Card processing that fits your business.
An ecommerce merchant account lets an online store accept card payments, working with a payment gateway that securely sends each transaction to the processor.
What you get
Processor matching
We match you with a partner that approves your category.
Not tied to one processor
Our gateway connects to more than 150 processors and banks, so you can run more than one merchant account.
Backup merchant accounts
A second account keeps your checkout running if one processor pauses you.
Fraud protection
3D Secure and fraud rules that cut fraud and chargebacks.
Inline checkout
Customers pay on your site, with no redirect to a payment page.
Apple Pay and wallets
The fast payment options shoppers expect.
A card vault you own
Saved customer cards stay yours if you change processors.
Site readiness
We fix the site issues underwriters flag before you apply.
Four steps, no guesswork
- STEP 1
Pre-qualify
Tell us about your store and volume in five minutes.
- STEP 2
Get matched
We pick the processor most likely to approve you.
- STEP 3
Apply securely
Complete the processor’s application with your documents.
- STEP 4
Go live
Once approved, we help connect your checkout.
One branded dashboard for all your payments
Every merchant account, processor and transaction in one Inicio-branded gateway. Refunds, reports and fraud rules in one place, and you can add or switch processors without rebuilding your checkout.
- 150+ processor and bank connections
- More than one merchant account per store
- 3D Secure and fraud rules
- Inline checkout and Apple Pay
- Card vault you own
- Business financing options through partners
Check if we can get you approved
No documents at this stage. We reply by email with the processor that fits and the next steps.
We send the full application once you’re matched with a processor.
Card Processing questions
What is a merchant account for ecommerce?
A business account that lets an online store accept card payments, settled to your bank through a processor.
Merchant account vs payment gateway?
The merchant account approves and settles payments; the gateway connects your checkout to the processor. Most stores need both.
Merchant account or Stripe-style aggregator?
Aggregators are fast to join but can freeze restricted categories. A dedicated merchant account is underwritten up front and is usually more stable.
Can I use more than one processor?
Yes. Through our gateway you can run more than one merchant account and split volume between them, so one processor’s decision doesn’t stop your sales.
Can I keep saved customer cards if I switch processors?
With a card vault you own, saved cards can move with you instead of staying locked with one processor.
What is 3D Secure?
3D Secure adds a quick check with the cardholder’s bank at checkout. It reduces fraud and can shift liability for some fraud chargebacks away from you.
How fast can I go live?
Some of our partners can go live within 24 hours of approval. Underwriting time depends on your category and documents.
Is Inicio a bank or processor?
No. Inicio is a referral partner. Accounts are provided by our processing partners and their sponsor banks, subject to approval.
More answers in the industry FAQ.
Works best with
High-Risk Merchant Accounts
High-risk merchant accounts for subscriptions, nutraceuticals, supplements, high-ticket goods and merchants shut down by other processors.
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