Master Merchant Processing & Save More
Welcome to Freedom Street’s Learning Hub—your go-to resource for understanding merchant processing, fees, and payment solutions. Whether you’re a small business owner, a startup, or an established merchant, this page will guide you through everything you need to know to take control of your processing costs and optimize your payment system.
Below, you’ll find key topics broken down into easy-to-understand guides. Each section links to in-depth blog posts that will help you make smarter financial decisions and avoid unnecessary fees.
Merchant Processing Basics (Start Here!)
What Is Merchant Processing & How Does It Work?
Key Terms Every Business Owner Should Know
The Step-by-Step Journey of a Credit Card Transaction
Understanding Fees & Hidden Costs (Don’t Overpay!)
Interchange Fees Explained: What You REALLY Pay For
The Truth About Markups: How Processors Make Money Off You
Common Unnecessary Add-Ons You Might Be Paying For
Tiered Pricing vs. Interchange-Plus: Which One Saves You More?
How to Negotiate Better Processing Rates & Lower Your Fees
Choosing the Right Payment Solutions for Your Business
Best Merchant Processors for Small Businesses in 2024
How to Choose the Right POS System for Your Industry
Mobile Payments vs. Traditional Terminals: What’s Best for You?
E-Commerce vs. In-Person Processing: Key Differences & Costs
ACH Payments vs. Credit Cards: Which One Saves You More?
Avoiding Scams, Contracts & Bad Deals
How to Spot & Avoid Merchant Processing Scams
Understanding Merchant Account Contracts & Avoiding Traps
Early Termination Fees: Are They Legit or a Scam?
Beware of ‘Free’ Credit Card Terminals – The Hidden Costs
How to Read & Understand Your Merchant Statement
Industry-Specific Merchant Processing Insights
Best Payment Processing Options for Restaurants
Retailers: How to Cut Down Processing Costs Without Hurting Sales
Service-Based Businesses: Should You Offer Card Payments?
E-Commerce: How to Reduce Chargebacks & Fraud
Nonprofits & Donations: Best Low-Fee Payment Solutions
Actionable Guides & Money-Saving Strategies
Step-by-Step: How to Switch Processors Without Downtime
How to Implement a Cash Discount Program Legally
Credit Card Surcharging: Is It Right for Your Business?
How to Lower Your Processing Fees Without Switching Providers
Merchant Processing Checklist: What to Review Annually
Ready to Take Control of Your Payment Processing?
Understanding merchant services doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right knowledge, you can eliminate hidden fees, optimize your payment system, and keep more money in your business.