Like many businesses in recent years, the adult entertainment industry has expanded its presence in the digital marketplace, allowing them to reach more customers with ease and efficiency. But with that comes a few drawbacks as well, one of them being the difficulty of securing a merchant account.
For those unfamiliar with the term, a merchant account is a type of bank account that enables businesses to process payments. This applies to different avenues, whether online, mobile, in-store, in-app, and the like.
In the case of adult merchants in the digital space, a merchant account is necessary for them to accept credit card payments from customers who order via their website or e-commerce platform.
However, due to the nature of their industry, such businesses are more prone to illegal activities, cases of identity fraud, and high chargebacks and refunds. As such, traditional banks, payment service providers, and credit card processing companies treat them as high-risk merchants.
This means a variety of difficulties when applying for a merchant account, like stricter underwriting requirements and a longer process. And in the rare chance that a merchant account is approved, there is still a risk of high payment processing fees, high reserve requirements, and account closure.
All that said, while it may sound like a tedious process, merchants will be happy to know that there are payment processing companies and providers who specialize in the adult entertainment industry. Many have built networks of bank partners and providers, which in turn help with an easier application process, more competitive rates, and more tailor-fit services for high-risk merchants.
In this article, we break down the best adult credit card processors for you to consider. Learn more about your options, and find a provider that is best suited to your business.
Businesses related to adult content or adult entertainment are considered high-risk merchants. In effect, when applying for a merchant account, they are subject to stricter requirements and a lengthier investigation period.
As such, it is important for businesses to choose from credit card processing companies with experience and expertise in adult merchants. Apart from an easier application process, they also offer customized solutions suitable for that industry.
One of the biggest downsides of high-risk merchants is the high credit card processing fees. Because they are more prone to chargebacks and penalties, processors charge high fees to prevent sudden expenses or losses on their end.
But with a processor or provider that specializes in high-risk merchants, businesses will benefit from their extensive network of domestic banks, gateway providers, and other financial institutions.
These partnerships give way to the most competitive fees. Moreover, they typically offer customized fees depending on the merchant’s business size, goals, and needs.
Similarly, chargeback protection is essential for adult businesses.
Chargeback is a result of fraudulent or disputed transactions, which is more common among high-risk industries. With a chargeback protection system, merchants have the luxury of investigating the legitimacy of a chargeback before it is processed by the bank. In turn, they get to avoid costly fees and the overall hassle.
As we all know, consumers of adult content must meet a certain age requirement.
As such, it is beneficial to choose a processor or provider that offers age verification tools to ensure purchases are legal.
Some processors and providers make it possible to accept credit card payments with discreet billing options, which give consumers peace of mind that their purchases and activities remain private. In this case, the customer’s billing statement does not contain details on the nature of their purchase.
Offering multiple payment options is another feature that may come in handy for adult entertainment merchants. This allows customers to choose among different payment forms like credit cards, debit cards, e-checks, ACH payments, and mobile payments.
Lastly, it is crucial to choose a credit card processor or merchant account provider compliant with the many rules and regulations surrounding adult entertainment. Apart from age requirements, this includes the permission or prohibition of specific adult content.
By taking this into account, merchants will avoid any legal issues or penalties.
In light of all these considerations, below is a list of the best adult credit card processors and merchant account providers for these types of businesses.
These companies have a proven history and track record of catering to high-risk industries. They offer specialized solutions and competitive rates that adult merchants can benefit from.
Host Merchant Services is a merchant account provider based in Newark, Delaware. They specialize in payment solutions for high-risk e-commerce merchants, including adult content providers.
One of their biggest advantages is the ability to accept credit card payments through different methods, like via an e-commerce website, virtual terminal, mobile software, or through gift and loyalty programs. Moreover, they offer offshore merchant accounts, which enables businesses to process international payments.
As seen in online review sites, most merchants share positive experiences with the company. They also praise their competitive fees, which follow an interchange-plus pricing model and no penalties for early termination.
Website: https://www.hostmerchantservices.com/
Address: 250 Corporate Blvd Suite L Newark, Delaware 19702
Contact number: (877) 517-4678
PaymentCloud is a merchant account provider based in Woodland Hills, California. They are known for their high-risk merchant accounts, including adult merchant accounts.
They provide fast, hassle-free approvals and a wide range of payment processing services. These include systems for online, retail, mobile, and virtual payments. Apart from online gateway integration, merchants can also opt for credit card terminals, EMV readers, and the like.
Website: https://paymentcloudinc.com/
Address: 16501 Ventura Blvd Ste 300, Encino, CA 91436
Contact number: (800) 988-2215
Shark Processing is a merchant account provider based in the United States but serves businesses within and outside the country. They specialize in high-risk merchant accounts, adult merchant accounts being one of them.
Their high-risk merchant solutions include secure payment processing and customized solutions based on unique business needs. They also work with a network of trusted banks around the world to ensure the lowest possible rates.
Website: https://sharkprocessing.com/
Address: 1309 Coffeen Avenue STE 3991, Sheridan, Wyoming, 82801
Email address: info@sharkprocessing.com
Contact number: (800) 567-3019
When it comes to choosing the best adult credit card processors, make sure you consider Shark Processing. With Shark Processing, businesses can apply for an Adult Merchant Account with the following benefits.
Once approved, merchants will have access to the following features to grow their adult business:
Apply through our website or give us a call, and we’ll guide you through the entire application process.
For any questions or concerns, contact us today, and we’ll be happy to assist you.
