Three common mobile-payment approaches

  • A mobile card reader paired with a smartphone or tablet.
  • Tap-to-pay on phone where supported by the payment application and device.
  • A secure virtual terminal or hosted payment link accessed from a mobile browser.

Match the method to the environment

  • Field-service businesses may need mobile readers and invoice integration.
  • Event merchants may prioritize speed, portability and offline contingency planning.
  • Remote-payment workflows may be better served by secure payment links or virtual terminals.
  • Retail businesses should consider whether mobile checkout needs to sync with the primary POS system.

Security considerations

  • Avoid manually storing card numbers in notes, messages or contact records.
  • Use approved payment applications and supported mobile devices.
  • Prefer EMV or contactless acceptance over keyed entry when the customer is present.
  • Use user permissions and device controls when multiple employees accept payments.

Understand pricing differences

  • Card-present, contactless and keyed transactions can qualify differently.
  • Mobile-payment providers may charge different rates or service fees.
  • Hardware, gateway and monthly account costs should be included in the comparison.
  • The lowest advertised mobile rate may not represent total processing cost.

Plan for reporting and support

  • Transactions should reconcile with the rest of the business's payment reporting.
  • Confirm how refunds and voids are handled from the mobile device.
  • Know who supports the reader, application, gateway and processor.
  • Multi-user businesses should review permissions and location reporting.