for OptBlue) charges for each specific card type and transaction method, plus a small, consistent markup from your payment processor. This level of transparency means there are no hidden fees or "non-qualified" downgrades silently increasing your rates. For businesses with higher transaction volumes, or those looking for complete control and understanding of their costs, Interchange Plus is often the most cost-effective and desirable model.

How Our Analysis Confirms
Interchange Plus Savings

If you're already on an Interchange Plus model, or considering it, our merchant statement analysis ensures you're maximizing its benefits. We verify:

Markup
Competitiveness

Ensuring the "plus" component (the processor's markup) is truly competitive and not inflated.

True Interchange
Pass-Through

Confirming that the exact interchange and assessment fees are being passed through without padding or hidden adjustments.

Fee
Consistency

Checking that any additional fixed fees (e.g., per-transaction fees, monthly fees) are fair and clearly outlined.

Key Benefits of an Optimized Interchange Plus Model:

We help you leverage the full power of transparent pricing.

Maximum Transparency

See exactly what you're paying for each transaction, with no hidden surprises.

Lowest Possible Costs

Generally the most cost-effective model for most businesses, especially those with higher volumes.

Easier Negotiation

With clear markups, negotiating better terms with processors becomes more straightforward.

Increased Profitability

Retain more of your revenue by minimizing unnecessary processing fees.

Don't settle for opaque pricing models. Contact us today to schedule your merchant statement analysis. Let us help you understand and optimize the Interchange Plus model, ensuring your business benefits from the most transparent and competitive processing rates available.