AMP Payment Systems Reviews & Complaints

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How did they treat you? ▼

Overview

In this article, we take a closer look at AMP Payment Systems and its potential connections to other poorly-rated companies in the industry. We will examine key aspects such as their rates and fees, contract terms, product offerings including POS systems and credit card processing, and delve into the realm of their transaction security measures.

Our investigation also covers AMP's customer and industry ratings, including common complaints and employee insights. We address the company's possible aliases, ownership, and location details, providing a clear view of its operational background. Additionally, this article will evaluate AMP's customer support options and legal controversies, offering a balanced perspective based on various customer reviews and legal incidents.

This exploration aims to provide businesses with a comprehensive understanding of AMP Payment Systems, highlighting both the advantages and the potential drawbacks of their services, and assisting in making an informed decision about their payment processing needs.

About AMP Payment Systems

Launched in 2017, AMP Payment Systems is a merchant account provider that serves most standard-risk business types. AMP Payment Systems does not disclose the identities of its ownership or management team, but we have found strong evidence to suggest that the company is yet another business name launched by the management team behind Eschelon Merchant Services, EMV Payment Systems, and Smart Card Merchant Services. Eschelon and Smart Card both have “D” ratings from CPO, making them two of the worst-rated merchant account providers on our site.

Credit Card Processing

There is not a lot of info on the AMP site as to what products they offer. AMP does appear to process most major debit and credit cards and mentions POS systems including tabletop EMV terminals, wireless EMV terminals, smartphone options, tablets, PC card-based swipers, and EMV pads. They also do receivables factoring, cash advances, ACH loans, and American Express Business Financing, plus they claim to offer marketing services.

AMP Payment Systems' POS Systems

The company offers flexible POS systems tailored to the unique requirements of individual businesses. These systems offer much more than transaction processing, they help streamline inventory management, employee scheduling, and sales tracking to enhance overall operational efficiency.

Mobile Payment Solutions from AMP Payment Systems

AMP Payment Systems understands the need for mobile payment solutions in today's business environment. Their mobile payment service is designed to be fast and reliable, accommodating transactions for businesses on-the-go or those who operate outside of traditional storefronts.

E-commerce Payment Gateway by AMP Payment Systems

For businesses operating online, AMP Payment Systems offers an e-commerce payment gateway. This service supports a variety of online payment methods, offering the secure processing of transactions, and providing a seamless checkout experience for customers.

Transaction Security with AMP Payment Systems

Security is paramount at AMP Payment Systems. The company uses advanced encryption and fraud detection technologies to ensure the safety of all transactions. Compliance with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) is maintained to safeguard sensitive customer data.

Possible Aliases

In addition to the names listed above, AMP Payment Systems is also registered in the state of Arizona by “Covington Ridge Financial, LLC” and has used “Covington Ridge Financial” and “Covington Financial” in some of its official materials. The company “VS Card Services” is listed at the company's headquartered address. It has also registered the domain name “merchantsupport.services,” and we have seen company representatives refer to this name in some of its official materials. One merchant reports that the company identified itself as “The Interchange Provider” in a sales call. Business owners should be prepared for the possibility that the company may launch additional brands or contact them using names other than the ones we have found.

Location & Ownership

AMP Payment Systems is a registered ISO/MSP of Fifth Third Bank, Cincinnati, OH. The company lists 1990 W Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85015 as its address on its website, but the Better Business Bureau states that AMP Payment Systems is located at 7000 N 16th 120 Phoenix, Arizona 85020. This address is also the address of a UPS Store that AMP Payment Systems could be using as a forwarding address. In addition, we have found multiple AMP Payment Systems job listings that give 3320 W Cheryl Dr, Phoenix, Arizona 85051 as the company's actual address. This address is the address of record for Eschelon Financial Group and is also the address given on the Smart Card Merchant Services Better Business Bureau profile. The LinkedIn profile for Joseph Settles lists him as the “executive” at AMP Payment Systems since 2016, however, ZoomInfo lists an Anthony Dominguez as CEO. Shanan Mohatt is the senior vice president of sales at AMP Payment Systems, while Jovita Robertson served as the director of operations at Covington Financial and Smart Card Merchant Services at the time of our last update.

AMP Payment Systems payment processing
AMP Payment Systems offers standard payment processing services
Pros & Cons
Pros: Cons:
Responsive service Equipment lease issues
Excellent customer support Aggressive sales tactics
Transparent rates Long-term contracts
Competitive pricing Early termination fees

AMP Payment Systems Customer Reviews

Here's What Their Clients Say

Customer Reviews Summary
Total Online Complaints 10+
Live Customer Support Yes
Most Common Complaint Sales Tactics
Recent Lawsuits Yes

Moderate Complaint Volume

We have identified more than 10 reviews pertaining to AMP Payment Systems, with several customers alleging deceptive practices or fraudulent behavior. Common grievances include undisclosed fees, misrepresented equipment leases, aggressive telemarketing tactics, difficulties in reaching customer service representatives, and reports of unfavorable work environments for company employees. This volume of complaints, while not exceptionally high, is notable given the relatively recent establishment of the company. Furthermore, it’s worth mentioning that this tally does not encompass potential complaints associated with Eschelon Merchant Services, EMV Payment Systems, and Smart Card Merchant Services, which may have connections to AMP Payment Systems personnel. We encourage individuals to share their own experiences with AMP Payment Systems in the comments section below.

Legal Matters and Regulatory Oversight

In 2020, Covington Ridge Financial, LLC, operating under an alternate name, was subject to a lawsuit related to its auto-dialing practices. The case was settled out of court. Dissatisfied clients seeking alternative avenues for resolution are advised to consider reporting it to the relevant supervisory organizations.

Customer Support Options Offered by AMP Payment Systems

AMP Payment Systems provides phone support and directs clients to merchant support services for online complaint resolution. Some customers have reported delays in response through these channels. Additionally, it’s worth noting that AMP Payment Systems discourages clients from contacting their sales agents for customer support post-account activation. This deliberate policy may hinder clients’ ability to reach out for assistance. Consequently, we believe this practice disqualifies the company from being among the best merchant accounts.

AMP Payment Systems Customer Service Information

  • Toll-Free General Customer Service – (800) 231-7087

Other Support Options

In summary, while AMP Payment Systems offers avenues for customer support, the reported challenges in accessing timely assistance raise concerns. It’s essential for individuals to conduct thorough research and exercise caution when engaging with any service provider in the payment processing industry.

AMP Payment Systems Online Ratings

Here's How They Rate Online

Online Ratings Summary
BBB Rating 1
Trustpilot Rating 4.7
TrustLink Rating 5
Average Rating 3.6

BBB Rating Analysis for AMP Payment Systems

AMP Payment Systems has an average customer review rating of 1/5 stars on BBB, based on 1 customer review. The company is not BBB accredited and has 1 customer complaint closed in the last 3 years. Common themes in the reviews and complaints include issues with billing and collection, as well as aggressive and persistent sales calls.

Negative Feedback

I bought a business from my brother on January 1, 2021. He had a contract with a credit card processing company, which I refused to use as they lied to him about prices for processing transactions. I paid him $1,925 to cancel his lease contract. Despite multiple calls to cancel, the company kept charging fees. He was charged a PCI non-compliance fee of $39.55 on February 10, although he was PCI compliant when he called to cancel. The situation is complicated with multiple companies involved, giving the runaround and blaming each other. Today, he was charged again for $31.47 for merchant processing fees. The credit card terminal was returned in early January. – Complaint from March 2, 2021

I (my business) have received numerous calls pushing me to switch to AMP’s service. Despite repeatedly saying no, they continue to call. Follow-up calls from a supervisor claim that their trainee didn’t get their message across, but it’s just more pressure. This aggressive and predatory behavior is aggravating, and I would never do business with them as a result. – Review from February 24, 2021

Positive Feedback

There are no positive reviews published about AMP Payment Systems on the BBB website.

Source: BBB

Trustpilot Rating Analysis for AMP Payment Systems

AMP Payment Systems has an excellent customer review rating of 4.7 stars on Trustpilot, based on 31 customer reviews. The reviews overwhelmingly reflect positive experiences, with 100% of the reviews being 5-star ratings. Common themes in these reviews include high satisfaction with customer service, ease of transactions, and reliable support.

Negative Feedback

There are no negative reviews published about AMP Payment Systems on the Trustpilot website.

Positive Feedback

Very impressed with AMP Payment Systems. We do a large amount of transactions on a monthly basis and have never encountered a problem since we’ve been with AMP. I’ve been very impressed and look forward to building on our relationship. – Review from April 29, 2021

Excellent people and reps at AMP Payment Systems. Can’t believe how good their customer support is. I’ve asked a ton of questions the past couple of months due to not being very good with technology and they were very accommodating. – Review from March 24, 2021

Source: Trustpilot

TrustLink Rating Analysis

AMP Payment Systems has a 5-star rating based on 16 reviews & complaints on TrustLink. The reviews showcase a mix of experiences, with some customers appreciating the company’s rates, transparency, and customer support. Positive reviews often mention the company’s responsiveness and helpfulness in providing business solutions.

Negative Feedback

There are no negative reviews published about AMP Payment Systems on the TrustLink website.

Positive Feedback

I really like how upfront AMP was about their rates. A lot of companies will tout their low rates only to find out that some payment methods charge a much higher rate. From our knowledge, we believe our rates are quite competitive and will save us a lot. – Review from April 11, 2021

I always recommend this company to my fellow business owners who are looking for financing and software solutions. I’m recommending these services based on my experience with AMP. They have an affordable and transparent pricing system without hidden fees. – Review from April 8, 2021

Source: TrustLink

AMP Payment Systems Fees, Rates & Costs

A Closer Look at The Contract

Cost & Fees Summary
Cancellation Penalties Yes
Monthly & Annual Fees Yes
Processing Rates 1.00% - 4.99%
Equipment Leasing Yes

Long-Term Contracts

AMP Payment Systems rates are not disclosed on its website, and business owners have not filed public complaints that specifically mention many of its transaction fees, PCI Compliance fees, monthly minimums, or other fees. The only reports we have found suggest that the standard AMP Payment Systems contract is a multi-year agreement with an early termination fee of $375 and a non-cancellable, four-year equipment lease through a third-party provider.

Beware Equipment Leases

Smart Card Merchant Services is known to package its credit card processing accounts with equipment leases through First Data Global Leasing, and we have seen reports indicating that AMP may be selling similar agreements to merchants. First Data Global Leasing is notorious for providing long-term, non-cancellable, expensive equipment leases. These leases often generate more complaints than the client accounts that they are originally sold with. It should be noted that most credit card terminals can be purchased for under $500. Non-cancellable, long-term leases mean a client can pay thousands for that same equipment making them a contract term to avoid.

No Sign of Savings

We have no reason to believe that AMP Payment Systems offers more competitive card processing contract terms than the “D” rated terms provided by Eschelon Merchant Services or Smart Card Merchant Services. The company’s use of third-party equipment leases makes it impossible for us to recommend it, especially in combination with business owner reports of insufficient sales disclosure. Businesses are more likely to receive significant savings through a cheap merchant account provider. We also encourage business owners to check out our list of the providers of the best merchant accounts.

AMP Payment Systems point of sale
AMP’s card reading solutions

AMP Payment Systems Employee Reviews & Sales Tacitcs

Should You Work For Them?

Jobs & Marketing Summary
Uses Independent Resellers Yes
Telemarketing Yes
Misleading Marketing No
Discloses All Important Terms No

Telemarketing and Outside Sales

AMP Payment Systems primarily markets its services through a combination of in-house appointment setters and independently contracted sales agents. This sales approach is also the standard at Eschelon and Smart Card, and it tends to generate a high number of complaints due to the lack of sufficient training and oversight for agents. AMP Payment Systems appears to be no exception, as we are able to locate a handful of AMP Payment Systems reviews that describe excessive telephone calls, aggressive in-person sales tactics, unprofessional conduct, and misrepresentation of AMP Payment Systems rates and fees. Some employees of the company also complain about low-quality leads, insufficient training, and high employee turnover.

A 2019 AMP Payment Systems review from a former employee on Glassdoor backs up these concerns, describing deceptive sales tactics that the company encourages in its sales agents:

Not 1 good reason to work there. They tell lies about the contracts we sign your company up for. Fake information given. Fraud advertisement. Bogus lease agreements Take care of your clients and their needs, instead of focusing on just making money for your company.

“Slamming” Concerns

Some business owners have accused Smart Card Merchant Services of tactics that closely resemble “slamming” scams, in which a Smart Card Merchant Services agent will call and claim to be with “Merchant Services” in order to persuade a business to purchase unnecessary new credit card processing equipment. This is supported by a comment that was mistakenly posted in the comment section below our CardSmart Merchant Services review:

Smart Card Merchant Services cold called me and said our business rating had changed and wanted to know whether I wanted to accept an upgrade to our account for better credit card processing fees.

The telesales agent made it seem like we had a relationship with them, but when I asked they said we did not. I asked them to put the upgrade offer in writing but she said she could not, but could schedule an in-person interview. We scheduled a date and time and I asked her to send email confirmation, but it never appeared. Strike 1.

On the date in question, I called the number on the website and reached someone who confirmed there was an appointment and they had my email address wrong. So obviously they don’t know much about my business, and when I said it was a cold sales call, they insisted it was not since they knew our credit rating had improved.

I told her I would be a little late for the meeting since it wasn’t confirmed. I was five minutes late – the rep was 45 minutes late. Strike 2.

During the meeting, the rep would not put anything in writing and proceeded with a number of hard sell / hard close sales gambits. He was vague about details and said I have to commit, they only review accounts once a year and I have to decide now. I told him I needed to talk to my partners and he continued to try to close the sale.

He finally wrote some things on his business card with a *not guaranteed* on it. He said he was not selling me, but rather his goal was to screen me out.

I called the next day and told him we were interested and whether he could send me the contract so we can review the terms and sign. He told me he can only meet in person. Since my partner is in another state, I told him we would be happy to do that but he would have to fly across the country. He said he can’t do that. Strike 3.

We decided the sales process and business practices are too sketchy for us to engage with them. They promise great rates, but won’t put anything in writing and keep saying “it depends”.

While we have not done business with them, they managed to waste a lot of my time and proved to be incompetent with sketchy business practices at best. At least as far as we are concerned, they are out.

It’s strange they behave so unprofessionally. We are currently paying sky-high rates for credit card processing and it appears they can save us a lot of money. But we can’t risk a core part of our business dealing with a vendor who:
1) Has deceptive sales techniques
2) Insists on meeting in person and is 45 minutes late
3) Won’t send a contract to review

If Smart Card Merchant Services uses this tactic, then it is possible that some AMP Payment Systems employees will also use this approach. One of the company’s alternate business names, “merchantsupport.services,” seems perfectly designed for sales agents to claim that they are with “merchant support.” In addition, we have seen a complaint stating that an AMP Payment Systems agent claimed to represent “The Interchange Provider,” which is similarly vague. This does not compare favorably to our list of best credit card processors.

Too Many Red Flags

We believe that AMP Payment Systems was created to provide Eschelon Financial Group with a clean alias to continue using the same sales tactics that clients have complained about from its other brands. We have not seen any indication that AMP Payment Systems’ approach differs significantly from the conduct of its partner businesses, and therefore we have given it the same “D” rating in this section as the other companies. Businesses are advised to review all documentation with extreme caution and be on the lookout for incomplete rate disclosures, hidden fees, and undisclosed equipment leasing agreements with AMP Payment Systems. If you suspect that AMP Payment Systems is charging you undisclosed fees, we recommend seeking an independent statement audit that can eliminate hidden fees from your monthly statement.

Our AMP Payment Systems Review Summary

Our Final Thoughts

AMP Payment Systems rates as a subpar credit card processing provider according to our rating criteria. The company appears to have gone to great lengths to conceal its connections to Eschelon Financial Group, but client complaints have already revealed that its practices are essentially identical to its fellow “D” rated companies. We will continue to monitor business feedback and raise or lower the company’s rating accordingly, but we would advise business owners to contact a top-rated merchant account provider if they are interested in low costs and quality customer service.

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Which is Most Important for You?

If you had to pick one, which quality would you say will be the most important with your next credit card processor? Tap or click your selection to register your vote:

  1. Low Transaction Fees
  2. No Monthly Fees
  3. No Contract
  4. Reliable Customer Support
  5. Quick Signup

Testimonials & Complaints

How Did AMP Payment Systems Treat You?

12 User Reviews

  • michelle falok

    This the worst company anyone can work for or even use their products.. They sale you the leases then lock you in a contract for over 6 years. and if you miss a payment then you will have to pay them.. do not i repeat do not use them for your processor. I’ve had very bad experiences with them when I worked their and also, when I had my brothers company sign up with them. WARNING DO NOT USE THEM DO NOT WORK FOR THEM EITHER


    This post will help: Cancelling a Merchant Account Without Paying a Fee

    -Phillip

  • Hugo Robles

    An AMP employee programmed an AMP terminal that was provided to me (KickAZ Cycles). This AMP terminal was erroneously programmed by an AMP employee to send my (KickAZ Cycles) money to another person’s account (Harold). AMP freely admits this error in programming and fully recognizes and acknowledges the amounts, where and to whom AMP/Vantiv sent money/property belonging to me (KickAZ Cycles). Furthermore, AMP refuses to immediately return my (KickAZ Cycles) money/property pending further investigation. Although AMP/Vantiv already knows the cause, amount and location of property that AMP improperly gave to someone else, AMP will not immediately return said property?

    This post will help: How to Report Bad Credit Card Processors

    -Phillip

  • Joel Bessire

    AMP Payment systems promised me I’d get bankers rates and only have to pay 1.51% processing fee or .05% debit fee with a transaction fee of 10 cents per transaction and an additional $20 fee instead of all of those pesky transaction fees I am normally encumbered with. I would also have to lease my equipment (can’t purchase it). Well, I fell for it hook, line and sinker. I figured I would save about 50% from what I was being charged even with having to rent the equipment. Instead I was paying over double from what I was paying plus the $78 for the equipment rent. I then cancelled, they told me I would have to pay an additional $375 to cancel even though they lied to me (I kept the notes the salesman was telling me of the savings). I tried to get AMP management to do what they promised they didn’t so I cancelled. Then the credit card leasing company told me I had a non cancellable lease. I am now in the process of complaining to the attorney general and am going to small claims court to try and get this resolved. What a nightmare. Whatever happened to companies that did what they told you they would do? This is a very unethical company that puts their hooks into you so they can keep collecting money even after they have been fired. Buyer beware.

    From The Editor
    This Post Might Help: Cancelling a Merchant Account Without Paying a Fee

  • Ryan Lee

    These people are extremely rude and unprofessional. They speak to you as if you’re the most uneducated person on Earth. Not to mention if you try to talk, they will cut you off and not even bother to listen to you. They also insulted our staff in saying they do not know how to relay a message to us, which is inaccurate. DO NOT DO BUSINESS WITH THESE PEOPLE!

    From The Editor
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  • Anthony Beven

    I received several aggressive sales calls during a busy day at my business. They said they would be able to cut my rates in half, even though I am paying approximately $400 through Fidelity, a legitimate company. Savings are always nice, but when the AMP Payment sales rep. showed up to meet with me today I asked what his BBB rating was. He said he had no idea and to “look it up on the website.” I was surprised at that response. I asked him how long he has been in sales. He said a “long time.” I said I have been as well, and I always have answers for my prospective clients so they don’t have to ask. He shrugged his shoulders, and offered to call corporate. I said no thanks. I then read him some reviews from the BBB website, and he again said “let’s just call corporate.” I said let’s conclude this meeting, and I will call corporate myself. About 10 min. after he left, I received a call from the “scheduling manager.” I explained all of their negative reviews online, and she got very aggressive and disrespectful toward me. This company is not the type of business I would work with on any level. Avoid them. Save yourself a huge headache.

    From The Editor
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  • jacob Smith

    I have been working with AMP Payment Systems for the past 3 years. At first of course I was a little hesitant but decided to give them the benefit of the doubt because this industry is horrible. I have had nothing but good things happen. The sales rep checks up with me once a week or once every two weeks. The Customer support is extremely professional and help you with anything you need. I WOULD DEFINITELY RECOMMEND THIS COMPANY

      • JACOB SMITH

        Just curious why my review is being questioned. I don’t have to disclose any information. But on the other note I have seen bad reviews and positive reviews on your website that you haven’t questioned them and what their business name is and where they are located.

        • CPO

          Hi Jacob,

          We request authentication for all unverified positive testimonials on this website. Our rationale is outlined in our Testimonial Policy. If you have found unverified positive testimonials on CPO for which we did not request authentication from the commenter, please reply to this comment with their location.

  • Steve Fox

    THIS IS A SCAM!! THESE PEOPLE ARE DECEPTIVE WITH ALL THE HIGH PRESSURE BS AND LIES ONE WOULD ASSOCIATE WITH A HIGH LEVEL OF FRAUD!
    I have over the past three weeks received not less than 4 telemarketing calls from theses people A-HOLES.
    The “pitch” goes something like this:\
    Hi this is “who cares” from “Merchant Services” calling to tell you that there has been a “CHANGE” to your merchant account. Me: Okay… Him: Yes due to your low denial and charge back history and rating you qualify for…… blah, blah, blah.

    I have to literally yell at the last telemarketer to get him to listen to me when suddenly another guy, the TRAINER of the guy who initially called , telling him he was doing a great job. The “trainer” then began the same “pitch” again. Saying that since I had ‘minimal’ charge-backs I qualified for a “special” … blah, blah, blah.

    So after I let the “pro” try his sales tactics on me I asked him this very important question:
    “How can I have changes to my merchant account if, in the 28 years that I’ve been in business, I HAVE NEVER HAD A MERCHANT ACCOUNT?!!!????!!!
    He answered me with a “Yes or NO” question and “DEMANDED” I answer but I just kept repeating: How can there me changes on MY merchant account if I’ve never had one” It became a shouting match. Lol

    I told him he was a liar and this is an obvious fraud with a very slimy sales pitch. The guy started trying to talk over me again so I escalated my tone and voice volume to match him till he hung up. Lol

    From The Editor
    This Post Might Help: New PCI Compliance Slamming Scams

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