Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is Credit Card Processing for Microsoft^® Office Accounting?

Credit Card Processing is a service in Office Accounting that allows you to initiate, authorize, and settle credit and debit card transactions directly from within Office Accounting.

Q. What are the benefits of automatically capturing transactions in Office Accounting?

Automatically capturing transactions helps reduce data entry and facilitates reporting and transaction reconciliation at the end of the month.

Q. What are the cost savings of using Credit Card Processing for Office Accounting?

Credit Card Processing eliminates the need for separate card payment terminals and associated phone lines. The exact savings depend on your specific situation but are typically in the range of $40 to $70 per month.

Q. How much does Credit Card Processing for Office Accounting cost?

The cost varies depending on the provider you choose. For more information, see the detailed description page for the specific plan you are interested in or contact the provider directly.

Q. Which credit cards will I be able to process?

Credit Card Processing supports all major credit cards including VISA, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover.

Q. Can I process debit card payments?

Yes. Credit Card Processing for Office Accounting works with any debit card.

Q. How do I establish a credit card processing account?

Microsoft has worked closely with leading credit card processing providers to ensure a simple sign-up process. To get started, select the right option for your business on the Welcome screen and then fill in the application form.

Q. I already accept credit cards. Can I use my existing credit card processing account with Office Accounting?

If you have an existing account with a credit card processing provider, you can continue using your current account and still enjoy the benefits of integration with Office Accounting. You will need to sign up for a PayPal plan that will enable your current credit card processing provider to integrate with Office Accounting. To do this, simply select Use an Existing Merchant Account on the Welcome page and then select the plan that best suits your needs.

Q.  How do I switch my existing credit card processing provider to one of the providers that you are offering?

To switch to one of the credit card processing providers offered through Microsoft, we recommend that you first check the cancellation policy in your current contract, then apply for a new account with the plan that best suits your needs. Once your application is approved, cancel your old contract.

Q.  How long will it take to process my application?  How will I be informed whether I have been accepted or not?

Applications are typically processed within one to four days. The actual time varies depending on the provider you choose. For more information, see the detailed description page for the specific plan you are interested in or contact the provider directly.

Q.  Whom do I contact if my application is turned down and I have questions about the decision?

The credit decision is made entirely by the credit card processing provider according to their own guidelines and Microsoft is not involved in the decision. Contact the provider directly with any questions regarding the decision.

Q. Why must I sign in to the Microsoft Passport Network when I set up my merchant account?

Microsoft Passport is a single secure login for online services from Microsoft and its partners. With this service, you do not need to create and remember multiple user names and passwords for each service because your single Passport account can access them all.

Q. Is there a trial period during which I can test credit card processing before signing up for the service?

There is no trial period, but you can cancel the service at any time.

Q.  Can I cancel my account with the credit card processing provider at any time? Are there any cancellation penalties?

If you have an account with any of the credit card processing providers that are partnered with Microsoft, you can cancel it at any time. To see pricing details, see the detailed bank page pricing for the provider that you are interested in.

Q. Do I need a high-speed internet connection to use Credit Card Processing with Office Accounting?

The minimum requirement is a 56k dial-up connection, but a broadband connection is recommended.

Q. Once I'm approved by my credit card processing provider, can I immediately start processing transactions in Office Accounting?

Yes, after your application is approved you will receive an e-mail with directions on finishing the setup of your account and processing transactions.

Q. Can I use a card reader with Office Accounting?

Yes, Office Accounting supports the use of card readers. We are currently testing specific card readers for full compatibility; MagTek Mini Swipe Card readers found here http://www.magtek.com/products/card_reading/magstripe/swipe/swipe.asp have been fully tested for compatibility.

Q. My question was not answered by the FAQ. Where can I get more information?

You can contact us directly. Click on the "Contact Us" link in the left hand navigation to find the right contact information depending on your question.

Q. Whom do I contact if I have questions about applying with a credit card processing provider?

Each provider has a dedicated support number. Click on the "Contact Us" link in the left hand navigation to find the contact information for the provider you are interested in.