Managing Surcharge for Credit Card Terminals
When surcharging is enabled for credit card terminals, the system automatically calculates and applies a surcharge to
the transaction amount entered. This article explains how surcharging works, how to toggle it off when necessary, and
how to handle debit or HSA card payments.
How Surcharge Works
1. Automatic Surcharge Calculation:
- When you input a payment amount on the terminal (e.g., $100), the system will calculate and add the surcharge
automatically.
- Example:
- Amount entered: $100
- Surcharge (2.39%): $2.39
- Total charged to the customer: $102.39
- The office will receive the net amount of $100, as intended, with the surcharge covering the credit card
processing fee.
2. Surcharge Toggle:
- If the patient or customer raises concerns about the surcharge, you can toggle off the "Enable Surcharge" button
in the payment screen.
- When the surcharge is disabled:
- Only the original amount (e.g., $100) is sent to the terminal.
- The office absorbs the credit card fee of 2.39%, reducing the net amount received.
Handling Debit Cards or HSA Cards
- No Surcharge on Debit/HSA Cards:
- Credit card terminals automatically detect card types when swiped, tapped, or inserted.
- If a debit card or HSA card is being used, toggle off the "Enable Surcharge" button before processing the
payment.
- This ensures the surcharge is not applied, as surcharges are not allowed on debit or HSA transactions.
- Non-Surcharged Transaction:
- When the surcharge is toggled off, the total amount charged will match the original input (e.g., $100), and the
office will cover the associated credit card fee.
Best Practices for Surcharging
1. Educate Your Patients:
- Clearly communicate that surcharging helps cover processing costs and keeps overall service fees competitive.
- Display signs at the point of sale explaining the surcharge policy.
2. Monitor Card Types:
- Always verify the card type before processing. Toggle off the surcharge for debit or HSA cards to remain
compliant with surcharge rules.
3. Use the Toggle Option:
- If a patient raises concerns, you can quickly disable the surcharge to accommodate their preference while
maintaining flexibility.
FAQs
What happens if I forget to toggle off the surcharge for a debit card?
The system may process the payment, but this can create compliance issues. Always ensure the surcharge is disabled for
debit and HSA card transactions.
Will the surcharge appear on the receipt?
Yes, the surcharge amount is displayed as a separate line item on the receipt for transparency.
Can I enable or disable surcharging system-wide?
Surcharging settings are managed at the office level. If you need assistance enabling or disabling this feature, contact
our support team.
By leveraging the surcharge functionality for credit card terminals, you can cover processing fees efficiently while
maintaining flexibility to accommodate patient or customer concerns. For additional support, reach out to our team.