Accept credit cards while offsetting the cost at checkout. Debit and cash stay fee‑free.
The surcharge program allows you to accept multiple payment types without absorbing the full cost of credit card processing. Instead of raising prices across the board, a clearly disclosed fee is applied only when a customer chooses to pay with a credit card, while debit and cash remain unchanged.
When a customer pays with a credit card, a small surcharge is applied to help offset processing costs. The surcharge is clearly disclosed on the terminal or checkout screen before payment is completed, giving the customer full transparency and control.
Customers always have the option to switch to a no‑fee payment method, such as debit or cash. As the business owner, you receive the full sale amount without sacrificing margins or adjusting your posted prices.
Debit and cash payments are never surcharged. Customers who choose debit pay the same price they always have, helping maintain trust and a positive checkout experience.
The system automatically identifies debit cards and applies the correct pricing, so there is no confusion at the terminal. Debit transactions are processed at a simple, transparent rate paid by the business.
A surcharge is a fee applied only to eligible credit card transactions to help offset the cost of card acceptance. It does not apply to debit or cash payments. The fee is itemized separately so customers clearly understand what they are paying.
Yes. The surcharge is disclosed on the terminal or checkout screen before the transaction is completed. Customers can always choose another payment method, such as debit or cash, to avoid the fee.
No. Debit transactions are not surcharged. EmeraldPay systems automatically recognize debit cards and prevent a surcharge from being applied.
Yes. Many businesses choose to cap the surcharge or share only a portion of their processing costs. EmeraldPay can help configure the program to align with your business and customer experience goals.
Surcharge rules vary by location and may change over time. We help you understand current requirements and recommended disclosures based on where you operate.
Yes. If your business grows or your preferences change, you can adjust or switch programs. Our team can walk you through available options and next steps.
| Cost | EmeraldPay’s cost |
|---|---|
| Monthly cost | $25 / month |
| Credit transactions | Paid by customer |
| Debit transactions | 1.5% + $0.25 / transaction |
| AVS (for keyed sales) | $0.05 / transaction |
| Batch cost | $0 |
| Retrieval | $25 / instance |
| Chargeback | $25 / instance |
| Voice authorization | $2.00 / authorization |
| Closure | $50 / location |
| PCI non-compliance (if applicable) | $49.95 / month |
| ACH reject | $30 / instance |
| Wireless service (if applicable) | $17 / month |
| Mid & non-qualified (debit only) | 2.5% – 3.5% |
Fast setup. Clear disclosures. Transparent pricing.