Payline Data Review

Payline Data is a well-known payment processor that provides flexible solutions for businesses of varying sizes, ranging from small startups to high-risk enterprises. Established in 2011 and based in Chicago, the company was bought by Pineapple Payments in 2017, enhancing its position in the industry. What makes Payline Data stand out from a lot of its rivals is its focus on transparency, flexibility, and user-friendly features, making it the top pick for small to medium-sized businesses. Let’s delve deeper into the Payline Data Review.

A standout characteristic of Payline Data is its clear pricing model. The company provides transparent interchange-plus pricing, ensuring businesses can accurately anticipate their monthly costs without any hidden fees. Furthermore, there are no PCI compliance fees, annual fees, or early termination fees charged, which enhances its attractiveness. Payline Data offers adaptable, month-to-month agreements that enable companies to adjust their payment solutions without being locked into lengthy contracts.

Payline Data’s commitment to serving diverse industries is evident through its specialized offerings for high-risk businesses, nonprofits, and healthcare providers. The company is known for its ability to support high-risk merchants in industries like CBD, travel, and tobacco, which are often turned down by other processors. Additionally, its HIPAA-compliant solutions and customized rates for nonprofits make it a viable option for these niche markets.

The process of getting started is easy and supported by a specialized account manager who helps with setup and integration, guaranteeing a seamless experience for new users. With next-day funding, a variety of POS options, and compatibility with multiple payment gateways, Payline Data is a trustworthy and flexible payment processor.

What is Payline Data? | Payline Data Review

Payline Data is a comprehensive payment processing service established in 2011 and headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. It quickly rose to prominence due to its innovative approach to providing flexible, transparent payment solutions tailored to various business needs. In 2017, Payline Data was acquired by Pineapple Payments, a Pittsburgh-based omni-channel payment processing technology company. The acquisition allowed Payline Data to expand its reach and resources, adding nearly 10,000 merchants and over $2 billion in annual processing volume to its portfolio. This strategic move also strengthened Pineapple Payments’ offerings and enabled both companies to cater to a broader spectrum of businesses.

Payline Data caters to a variety of clients, including regular retail stores, online businesses, healthcare agencies, charitable organizations, and risky sectors like CBD and travel. The extensive range of services offered includes merchant accounts, virtual terminals, and different point-of-sale (POS) solutions. Payline also provides options for ACH payments and easy integration with eCommerce, making it a flexible option for companies requiring tailored solutions.

One of the company’s standout features is its specialized support for high-risk merchant accounts. Many payment processors turn down high-risk industries due to the increased potential for chargebacks and fraud. However, Payline Data embraces these businesses by providing custom solutions tailored to their unique needs. Additionally, Payline’s services for healthcare providers include HIPAA-compliant payment processing, making it an ideal choice for medical professionals who need to ensure privacy and security in their transactions.

Payline’s clear pricing, flexible contracts, and lack of hidden costs are attractive to small and medium-sized companies. Payline stands out as a provider that values customer needs and community support by offering reduced rates and supporting nonprofits.

Products and Services Offered

Payline Data provides a wide range of payment processing services tailored to meet the needs of various business types, from retail and eCommerce to high-risk industries like CBD, travel, and tobacco. The company’s comprehensive product suite includes solutions designed to streamline payments, ensure security, and provide flexibility for businesses of all sizes.

Merchant Accounts: Payline offers full-service merchant accounts that cater to a variety of business models, including retail, eCommerce, and omnichannel operations. For high-risk businesses, such as those in the CBD or travel industries, Payline provides custom solutions that address the unique challenges associated with these sectors. By offering specialized underwriting and risk management, Payline helps businesses that might otherwise struggle to find reliable payment processing options.

Payment Gateway: The Payline Gateway is a unique solution created to facilitate smooth payment processing. Businesses can also choose to connect with external gateways like Authorize.Net and NMI. Important characteristics consist of automatic billing, digital invoicing, and a customer data vault, ensuring secure storage for sensitive data to improve the safety and effectiveness of payment processes.

Virtual Terminal: Payline’s virtual terminal allows businesses to accept card-not-present payments from any internet-connected device, making it ideal for remote operations or businesses that require the flexibility to process payments over the phone or via email. The terminal supports ACH payments and offers recurring billing without additional gateway fees, providing a cost-effective solution for managing transactions.

Mobile Payments: Payline’s mobile payment options, such as Cardpointe and Clover Go, enable businesses to receive payments using iOS and Android devices. This service is especially advantageous for businesses looking for mobility and flexibility, allowing them to make transactions while on the move.

POS Systems: Payline offers a variety of POS hardware options, including Clover POS and NCR Silver systems. It also supports integration with third-party POS software, providing businesses with the flexibility to choose solutions that best suit their operational needs.

eCommerce Integration: Payline’s eCommerce services are compatible with over 175 shopping cart platforms, allowing online businesses to easily accept payments and streamline transactions. The company also integrates with accounting tools like QuickBooks, simplifying financial management and reporting.

Nonprofit and Educational Solutions: Payline provides nonprofit and educational organizations with discounted rates and hosted payment page choices, as well as donor management features that assist in secure and efficient fund collection.

Healthcare Solutions: Payline’s HIPAA-compliant solutions are designed specifically for healthcare providers. They include seamless integration with medical software and electronic health records (EHR), ensuring that sensitive patient data is handled securely and in compliance with industry regulations.

Pricing and Fees

Payline Data is known for its transparent and straightforward pricing structure, making it a popular choice among small and medium-sized businesses looking to understand their processing costs upfront. The company utilizes an interchange-plus pricing model, which means merchants pay a fixed percentage above the interchange rate set by credit card networks. This type of pricing is widely considered more transparent and fair than tiered pricing models used by some competitors.

Pricing Models: Payline provides two main pricing options: the Swipe Plan and the Keyed-in/Online Plan. The Swipe Plan is created for face-to-face transactions and has a charge of 0.20% + $0.10 for each transaction, along with a monthly fee of $10. The Online and Keyed-in Plan costs 0.30% + $0.10 per transaction and includes a $20 monthly charge, applicable for online and keyed-in transactions. The two-tiered system offers adaptability for companies with varying transaction requirements, positioning Payline as a suitable option for both physical and online stores.

Monthly Fees and Additional Charges: Payline’s pricing structure is relatively straightforward, with no long-term contracts, annual fees, or PCI compliance fees. The absence of these fees simplifies cost management and makes it easier for businesses to switch providers if needed. However, the company does enforce a $25 minimum monthly processing fee, which could be a disadvantage for low-volume merchants. In addition, Payline charges penalties for chargebacks and for failing to complete PCI compliance requirements within 90 days of signing up.

Special Pricing for High-Risk Merchants and Nonprofits: High-risk merchants, such as those in industries like CBD and travel, may be subject to higher fees due to the increased risks associated with these sectors. However, Payline provides custom solutions and tailored rates to accommodate these businesses. Nonprofit organizations and educational institutions can benefit from lower rates and are eligible for the first two months without any monthly fees, making it an attractive option for these sectors.

Hardware and Software Integrations

Payline Data offers versatile hardware and software integration options, making it a flexible solution for businesses with diverse payment processing needs. Its compatibility with various hardware devices and comprehensive software integration capabilities enables seamless integration into existing business systems, ensuring smooth and efficient operations.

Hardware Integrations: Payline Data is compatible with various types of point-of-sale (POS) hardware, catering to the needs of both small retail stores and big businesses. The business provides devices like the Ingenico Desk/3500 and Clover Flex for in-person purchases, known for their easy-to-use design and dependability. These devices are compatible with EMV chip cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and magstripe cards, allowing businesses to accommodate all customer preferences. Payline offers mobile card readers that can be connected to smartphones or tablets, transforming them into portable registers, in addition to countertop terminals. This makes it perfect for businesses that require to receive payments while on the move, like food trucks, pop-up stores, or field service providers.

Software Integrations: On the software side, Payline Data is compatible with numerous platforms, enhancing its versatility and utility for different business types. Merchants can easily integrate Payline with accounting software like QuickBooks, allowing them to streamline bookkeeping and financial reporting. The platform also integrates smoothly with eCommerce tools like Shopify, providing a unified system for managing both online and in-store transactions. For businesses that require a more comprehensive solution, Payline supports integrations with POS systems like Vend and NCR Silver, offering tools for inventory management, customer relationship management (CRM), and detailed reporting.

Flexibility and Customization: Payline offers a wide variety of hardware and software choices to help businesses design a personalized payment system that meets their operational requirements. Payline’s strong integration capabilities allow businesses to improve their payment processing and provide better customer experiences, whether they are accepting payments in person, on the go, or online.

Contract Terms and Early Termination

Payline Data offers flexible contract terms that are highly favorable for businesses, making it easy for merchants to start or stop using their services without facing any penalties. Unlike many other payment processors that require long-term contracts, Payline Data operates on a month-to-month basis, allowing businesses to opt in and out of their services as needed. This flexibility makes it particularly attractive for small and medium-sized enterprises that prefer to avoid long-term commitments.

No Long-Term Contract Requirements: Payline Data stands out due to its absence of extended contract obligations. Businesses are not obligated to long-term contracts, which is a major advantage, particularly for new ventures or those uncertain about their payment processing requirements in the long run. This allows merchants to test Payline’s services easily and determine if it is suitable for their business without concerns about getting tied up in contracts.

No Early Termination Fees: In addition to not requiring long-term contracts, Payline Data does not charge any early termination fees. This feature provides merchants with the freedom to switch providers whenever they wish, making it an appealing option for businesses that might be considering other processing solutions in the future. This level of flexibility is rare in the payment processing industry, where early termination fees can often be a barrier to switching providers.

Transparent Contract Terms for High-Risk Merchants: Payline Data’s clear contract terms also apply to high-risk merchants and special industries. Despite the fact that high-risk companies, like those in the CBD or travel sectors, may face increased processing fees and more strict compliance requirements, Payline is transparent about these terms. This level of transparency allows for trust to be established and ensures that high-risk merchants fully comprehend the contract terms before agreeing to use Payline’s services.

Customer Support and Technical Assistance

Payline Data offers customer support that is reliable and straightforward, focusing on providing a smooth experience for businesses during their initial setup and ongoing operations. The company aims to deliver high-quality support, though its service hours and methods may not be as comprehensive as some competitors.

Availability of Customer Support: Payline Data’s customer support is available during regular business hours, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time, Monday through Friday. This availability is suitable for most standard business inquiries and provides merchants with the opportunity to connect with representatives over the phone or via email. However, the absence of 24/7 support might be a drawback for businesses that operate outside of these hours or experience issues during weekends and holidays.

Support Channels and Options: Despite the absence of live chat or 24/7 availability, Payline makes up for it with email and phone support options. The support team of the company is recognized for their prompt and expert assistance, providing personalized help for resolving technical problems or addressing inquiries about payment processing. Merchants in need of additional help can fill out the online form on Payline’s website and can anticipate receiving a reply within one business day.

Dedicated Account Managers: One of the standout features of Payline’s customer support is its dedicated account manager service. When a new merchant signs up, they are assigned a dedicated account manager to guide them through the onboarding process. This support includes setting up customized payment solutions, integrating with existing systems, and providing ongoing assistance as needed. The account manager remains a point of contact throughout the merchant’s relationship with Payline, ensuring consistency and familiarity.

Security and Compliance

Payline Data places a strong emphasis on security and compliance, ensuring that businesses and their customers are protected during every transaction. By adhering to industry standards and implementing advanced security measures, Payline Data offers a robust framework for secure payment processing, minimizing the risks of fraud and data breaches.

PCI-Compliant Processing: Payline Data is fully compliant with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS), which is a crucial requirement for businesses handling credit and debit card payments. This compliance ensures that sensitive cardholder data is handled securely and reduces the risk of data breaches. Payline helps merchants maintain PCI compliance by offering tools and resources, including a dedicated PCI compliance support team that can assist with any queries or concerns regarding the security requirements.

Fraud Protection Measures: In order to enhance the protection of companies against fraudulent activities, Payline Data integrates various security measures, including Verifi’s Cardholder Dispute Resolution Network (CDRN). The CDRN system offers merchants tools for managing disputes and provides regular updates in real-time, helping prevent chargeback disputes from escalating and minimizing potential financial losses. This proactive method assists merchants in dealing with problems more effectively and sustaining a decreased chargeback ratio.

Advanced Security Features: Payline Data utilizes a variety of advanced security features to enhance transaction safety. These include address verification services (AVS) and card verification value (CVV) checks, which authenticate cardholders and prevent unauthorized transactions. Additionally, Payline employs tokenization, a method that replaces sensitive card information with a unique identifier or token, making it difficult for unauthorized parties to access or use cardholder data. Tokenization not only protects against breaches but also simplifies compliance with PCI requirements.

With its variety of security and compliance tools, Payline Data offers businesses a safe space to handle payments, assisting them in reducing risks and establishing trust with customers. Payline’s transparent and proactive security features make it a dependable option for businesses focusing on transaction safety and compliance.

Pros and Cons

Payline Data has a range of benefits and some drawbacks, making it essential for businesses to evaluate whether its offerings align with their specific needs. While it stands out for its transparent pricing and industry support, there are a few limitations to consider.

Pros: An important benefit of Payline Data is its clear pricing structure. It functions based on an interchange-plus pricing model, which is generally seen as equitable and transparent. Without any undisclosed fees, businesses can more accurately forecast their monthly expenses, avoiding unexpected charges such as annual or PCI compliance fees. Another advantage is the month-to-month contract option provided by Payline, enabling businesses to easily switch in and out without being tied down by long-term agreements or extra fees for cancelling. This degree of flexibility is especially advantageous for companies trying out various payment processors or facing seasonal changes in volume.

Payline Data is also known for its support of high-risk industries such as CBD, travel, and tobacco, which are often declined by other payment processors. Additionally, nonprofits receive special discounted rates and unique programs, making Payline a viable option for organizations seeking cost-effective solutions.

Cons: While Payline Data offers many advantages, there are some drawbacks to consider. One limitation is the company’s customer support availability. Customer service is only accessible during standard business hours (8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time), and there are no 24/7 support or live chat options. This might be a concern for businesses that operate outside these hours or need assistance during critical times.

Another downside is the comparatively higher interchange-plus rates, which may not be favorable for businesses focused on cost efficiency. Finally, Payline mandates a minimum monthly processing fee of $25. This may pose a challenge for small businesses with low sales, as they may not reach the minimum requirement and end up incurring extra expenses despite having few transactions.

In general, Payline Data is strong in adaptability, clarity, and industry assistance, but may not be ideal for all businesses, especially those in need of consistent customer support or lower fees for small processing amounts.

Conclusion

Ultimately, Payline Data is a versatile and trustworthy payment processor recognized for its clear pricing, flexible contract terms, and tailored support for high-risk industries and nonprofits. While providing helpful services and solutions, some businesses may find the limited customer support hours and increased fees challenging.

FAQs

What is Payline Data’s monthly fee structure?

Payline offers two main monthly plans: $10 for in-person transactions and $20 for online/keyed-in transactions. Additionally, there is a $25 minimum processing fee, which applies if the transaction volume falls below a certain threshold.

Does Payline offer specialized services for high-risk merchants?

Yes, Payline provides specialized services for high-risk merchants and has partnerships with over 20 bank providers to increase the chances of approval for high-risk accounts.

Are there any hidden fees with Payline Data?

No, Payline prides itself on transparent pricing without any hidden fees. There are no annual fees or PCI compliance charges, and the first month of service is often free for new customers.