What is a merchant account?

Q: How long does approval take?

Most standard businesses are approved quickly — often within a day or two once your application and documents are in.

Q: Can high-risk businesses get a merchant account?

Often yes. Velocity works with multiple processors and partners to place accounts other providers won't.

Q: Do I need one to sell online?

Yes — plus a payment gateway to authorize the online transactions.

A merchant account is a type of bank account that lets your business accept credit and debit card payments. Funds from card sales are deposited there before being transferred to your regular business bank account.

A merchant account is the behind-the-scenes account that makes card acceptance possible. When a customer pays by card, the money first settles into your merchant account, then transfers (usually next business day) into your everyday business checking account.

To get one you work with a provider like Velocity, who sets up the account, connects it to your terminal or POS, and handles underwriting with the processor and sponsoring bank. Velocity is a registered Independent Sales Organization of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.

The right merchant account isn't just about getting approved — it's about the pricing model, the hardware, and having a real person to call when something comes up. That's where an independent partner beats a one-size-fits-all app.