I received a call from a prospective client the other day who was disenchanted with his present merchant account provider but enamored with his credit card processing software, PC Charge.  He wondered if he could switch to our processing service but still maintain use of his cherished PC Charge software.  Happily, we were able to accommodate him.  His inquiry reminded me that many merchants value the ease of use and high degree of functionality that PC Charge offers.

At the risk of sounding like a promotional advertisement for PC Charge, the credit card processing software (operating on any Windows PC or laptop), offers an intuitive interface.  Fields are clearly specified and defined so that MOTO (mail order telephone order) merchants can easily populate them.  Retail merchants even have less work to do as a compatible USB card reader can be used to swipe a customer’s card so that the information will automatically appear in the interface fields.  Business owners who swipe cards can attain further benefit as the software allows the use of pin pads and check readers.

PC Charge is generally powered through the use of an Internet connection. Even mobile merchants can process payments over the Internet via TCP/IP using a cell phone.  Please note that PC Charge does not require Internet connectivity for transactions to be processed.  Customer payment may be facilitated through the simple use of a modem and phone line.

The credit card processing software should be classified as an “all purpose processing software” as merchants may process more than the typical credit cards and debit cards.  PC Charge can accommodate an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT), gift and loyalty card programs, check verification, check conversion, and check guarantee services. 

The software’s flexibility can also be underscored by its ability to handle recurring transactions.  Moreover, it offers multi-user capability, an automatic batching option, robust reporting, and fraud protection (AVS and CVV2 checks are available, for example).  Real-time processing is provided through a safe, encrypted mechanism and PC Charge is PCI-compliant.

Merchants used to be able to choose between PC Charge Express and PC Charge Pro.  The Pro version offered a greater array of options, including more detailed reporting, the capability to be used on multiple computers throughout multiple locations, and expanded variety of payment options, etc.  At present, Verifone is only offering the Pro version. 

In the event that you call Verifone directly, the Pro costs $674 for a single user lifetime license.  (Certain merchant account providers offer the software at a cheaper price.)  Technical support is provided free for the first year with the license, but a merchant who wants to renew such support must pay an additional $129 per year.

Of course, PC Charge alternatives exist – especially for those who do not want to outlay a large sum of money to obtain credit card processing capability.  Indeed, business owners may opt to get physical terminals, virtual terminals, payment gateways, etc.  However, those who opt to purchase the PC Charge software will be extremely pleased with the functionality and flexibility of this payment vehicle.  Just ask the merchant who contacted me! 

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To learn more about our merchant services, please visit http://www.intell-collect.com