Key Highlights
- Elavon is a global payment processor offering services like credit card processing, POS systems, and mobile payments.
- Many users appreciate their responsive customer support and competitive pricing.
- Some users report hidden fees and difficulties with account cancellations.
- Elavon meets PCI compliance standards and offers robust security features to protect businesses.
- Overall, Elavon is a reliable payment processor suitable for businesses of all sizes.
Introduction
In today’s fast-paced digital economy, having a dependable payment processor is essential for businesses, especially small ones managing merchant accounts. Among the many options available, Elavon stands out as a strong contender. This review explores whether Elavon’s services align with your business needs and justify the investment.
Understanding Elavon’s Services
Elavon supports businesses by simplifying payment processing across industries and business sizes. Their offerings include:
1. Credit and Debit Card Processing:
- Elavon facilitates payments through in-store terminals, online platforms, and mobile readers.
- They support major credit card brands, ensuring convenience for customers.
2. Point-of-Sale (POS) Systems:
- Beyond processing payments, their POS systems provide features like inventory control, staff management, and sales tracking.
3. Security and PCI Compliance:
- Elavon prioritizes data protection by adhering to PCI DSS standards. Their advanced encryption and fraud prevention tools safeguard transactions.
Why Choose Elavon for Your Business?
Customer Support
Elavon offers 24/7 assistance through phone, email, and online chat. Reliable customer support is invaluable when addressing technical issues or payment disputes.
Transparent Pricing
Elavon provides competitive, customizable pricing based on business type, transaction volume, and chosen plan. While generally clear, it’s wise to review contracts carefully to avoid surprises.
Reputation
Elavon holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), demonstrating their commitment to ethical practices and customer satisfaction.
Getting Started with Elavon
Application Process
To begin, complete a simple application that requires:
- Business details (name, address, services/products offered).
- Bank account information (routing and account numbers).
- Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Social Security Number (SSN) for verification.
Once submitted, Elavon evaluates your application promptly and provides options tailored to your business needs.
Account Setup
After approval, an account manager guides you through the setup process. This includes integrating Elavon’s tools with your sales systems, such as:
- POS systems for in-store transactions.
- Payment gateways for online sales, compatible with major eCommerce platforms.
Customizing Payment Solutions
Elavon offers flexibility for businesses with unique requirements. For example:
- High-volume transactions.
- Industry-specific needs.
Work with your account manager to explore custom solutions, keeping in mind that changes may affect fees.
Transaction Management and Reporting
Elavon provides intuitive online tools for monitoring transactions, generating reports, and managing chargebacks.
- Real-time transaction tracking.
- Customizable reports for detailed financial insights.
- Streamlined chargeback resolution through an online portal.
Pricing Structure
Elavon’s pricing includes:
Fee Type |
Description |
Monthly Fee |
A fixed amount charged every month to cover account maintenance and support. |
Processing Fees |
Charged per transaction and typically calculated as a percentage of the transaction amount plus a per-transaction fee. |
Additional Fees |
May include fees for chargebacks, PCI compliance, statement retrieval, or early termination. |
Competitor Comparison
While Elavon offers competitive pricing, compare their rates with providers like Square, PayPal, and Stripe:
- Square: Ideal for small businesses with flat-rate pricing.
- PayPal: Strong eCommerce tools and user-friendly online payment solutions.
- Stripe: Customizable and developer-friendly for tech-savvy businesses.
Customer and Technical Support
Accessing Support
Elavon provides assistance through:
- Phone: Immediate solutions for urgent issues.
- Email: Ideal for non-urgent queries requiring detailed explanations.
- Online Resources: FAQs, tutorials, and troubleshooting guides.
User Experiences
Customer experiences with Elavon’s support vary. Positive feedback highlights fast resolutions, while negative reviews point to inconsistencies in service quality.
Security Measures
Protecting Data
Elavon ensures compliance with PCI DSS standards by:
- Encrypting cardholder data during transactions.
- Conducting regular security audits to address vulnerabilities.
Fraud Prevention
Tools like address verification systems (AVS) and card verification value (CVV) checks reduce fraud risk.
Conclusion
Elavon offers a comprehensive range of payment processing solutions backed by strong security, competitive pricing, and reliable support. Whether you run a small or large business, Elavon’s services can help streamline operations and enhance customer satisfaction.
If you value robust security and flexibility in payment processing, Elavon is worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Elavon suitable for small businesses?
Yes, Elavon’s flexible pricing and services cater to small businesses with varying budgets and transaction volumes.
How does Elavon ensure data security?
Elavon complies with PCI standards, uses encryption, and employs fraud prevention tools to safeguard transactions.
What sets Elavon apart from competitors?
Elavon stands out with its tailored solutions, transparent pricing, and commitment to customer support.
Are there hidden fees?
While Elavon is transparent about most fees, review the contract for possible charges like early termination or chargeback fees.
Can Elavon handle large-scale businesses?
Yes, Elavon’s scalable solutions accommodate businesses of all sizes, including high-volume enterprises.