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Should You Choose National Merchants Association? Contracts & Complaints Reviewed

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National Merchants Association

Rating
D
2.5/5
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Pros and Cons of National Merchants Association

Pros

Merchant Advocacy: NMA positions itself as an advocate for merchants to reduce processing fees.
Zero Setup Fee: NMA doesn't charge a setup fee for their services.
Diverse Industries: They cater to a wide range of industries, including high-risk ones.
Instant Approval: The application process is streamlined for quick approvals.
Online and In-Store: Offers solutions for both online and physical store transactions.

Cons

Varying Rates: Rates can differ greatly between merchants.
Difficult Cancellation: Cancelling services with NMA can be challenging.
Deceptive Sales: Complaints of misleading sales tactics.
High Fees: Some users report unexpectedly high fees.
Unclear Terms: Contractual terms have been reported as confusing or unclear.

Overview

In this review of National Merchants Association (NMA), we take a detailed look at this merchant account provider that markets itself as a “merchant advocacy group.” We cover their payment processing services for both in-store and online transactions, with particular attention to their work with high-risk industries. The review critically examines NMA’s advocacy claims by comparing them to their actual services, rates, fees, contract terms, and membership benefits, highlighting both advantages and potential drawbacks. We also address customer complaints, legal challenges, marketing tactics, and employee feedback to provide insight into their reputation, support quality, and overall business practices. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether NMA is a suitable option for your merchant service needs.

About National Merchants Association (NMA)

Established in 2004, National Merchants Association is a merchant account provider that operates under a membership group structure based in Temecula, California, though it appears they are now also operating out of Las Vegas, Nevada. The company offers membership terms through Merrick Bank, Commercial Bank of California, and itself. However, due to the recent lawsuit against CBC, it is likely the two companies are no longer partnered. The company often markets itself as a "merchant advocacy group," which may give some clients the impression that it is a non-profit organization or a third-party entity. However, it is a for-profit credit card processor. There is some evidence that the company is an ISO of Global Payments and First Data (now Fiserv).


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About National Merchants Association

Founded in 2004 and headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada, National Merchants Association (NMA) is a payment processing company that offers services to both standard and high-risk businesses. Its offerings include credit card processing, ACH payments, point-of-sale systems, and e-commerce solutions. NMA also provides proprietary tools like the Advanced Transaction Routing Interface™ (ATRI) and CertifyPCI™ to enhance transaction efficiency and compliance. The company operates under a membership model, with monthly fees ranging from $19.95 to $69.95, and contracts that often span three years with early termination fees starting at $395. While NMA has been recognized for its tailored solutions for high-risk merchants, some customers have raised concerns about contract transparency and customer support practices.

Products & Merchant Services

Payment Processing

National Merchants Association processes major debit and credit cards for a variety of businesses, including high-risk sectors. Their services include EMV card readers, POS solutions, EBT, NFC processing, e-check processing, e-commerce solutions, fraud protection, access to payment gateways, QuickBooks integration, and recurring billing.

In-Store Payments

The association offers solutions for in-store payments, focusing on making the process smooth and cost-effective for businesses.

Merchant Advocacy

National Merchants Association positions itself as an advocate for merchants. They provide account optimizers who evaluate and maintain merchant accounts, seeking ways to enhance profitability.

Membership Benefits

Membership with National Merchants Association offers businesses support in reducing costs associated with accepting credit cards, acting as a partner in business development.

Customer Reviews & Sentiment

Review of Customer Complaints

While the number of negative National Merchants Association reviews is lower than might be expected for its size and tenure, some of these reviews label the company as a scam or ripoff. Issues frequently cited include nondisclosure of the three-year contract term or $395 early termination fee, other hidden charges, challenges in cancelling services, unresponsive or unhelpful customer service, and disputes regarding signed documents. We invite you to share your personal experiences with National Merchants Association in the comments section below.

Company Responses to Complaints

Some complaints have been met with rebuttals from National Merchants Association representatives. These responses have occasionally bordered on unprofessional, and in at least one instance, a rebuttal provided false information. An example of this is a claim that “Card Brands require a 36-month contract for all merchant services accounts” and denial of the existence of one-year contracts in merchant services, which is inaccurate. Such inconsistent responses can contribute to customer dissatisfaction and do not align with the expected standards of a “merchant advocate.”

National Merchants Association Customer Support Overview

The National Merchants Association website offers a dedicated email address and a general phone line for customer support, along with a merchant login section for additional support options.

Contact Details for National Merchants Association Customer Service

  • (866) 509-7199 – Toll-Free Customer Support

Additional Support Channels

  • Customer support form on the website
  • Email: membersupport@nationalmerchants.com

Given the current state of customer support and responses, National Merchants Association does not currently rank among the top processors for exceptional customer service.

Industry Scores & User Ratings

Online Ratings Summary
PaymentPop1
BBB RatingN/A
Google Maps3.7
Our Rating2.5
Average Rating3.1

PaymentPop Rating for National Merchants Association

Negative Feedback

I can’t see why you hire unethical sales agents in Bakersfield, agent left no paperwork, all of a sudden my cousin is in a lease for a wireless unit,plus the counter top This agent has done this to numerous merchants, he signs the lease at home .They are rightfully seeking a class action suit,contacting the law group that went after the leasing companies.

Positive Feedback

There are no positive reviews published about National Merchants Association on the PaymentPop website.

National Merchants Association BBB Rating

National Merchants Association, located in Fort Worth, TX, is not BBB accredited and has an “F” rating. The business has 0 customer reviews on the BBB website. However, there are 2 complaints closed in the last 3 years, with both closed in the last 12 months. The complaints primarily focus on problems with the product or service. The reviews mention chargebacks as a primary issue.

Negative Feedback

On a previous update the BBB profile had the following user review, but it has since been removed.

I requested a Chargeback from a company by *************** in October for $12,000 through my bank Woodforest. After going through various correspondence, the merchant claimed that their account was deducted. The funds were never returned into the account as the company stated by their merchant after the conclusion was reached. My only concern is why? Only if, my funds are being held by the merchant; National Merchant Association. I need a clear **************** funds returned. – Review from February 3, 2023

Positive Feedback

There are no positive reviews published about National Merchants Association on the BBB website.

Google Maps Rating for National Merchants Association

National Merchants Association has a 3.7 out of 5 star rating based

Positive Feedback

National Merchants Association has been a pleasure to be a part of. They offer the lowest rates and streamline the approval process. A great company!

Negative Feedback

Terrible is the only word to summarize this company. Poor customer service, hidden fees, and processing statements so confusing that their own staff can’t explain, this is one of the worst companies I’ve ever had to work with. Save yourself the disaster and find someone else for your credit card processing!

Processing Rates & Fees

National Merchants Association Pricing

The standard National Merchants Association membership agreement outlines a one-year contract with renewal options, including an early termination fee of $99 and a monthly minimum fee of $25. While the company promotes a “flat rate” pricing plan of 2.65% per transaction on its website, this doesn’t seem to align with the agreement terms. Additionally, clients are subject to a monthly membership fee ranging from $19.95 to $69.95, depending on the selected services.

Virtual Terminal and Payment Gateway Pricing

Alongside its in-store payment solutions, National Merchants Association offers virtual terminal and payment gateway services without disclosed pricing. Generally, these services entail additional charges such as gateway fees, technical support fees, batch fees, and extra transaction rates.

Liquidated Damages

Reports from consumer protection platforms indicate discrepancies in National Merchants Association’s contract terms. Some clients claim a 36-month agreement with an early termination fee exceeding $395. There are also mentions of liquidated damages fees calculated based on processing volume, causing concern among merchants.

Variety of Contract Complaints

Complaints highlight a variety of fees and terms beyond what’s outlined in the standard contract, including unexpected durations, undisclosed charges, and complex fee structures. Such inconsistencies may stem from multiple pricing plans or partnerships with different banks, especially given the company’s provision of high-risk merchant accounts.

Conflicting Contract Terms

The company’s charging practices seem inconsistent, likely influenced by diverse pricing plans and banking partnerships. This complexity, coupled with potentially high-risk account provisions, warrants caution. Business owners should review available options carefully, considering their specific needs and circumstances.

Potentially Expensive Terms

In summary, National Merchants Association’s contract terms appear less competitive compared to the industry’s most affordable options. Due to reported discrepancies, the company receives a “D” rating for now. Business owners are advised to explore alternatives and make informed decisions. For comprehensive options, businesses are encouraged to explore our list of the best merchant services.

Lawsuits & Legal History

No class-action lawsuits or Federal Trade Commission (FTC) complaints have been filed against National Merchants Association. However, NMA has been involved in a lawsuit against the Commercial Bank of California since 2022, claiming the bank wrongfully froze its accounts. Additionally, Merchant X LLC filed a complaint against NMA and others in 2022, alleging breach of contract and other violations, though the outcome of this case remains unclear.

Clients seeking alternative resolution methods are encouraged to consider reporting issues to relevant supervisory organizations.

Employee Reviews & Sales Practices

Outside Sales Agents

National Merchants Association appears to partner with ISOs and independently contracted agents to market its services. This is a common practice within the industry that often is linked to high complaint volumes among businesses, as it is difficult for a company to regulate the conduct of independent sales entities. We are currently able to locate several negative National Merchants Association reviews that mention nondisclosure or misrepresentation of contract terms by sales agents, specifically when it comes to contract length and an early termination fee. This does not compare favorably to our list of best credit card processors.

Merchant Membership Program

As noted above, National Merchants Association markets itself as a “merchant advocacy group” with language on its website asking businesses to join “the only organization in the U.S. that works on behalf of businesses to eliminate the unnecessary and unreasonable costs associated with accepting credit cards.” However, the company’s membership program simply provides additional credit card processing services such as POS supplies, loyalty programs, marketing tools, and e-commerce software for a fixed monthly fee. It is unclear what tangible results the company has achieved through its “advocacy” besides signing more clients up for its products.

High-Risk Merchant Service

The company promotes itself as an option for high-risk merchant accounts. National Merchants Association dedicates a section of its website to explaining the complexity of dealing with high-risk businesses. Business type, business model, product types, and processing history are a few of the factors they consider when determining the risk of a merchant account. This section of their website determines how businesses can be designated as “low-risk.” The criteria they present state that clients with fewer than 85% of their transactions being keyed in constitute a “high-risk” account. However, the company does not disclose any rates or fees that are uniquely applicable to high-risk businesses that use their services.

“Flat Rate” Pricing

As of this update, the company’s website is currently advertising a zero-fee surcharge pricing plan without any specific pricing disclosures. At the time of our previous update, it promoted a flat-rate pricing plan that charges 2.65% per transaction for businesses that average over $25 per transaction (2.65% plus $0.10 per transaction for merchants who average less than $25). This plan was advertised to come with no statement fees, annual fees, application fees, or Non-Qualified fees. It made no mention of any other monthly fees. We have no reason to believe that the terms quoted on this page were misleading, but given that it is common for “flat rate” programs to include hidden costs, business owners are encouraged to ask questions regarding this program before signing up for it. If you suspect that National Merchants Association is charging you undisclosed fees, we recommend seeking a third-party statement audit to eliminate hidden costs.

National Merchants Association Competitors

Compare National Merchants Association to competitors that earned top marks.

Bottom Line

National Merchants Association rates as a slightly better-than-average credit card processing provider. Despite its size and years in business, the company maintains a relatively low volume of complaints, a promising sign for merchants seeking reliable services. However, some of the available information regarding its contracts raises red flags, particularly concerning the high cancellation fee and standard 36-month agreement. These terms could create challenges for businesses looking for more flexible processing solutions. Furthermore, public responses to customer complaints from company representatives are inconsistent in tone and accuracy, raising concerns about transparency and accountability.

Prospective clients are advised to carefully review the terms of any contract, paying particular attention to cancellation policies and potential fees. Although National Merchants Association shows promise, it’s crucial for business owners to compare its offerings with those of top-rated competitors to ensure they find the best fit for their specific needs. This proactive approach will help merchants navigate potential pitfalls and secure a processing provider that aligns with their business goals.

Location & Ownership

National Merchants Association formerly listed its address as 43620 Ridge Park Dr Ste 310, Temecula, California 92590-5520, though its website now gives 10100 W Charleston Blvd, Ste 210, Las Vegas, Nevada, 89135. It is a registered ISO/MSP of Evolve Bank & Trust, Memphis, Tennessee. Heather Altepeter is listed as the CEO of National Merchants Association.

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