Top Merchant Accounts For CBD Payment Processing (2023)

How to Find the Best CBD Payment Processor

Cannabidiol oil (also known as “CBD” or “CBD oil”) is a derivative of the cannabis plant that has been shown to have potential in treating certain ailments such as seizures, nausea, inflammation, and anxiety. It is extracted from low-THC strains of cannabis to form a non-psychoactive oil that can then be stored in capsules for accurate dosing. Cannabis is currently a Schedule I drug in the United States, which makes it illegal according to federal law. However, partially because of CBD oil's possible medical value, states are beginning to legalize the production and sale of this substance. As a result, CBD business owners are scrambling to find a CBD payment processor that can process merchant account payments.

CBD Merchant Accounts are Still Evolving

Only a few merchant processors approve merchant accounts for CBD businesses. Even so, these processor have policies regarding CBD credit card processing that change frequently and often without notice. There are even fewer CBD credit card processors that we would recommend based on their pricing, transparency, and customer support. Most sellers of this product should be prepared for higher-than-average credit card processing rates due to the elevated risk associated with their industry.  Businesses serving this industry may also encounter rolling reserves or occasional funding holds. However, the security and convenience that comes with accepting credit cards at your CBD business may make it worthwhile. If you are a vendor or CBD business who is hoping to open a CBD merchant account, be aware that we will continually update the list below with providers that have signaled that they may be able to process card payments such businesses.

Please keep in mind that CBD merchant processing is an ever-changing landscape, and that major banks have been known to purge CBD businesses from their portfolios unexpectedly.

Proceed With Caution To Avoid Processing Scams

We have received reports from victims of merchant account scams that have resulted in losses totaling tens of thousands of dollars. In a few cases these business owners have even reported losses in the hundreds of thousands. In nearly every case, the victims are led to believe that a merchant account provider can process credit card transactions for cannabis products over and above CBD products. These “processors” falsely categorize a CBD business as another business type, such as a convenience store, collect a month's worth of transactions and then disappear with the business' money. There is no recourse for the business may face large fines from the card processing networks. Most scammers claim to be “off-shore” providers that do not subject you to the same restrictions as domestic credit card processors. We recommend avoiding off-shore providers.

Also see our list of the Best merchant accounts for hemp products.

How to Select the Best CBD Credit Card Processor

As the CBD industry is still considered high risk by most financial institutions, it is crucial to consider the following factors when selecting the best credit card processor for a CBD processing, business, and sales merchant in the USA:

Industry Experience

Look for a credit card processor with experience in the CBD industry. They will have a better understanding of the unique challenges faced by businesses in this industry, such as regulatory compliance, high-risk factors, and product types.

Payment Processing Terms

Ensure that the credit card processor can accommodate your specific payment processing needs, including recurring payments, subscription-based services, and high-ticket transactions.

High-Risk Merchant Processing Specialty

Choose a credit card processor that specializes in high-risk merchant accounts. The CBD industry is classified as high-risk, and a processor that understands the challenges in the industry can provide better terms and conditions.

Transparent Credit Card Processing Fees

Look for a credit card processor that is transparent about its fees, including setup fees, transaction fees, chargeback fees, and monthly account fees. Hidden fees can significantly impact your profit margins.

Security and Compliance

Verify that the processor is PCI-compliant and adheres to the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (PCI DSS). This ensures that your customers' data is secure and that your business is in compliance with industry regulations.

Solid Customer Support

Choose a credit card processor that offers excellent customer support, including 24/7 assistance, a dedicated account manager, and technical support. In the event of any issues, you will need quick and reliable support to minimize downtime and revenue loss.

Reputation

Research the credit card processor's reputation, including reviews from other CBD businesses, to ensure that you are partnering with a trustworthy and reliable processor as well as our review on this website. Simply search for the processor in the search bar at the top of this page.

In conclusion, when selecting the best credit card processor for a CBD Merchant in the USA, consider the above factors to ensure a secure and reliable payment processing system that meets your business needs.


Our Readers Chose These CBD Merchant Services Providers

PaymentCloud Logo

#1 PaymentCloud

Now Processing CBD Payments

Based in Woodland Hills, California, PaymentCloud is a merchant account provider that specializes in serving high risk business types, including CBD sellers. Currently, PaymentCloud is our top recommendation for talking card payments as a CBD business. As of the writing of this post, PaymentCloud is currently approving CBD and Hemp merchant accounts. Besides the ability to approve these businesses, PaymentCloud is one of the best rated processors in the merchant services industry.

Dedicated Support Agent

PaymentCloud provides a dedicated account rep to all new customers for the life of the account. The company has not received any negative reviews on consumer forums and it customizes its pricing according to each customers' business type and processing history. The BBB does not maintain a profile for PaymentCloud at this time, but CPO gives the company an “A” in our review of the company

Why PaymentCloud is a Good CBD Payment Processing Choice

PaymentCloud is a reputable credit card processing service that provides an excellent option for business owners who sell CBD products and need to accept credit card payments from customers. One of the main reasons why PaymentCloud is a great option is that it is one of the few payment processors that specialize in serving high-risk merchants, such as CBD sellers. This means that PaymentCloud has extensive experience and expertise in dealing with the unique challenges that come with accepting credit card payments for CBD products.

Processing Options

Another advantage of PaymentCloud is that it offers a wide range of payment processing solutions that cater specifically to small businesses. These solutions include online payment processing, virtual terminals, mobile payments, and POS systems. With PaymentCloud, small business owners can choose the payment processing option that best suits their needs and budget.

Competitive Rates

PaymentCloud also offers competitive rates and fees, which can be especially beneficial for small business owners who need to keep their expenses under control. The company has a transparent pricing model that ensures business owners know exactly what they are paying for and what they can expect in terms of service.

PaymentCloud is an excellent option for small business owners who sell CBD products and need a reliable, secure, and affordable payment processing solution. With its focus on serving high-risk merchants, competitive rates, and a wide range of payment processing options, PaymentCloud is well-suited to meet the needs of small businesses in the CBD industry.

For more information, visit the PaymentCloud website or call (888) 506-7859.


eMerchant Broker Logo

eMerchantBroker

Domestic and Offshore CBD Processing

eMerchantBroker is a Los Angeles, California-based company that offers high risk e-commerce processing solutions including CBD oil merchant accounts. The company's products include credit card processing, ACH processing, an online payment gateway, merchant cash advance, and a chargeback management system to help merchants dispute and resolve chargeback claims. eMerchantBroker can place CBD sellers with both domestic and offshore banks.

eMerchantBroker offers custom pricing for each merchant and maintains a low complaint rate relative to its size and merchant portfolio. Our review of eMerchantBroker gives the company an “A” rating overall and the BBB assigns the company a rating of “A+.”

Why eMerchant Broker is a Good CBD Processor

EMerchant Broker is a great option for small business owners who sell CBD products and need to accept credit card payments from their customers. This is because the company specializes in high-risk merchant accounts, which includes businesses in the CBD industry. Many traditional banks and payment processors shy away from CBD businesses due to the legal uncertainties surrounding the industry, but eMerchant Broker has experience working with these types of businesses and understands the unique challenges they face.

Flexible Credit Card Processing Fees and Pricing

One of the key benefits of working with eMerchant Broker is their ability to offer CBD merchants competitive rates and fees. They offer a range of pricing plans and will work with merchants to find a solution that fits their specific needs and budget. Additionally, they offer a fast application process, with approvals typically taking only 24-48 hours.

Variety of Payment Processing Tools

Another advantage of working with eMerchant Broker is their robust suite of payment processing tools and features. They offer a variety of payment processing options, including traditional credit and debit card processing, as well as eCheck and ACH payments. They also offer mobile payment processing solutions, which can be especially useful for small businesses that operate at farmers markets, pop-up shops, or other temporary locations. Additionally, they offer fraud prevention and chargeback management tools to help merchants protect their businesses and minimize their risk.

eMerchant Broker is a great choice for small business owners who sell CBD products and need a reliable and affordable credit card processing solution. With their industry expertise and commitment to customer service, they can help merchants navigate the complex world of CBD payments and ensure they have the tools they need to succeed.

For more information, see the eMerchantBroker website or call (877) 301-3442.


Host Merchant Services logo

Host Merchant Services

Cost-Effective CBD Payment Processing

Founded in 2012, Host Merchant Services is a Newark, Delaware-based merchant account provider that serves both standard and high risk businesses. Host Merchant Services offers an online payment gateway and virtual terminal as well as EMV-compliant payment processing equipment for face-to-face purchases. The company is currently able to serve CBD oil merchants but is unable to place marijuana and paraphernalia vendors at this time.

Host Merchant Services has received only positive feedback on public forums, with most reviewers singling out the company’s customer service for praise. Host offers interchange-plus pricing with no early termination fees to all of its merchants, meaning that users will enjoy the most transparent pricing model and can cancel service without penalty. The BBB gives Host an “A+” rating, and CPO also gives the company an “A+.”

Why Host Merchant Services is a Top CBD Processor

Host Merchant Services is an excellent option for business owners who sell CBD products and need to accept credit card payments from customers. One of the primary reasons why HMS stands out is its expertise in handling high-risk merchant accounts, such as those in the CBD industry. This means that HMS has experience navigating the unique challenges that come with processing payments for CBD products and can provide reliable, secure, and compliant payment processing solutions to CBD merchants.

Robust Processing Options

HMS offers a variety of payment processing options that are tailored to meet the specific needs of CBD businesses. For example, HMS provides online payment processing, mobile payments, and POS systems that are ideal for businesses that sell CBD products in-store or online. These solutions can help merchants efficiently and securely process transactions, which is especially important in the highly regulated and constantly evolving CBD industry.

Low Processing Fees

In addition to its expertise and tailored solutions, HMS also provides competitive pricing for its CBD payment processing services. The company offers transparent pricing models, with no hidden fees, which can help CBD merchants better manage their expenses and improve their bottom line.

Top Rated Support

Finally, HMS provides excellent customer support, which is essential for small business owners who may not have the resources or time to manage complex payment processing systems. HMS provides 24/7 customer support, ensuring that CBD merchants can get help whenever they need it, regardless of their time zone or location.

Host Merchant Services is an excellent option for business owners who sell CBD products and need a reliable and secure payment processing solution. With its expertise in high-risk merchant accounts, tailored payment processing options, competitive pricing, and excellent customer support, HMS is well-equipped to help CBD merchants efficiently and effectively process credit card payments.

For more information, visit the Host Merchant Services website or call (888) 727-4538.

The Bottomline for CBD Credit Card Payment Processing

The providers in this list are the best options for getting a CBD merchant account. They have fast approvals, competitive rates, highly rated customer support. Keep in mind that banks have been changing their policies frequently regarding the CBD industry due to varying state laws and swaying sentiment on a Federal level. In some cases, it may be wise to have more than one merchant account for your CBD merchant services, just as a backup.

Frequently Asked Questions: CBD Payment Processing Credit Card Processing

What is a CBD merchant account?

A CBD merchant account is a specific type of bank account used by businesses in the CBD industry. It allows these businesses to accept credit card and debit card transactions, as well as other types of digital payments.

Why do I need a specialized merchant account for my CBD business?

Because CBD is a high-risk industry due to legal complexities, many traditional banks and payment processors often deny services to these types of businesses. Specialized merchant accounts for the CBD industry are designed to manage the unique risks and regulations associated with these businesses.

What should I look for when choosing a CBD merchant account?

Look for a provider that has experience with the CBD industry and understands its unique requirements. The provider should offer secure transaction processing, a transparent fee structure, excellent customer support, and the ability to integrate with your existing business software.

What factors can affect the approval of my CBD merchant account?

Some common factors include the type of CBD products you sell, your business model, credit history, any previous merchant accounts, and compliance with both state and federal laws. Having a strong business plan and following industry best practices can improve your chances of approval

How can I make my CBD business less risky for merchant account providers?

Ensure your business complies with all applicable laws and regulations. This includes having proper licenses and certificates, selling products that are within the legal THC limits, and marketing your products responsibly. It can also help to maintain a positive credit history and a low chargeback ratio.

Can I get a CBD merchant account if I operate my business online?

Yes, many providers cater to online CBD businesses. These accounts will allow you to accept payments online, making it easier for customers to purchase your products from anywhere.

Can I integrate a CBD merchant account with my existing business software?

Yes, many CBD merchant account providers offer integration options with popular business software platforms. Make sure to ask potential providers about their integration capabilities.

What are the fees associated with a CBD merchant account?

Fees can vary by provider, but common fees include transaction fees, monthly fees, setup fees, and chargeback fees. Some providers may also charge a reserve fee, which is a percentage of the sales set aside to cover potential losses.

Where can I find the best CBD merchant accounts?

There are several comparison websites and online forums where you can find reviews and ratings of different CBD merchant account providers. You can also ask for recommendations from other businesses in the CBD industry.

How long does it take to set up a CBD merchant account?

The setup time can vary depending on the provider and your business's specific circumstances. However, once you've submitted all the necessary documentation, it typically takes anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.

Reader Comments

Tell Us What You Think

2 User Reviews

  • David

    I am writing to express my sincere appreciation for your enlightening and informative article on the “Best Merchant Accounts for CBD Processing, Business, and Sales”. As an entrepreneur in the burgeoning CBD industry, your guide has been instrumental in helping me navigate the complex landscape of merchant accounts.

    Your meticulous examination of each account, highlighting their specific advantages, potential limitations, and key features, was both thorough and easy to comprehend. The clarity and depth in your writing made an otherwise complicated topic accessible and manageable.

    Your focus on important aspects such as transaction rates, security measures, customer service quality, and ease of integration was particularly helpful. Your insights into the evolving legal framework surrounding the CBD industry and how it impacts merchant services were also invaluable, shedding light on often overlooked but critical considerations.

    I am deeply grateful for the significant time, effort, and research you have invested into this resource. Your guide has certainly lifted the fog that often shrouds the selection process for CBD merchant accounts, providing clarity and empowering business owners like myself to make informed decisions.

    Thank you once again for your remarkable contribution to this field. Your dedication to delivering thorough, high-quality content is truly appreciated.

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