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# Total Merchant Concepts

Credit Card Processing, Payroll Solutions, and Business Growth Tools

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## Posts

- [TMC Blog](https://gettmc.com/home-2/tmc-blog/) - Technology Can Be Confusing Technology has given business owners more ways than ever to accept payments, but with that flexibility often comes confusion. Smartphones, tablets, terminals, card readers. It Read More » February 22, 2026 No Comments General Mobile Credit Card Processing: How to Choose the Right Solution for Your Business One of the questions
- [Technology Can Be Confusing](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/technology-can-be-confusing-and-youre-not-alone/) - Technology has given business owners more ways than ever to accept payments, but with that flexibility often comes confusion. Smartphones, tablets, terminals, card readers. It can feel like alphabet soup, especially when everyone is promising that their solution is “the best.” The truth is, there isn’t one right answer for every business. Different tools exist
- [Mobile Credit Card Processing: How to Choose the Right Solution for Your Business](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/mobile-credit-card-processing-how-to-choose-the-right-solution-for-your-business/) - One of the questions we’re asked most often is, “How do I know which credit card processing solution is right for my business?”. It’s a fair question—and an important one.The credit card processing industry continues to evolve quickly. Changing customer expectations, security requirements, and the growth of mobile commerce have reshaped how businesses get paid.
- [Fall Back in Love With Your Business](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/fall-back-in-love-with-your-business/) - Valentine’s Day is usually about romance, cards, chocolates, flowers, and grand gestures. But it’s also a good reminder to pause and ask an important question.Do you still love your business?Most business owners start out passionate and excited. Somewhere along the way, that excitement can get buried under long hours, rising costs, confusing statements, and technology
- [Mobile Payment Systems Explained Choosing The Right Setup For Your Business](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/mobile-payment-systems-explained-choosing-the-right-setup-for-your-business/) - Today’s business owners aren’t always behind a counter and their payment solutions shouldn’t be either.Whether you’re delivering products, offering curbside pickup, working events, or moving between job sites, getting paid needs to be simple, flexible, and reliable. The good news? There are several mobile payment options available, and the “best” one depends entirely on how
- [Raising The Bar On Service: Why So Many Businesses Are Losing Customers Without Realizing it!](https://gettmc.com/uncategorized/raising-the-bar-on-service-why-so-many-businesses-are-losing-customers-without-realizing-it/) - Some businesses believe they deliver good service.Their customers quietly disagree. In crowded markets, service has become the deciding factor, but it’s also where many businesses struggle the most. Long response times. Inconsistent answers. Teams that mean well but lack confidence. Customers leave not because of price, but because the experience felt frustrating, confusing, or impersonal.
- [The Hidden Costs in Payment Processing (And How to Protect Yourself in 2026)](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/the-hidden-costs-in-payment-processing-and-how-to-protect-yourself-in-2026/) - If you’ve ever opened your merchant statement and felt the urge to squint or sigh, you’re not alone. One of the most common frustrations business owners bring to us is the confusion around the many fees that appear on their processing statements. December is an ideal time to look more closely at these costs, because
- [Welcome to a New Year of Possibility](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/welcome-to-a-new-year-of-possibility/) - There’s something powerful about crossing the threshold into a new year. It isn’t just a change in the calendar; it’s a moment that invites us to pause and imagine what our businesses, and our lives, could look like with renewed focus. After spending the past few weeks reviewing, clarifying, and understanding the true costs and
- [The True Cost of Merchant Services: Why Your Partner Matters More Than the Rate](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/the-true-cost-of-merchant-services-why-your-partner-matters-more-than-the-rate/) - After last week’s conversation about the individual fees that appear on your processing statement, it’s time to step back and take a broader look at the big picture. Over the years, we’ve learned that business owners often focus on the rate they were quoted, assuming that percentage alone determines whether they’re getting a fair deal.
- [The End-of-Year Wake-Up Call Every Business Owner Needs](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/the-end-of-year-wake-up-call-every-business-owner-needs/) - December has a way of sneaking up on us. One minute we’re coasting through fall, and the next we’re knee-deep in holiday rush, end-of-year demands, and the kind of chaotic energy only business owners truly understand. But buried beneath the noise is an invaluable moment; a chance to slow down long enough to really look
- [The Day You Stopped Fighting Your Checkout](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/the-day-you-stopped-fighting-your-checkout/) - It’s 8:02 a.m.The doors just opened, the first customer walks in, and your point-of-sale system already froze. Again. You give it the “come on, don’t do this to me” tap, but it’s not having it. Behind you, your barista is asking for change, your manager needs a password, and someone’s trying to pay for a
- [A Relationship Built on Loyalty and Heart](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/a-relationship-built-on-loyalty-and-heart/) - I was headed to Olympia when a bright red Snap-on truck rolled past, an eagle spread wide across the back. Something about that eagle made me think of Shaun Adams. Shaun had been one of our merchants for more than twenty years- a loyal, passionate, high-D driver who threw himself into his work and his relationships
- [When Life Tests the Teacher](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/when-life-tests-the-teacher/) - There comes a point in every growth journey when life crosses its arms, tilts its head, and asks,“Do you really believe what you teach?” I’ve spent years reading, writing, and creating tools about personal development. I’ve stood on stages encouraging people to expect, embrace, and employ change- to trust that every disruption carries a divine invitation
- [Say Hello to the Dejavoo QD4](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/say-hello-to-the-dejavoo-qd4/) - Running a business means wearing many hats. You take care of customers, manage your team, balance schedules, and make sure everything runs smoothly. When it comes to checkout, you deserve tools that keep up with your pace and make your day easier. That is where the Dejavoo QD4 comes in. This modern countertop terminal helps you
- [Road Trips, Forgotten Bags, and Finding Gratitude in the Unexpected](https://gettmc.com/uncategorized/road-trips-forgotten-bags-and-finding-gratitude-in-the-unexpected/) - Great morning, friends!If you know me, you know I love to share my road trip lessons, and my recent trip to California was no exception.It started with a glorious sunset Thursday night, which led to me staying up way too late. That set the stage for my very first lesson of the trip the next morning…The Forgotten
- [The Real Cost of Credit Card Processing (and Why It Matters This Season)](https://gettmc.com/uncategorized/the-real-cost-of-credit-card-processing-and-why-it-matters-this-season/) - Pumpkin spice lattes and packed shopping carts are a sign of the season, but they also mean one thing for business owners: more credit card transactions. And when transaction volume spikes, so do the fees. Here’s the challenge: the cost you were quoted for processing often isn’t the cost you actually pay. The difference between what
- [The Season of Simplicity: Why Customers Crave Gift Cards](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/the-season-of-simplicity-why-customers-crave-gift-cards/) - As the holidays approach, more and more customers are looking for a stress-free way to give something meaningful. That’s why gift cards remain one of the most popular holiday gift ideas. But here’s the twist: they’re not just for December. Gift cards keep working for your business year-round; birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, “thank-yous,” and “just-because” gifts all
- [Gift Cards: A Smart Way to Grow Your Business All Year Long](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/gift-cards-a-smart-way-to-grow-your-business-all-year-long/) - The year’s busiest season is just around the corner, and many business owners are asking: What’s the simplest way to increase cash flow and attract new customers right now? The answer might be easier than you think: gift cards. Customers love them because they’re easy to buy, flexible to use, and perfect for any occasion. For business
- [SwipeSimple Text & Email Invoices: Faster Payments, Less Hassle](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/swipesimple-text-email-invoices-faster-payments-less-hassle/) - Let’s face it: people live on their phones and inboxes.So why not meet them where they already are?With SwipeSimple, you can send invoices directly by text or email. That means your customers don’t need to log into a portal, shuffle through paper, or remember a due date stuck in a drawer somewhere. The invoice is
- [Messy Flowers on a Monday](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/messy-flowers-on-a-monday/) - Over the weekend, I came home to find these beautiful flowers on my doorstep- delivered all the way from ANTARCTICA ❤️ (My Son 😊) I decided to bring them to work, so I set them on the edge of the bed of my truck so I wouldn’t forget them. The next morning, I
- [Mobile Invoices: Business On the Go](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/mobile-invoices-business-on-the-go/) - Your business doesn’t stop when you leave the office, and neither should your ability to get paid.With SwipeSimple Mobile Invoices, you can create and send invoices directly from your smartphone or tablet. Whether you’re meeting a client, working in the field, or managing a job site, you don’t have to wait until you’re back at
- [Where’s the Money?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/wheres-the-money/) - Let’s be honest: Sending out monthly statements, waiting for checks to maybe show up, and chasing down the ones that got “lost in the mail” is EXHAUSTING. Not only does it eat up your valuable time, but it drains your energy too. Here’s the good news: You don’t have to keep doing it the hard way.
- [The UGLY Truth About Merchant Services](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/the-ugly-truth-about-merchant-services/) - We do multiple training sessions each week for our referral partners across the country. Our goal is to arm our referral partners with a basic overview of the industry so they can be of service to their Members. Often times, we are asked what makes us different? Why will our referred Members/Clients/Merchants benefit by working
- [Do It Like Disney!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/do-it-like-disney-2/) - It is impossible to spend time in Florida and not FEEL the impact of Disney! If you have never read up on the magic created by Walt Disney, I assure you, you will find his story to be an absolute treasure of business lessons; check out this video! (As Dreamers Do: Amazing Life of Walt
- [The Quick Start to Your eCommerce Journey](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/the-quick-start-to-your-ecommerce-journey/) - Creating an effective, efficient Ecommerce space for your business should not be complicated! In fact, we believe it should be VERY easy! Enter TMC ShopNow—a platform designed to guide you effortlessly into your eCommerce journey. With our Instant Site feature, setting up your online store is nearly as fast as saying “eCommerce made easy!” Forget complicated code or
- [Is Having an Online Presence REALLY Necessary?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/is-having-an-online-presence-really-necessary/) - Having an online presence used to be “convenient,” but since the pandemic changed so much about the way we shop, an online presence is now critical if you want to be visible and accessible to your customers. No business wants to be “left out in the cold” when it comes to providing service and products for
- [Don’t let sales PASS YOU BY because you don’t have an online presence!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/dont-let-sales-pass-you-by-because-you-dont-have-an-online-presence-2/) - Have you seen the latest numbers? Online shopping is on the rise, and it’s not going to stop anytime soon. In a recent article by Morning Consult discussing the trends of e-commerce in the United States, approximately 6% of shoppers don’t search online for products or services at least once a month. That means about 94% of people
- [Minimizing Chargebacks & Understanding the Process](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/minimizing-chargebacks-understanding-the-process/) - Consumers have a TON of control in the marketplace. They can lift businesses up with their purchases, and they can bring businesses down by withholding their spending. When a consumer elects to dispute a charge, it is called a CHARGEBACK, and that action can have serious financial repercussions for businesses! Sometimes, a cardholder does not recognize a charge on
- [Be Careful What You Click On!!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/be-careful-what-you-click-on-2/) - It’s a year round ongoing threat these days, so you need to be very aware of what you click on!Have you ever had your heart skip a beat after clicking on something, or opening an email attachment, initially thinking it was legit, but then realizing something just doesn’t feel right? Chances are that you, or
- [PCI Compliance & Why We Need It](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/pci-compliance-why-we-need-it/) - More than 98.2 million individuals were impacted by the 10 biggest data breaches in the first half of 2021. In 2023 that number rose to 349 Million and jumped again to 5.5 Billion on 2024! Data breaches continue to soar and have caused a lot of our merchants to call in and ask more questions
- [Security, Do You Have It?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/security-do-you-have-it/) - There is so much ‘complicated’ talk about security, compliance and all of the things we need to do to keep our personal information safe that sometimes we just need a little reminder of the BASICS. This week our team is reminding all of our merchants and future merchants about the basics of Merchant Account Security. Here are a few
- [ A Little Light, Even For a Moment](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/a-little-light-even-for-a-moment/) - Some days are heavier than others, not because of our own burdens, but because we’re invited to witness the weight others are carrying. Yesterday was one of those days. I sat across from two people who are deeply hurting. Decades of pain, fractured relationships, unresolved wounds, and the absence of intentional growth had left their lives
- [Upselling: Pushy Sales or Excellent Customer Service?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/upselling-pushy-sales-or-excellent-customer-service/) - Did you know?Upselling can be one of the most effective ways to serve your customers—and strengthen your processing performance. Often, upselling gets confused with pushy sales tactics. But when done right, it’s actually a form of proactive customer care. It helps people get what they need the first time, prevents frustration, and deepens trust. Think about
- [Simplify & Break It Down: The 5 Steps of Hiring](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/simplify-break-it-down-the-5-steps-of-hiring/) - Did you know?The way you hire impacts everything—from how your team handles service calls to how well your processing systems are managed. At TMC, we’ve learned that experience matters, but it isn’t everything. The right team is built by prioritizing five key traits that set people up for success. Ability to follow instructions. This matters in
- [Considering AI: The Future is Now (and It's Hilarious)](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/considering-ai-the-future-is-now-and-its-hilarious/) - Did you know?Artificial Intelligence is already reshaping the world of payment processing and chances are, it’s affecting your business more than you realize. AI is doing everything from predicting fraud before it happens to streamlining approval processes for new accounts. That means faster service, safer transactions, and more reliable tools for both you and your customers.
- [Mid-Year Check-In: Are You Measuring, Monitoring, and Managing Your Business?](https://gettmc.com/uncategorized/mid-year-check-in-are-you-measuring-monitoring-and-managing-your-business/) - Did you know?The way you manage your goals directly affects the performance of your payment processing program. We’re halfway through the year, which makes this the perfect time to reflect on your progress. Are your business goals on track? Are your systems supporting you? Are your customers consistently engaged? Three habits can help you course-correct or level
- [Perry Tacos: Filling Plates and Hearts with Leadership and Love](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/perry-tacos-filling-plates-and-hearts-with-leadership-and-love/) - Today, I cooked for my team. Not just any lunch, Perry Tacos, a name my crew affectionately coined for our special recipe. These aren’t your average tacos; they’re made with care, a mix of seasoned ground beef and sausage, and a not-so-secret twist: lightly fried flour tortillas, crisped to perfection in extra virgin olive oil. It
- [Supporting Small Business](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/supporting-small-business/) - One of the great pleasures of our business is the fact that we get to work with so many small businesses across America. This past week, I had the privilege of spending some time installing new terminals for several of our merchants and I was once again reminded of WHY I love what we do here at TMC. THE HEARTBEAT
- [Business Growth](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-growth-2/) - Do you have a dream or goal to GROW your business? Partnering with other successful people who have been down that road can remove some of the pebbles along the way. At Total Merchant Concepts, we have the privilege of working with thousands of business owners across the country. The industries vary, the backgrounds of the
- [Cracked Cups and Legacy Laughs](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/cracked-cups-and-legacy-laughs/) - Today my team completed a self-reflection activity using some really cool-looking cups from the Dollar Tree. Spoiler alert: the cups looked great… but a few were a little less than watertight. You know what they say—you really do get what you pay for. But instead of letting it ruin the moment, we laughed, we improvised, and—of course—we
- [When Plans Fall Apart… and Smiles Fall Into Place](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/when-plans-fall-apart-and-smiles-fall-into-place/) - Today was supposed to go according to plan. I had an early flight to West Palm Beach, heading into a walk-through of a $47M+ company. It was meant to be a Gamechanger experience coordinated by Howard Partridge and the Inner Circle.But weather and airline logistics had other ideas.My connecting flights were cancelled. There were no
- [Giving Back: Your Company’s Secret Power!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/giving-back-your-companys-secret-power-2/) - As a small-business owner, involvement in your community’s activities gives potential customers another reason to trust and select your business. Companies that encourage community involvement to distinguish themselves from their competitors and can see many benefits, including: Loyal CustomersHappier EmployeesReferral Opportunities Business owners can evaluate their business and employee strengths and select volunteer activities that draw upon
- [Finding Our Sweet Spot](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/finding-our-sweet-spot-2/) - Do you remember when you first started your business?I sure do – I had visions of grandeur!ALL businesses would want to use our company, EVERY business owner would feel the passion we had for the business, we would have the PERFECT solution for EACH business that came our way and there was just one more thing- we all lived happily ever
- [The Power of Gratitude](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/the-power-of-gratitude-2/) - Gratitude comes from the Latin word gratus, meaning “pleasing” or “thankful,”. National Gratitude Month was submitted by Stacey Grewal and proclaimed by the Registrar at National Day Calendar in August, 2015. But Gratitude is more than simply saying “thank you.” Gratitude has the power & ability to move us from focusing on the negative to
- [Make Your Life Easier: PICK THE RIGHT PARTNERS](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/make-your-life-easier-pick-the-right-partners-2/) - There are so many things to do every day as a business owner so figuring out ways to MAKE OUR LIVES EASIER- just makes good sense! Whether it is finding the right products, the right staff, or the right business partners- we really can make a difference in our crazy world by making some great choices. Here are FIVE things
- [Making Business Management Easier with Clover Online Dashboard](https://gettmc.com/uncategorized/making-business-management-easier-with-clover-online-dashboard/) - When you’re running a business, whether it’s a cafe or a retail shop, you know how important it is to have the right tools. That’s where the Clover Online Dashboard comes into play.Think of it as your digital workspace, designed to help you keep everything in check. This Dashboard comes bundled with any Clover Point of Sale device you
- [Clover: Your Essential Partner for Business Growth](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/clover-your-essential-partner-for-business-growth/) - You might be wondering how a little green plant could possibly help your business thrive. Well, while that plant might not have much to offer, the Clover POS System is a different story. With its impressive features, Clover is here to give your business the boost it needs! So, what exactly is Clover? At its core,
- [Discover the Clover Mini: Your Essential POS Companion](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/discover-the-clover-mini-your-essential-pos-companion/) - Let’s be real—running a business can feel like juggling flaming torches while riding a unicycle. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just dipping your toes into entrepreneurship, having the right tools can make all the difference. That’s where Clover Mini comes into play—your new best friend in the world of Point of Sale systems!The Clover Mini is
- [Your Business Deserves a Flexible Point of Sale Device – Say Hello to Clover Flex!](https://gettmc.com/uncategorized/your-business-deserves-a-flexible-point-of-sale-device-say-hello-to-clover-flex/) - Running a business is no walk in the park—every minute counts! That’s where the Clover Flex comes in, ready to lighten your load and streamline your checkout experience. This all-in-one wonder lets you provide a fantastic customer experience right where you are—whether you’re at the counter, in line, or even at your clients’ tables.The Clover Flex is
- [Discover the Power of Clover Station: Your Ultimate POS Solution](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/discover-the-power-of-clover-station-your-ultimate-pos-solution/) - Imagine stepping into your favorite café, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air, and the staff greets you by name. What makes that experience so special? It’s not just the delightful atmosphere; it’s the smooth, efficient service powered by the Clover Station. This dynamic point-of-sale (POS) system is more than just a
- [Staffing & The Seasons](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/staffing-the-seasons-2/) - It is amazing what a few SEASONS do to your train of thought- on most everything!I was listening to John Maxwell over the weekend and heard a lesson out of his book Leadership GOLD, that made me pull my car over. The lesson was related to staff members and the fact that you do not usually END
- [Mobile Processing: Oh, the Places You’ll Go!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/mobile-processing-oh-the-places-youll-go-2/) - Get paid SOONER and keep that cash flowing with Mobile Credit Card Processing!Are you still sending out invoices and waiting to get paid? That can put a real kink in the cash flow, but it doesn’t have to be that way!Everything seems to be going faster these days, so why not include getting paid for your products and services
- [The 5 Steps of Hiring](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/the-5-steps-of-hiring/) - I remember sitting in a job interview many years ago and being told I did not have enough experience to be awarded the job. How in the world was I supposed to GET experience if they would not hire me?? That particular ‘experience’ would season the way I would hire people as a business owner in the
- [Mobile Payments:  Learn about  it-Embrace it: LOVE it! ](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/mobile-payments-learn-about-it-embrace-it-love-it/) - There are so many ways to process credit cards and it is important to understand what options are best suited for your business. Whether your business does delivery or curbside pick-up, mobile payment acceptance, online order ahead, and delivery we have mobile solutions available to help you go mobile. What Mobile Payment Option is Best
- [Three Tips to Deliver Service With Passion](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/three-tips-to-deliver-service-with-passion-2/) - When we train our referral partners to send their members to our company, we make some HUGE promises related to the level of service they can expect from our team. We’ve even been accused of implying that our staff can Walk on Water! Well, they do not walk on water (that position was filled over
- [Three Tips to Deliver Service With Passion](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/three-tips-to-deliver-service-with-passion/) - When we train our referral partners to send their members to our company, we make some HUGE promises related to the level of service they can expect from our team. We’ve even been accused of implying that our staff can Walk on Water! Well, they do not walk on water (that position was filled over
- [Customer Service](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/customer-service/) - Welcome to Total Merchant ConceptsExcellence is Our Minimum Standard!Many businesses promise excellent customer service… at TMC, it is our PASSION!From the moment you begin speaking with our representatives all the way through to becoming a merchant or a referral partner, you will experience our top-notch service. Our Commitment to Excellence will be apparent each time you work with our team
- [Raising the Bar on Service](https://gettmc.com/uncategorized/raising-the-bar-on-service-2/) - These days, it is a rare treat to experience true Excellence in service: in almost any industry. Mediocre is the service mantra of the day but the crazy thing is that MOST companies are advertising their focus on amazing service yet still falling flat when it comes time to truly deliver. The credit card processing
- [Our Passion Is Service](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/our-passion-is-service-2/) - Best Customer Service! Stellar Service Guaranteed!Award-Winning Customer Service!BLAH BLAH BLAH BLAH!!!As consumers, we are all sick and tired of hearing the many promises of exceptional service, only to find that most companies fall painfully short in the service department. Think about it. When is the last time you experienced truly exceptional service and how do
- [Unlocking the True Cost of Merchant Services: Why the Right Partner Makes All the Difference](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/unlocking-the-true-cost-of-merchant-services-why-the-right-partner-makes-all-the-difference/) - Many potential business owners ask us the same question- what fees do you charge- what is the COST? And while the rate structure is a critical component- the actual COST of a merchant account goes much deeper. Selecting the RIGHT partner is GOOD for your bottom line. Here are a few things to consider when evaluating
- [Credit Card Processing Fees Explained ](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/credit-card-processing-fees-explained-2/) - Are credit card industry fees confusing to you? They are to most people, so today we thought we’d explain about those “miscellaneous” fees and charges that show up on your monthly merchant account statement. Monthly Minimum Fee: fee which guarantees the merchant will be paying a minimum amount each month in processing fees. If
- [Understanding Interchange Rates: A Simplified Guide for Business Owners](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/understanding-interchange-rates-a-simplified-guide-for-business-owners/) - Credit card processing can be confusing for business owners, with all the different rates, terms and fees. One common pricing structure is the percentage-based model, but this can sometimes lead to businesses paying more than they should. The goal of this post is to explain the Interchange fees, which are the core of all credit
- [Why are there so many different rates on my Processing Statement?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/why-are-there-so-many-different-rates-on-my-processing-statement/) - I recently received a call from a longstanding merchant who asked me this question: What do all of the rates mean on my statement? I LOVED the question- especially coming from such a loyal merchant who admitted to reading very few statements since they hired us 9 1/2 years ago!So here is your answer my
- [What are 3 things you MUST Know about Credit Card Processing?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/what-are-3-things-you-must-know-about-credit-card-processing/) - As complicated as the credit card processing industry can be, there are only 3 things you REALLY need to know. #1 Understand The RatesThere are 500+ tiers of pricing when you combine all credit/debit card types. It is important to familiarize yourself not only with the pricing but also how the pricing relates to your specific
- [Does your Business Provide an Exceptional Educational Experience?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/does-your-business-provide-an-exceptional-educational-experience/) - Have you ever purchased something, asked someone for assistance, and had someone say, “I don’t know – I just sell them! Unfortunately, that kind of mediocre service is all too prevalent these days, but it doesn’t have to be!You can be the “talk of the town” in a good way by implementing a process to
- [Never Stop Growing!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/never-stop-growing/) - Like any plant, the growth of the Chinese Bamboo tree requires nurturing – water, fertile soil, sunshine. In its first year, there are no visible signs of activity. In the second year, again, no growth above the soil. The third, the fourth, still nothing. The gardener’s patience is tested and he begins to wonder if his efforts
- [Is Your Relationship Builder Doing Accounting?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/is-your-relationship-builder-doing-accounting/) - How is your team wired?If you are lucky like we are, you have people on your team who can (and DO) whatever is necessary to make things work the way they should.However, there is a big difference between a staff who does what they must and a staff who does what they LOVE! In order
- [Not Hiring a Coach Can Affect Your Bottom Line!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/not-hiring-a-coach-can-affect-your-bottom-line/) - Some months ago, I asked my husband to grab the Seasoning Salt from the kitchen. He was gone for a long period of time and then returned empty-handed, “I don’t see it.” he said. I was about ready to launch into the “it’s right there” speech but instead, I walked into the kitchen and picked
- [Ready to Sell Online?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/ready-to-sell-online/) - In the past, selling online was a confusing mess of multiple and often expensive options. Today, with TMC Shop Now, selling online is fairly simple and very affordable. TMC Shop Now is an easy solution that includes everything you need to add an online store to your existing website, OR to create a website if
- [Shifting from offline to online](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/shifting-from-offline-to-online/) - To start accepting orders online, you need an e-commerce-enabled website. If you’ve never dealt with websites before, no worries: we can help you easily set one up on TMC Shop Now.If you already have a website for your business, but it doesn’t have an online ordering option, you can add TMC Shop Now to your
- [Effortless Store Management: The TMC ShopNow Experience](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/effortless-store-management-the-tmc-shopnow-experience/) - Managing inventory, fulfilling orders, and ensuring everything runs smoothly in your online business can feel like a never-ending circus act! TMC ShopNow—the powerful platform that transforms chaos into streamlined management, can tame the tasks that must be done and reduce your frustrations. Picture a centralized dashboard where everything you need is at your fingertips. With TMC
- [The MAGIC of a SMILE](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/the-magic-of-a-smile/) - It’s so easy to take things for granted- especially in America- we have so much and we are so very blessed. Often times, it’s the things we were given FREE OF CHARGE that turn out to be the things we miss the most when they are removed. I was speaking at an event and sharing on
- [Become the Expert in Your Niche](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/become-the-expert-in-your-niche/) - I always get so much great information out of my favorite magazine: SUCCESSThis article is very helpful when you are looking for more ways to set yourself apart from your competition. Becoming the ‘Go-To Person’ or Expert in your field is one of the very best ways to increase visibility and ultimately- your bottom line! Enjoy
- [Poor Service is Costly to Both Consumers and Businesses](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/service/poor-service-is-costly-to-both-consumers-and-businesses/) - Last Winter I was getting new tires on the company vehicle at a local tire shop. A big storm threatened our area, so the tire shop was busy with clients and workers trying to stay ahead of the storm… After what felt like forever, I approached the front counter to better understand what was happening.
- [Put the LOVE back in your Business!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/put-the-love-back-in-your-business/) - Like most partnerships, things can sometimes be complex. When this happens, we have to focus on the BASICS to get the complex issues ironed out. The credit card processing industry is a mess of fees, regulations, issues and the list goes on. Hopefully, these strategies below are useful to you and can help you keep
- [Leaving a Legacy With Your Business](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/leaving-a-legacy-with-your-business/) - How does what you do for work, make a difference in the world? I know very few business owners who have not pondered the answer to that question! All of the hard work, planning, competition, and frustration (the list goes on and on) has got to be for something. So- have you considered what LEGACY
- [Best Practices For Retail Merchants](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/best-practices-for-retail-merchants/) - As a small business owner, I find it necessary to revisit the basics from time to time. Staffing changes, busy schedules and daily routines often get in the way of the details that can save us money on the bottom line. This article is designed to be an overview for merchants who have retail, face
- [Smart Phones and Tablets and Dongles: OH MY!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/smart-phones-and-tablets-and-dongles-oh-my/) - Technology can be so confusing!Smart Phones and Tablets and Dongles OH MY!Here is a list of some of the most popular tools that help us accept plastic as a form of payment! Traditional Terminals: Terminals come in all shapes and sizes and have the ability to work with old fashioned analog phone lines or high
- [Business Statistics & Heroes](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/business-statistics-heroes/) - For the past several days, I have been attending an Anthony Robbins Leadership seminar. As a small business owner, I use these types of events to 'recharge' my battery and gain helpful insights to continue growing and finding ways to be of even more service to our merchants and referral partners. Yesterday, I heard some
- [Need Better Tracking This Tool Might OVER Deliver](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/need-better-tracking-this-tool-might-over-deliver/) - One of our longest term clients contacted us recently. They were walking through an auditing process and realized they needed better tracking tools for the revenue they accepted from their clients. I LOVE that they called their team at TMC- we work diligently to be MORE than ‘just a processing partner’ and after working with us
- [Developing a Culture of Positive Growth](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/developing-a-culture-of-positive-growth/) - Developing a Culture of Positive Growth and forward progress has been something I have worked on for years! The idea of turning my Credit Card Processing Company into so much more- has always fascinated me and made working in the business anything but mundane!Today, TMC is a rare company- a place where people GO TO GROW
- [Considering AI](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/considering-ai/) - Considering AI: The Future is Now (and It’s Hilarious)In today’s whirlwind of technological wizardry, Artificial Intelligence (AI) stands out like that quirky friend who somehow manages to both amaze and confuse you at the same time. From virtual assistants that seem to understand your deepest desires (like Siri knowing you want pizza on Friday night)
- [To HIRE or Not to HIRE?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/to-hire-or-not-to-hire-2/) - I remember sitting in a job interview many years ago and being told I did not have enough experience to be awarded the job. How in the world was I supposed to GET experience if they would not hire me?? That particular ‘experience’ would season the way I would hire people as a business owner
- [Why Is Your Hair Wet?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/why-is-your-hair-wet-2/) - As a busy business owner, I sometimes fill my schedule to the brim - with barely enough time in between tasks. And so it was this past Friday when I quickly showered after a long drive home and rushed to the grocery store to pick up some items for a Lions Club event later that
- [Top Reasons For Accepting Credit Cards](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/top-reasons-for-accepting-credit-cards-2/) - Accepting credit cards is a necessity for most businesses today. The reasons we accept plastic from our customers can make all of the things that go on behind credit card processing; tolerable! Here are the top reasons why accepting credit cards from your clients just makes good business sense! Make the Payment Process EasyWhen you can
- [Calculating Your ROI](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/calculating-your-roi-2/) - We have, from time to time, made the decision to close our office for a “training” day, and have our team attend training seminars, webinars and events. The events themselves are always a huge success however determining what the return on investment (ROI) was can be more difficult! With a product or service, the ROI is
- [Keeping Employees Engaged](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/keeping-employees-engaged-2/) - Dealing with employees can be one of the most challenging aspects of small business ownership, but it can also be one of the most rewarding – HOW you ask? Let’s start with a little history. Did you know that disengaged employees (estimated at 70% of the workforce) cost the US Economy around 370 Billion each
- [All Hands On Deck](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/all-hands-on-deck-2/) - Delivering EXCELLENCE requires an 'All Hands On Deck' attitude! We continue adding new team members to our TMC team to serve our referral partners and merchants! The process of training new people to represent your company or brand is not easy but it is something that business owners must get good at, if they want
- [PCI Compliance - Why you need it](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/pci-compliance-why-you-need-it/) - More than 98.2 million individuals were impacted by the 10 biggest data breaches in the first half of 2021. Data breaches caused a lot of our merchants to call in and ask more questions about PCI Compliance. • Could this happen to me?• Is my business compliant?• Do I need to do anything else to
- [Will the REAL Salesman Please Stand Up!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/will-the-real-salesman-please-stand-up/) - Most industries have issues with sales reps who are not real students of their profession (at best) or they are lacking in integrity (at worst). They forget their real job: taking care of their customer and advising them to move in a direction that is best for the customer. The credit card processing industry is NOTORIOUS for
- [Service Please?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/service-please/) - A funny- lighthearted story about the little things that make a big difference! As I so often do these days, I took a lunch order from my lovely partner Christie "Have it your way" Tadday. I drove down to *Big Burger Barn and placed my order. As I pulled up to the window, the young
- [Enjoy your Labor Day!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/enjoy-your-labor-day/) - Sir Smiley here to wish you and your family the best 3 day weekend ever! Our TMC team will be enjoying the day off with their families (our 24 Hour help desk will still be available if you need assistance!). Please enjoy this walkthrough history as the folks from Wikipedia share the history of Labor
- [New Phone System](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/new-phone-system/) - Sir Smiley here and Guess What? We just upgraded our phone system! As our business grows and we are privileged to serve more andmore merchants, finding ways to be more efficient is at the top of our priority list! Don't worry- no call Ques or extensive 'Press#...' options at TMC! Just a solid, robust phone
- [Here Come The Holidays!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/here-come-the-holidays/) - Some people think that November is the start to the Holiday season but a quick trip down the center isle of your local supermarket will soon prove that HALLOWEEN is the sweet start of the silly season! This next week people will be busy filling up candy bowls, customizing their costumes and putting the final
- [The Blog Vacation Is Over](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/the-blog-vacation-is-over/) - Greetings and Holiday Cheer from Sir Smiley and the entire team at TMC! During this VERY BUSY holiday season, a few things have taken a back seat to our daily chores; the blog is one example. So this morning, I checked the email and found this message from one of our very valuable merchants: Good
- [Happy New Year](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/happy-new-year-2/) - 2 Weeks down just 50 more to go in 2011! Welcome to the New Year (albeit a bit late) from your friends here at TMC! Now that the holiday season is safely behind us and merchants everywhere have breathed a collective sigh of relief (decent 4th quarter showing & all)- it is time to set
- [NEW ARRIVAL @ TMC!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/new-arrival-tmc/) - We are so excited to share the birth announcement of little Lyric Lamar Calloway! Martha has been baking this baby for the last 9 months and this morning at 9:53am- she delivered a healthy baby boy! Lyric is 7lbs 14oz and 19 inches long! Congratulations Martha- we will miss you while you are out on
- [A Few Words on Valentine's Day](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/a-few-words-on-valentines-day/) - Well today is the day for LOVE! Sir Smiley here to wish you a very Happy Valentine's Day from all your friends at Total Merchant Concepts! Today, Valentine's Day is one of the major holidays in the United States and it is a booming commercial success. According to the American Greeting Card Association, 25% of
- [HOW DO I CHANGE THE TIME IN MY TERMINAL?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/how-do-i-change-the-time-in-my-terminal/) - Time to Spring Forward with every clock in your house, your office, your car, your watch (do people still wear those? ), your cell phone and YES- your Credit Card Machine! This is also a GREAT time of year to replace batteries in your smoke detector- a great tip from Cheri's Dad. Most POS (Point
- [Our New Baby!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/our-new-baby/) - What a GREAT day here at TMC! Martha brought her new baby boy, Lyric- in for a visit. Now I am no expert on babies but WOW- he sure is a cutie! Mommy looks fantastic and so very happy. Congratulations Martha- we are so happy for you! Sir Smiley Sir SmileyTuesday, March 22, 2011
- [Smart Ways To Use Credit Cards](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/smart-ways-to-use-credit-cards/) - We process credit cards here at TMC and we are thankful when you choose to use your cards (it keeps us employed!). But we wanted to take a moment to encourage the proper use of those credit cards so that your financial future can be bright! Check out the article Smart Ways To Use Credit
- [THOUGHT FOR THE DAY](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/thought-for-the-day/) - Good Monday Morning! Sir Smiley here with a quick thought for the day: Genuine beginnings begin with us, even when they are brought to our attention by external circumstances or opportunities! ~William Bridges TMC will be posting some great information this week on rates and fees- a continuing education of sorts! Until then, enjoy your
- [Happy Mother's Day](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/happy-mothers-day/) - Happy Mother's Day to all of the Mommies, Moms, Mothers, Mamas & Grandmas out there! Every day is special when you are a Mom but TODAY is the one day per year set aside to really honor Mom- for all of the many things she does! Here are some fun facts about Mother's Day- This
- [Happy 4th of July](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/happy-4th-of-july/) - On July 4, 1776, we claimed our independence from Britain and Democracy was born. Every day thousands leave their homeland to come to the "land of the free and the home of the brave" so they can begin their American Dream. The United States is truly a diverse nation made up of dynamic people. Each
- [Proper Phone Etiquette](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/proper-phone-etiquette/) - Sir Smiley here with a few tips on proper phone etiquette Before we get into it, answer the following question: The last time I called a business I- A- Got a Busy Signal B- Telecommuted to India or Mexico C- Was greeted by someone who HATED their job D- Got Lost in the Phone Tree
- [Business Is GREAT!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/business-is-great/) - Sir Smiley here with a VERY COOL STORY!! We can always use a good smile to start the week and this story should do the trick! A landscape gardener ran a business that had been in the family for two or three generations. The staff was happy, and customers loved to visit the store, or
- [Shake It Off and STEP UP](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/shake-it-off-and-step-up/) - Every once in awhile you hear a fun story that speaks to the adversity we deal with in our lives- this story has a great message! Shake it Off and Step UpA farmer owned an old mule that fell into a well.After assessing the situation, the farmer reluctantly concluded thatneither the mule nor the well
- [Smiling Is Contagious](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/smiling-is-contagious/) - I hate to brag- but today is a celebration of ME!! WORLD SHARE A SMILE DAY! At TMC, we like to spread happiness by adding a Smiley Face Sticker to every package and envelope that leaves our office. We even have the UPS Guy and the Postal staff asking- Where is the Smiley Face? (Gotta
- [Technically Challenged](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/technically-challenged/) - How are you with technology? For most of us, technology is something that resides peacefully in the background of our lives until one day- IT BREAKS! Last week, we experienced one of THOSE days!! It started with the Internet slowing to dial up speeds (the nerve!) and then our phone system began to receive mysterious
- [Let's Take a Quiz!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/lets-take-a-quiz/) - Success Magazine is one of our favorites here at TMC. Along with the many great articles on business success principals and building tips, they often have thought provoking tools that help us 'stay on course' as we seek to find our futures! Potential business owners and existing business owners alike, will find great value in
- [Are You Social?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/are-you-social/) - Sir Smiley here- This week, the President of our company will be speaking at a business conference in Portland Oregon; her topic? Embracing Social Media I thought it might be good to learn a bit about the topic from the KING of Social Media; yours truly! That's right! There really is nothing more 'social' than
- [TIME FOR A CHANGE](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/time-for-a-change-2/) - Change is something that most people......"LOVE"...... Daylight Saving Time is one of the easiest changes that people get to deal with each year but have you ever wondered why we change the clocks twice a year? I did a bit of surfing on the internet and found a great site that covers a TON of
- [Some Tax Time Humor](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/some-tax-time-humor/) - Sir Smiley here after a long hiatus- just in time for TAX DAY!! Please forgive my light hearted attempt at humor today, as we all work through Tax Day 2013. Many Americans think that taxes are too high and some think they should be raised but for today, I thought we would simply focus on
- [Are you ready for the "Big 3"?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/are-you-ready-for-the-big-3/) - We are off to the 'Big 3': Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year! As business owners, one of two things is happening right now: You are winding down from a busy summer and getting ready to plan out 2022 or You are running around like crazy, getting ready for your busiest time of the year In
- [Weekly Motivation!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/weekly-motivation/) - Have you ever noticed that motivation is a DAILY job? It's not one of those 'get it done once' things, it is something that we have to work at all of the time! You might think that being a SMILEY makes my job easy but let me tell you- I have to work at it
- [Why NOT Hiring a Coach is Costing you BIG TIME](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/why-not-hiring-a-coach-is-costing-you-big-time/) - Some months ago, I asked my husband to grab the Seasoning Salt from the kitchen. He was gone for a long period of time and then returned empty-handed, “I don’t see it.” he said. I was about ready to launch into the “it’s right there” speech but instead, I walked into the kitchen and picked
- [Right People, Right Seat, Right Work](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/right-people-right-seat-right-work/) - How is your team wired? If you are lucky like we are, you have people on your team who can (and DO) whatever is necessary to make things work the way they should. However, there is a big difference between a staff who does what they must and a staff who does what they LOVE!
- [Using Social Media to INCREASE sales!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/using-social-media-to-increase-sales/) - What if we told you that, we can help you tap into 10+ sales channels, including Facebook and Instagram, to grow your reach on platforms where your customers already spend most of their time — AND you can control all of that from ONE single dashboard? Finding customers is heavy lifting for any business. But
- [Let The Growth Continue!!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/let-the-growth-continue/) - Like any plant, the growth of the Chinese Bamboo tree requires nurturing – water, fertile soil, sunshine. In its first year, there are no visible signs of activity. In the second year, again, no growth above the soil. The third, the fourth, still nothing. The gardener’s patience is tested and he begins to wonder if
- [To HIRE or Not to HIRE?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/to-hire-or-not-to-hire/) - I remember sitting in a job interview many years ago and being told I did not have enough experience to be awarded the job. How in the world was I supposed to GET experience if they would not hire me?? That particular ‘experience’ would season the way I would hire people as a business owner
- [The REAL Cost](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/the-real-cost/) - How do you determine the REAL cost of credit card processing? With so many different fees, charges, pass-throughs, interchange, flat rate, etc., it is nearly impossible for a business owner to understand what they are REALLY paying for processing.We get asked all the time “what fees do you charge- what is the COST?” And while
- [The Power of Partnerships](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/the-power-of-partnerships/) - Have you developed some great business Partnerships over the years? Are there clients and customers who have become a part of your “inner circle” whose opinions you value and counsel you seek?Few things can match the energy generated by Powerful Partnerships! There was an article in the July 2007 issue of BusinessWeek SmallBiz. It stated
- [Looking For Efficiency](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/looking-for-efficiency/) - Do you have areas in your business you feel could run a bit more efficiently? We can certainly relate, and although it can take a little tie out of your already busy day, efficiency is one of those concepts that simply must be implemented in our businesses to ensure that we remain viable and productive
- [Selecting The Right Processing Type For Your Business](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/selecting-the-right-processing-type-for-your-business/) - The credit card processing industry has never been more exciting than it is today! Change is around every corner. COVID, Government intervention, security concerns & mobile technology have altered the industry forever. So how does a business owner determine what solution is the right one for their business? That is where we come in! Our
- [Let's Go On A Journey](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/lets-go-on-a-journey/) - They say that a journey begins with a single step and that you cannot get where you're going unless you know where you are or where you come from. WHERE DID TMC COME FROM: Our company was founded TWENTY-SEVEN years ago- after having a very difficult time finding anyone who seemed to care about our
- [Be Smart With Your SmartPhone](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/be-smart-with-your-smartphone/) - I remember driving around in my parents' Lincoln Continental Valentino, at age 16. It was a magnificent car and it had a 'mobile phone' built in. I never actually used the phone, but I do recall driving around holding the handset (complete with the spiral cord attachment) and pretending that I was talking. My parents
- [Let's Go Mobile!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/lets-go-mobile/) - There are so many ways to process credit cards and it is important to understand what options are best suited for your business. Whether your business does delivery or curbside pick-up, mobile payment acceptance, online order ahead, and delivery we have mobile solutions available to help you go mobile. What is the best Mobile option
- [Mobile Processing: Oh, the Places You'll Go!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/mobile-processing-oh-the-places-youll-go/) - Get paid SOONER and keep that cash flowing with Mobile Credit Card Processing! Are you still sending out invoices and waiting to get paid? That can put a real kink in the cash flow, but it doesn’t have to be that way! Everything seems to be going faster these days, so why not include getting
- [Se habla Espanol at TMC!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/se-habla-espanol-at-tmc/) - At TMC, we are always looking for ways to support and add value to our community and small business owners all across the country. We are happy to announce that we have been growing our Service and Sales teams with Spanish- speaking members in order to make our interactions with our Hispanic merchants more fluid
- [Be Careful What You Click On!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/be-careful-what-you-click-on/) - This time of the year, more than any, you need to be very aware of what you click on! Have you ever had your heart skip a beat after clicking on something, or opened an email attachment, initially thinking it was legit, but then realizing something just doesn’t feel right? Chances are that you, or
- [There is NO PLACE LIKE YOUR Business](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/there-is-no-place-like-your-business/) - In the movie The Wizard of Oz we all sat glued to the television set while the Scarecrow found his brain, the Tin Man found his courage, the Lion found his heart and Dorothy realized there was no place like home. Creating an award-winning culture in our businesses can sometimes feel like we need a
- [Using Recurring Donations to GROW Your Organization](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/using-recurring-donations-to-grow-your-organization/) - There is a TON of competition in the market place for the discretionary dollars Non Profit Organizations need to attract. Businesses and consumers alike, are looking for the just the right cause to put these dollars to work and guess what else they are looking for? An EASY way to do it! Here are some
- [5 Things To Increase Teamwork](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/5-things-to-increase-teamwork/) - There are 120 hours in a 5 day work week and we spend 1/3 of those hours with our Co-Workers. So it is no surprise that TEAMWORK is a huge topic of discussion within the business world! Here are 5 things you can do to increase, encourage and improve TEAMWORK- where you work! 1- Keep
- [How to save TIME and MONEY with Recurring Payments!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/how-to-save-time-and-money-with-recurring-payments/) - As a business owner, having ways to save you time is money is important, and one great way to do this is by setting up automation for your payments! Recurring Payments is a transactions charged to a cardholder's account (with prior permission) on a periodic basis automatically for goods and services, i.e., health club memberships,
- [GROWING your Business](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/growing-your-business/) - I know, you’re so busy working day in and day out that giving thought to taking a little time out of your business in order to grow your business seems counterproductive! But consider this: We’ve all attempted to grow plants from seeds; some are successful, some are not – What’s the difference? It’s the “time”
- [Our Passion Is Service](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/our-passion-is-service/) - Best Customer Service! Stellar Service Guaranteed!Award Winning Customer Service! BLAH BLAH BLAH BLAH!!! As consumers, we are all sick and tired of hearing the many promises of exceptional service, only to find that most companies fall painfully short in the service department. Think about it? When is the last time you experienced truly exceptional service
- [Clover: One of the essential tools to help your business grow.](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/clover-one-of-the-essential-tools-to-help-your-business-grow/) - So how does a little green plant help your business? It might or it might not, but the Clover POS System has some great features that WILL! What is Clover? Clover is a POS (Point of Sale) system that can really give you a “step-up” with your card processing. With several options to choose from
- [So Many Pieces!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/so-many-pieces/) - This weekend I took a drive to Ocean Shores Washington to see my Mom and help her put together a dresser (Some assembly required). When I got there, we decided to just hang out, watch a movie, and relax. The next morning, I got busy with the project, and like any great engineer, I took
- [How To Leverage Positive Feedback Online](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/how-to-leverage-positive-feedback-online/) - You just got the following message in your email inbox: "You guys are the best moving company I've ever dealt with. Everything went smoothly thanks to your hard work." What do you do? While many small businesses focus on handling negative online comments, far too few take the time to leverage positive feedback effectively. Here
- [Learning From Each Other](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/learning-from-each-other/) - Owning a business can be as thrilling as a great roller coaster ride! We learn so much from all the ups and the downs in business and it just makes sense that those experiences would fuel our forward progress and, if we let them, the forward progress of others! This past week, Dean and I
- [Get your 2023 Journal Ready!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/get-your-2023-journal-ready/) - There are few things as therapeutic as writing everything down. For centuries, great treasures of words have been found in the journals of historical figures and those we love. Today, I would like to share an article by Jim Rohn that gives you several compelling reasons to start and keep a journal. Please enjoy this
- [Making a Powerful & Positive Difference](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/making-a-powerful-positive-difference/) - Are you concerned about the future of your business due to circumstances beyond your control? The best way to reduce that concern is to take care of the things within your control – You’ve “Got the Power” if you use it in the right way!Many people equate business ownership with POWER. And, depending on your
- [A Change in Celebrating The Season - Why I Believe In Christmas](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/a-change-in-celebrating-the-season-why-i-believe-in-christmas/) - It’s almost Christmas, a wonderful and beautiful time of year. At Total Merchant Concepts, we have been wishing our merchants and anyone who calls into our office a 'Merry Christmas' for over 25 years. The responses we've received have always been heartwarming. People really do enjoy a heartfelt sentiment. Christmas has always been a special
- [What Are You Looking For?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/what-are-you-looking-for/) - It’s funny how life’s circumstances can help us be better leaders at home and in our businesses! This past weekend, my husband and I went for a walk at a local park. There is a 3-mile loop that we like to walk and on this particular day, it was sunny and brisk! We clocked a
- [Thankful for: DISC](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/thankful-for-disc/) - It’s the Holiday season and Thanksgiving is just around the corner, along with the traditional family get-together you so lovingly look forward to this time of year. (You DO right?) A chance to see family members up close and personal and create those memories you’ll cherish throughout the years.– REALLY? Remember through the years YES,
- [Black Friday Sales Stats](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/black-friday-sales-stats/) - It seems hard to believe that we are just a few weeks away from our annual Thanksgiving Day celebration! After the family gatherings, the feasting & festivities (and of course the mid-afternoon naps!)- many people begin the planning and preparation for BLACK FRIDAY! Let's take a look at the origin of the term and some
- [What's Power](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/whats-power/) - As a business owner, you can be faced with daily frustrations that might direct your focus away from WHY you became a business owner. But have you considered the REAL POWER generated by your business? Examples of POWER your team can generate when you are committed to making a powerful & positive difference! The POWER
- [Let’s Go For A Walk](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/lets-go-for-a-walk/) - For years people have taken the challenge to run the HOOD TO COAST relay. I’ve always been intrigued but somewhere between the mountain peak and the Sandy beach - I’ve never managed to commit to the journey. Until this year, when I learned of the Portland to Coast walk that has been part of the
- [Everybody Needs A Hand](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/everybody-needs-a-hand/) - Someone once asked me what I would do differently if I had life to do all over again- the truth is NOT MUCH. Every action I’ve taken or chosen not to take has led me to today and I am so very grateful for this place. Not wanting to sound overconfident, I quickly took a
- [Don't FREAK OUT!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/dont-freak-out/) - I was doing a little reading this morning and came across this headline and it reminded me of the time I went to see Jurassic Park (I think it was 3) Tesla Is Cutting 10% of Workforce, Elon Musk Says He Has a 'Super Bad Feeling' About the Economy Dean and I bought the tickets
- [Exceptional Educational Experience](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/exceptional-educational-experience/) - Have you ever purchased something, asked someone for assistance, and had someone say, “I don’t know – I just sell them! Unfortunately, that kind of mediocre service is all too prevalent these days, but it doesn’t have to be! You can be the “talk of the town” in a good way by implementing a process
- [What an Honor!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/what-an-honor/) - This month we are focused on the businesses that are the BACKBONE of America- Small business USA. Stats and opinions vary on the actual definition of a ‘SMALL’ business but it is safe to say that a majority of the businesses we serve here at TMC are just like us- small businesses. So what’s it
- [Small Business America](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/small-business-america/) - One of the great pleasures of our business is that we get to work with so many small businesses across America. As we just celebrated Independence Day, we are again reminded of WHY we love what we do here at TMC. THE HEARTBEAT OF COMMUNITIESThe small businesses we work with are the heartbeat of our
- [Keeping Employees Engaged](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/keeping-employees-engaged/) - Dealing with employees can be one of the most challenging aspects of small business ownership, but it can also be one of the most rewarding – HOW you ask? Let’s start with a little history. Did you know that disengaged employees (estimated at 70% of the workforce) cost the US Economy around 370 Billion each
- [5 Attributes of a GREAT Credit Card Processor that Business Owners need to know!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/5-attributes-of-a-great-credit-card-processor-that-business-owners-need-to-know/) - Are you tired of hearing lofty promises and getting bargain basement service? Business owners have a lot to deal with, so here are a few tips to make the process of choosing a Credit Card Processor easier. Integrity: A processor with integrity will guide you to the RIGHT processing solution regardless of their financial gain.
- [Blooming Where You Are Planted!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/blooming-where-you-are-planted/) - Over the years, I've been asked countless times why I am so passionate about credit card processing and my answer has always been the same; because I truly love what I do. But after a recent eye-opening conversation with a member of my team, I was compelled to change my answer and write this blog
- [Tax Time!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/tax-time/) - Tax Day is the day on which individual income tax returns are due to the federal government. When the country was in its infancy, it struggled to raise funds from the 13 original states. The government collected the first income tax during the Civil War (1862 – 1872) to fund the war and its costs.
- [Automate payments with Invoicing & Recurring Billing](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/automate-payments-with-invoicing-recurring-billing/) - Where’s the money?? Having to send out monthly statements, wait for the money to come in and then sending past due statements to the ones that “forgot” or “got lost in the mail” not only causes frustration but eats up a lot of time and energy. Why not automate the process and reduce that frustration!
- [The Power of Perspective](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/the-power-of-perspective/) - I just finished saying- TGIF- when this story landed in my INBOX: I hope you enjoy it and I hope you have a GREAT PERSPECTIVE! The Power of Perspective by John G. Miller The QBQ! Guy I don't know about you, but from what I hear and read, people don't seem very happy nowadays. The
- [Get GOOD At Asking Questions!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/get-good-at-asking-questions/) - We get the answers to the questions we ask- which means that asking the RIGHT questions can have a very dramatic impact on our daily lives! Ask a BAD question (Why do bad things always happen to me?) and your mind goes straight to work finding the answer! Ask a GOOD question (How do I
- [Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.: What Are You Doing For Others?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/rev-dr-martin-luther-king-jr-what-are-you-doing-for-others/) - As we take the time to honor Martin Luther King Jr today, it seems appropriate to ask the question he once asked of those around him. What are you doing for others? There are nearly 28 million small businesses in the United States. Those small businesses employ nearly 50% of Americans. Can you imagine what
- [The POWER of a Testimonial](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/the-power-of-a-testimonial/) - You may know how AMAZING your team and your service is, but telling your prospects yourself may not have the desired end result! The very best way to let your future customers know how fantastic you are is to let your customers do the talking! Testimonials are POWERFUL tools when it comes to selling your
- [Welcome To 2022!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/welcome-to-2022/) - A New Year has begun and for many, it means time for resolutions and refocusing! Here at TMC, we are looking at ways to be of MORE service and add more value to those who partner with our company. We are excited to let you know that our merchants & referral partners are going to
- [Are You Ready For a BREAKTHROUGH in 2022?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/are-you-ready-for-a-breakthrough-in-2022/) - Every year is a little different; unless it seems THE SAME!! As we race towards the finish line of 2021 and eagerly await the brand new year, I wonder if you’ve given any thought to how this New Year will be different? I’m not talking about vaccinations or supply chains- I am talking about YOU!
- [Reducing Stress in the Workspace](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/reducing-stress-in-the-workspace/) - No matter how great of a workplace culture you have, we all face stressful situations in our work lives. These can range from minor annoyances to major panic attacks. Basic communication issues or more serious worries, such as an entire project done incorrectly from the start can play a part in raising our stress levels.
- [Review,Refocus,Refuel](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/reviewrefocusrefuel/) - As we stare down the remainder of 2021- it's time to do what business owners typically do several times per year: Review, Refocus and Refuel. REVIEW Consider asking yourself these questions- we are talking business, but this also works personally!! Honest assessments and reviews will help you understand what went well and where improvements can
- [The Science of Shopping for the Firearms Retailer](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/the-science-of-shopping-for-the-firearms-retailer/) - As a Firearms-Friendly company, we have the pleasure of working with many gun retailers. A source of great information for firearms-related businesses is NSSF: The Firearm Industry Trade Association. I recently found a great video on the NSSF website (https://www.nssf.org/retailers/retail-strategies) created to help gun retailers make sure their retail space is set up to achieve
- [The POWER of Work Community](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/the-power-of-work-community/) - There are so many benefits to owning your own business: we are truly blessed to live in a country where we can, if we choose, blaze our own trail and do our own thing. With so many plusses, it can be easy to forget that there are a few downsides to being the one 'calling
- [The REAL Power of Business](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/the-real-power-of-business/) - Many people equate business ownership with POWER. And, depending upon your defintion- I would have to agree. Small business owners have an opportunity to have an amazing amount of positive influence by leveraging the REAL POWER generated by their businesses and not the abuses we hear so much about on the news. Here are some
- [Use Gift Cards to GROW your Business During the Holiday Season](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/use-gift-cards-to-grow-your-business-during-the-holiday-season/) - Have you ever thought about gift cards to GROW your business? Gift cards make a perfect addition to any business, big or small and your customers will love the easy and convenient gift-giving solution that gift cards offer. What can GIFT CARDS do for your BUSINESS? Hassle-Free & Effective AdvertisingWord of Mouth Referrals from HAPPY
- [Live Like There is NO Tomorrow](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/live-like-there-is-no-tomorrow/) - Little Orphan Annie sang, "The sun will come out tomorrow, bet your bottom dollar that tomorrow- there'll be sun". Oh what a glorious thought that our tomorrow will be better and if we are lucky, that wonderful song may turn out to be true. The reality is that TOMORROW is never promised and if we
- [Finding Our Sweet Spot](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/finding-our-sweet-spot/) - Do you remember when you first started your business? I sure do - I had visions of grandeur! ALL businesses would want to use our company, EVERY business owner would feel the passion we had for the business, we would have the PERFECT solution for EACH business that came our way and there was just
- [What Is Your Unique Skillset?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/what-is-your-unique-skillset/) - Understanding the strengths your team possesses is critical to the success of any company. In other words, having the right people in the right seats can make all the difference Each of us is wired to do a few things very well. If our daily tasks revolve around those few things, life is good! If,
- [Back To Basics](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/back-to-basics/) - An executive is busy working in his home office when his 6-year-old son comes in and starts asking him to play. After much persistence followed by much frustration, the exec pulls out a magazine and opens it to a large fold-out map of the world. Pulling out the map, he cuts it into hundreds of
- [Right People in the Right Seats](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/right-people-in-the-right-seats/) - How is your team wired? If you are lucky like we are, you have people on your team who can (and DO) whatever is necessary to make things work the way they should. However, there is a big difference between a staff who does what they must and a staff who does what they LOVE!
- [3 Things You MUST Know About Credit Card Processing](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/3-things-you-must-know-about-credit-card-processing/) - As complicated as the credit card processing industry can be, there are only 3 things you REALLY need to know. #1 Understand The Rates There are 500+ tiers of pricing when you combine all credit/debit card types. It is important to familiarize yourself not only with the pricing but also how the pricing relates to
- [Top Reasons For Accepting Credit Cards](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/top-reasons-for-accepting-credit-cards/) - Accepting credit cards is a necessity for most businesses today. The reasons we accept plastic from our customers can make all of the things that go on behind credit card processing; tolerable! Here are the top reasons why accepting credit cards from your clients just makes good business sense! Make the Payment Process Easy When
- [Pre Flight Check List  (WORK)](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/pre-flight-check-list-work/) - Our Son is now licensed to be a Commercial Airline pilot (I am so very proud of Tyler and his efforts!). He has lots of hours and accreditations to add before he is flying the friendly skies- but HOW EXCITING to be a Pilot right? I wonder if we can use a little playful imagination
- [SIX reasons FUN can (and will!) improve work quality & mental health](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/six-reasons-fun-can-and-will-improve-work-quality-mental-health/) - If you’re a movie buff like I am, you’re probably familiar with the line from Stanley Kubrick’s “The Shining” where Jack Nicholson’s character types out several pages of the same sentence: All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. While the context in the movie is a bit eerie, Jack's comment is actually
- [TMC Celebrating 25 Years Serving YOU!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/tmc-celebrating-25-years-serving-you/) - Please enjoy this message from our Founder and MVP Director, Cheri Perry. TMC was founded TWENTY-FIVE years ago- after we found it difficult to find anyone who seemed to really care about our business and our ability to accept credit cards. We received tons of mailings, lots of phone calls, and we were inundated with
- [Tips To Reduce Credit Card Fraud Online](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/tips-to-reduce-credit-card-fraud-online/) - The more online transactions you process, the more risk you have in being exposed to fraud. Selling items online is convenient for your customers and increases sales for your business, but there is a risk involved and it’s much higher than in face-to-face transactions. When neither the card nor the customer is physically present at
- [5 ways to keep your staff members engaged!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/5-ways-to-keep-your-staff-members-engaged/) - Dealing with employees can be one of the most rewarding aspects of small business ownership; it can also be one of the most taxing. At TMC, we have always been blessed with an incredible cast of characters! Our team consistently delivers excellence and they tend to bring their hearts to work each day. Don't get
- [Credit Card Processing Fees Explained](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/credit-card-processing-fees-explained/) - Are credit card industry fees confusing to you? They are to most people, so today we thought we’d explain about those “miscellaneous” fees and charges that show up on your monthly merchant account statement. Let’s take a look at our bicycle shop statement to give us some good examples and explanations. Monthly Minimum Fee: fee
- [Why You Need to Feed Your Mind](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/why-you-need-to-feed-your-mind/) - Rohn: Why You Need to Feed Your Mind Jim Rohn But can you imagine what would happen if you kept up an accelerated learning curve for the rest of your life? Can you imagine what you could learn to do, the skills you could develop, the capacities you could have? Here’s what I’m asking you
- [5 Myths of PCI Compliance](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/5-myths-of-pci-compliance/) - Years ago, when I thought of the word 'Compliance' it would conjure up memories of childhood rules or conforming to some rigid set of expectations. Even dictionary.com's definition harkens back to a time before credit card fraud completely altered the meaning. com·pli·ance[kuhm-plahy-uhns] noun 1. The act of conforming, acquiescing, or yielding.2. a tendency to yield
- [Raising the Bar on Service](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/raising-the-bar-on-service/) - These days, it is a rare treat to experience true Excellence in service: in almost any industry. Mediocre is the service mantra of the day but the crazy thing is that MOST companies are advertising their focus on amazing service yet still falling flat when it comes time to truly deliver. The credit card processing
- [Accountability:  Steps to Success!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/accountability-steps-to-success/) - Every week, our team spends some good quality time honing our skills, elevating our level of service, and broadening our base of knowledge. These weekly meetings have become a great source of inspiration and our team routinely walks out of each session with an ACCOUNTABILITY item or action step for the following week. In the
- [Cost and Price](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/cost-and-price/) - Many potential business owners ask us the same question- what fees do you charge- what is the COST? And while the fee structure is a critical component- the actual COST of a merchant account goes much deeper. Selecting the RIGHT partner is GOOD for your bottom line. Here are a few things to consider when
- [Excellent Service is Delivered With Passion](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/excellent-service-is-delivered-with-passion/) - It is VERY easy to get in the 'routine' of any position or career. We simply must remind ourselves and our teams what business we are in and WHY what we do is so important! Our WHY is simple- the industry we reside in is notorious for substandard service and a lack of integrity and
- [Decision:  The First Step!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/decision-the-first-step/) - I was preparing our weekly postings for Facebook when I saw Pines Coffee's posting inviting anyone on a 'medium difficulty' hike. It's a funny thing how making a conscious decision to do anything in any area of your life, generates opportunities! I had just finished writing down some personal goals about taking care of my
- [A time of crisis calls for EFFECTIVE and STRONG Leadership](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/a-time-of-crisis-calls-for-effective-and-strong-leadership/) - On Sunday, I had the privilege of listening to John Maxwell’s address on Leadership. I’ve listed the link to the website below and my 5 main takeaways!! A time of crisis calls for EFFECTIVE and STRONG Leadership in our communities, our businesses, and our families. Our citizens, our team members, and our children are watching
- [How Do I Market My Business?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/how-do-i-market-my-business/) - It looks like the New Year is well on its way! Have you given much thought to how you will market your business this year?One of our primary focuses in 2021 is to help our merchants GROW THEIR BUSINESSES. You have the basics taken care of: Great Product or Service Competitive Pricing Customer Focused Back
- [What Direction Are You Growing?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/what-direction-are-you-growing/) - What Direction Are You Going or Growing? They say the rearview mirror is smaller because that’s not the direction we are going, and after a year like we have all just walked thru- that’s GREAT NEWS! The direction we are going in all areas of our life makes a tremendous difference, and few times are
- [Merry Christmas](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/merry-christmas/) - Christmas has always been a special time so it is surprising to hear that some people make such an issue over wishing people a ‘Merry Christmas’. I've even heard of people who said they were 'canceling' Christmas because of financial reasons. Recently, the news reported a story where many people were going to celebrate Christmas
- [What We Know For Sure!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/what-we-know-for-sure/) - In troubling times, it feels GREAT to lean ‘in’ to the things we KNOW FOR SURE! I remember flipping through the pages of an Oprah Magazine and seeing her WHAT I KNOW FOR SURE section in the back of the magazine. What Oprah knows for sure is different from what I know for sure. What
- [How to HANG IN THERE](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/how-to-hang-in-there/) - Many times, we find ourselves in certain predicaments.....you know; up a creek without a paddle, down to our last nickel and even up a tree-like our little friend here. How do some people manage to overcome the insurmountable odds to achieve their dreams while others seem to give up at the first whisper of a
- [Lessons From a Time Zone](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/lessons-from-a-time-zone/) - There are 6 time zones in the United States. On a recent trip to Montana, we drove from the Pacific Time Zone into the Mountain Time Zone. Not a big deal- nothing happened, no lights went off and there were no earth-shattering events to celebrate the move from one zone to another. Normally the shift
- [You Do The Math](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/you-do-the-math/) - Imagine you own a house and it needs paint. In days of old, you would open a Phone Book (an antique method of looking up businesses and people's names), scan through the options and pick a few to call for a bid. The painting companies would show up (usually) and provide quotes for you. You
- [Time To Think About Gift Cards!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/time-to-think-about-gift-cards/) - There are lots of great reasons to consider gift cards but here are a few of the most basic to consider as the holiday season gets ready to make its big debut! WHY ARE GIFT CARDS BETTER THAN GIFT CERTIFICATES? Gift Cards are secure, unlike gift certificates, so they can be placed on display to
- [When Strong Women Cry](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/when-strong-women-cry/) - Growing up my Dad always told me that we make our own economy. He watered our souls with phrases like, you can be anything you want to be and do anything you want to do. He prepared our spirit with life truths like, you get what you pay for and hard work always pays off.
- [Balancing Your Business & Personal Life: Get Out!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/balancing-your-business-personal-life-get-out/) - In his book ‘The One Thing’ Gary Keller mentions that a BALANCED life is a myth and I think that we all really know this instinctually. But there is a still, small voice that keeps calling us to be balanced- to make sure we are not spending too much time at the office or too
- [Why PRICE Should NOT Be Your #1 Concern](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/why-price-should-not-be-your-1-concern/) - Selecting a Merchant Services Partner for the RIGHT Reasons Lots of industries struggle with extreme competition. In some cases, there is so much competition that the impacted industry, products, and services become somewhat ‘commoditized’. They are relegated to the long list of items and services providers who no longer care about your overall experience. Webster
- [Outside of Your Comfort Zone](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/outside-of-your-comfort-zone/) - In order to reach our goals and dreams, oftentimes we have to venture outside of our comfort zones because that is where life gets interesting! You might be thinking 'interesting'- GREAT! I do not need any more 'interesting' in my life and operating every single day is tough enough without moving outside of my comfort
- [What's Your Vision?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/whats-your-vision/) - Years ago, I was introduced to the POWER of writing down your goals and visualizing the way you want your life to play out. Ever since that time, I have enjoyed the exercise of creating a vision board that speaks to me, gives me hope, and gives me a focus for the upcoming year. (my
- [3 Things You Must Know About Credit Card Processing](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/3-things-you-must-know-about-credit-card-processing-2/) - As complicated as the credit card processing industry can be, there are only 3 things you REALLY need to know. #1 Understand The RatesThere are 500+ tiers of pricing, when you combine all credit/debit card types. It is important to familiarize yourself not only with the pricing but also how the pricing relates to your
- [Back To Basics For Business Success](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/back-to-basics-for-business-success/) - Sometimes we have to focus on the BASICS to get the complex issues ironed out in our lives and in our businesses! The credit card processing industry is a mess of fees, regulations, issues and the list goes on. Hopefully, these strategies below are useful to you. When you are done reading them, please visit
- [The POWER of our WORDS!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/the-power-of-our-words/) - A couple of years ago, I was challenged by my business coach with a question: “What are you doing to increase Leadership on your team Cheri?” I was meeting with them weekly, talking about business growth and development, and giving them opportunities to attend life-changing events, but as I reflected on the question, I realized
- [Forging Your Character](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/forging-your-character/) - For many business owners (contrary to popular belief) CHARACTER is one of the pillars of successful businesses today! The Merchant Services industry has long been known for its lack of character- which is precisely why Dean and I began our venture over 23 years ago. Today, we still feel that Character counts in the business
- [Taking the RISK out of Credit Card Acceptance](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/taking-the-risk-out-of-credit-card-acceptance/) - Accepting credit cards can be an amazing tool and a double-edged sword! Amazing because consumers who use credit cards, spend more money, more often than their cash paying counterparts. Sword-like because the various risk issues associated with card acceptance can cause business owners unwelcome stress. Let's look at a few of the ways we can
- [How to Work from Home 101](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/how-to-work-from-home-101/) - Circumstances can change the way we do a lot of things including the way we work! Right now in America, LOTS of people are working remotely- while it is not a NEW trend, it was a RAPID move for many businesses. Years ago, we were faced with circumstances that resulted in the resignation of a
- [Taking Down Life's Fences](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/taking-down-lifes-fences/) - Sometimes when life gets crazy, some good old-fashioned work can take your mind off things for a bit. This weekend, Dean and I decided to take down an old fence. As we began the task, I was transported back 10 years- to the day we put the fence in. My father had reached a point
- [Handling Life’s Storms With a Positive Mindset](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/handling-lifes-storms-with-a-positive-mindset/) - Whenever there is a national crisis, it is hard to know how to navigate the waters between preparation and panic. With every day, every newscast and every social media post- the concerns surrounding the Coronavirus health scare continue to rise. What can business leaders do to keep our teams together, calm the nerves of our
- [Three Keys to ELIMINATE Poor Service](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/three-keys-to-eliminate-poor-service/) - Today, you can't visit a retail store, recreational event or restaurant without experiencing POOR SERVICE. We visited a restaurant this weekend and were excited to spend time with family and enjoy a wonderful Italian meal. I won't bore you with every detail but it was obvious that the owner of the company had lost touch
- [Credit Card Disputes: 3 Tips to reduce and possibly eliminate disputes](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/credit-card-disputes-3-tips-to-reduce-and-possibly-eliminate-disputes/) - Conflict is a part of life and in the credit card processing world, we sure have our fair share of conflict! A 'Credit Card Dispute' happens when a customer is not happy with their purchase (for any reason) and they choose to contact their card issuing bank to reverse the credit card transaction. These disputes
- [Problem Solving POWER](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/problem-solving-power/) - All businesses come with their share of unique challenges and problems! (That's the bad news!) The good news? You have readily available resources for finding the answers to most of them! You have PROBLEM-SOLVING POWER on your team. Many times, we think we have to 'go it alone'. We have certain responsibilities accompanied by an
- [Keep Your Cash Flow- Flowing](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/keep-your-cash-flow-flowing/) - There are lots of great things to enjoy in our businesses- POOR cash flow is not one of them! In order to keep your cash flow flowing, it is important that your merchant account be set up properly. Our team is in the habit of doing these things but just in case you accidentally chose
- [Our Heroic Journey Begins!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/our-heroic-journey-begins/) - 2019 was one of those years that delivered on every aspect of business here at TMC! Opportunity- Every new year holds a certain amount of ‘Promise’ and to the degree that we embrace it, promise usually delivers! We were blessed with many new opportunities and were fortunate enough to make good on many of them!
- [Understanding & Minimizing Chargebacks](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/understanding-minimizing-chargebacks/) - Consumers have a TON of control in the marketplace. They can lift businesses up with their purchases and they can bring businesses down by withholding their spending. When a consumer elects to dispute a charge, it is called a CHARGEBACK and that action can have serious financial repercussions for businesses! Sometimes, a cardholder does not
- [Lessons From a Time Zone](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/lessons-from-a-time-zone-2/) - There are 6 time zones in the United States. On a recent trip to Montana, we drove from the Pacific Time Zone into the Mountain Time Zone. Not a big deal- nothing happened, no lights went off and there were no earth-shattering events to celebrate the move from one zone to another. Normally the shift
- [Satisfaction vs. Loyalty](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/satisfaction-vs-loyalty/) - Simply telling people that "We have GREAT Customer Service" falls on deaf ears these days- why? Because the easiest thing in the world is to promise a GREAT Customer Service experience!! Do any of these situations sound familiar? Thank you for calling ABC Company, your business is VERY important to us- please HOLD. TRANSLATION: Thank
- [Thank You Veterans!!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/thank-you-veterans/) - Today is a day of celebration!We would not have the freedoms or liberties we have in The United States of America without our Veterans of yesterday, today and those to come!! America was a grand idea, based on Godly principals, personal freedoms and supreme sacrifice. Our Veterans deserve our highest respect for the price they
- [Life Outside Of Your Comfort Zone](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/life-outside-of-your-comfort-zone/) - In order to reach our goals and dreams, oftentimes we have to venture outside of our comfort zones because that is where life gets interesting! You might be thinking 'interesting'- GREAT! I do not need any more 'interesting' in my life and operating every single day is tough enough without moving outside of my comfort
- [Don’t Give Away $$](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/dont-give-away/) - With the Holiday season right around the corner we wanted you to be aware of a very popular scam that happens. With SOLID processes in place, you can prevent this type of fraud from happening to you and your team! Here is the most recent scenario: A customer/member walks into your business or Credit Union
- [Little Things Make a BIG Difference!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/little-things-make-a-big-difference/) - We have all experienced that 'little extra' that made a BIG difference! And while it is easy to see how those small measures impact our businesses, it is also very easy to overlook them while getting everything else done! Here are a few 'Little Things' that make a BIG Difference in the Merchant Services Industry-
- [One Size Does Not Fit All](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/one-size-does-not-fit-all/) - I remember the first time I caught Tyler wearing his Dad's shoes- what a sweet moment. Little did I know that time would fly by and pretty soon that sweet child would be wearing shoes even larger than his Dad's size 12's! No- one size does not fit all and while that precious childhood memory
- [We Are In This Together!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/we-are-in-this-together/) - Owning a business can be as thrilling as a great roller coaster ride! All the ups and the downs in business and it just makes sense that those experiences would fuel our forward progress and if we let them, the forward progress of others! Here is what we have learned over the years. Every Business
- [Understanding Interchange](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/understanding-interchange/) - The pricing in the credit card processing world is complicated! So many terms and fees are bandied about that it is no wonder business owners are fed up with all things related to Merchant Services! In today’s marketplace, percentage only options have gained a ton of ground because of the pricing and fee confusion our
- [The POWER of POWERFUL Associations](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/the-power-of-powerful-associations/) - We’ve all heard that the people we hang around with and the books we read will determine where we end up 5 years from now. So look around! How are you doing with your associations (read any good books lately)? In the past couple of weeks, I have had the unique privilege of spending quality
- [You've Got The Power](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/youve-got-the-power/) - Many people equate business ownership with POWER. And, depending upon your definition- I would have to agree. Small business owners have an opportunity to have an amazing amount of positive influence by leveraging the REAL POWER generated by their businesses and not the abuses we hear so much about on the news. Here are some
- [Credit Card Processing Rules](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/credit-card-processing-rules/) - There are times in life when you really SHOULD follow the rules! Accepting credit cards is DEFINITELY one of those times! The operating rules and regulations are designed to protect card holders, financial institutions and lastly- the merchant. When you are aware of the rules as a business owner, you help reduce your risk for
- [Welcome to your NEW Year!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/welcome-to-your-new-year/) - A New Year has begun and for many it means time for resolutions and refocusing! Here at TMC, we are looking at ways to be of MORE service and add more value to those who partner with our company. We are excited to let you know that our merchants & referral partners are going to
- [7 Tips To Reduce Credit Card Fraud Online](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/7-tips-to-reduce-credit-card-fraud-online/) - The more online transactions you process, the more risk you have in being exposed to fraud. Selling items online is convenient for your customers and increases sales for your business, but there is a risk involved and it’s much higher than in face-to-face transactions. When neither the card nor the customer is physically present at
- [Bring on Black Friday](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/bring-on-black-friday/) - It seems hard to believe that we are just a few days away from our annual Thanksgiving Day celebration! After the family gatherings, the feasting & festivities (and of course the mid afternoon naps!)- many people begin the planning and preparation for BLACK FRIDAY! Let's take a look at the origin of the term and
- [The word is INTEGRITY](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/the-word-is-integrity/) - Our blog today is dedicated to the word Integrity: a word that is easy to say and much more difficult to find! The word 'Integrity' is derived from the Latin word Integer, meaning untouched, hence, undivided, whole, equivalent. Webster defines 'Integrity' as: in·teg·ri·ty /?n't?gr?ti/ Show Spelled[in-teg-ri-tee] noun1.adherence to moral and ethical principles; soundness of moral
- [Start With the Foundation](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/start-with-the-foundation/) - Unless you want your business to suffer the fate of the two little pigs, we STRONGLY suggest making sure your FOUNDATION is strong! Creating a business founded on the principles that endure makes everything manageble. And lets face it, business ownership is riddled with obstacles, challenges and situations that really require a rock steady foundation.
- [7 Things About Labor Day](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/7-things-about-labor-day/) - Labor Day is the celebration of the American Worker. TMC would like to send a BIG Thank You to each member of our staff for your dedication to service and excellence. We would would like to send a BIG Thank You to our merchants for allowing us to be of service and we would like
- [Clear the Confusion QUICK!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/clear-the-confusion-quick/) - Have you ever felt as if you and the person you were speaking to were having two different conversations; at the same time? Being a successful business owner hinges on your ability to converse in such a way that everyone can clearly understand you and your mission! Poor communication can often be so disruptive that
- [Fill’er Up!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/filler-up/) - You can’t give out of an empty vessel!Many new business owners go into their adventure thinking they will have more control over their time and better opportunities financially- being the boss certainly has it perks! But as the days, months and years roll by, many of us end up spending way more than our 40
- [Why We Work](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/why-we-work/) - Two weeks ago, a member of our staff got one of the worst calls you can get as a Mother- your child was involved in a motorcycle accident. She left immediately and I watched in awe as my team wrapped their arms around her- hoping and praying for the best.It doesn’t matter what your J
- [Having FUN while you work!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/having-fun-while-you-work/) - If you’re a movie buff like I am, you’re probably familiar with the line from Stanley Kubrick’s “The Shining” where Jack Nicholson’s character types out several pages of the same sentence: All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. While the context in the movie is a bit eerie, Jack's comment is actually
- [We Will Never Forget: Thank You!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/we-will-never-forget-thank-you/) - If you spend any time at all in front of a television set, you know that 3 day weekends are some of the best times to go shopping; according to the advertisers. As a credit card processing company, it is intriguing to see how companies draw business in and encourage people to make purchases but
- [BOOK REVIEW: Sometimes You Win Sometimes You Learn](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/book-review-sometimes-you-win-sometimes-you-learn/) - This is a review of the book Sometimes You Win Sometimes You Learn, by John C. Maxwell. I learned that even though we always strive for success (which is our desired end result) we actually learn more when we lose. It is better to take action and fail (as long as we learn something from
- [The Art of Hospitality](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/the-art-of-hospitality/) - There are few things that match the comfort of your own bed! So when travelling- there can be some trepidation surrounding your accommodations that is- unless you have friends that are truly gifted in the art of hospitality! Years ago, one of my very best friends and I found ourselves up in the wee hours
- [Social Media & Feedback In the Business World](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/social-media-feedback-in-the-business-world/) - Social Media has changed the face of customer feedback. For better or worse, we are living in a new age. The way we communicate with each other is so very important and it is safe to say that there are pros and cons for the high tech way we talk to each other today. Easier-
- [NO Signature Required? WHAT?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/no-signature-required-what/) - In our ever changing digital world, things are always changing. So it is no surprise that the way our cards are being accepted is changing as well. We are dipping the chip and using our watches and now we may not even be asked to sign the receipt! As of April 1st, 2018 - the
- [WATCH That Receipt!  Partial Authorizations](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/watch-that-receipt-partial-authorizations/) - U.S. merchants are prohibited from splitting credit card transactions, which they may be tempted to do when the total transaction amount exceeds the authorization limit stated in their processing agreements. In such scenarios, merchants would request multiple authorizations for portions of the total transaction amount, which would all be lower than the limit. We have
- [Check Up from the Neck Up](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/check-up-from-the-neck-up/) - Each month this year, our team will be focusing our Social Media posts and our growth process internally on a single theme. This month is: Check Up from the Neck Up I’ll never forget the first time I heard Zig Ziglar talk about getting a ‘Check Up from the Neck Up’. His southern drawl really
- [Prepping For the New Year](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/prepping-for-the-new-year/) - Santa has finished his work- every name checked off the list and now it is your turn! As we stare down the remainder of 2017- it's time to do what business owners typically do several times per year: Review~Refocus~Refuel REVIEW Consider asking yourself these questions- we are talking business, but this also works personally!! Honest
- [BOOK REVIEW: The Magic Question](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/book-review-the-magic-question/) - A NEW FEATURE for our blog will be our Book Reviews and BOY do we have a good one for you this month! David Cottrell's THE MAGIC QUESTION is a game changer of a book. Brief yet powerful, well written and filled with great tips and exercises to elevate your team. It is possible to
- [Happy Thanksgiving Week!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/happy-thanksgiving-week/) - Thanksgiving is such a wonderful time to spend with Friends & Family. This week, our social media posts will be all about gratitude, thankfulness and the many blessings we have as individuals living in America. As you take the time to count your blessings this week, please remember to send out lots of prayers for
- [The Lesson in the Unexpected](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/the-lesson-in-the-unexpected/) - I love attending events and stretching my mind as a business owner. Learning how can I make things better for my company, for my staff and for the finances is a never-ending journey. Maybe you can relate! What I find most intriguing however, is when unexpected situations end up teaching me the best lessons. At
- [The #1 reason there are so many weak, insecure, low impact managers in leadership positions.](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/the-1-reason-there-are-so-many-weak-insecure-low-impact-managers-in-leadership-positions/) - High impact leaders don't need a position or authority to make something happen. They only need a team. People want to follow real, authentic, highly influential leaders. This means they have influence far beyond their awarded authority. We respect authentic leaders because of who they are on the inside. Sure, many of these leaders have
- [What to do about the Equifax Data Breach!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/what-to-do-about-the-equifax-data-breach/) - On September 7, 2017 Equifax Inc. announced a cybersecurity incident potentially impacting approximately 143 million U.S. consumers. Criminals exploited a U.S. website application vulnerability to gain access to certain files. Based on the company’s investigation, the unauthorized access occurred from mid-May through July 2017. Click here to read more on the incident and to keep
- [You Don't Have to Love What You Do...](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/you-dont-have-to-love-what-you-do/) - Rohn: You Don’t Have to Love What You Do... ...but you have to love the opportunity. Jim Rohn September 20, 2015 You have to love what you do, that’s what people say. But that's not necessarily true. What is true is that you have to love the opportunity—the opportunity to build life, future, health, success,
- [Should I accept Credit Cards At My Daycare?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/should-i-accept-credit-cards-at-my-daycare/) - It's funny how technology can change the way we do everything including paying for our child's daycare! If you own a daycare center, you may have found yourself wrestling with the question; to accept credit cards or not to accept credit cards that is the question....the answer? Depends on your business model and your desired
- [Lessons From the Sea](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/lessons-from-the-sea/) - This past week I was able to spend a week in gorgeous Destin Florida. We attended a business workshop and enjoyed every minute. While we were busy learning about how to follow our dreams and create a powerful vision for our future, there were many takeaways that were worthy of sharing! TAKE TIME TO REFUEL:
- [Under Pressure](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/under-pressure/) - Life is filled with opportunities to LIVE and LEARN! This past weekend, I was out on the back patio doing a little pressure washing. When I was done, I realized that I had done more than blow a little dirt off the back patio, I rediscovered the POWER of being UNDER PRESSURE! PURPOSE- There are
- [A Quick Conversation on Texting](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/a-quick-conversation-on-texting/) - It was not so many years ago that TEXTING was- well a little weird! Today, it feels like a major way to communicate. Even the credit card processing industry has been deeply impacted by texting. You can DONATE via text, MAKE a PAYMENT via text, get CONFIRMATION of payment via text and keep track of
- [Rites of Passage](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/rites-of-passage/) - Total Merchant Concepts turned 21 years old this month- no small feat in the business world. Since we started the business the same year our son Tyler was born, he also turned 21 this month! During our celebration, a few things reminded me of the various Rites of Passage not only in our personal lives,
- [Outsmarting an Outage](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/outsmarting-an-outage/) - Having a great back up plan is good for most things! No one likes to find themselves stranded or unable to deal with a situation and finding yourself without the ability to accept payments from your customers is no exception! Last week, one of the top payment processors had an outage that lasted for several
- [How Lessons From a Massage Can Help Your Business!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/how-lessons-from-a-massage-can-help-your-business/) - There are few things better than a great massage! This past week I was enjoying some amazing hands and we struck up a conversation that made me think of business- strange! Yes- right there in the middle of working the kinks out of the old body I found some great business tips. (Amazing what you
- [Handling the Closure of a Merchant Account](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/handling-the-closure-of-a-merchant-account/) - In a perfect world, every business would be profitable and only close when a happy owner decided to retire. In a perfect world, every ownership change would simply be a transfer of vendors to the next owner. In a perfect world, every merchant services provider would help new business owners honor their agreement with a
- [We Will Never Forget:  Thank You!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/we-will-never-forget-thank-you-2/) - If you spend any time at all in front of a television set, you know that 3 day weekends are some of the best times to go shopping; according to the advertisers. As a credit card processing company, it is intriguing to see how companies draw business in and encourage people to make purchases but
- [How Gratitude Advances Marketing](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/how-gratitude-advances-marketing/) - In her Forbes Magazine Article, Cheryl Conner discusses how gratitude impacts marketing. Here are some specific tips related to some very powerful Social Media Platforms (the link at the bottom will take you to the full article!)YouTube. Share videos on various social networking sites that “speak” to your interests and principles, while also commenting to
- [Everybody's Broken](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/everybodys-broken/) - Everybody’s Broken is one of my favorite Bon Jovi songs- because it feels so true for me and maybe you can relate as well! As a business owner, I am blessed to be surrounded by team members and other business owners that are going through the same daily routines, struggles and situations that I go
- [Do I Need To Upgrade My Equipment?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/do-i-need-to-upgrade-my-equipment/) - Accepting credit cards has given lots of business owners incredible benefits! Getting Paid More Quickly Increasing Ticket Sizes Expanding Market Share ...just to name a few. But with the GOOD- there comes a little bad! We wanted to send a shout out to our merchants (and FUTURE Merchants ) to let you know that we
- [MASTERCARD 2 BIN SERIES](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/mastercard-2-bin-series/) - Welcome to the NEW MasterCards: 2 Series BIN It was bound to happen, the need for additional card numbers for the #2 card in the marketplace! Here are a few basic Questions and Answers regarding the new cards, the times frames and any penalties associated with not being able to accept the cards. Cards with
- [Business As Usual:  Dealing With the Unexpected](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/business-as-usual-dealing-with-the-unexpected/) - Did you LAUGH when you read the title of the blog? Is there anything USUAL about being in business- not usually!As a business owner, I LOVE it when things seem like they are going the way they should but I always need to be prepared for the unexpected. The same thing is true with your
- [My Credit Card is FLAT!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/my-credit-card-is-flat/) - Has it happened to you yet? You order your replacement credit card and when it arrives in the mail- it looks totally different! This past week, our new Discover card arrived and when we opened the envelope, we were greeted by a FLAT credit card with no numbers and not even our name on the
- [What's Your Back Up Plan?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/whats-your-back-up-plan/) - Accepting credit cards is just a natural part of the check out process; so what happens when your processing system STOPS WORKING? It was a busy Sunday morning at a popular coffee stand when the barista realized she had a problem-her credit card machine was not working. She called the number on the side of
- [Balancing Work and Family](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/balancing-work-and-family/) - Going from being a full time Mom to working has been a huge change over the past 5 years. I have been able to balance my work life and my personal life by using some of the tips below. Work smarter. What kind of person are you? Are you a morning person or do you
- [Best Practices For 'Card Not Present' Merchants](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/best-practices-for-card-not-present-merchants/) - Now that we are settled in to the EMV cards, the anticipation remains about credit card fraud and where it will increase as a result of the enhanced card present security. Most anticipate an increase in Card Not Present fraud. Accepting cards over the phone or via the internet can be a bit risky these
- [Free Gifts For You & Your Business](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/free-gifts-for-you-your-business/) - I love surprises! It does not matter what the surprise is, how small it is or where it comes from- just the thought of a 'surprise' makes me smile! Well today, we have a surprise for you -a free gift- and it is the very BEST kind of gift: a gift that can have a
- [To Resolve Conflict: Meet in the Middle](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/to-resolve-conflict-meet-in-the-middle/) - This past week our country elected a new President in what was certainly the roughest Presidential election I have ever participated in. Having two polarizing candidates makes it tough to decide which way to go and which way would result in GROWTH for the country. Some see lots of hope or turmoil as a result
- [Seeing the End From The Beginning](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/seeing-the-end-from-the-beginning/) - Ever heard these phrases before? Everything happens for a reason…. Things always work out for the best…. If I only knew then, what I know now…. These kinds of statements tend to be repeated years after a chance meeting or the overcoming of some great adversity and a sufficient amount of time has passed to
- [Lessons From My Hunting Trip](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/lessons-from-my-hunting-trip/) - Dean and I have been married for 26 years and he has been a hunter the entire time. I’ve always enjoyed hunting season; the food preparation for the guys, the excitement of learning that my husband bagged his prize and the quiet time alone! This year, I decided to give the testosterone filled adventure a
- [Columbus Day FUN](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/columbus-day-fun/) - While Columbus Day is a Federal Banking Holiday (how that impacts your credit card process in a moment!), for many people it is just another Monday. We thought we would share a couple of entertaining and educational links so you could get up to speed on this very special day. But just like Mom always
- [Business & the ER](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/business-the-er/) - When you are injured to the point of having to make a trip to the ER- things go pretty fast! Wouldn’t you like to know that the team taking care of you: KNEW the plan of action? Had all of the TOOLS they needed to patch you up? Were well trained to deal with the
- [Pre Flight (WORK) Check List](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/pre-flight-work-check-list/) - Our Son is now licensed to be a Commercial Airline pilot (I am so very proud of Tyler and his efforts!). He has lots of hours and accreditations to add before he is flying the friendly skies- but HOW EXCITING to be a Pilot right? I wonder if we can use a little playful imagination
- [The Role of Friendship in the Workplace](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/the-role-of-friendship-in-the-workplace/) - How many of us can truly say that we love our jobs? Is it the work itself that has so many workers dissatisfied with the hours spent at work? Or is it the environment? With over half of American workers expressing dissatisfaction with their work life, looking at how you can improve the atmosphere at
- [Social Media Stats](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/social-media-stats/) - With so many options and directions to take with Social Media- we thought we would share a great resource we found on the Internet! (Click on the picture below) Have a wonderful week and we hope the stats give you some direction in your marketing efforts! Need help with your Social Media efforts? Reach out
- [The PROS and CONS of Paperless Statements](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/the-pros-and-cons-of-paperless-statements/) - At TMC, we have paper statements and paperless options available for you. Most of our processors have moved to a PAPERLESS default and only provide paper statements when requested. Enjoy this article by KRISTINA HALL and feel free to call and let us know your personal preference! 1-888-249-9919 Many industries have recently switched to the
- [From The Beginning](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/from-the-beginning/) - They say that a journey begins with a single step and that you cannot get where you're going unless you know where you are or where you come from. Well this week, our blog and our FaceBook posts will talk about the origins of our industry and how we find ourselves where we are today.
- [Wherever You Are Be All There](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/wherever-you-are-be-all-there/) - Wherever You Are, Be There by Jim Rohn One of the major reasons why we fail to find happiness or to create a unique lifestyle is because we have not yet mastered the art of being. While we are home our thoughts are still absorbed with solving the challenges we face at the office. And
- [Thinking For a Change](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/thinking-for-a-change/) - As June gets under way, the first half of 2016 is dwindling to a close! How has the first part of the year gone for you? Plans on track? Goals getting accomplished? Obstacles overcome? Feeling happy & accomplished? Time flies and if we are not careful- we could find ourselves at the end of the
- [Tips From a Friend](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/tips-from-a-friend/) - There are so many AMAZING resources available to grow our businesses, improve our teams and 'up our game' all together! This morning, we wanted to share one of our favorite places! Referrals are the lifeblood of our business at TMC and developing the skills and relationships necessary to have a healthy referral environment is a
- [Above & Beyond Service](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/above-beyond-service/) - For nearly 10 years, I have been having the same wonderful woman take care of my toes! The time I spend with Jenny always reminds me of why LOVING what you do for work is so very important! She always has a smile and she always makes me feel as if my toes are the
- [IRS Reporting Explained](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/irs-reporting-explained/) - With tax day behind us, it seemed appropriate to take a look at another tax issue that can cause fiscal harm to your business. Being aware of how reporting your merchant activity to the IRS can impact your business, will help you prevent the government from having a reason to dip into your account. Each
- [Understanding the Fraud Liability Shift](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/understanding-the-fraud-liability-shift/) - For years there had been talk of the 'chipped' card and all of the added security it would bring. Those cards are now being circulated and the 'Fraud Liability Shift' that accompanies them is the topic of our blog. Why are EMV cards more secure? The magnetic stripes on traditional credit and debit cards store
- [American Express: With or Without It](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/american-express-with-or-without-it/) - One of the most successful advertisements of all time advised us to Never Leave Home Without It! The American Express Card has long been regarded as a bit of a status indicator and for good reason. While many businesses across America choose NOT to accept American Express cards (due to the higher percentage they charge
- [Are You Compliant?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/are-you-compliant/) - With all of the changes happening in the financial world these days, it pays to make sure your business is operating in a 'compliant' environment. Security, regulation and equipment issues need to be addressed to make sure your business is operating within the guidelines set forth by the card associations. Security: PCI Compliance has been
- [Credit Card Processing Rules](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/credit-card-processing-rules-2/) - There are times in life when you really SHOULD follow the rules! Accepting credit cards is DEFINITELY one of those time! The operating rules and regulations are designed to protect the card holders, the financial institutions and lastly- the merchant. When you are aware of the rules as a business owner, you help reduce your
- [Let's Have FUN at Work!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/lets-have-fun-at-work/) - If you’re a movie buff like I am, you’re probably familiar with the line from Stanley Kubrick’s “The Shining” where Jack Nicholson’s character types out several pages of the same sentence: All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.While the context in the movie is a bit eerie, Jack's comment is actually truer
- [Understanding Credit Card Fees](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/understanding-credit-card-fees/) - The credit card processing industry has a very confusing set of rates & fees. It is our goal to help our merchants understand what fees are legitimate and what fees are superfluous. This article will address 2 legitimate fees and also offer some Best Practices. Visa Misuse of Authorization $0.045 per The Visa Misuse of
- [Happy New Year!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/happy-new-year/) - From our team to you and yours: Have a FANTASTIC New Year celebration this evening. We would like to share a few of our team's wishes with you: May 2016 by your strongest and most powerful year ever! I wish you health, happiness and abundance in 2016! Here's to new friendships, new challenges to overcome
- [Credit Cards ARE NOT Cash](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/credit-cards-are-not-cash/) - Accepting credit cards is second nature for most businesses and we've become so used to taking the cards, that we sometimes forget that they are most certainly NOT the same as cash. Here are a few reminders: Credit cards cost more to take than cash- so if you can get your customers to pay with
- [An Attitude of Gratitude](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/an-attitude-of-gratitude/) - When you travel abroad, it wakes you up to the many advantages we have here in the United States of America! I was thinking of a 9 day trip out of the country and was touched, once again, by the overwhelming gratitude and joy of the Fijian people! They sing, dance, smile and are always
- [Should I Use Debit or Credit?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/should-i-use-debit-or-credit/) - Choosing what card you will use can make a big difference especially if you are one of the millions of Americans who experience fraud! At TMC, we encourage you to make your online purchases and your overseas traveling purchases with a credit card that is NOT attached to your checking account. This minimizes your exposure
- [And Then Some](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/and-then-some/) - Doing just enough to 'get by' is a COSTLY way to do both business and LIFE! In the Merchant Services industry, we are pretty used to seeing that mediocre mantra played out every day by many of our competitors. Here are a few of the ways that our team delivers an And Then Some experience!
- [Calculating Your ROI](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/calculating-your-roi/) - This past week we made the decision to close our office for a day and have our team attend the Live2Lead simulcast put on by John Maxwell. The event itself was a huge success however determining what the return on investment (ROI) was will be more difficult! With a product or service, the ROI is
- [USE CAUTION WHEN BUYING TERMINALS!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/use-caution-when-buying-terminals/) - Last week we fielded TONS of phone calls regarding the Fraud Liability Shift and terminals. Here are a few things to consider this week! You are NOT out of 'compliance' just because you do not have an EMV reading terminal! You can decide when you upgrade and you do not have to be RUSHED. Some
- [The Challenge](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/the-challenge/) - As we look towards the final quarter of 2015 (Where does the time go?), we have an opportunity to finish the year off strong. By focusing on the things we have done so far and clearly defining what we have yet to accomplish, we can meet the challenge to be all we can be. Jim
- [EMV & NFC:  What Do I Need To Know?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/emv-nfc-what-do-i-need-to-know/) - We have some exciting changes happening right now in the credit card processing industry. Sometimes, however, the initial excitement and information related to new technologies and (in this case) new card types can be quite confusing!! Here are some of the most common questions & answers related to both EMV and NFC so you can
- ["Out of Office" Experience](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/out-of-office-experience/) - In a commercial world increasingly dominated by e- EVERYTHING (email, emarketing, etc), event opportunities can provide face to face contact with existing clients as well as new prospects. No other promotional medium can deliver thousands of high quality sales opportunities in just a few days. There are lots of benefits for attending trade shows, industry
- [The Beauty of Leadership](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/the-beauty-of-leadership/) - When you own a company, there are lots of pressures and responsibilities that come with the Leadership role. So when moments come that highlight the benefits of leadership; they are truly worthy of sharing! Ongoing training and continued education is critically important for any growing business and I'm often amazed at how much I learn
- [We Work When the TEAM Works](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/we-work-when-the-team-works/) - Each Friday, our team spends some good, quality time together learning about elevated service techniques, personal development and the latest happenings in our industry. We find that investing in this TEAM time really makes a difference for each person on an individual basis as well as for the TMC team overall. This past week, we
- [Why Singletasking is the New MultiTasking](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/why-singletasking-is-the-new-multitasking/) - Michelle is an amazing business leader with great ideas on productivity and book writing! Check out her Singletasking blog below and her web site! http://www.michelleprince.com/ Multitasking is a thing of the past. The new trend is singletasking. What in the world is singletasking? It’s exactly what it sounds like: focusing your attention on a single
- [When is Enough- Enough?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/when-is-enough-enough/) - Have you ever had a situation where you knew you had reached the breaking point? Where ENOUGH was finally ENOUGH? As a business owner, I can tell you that I have had several of those points over the years and I believe the way we chose to address them has made all the difference in
- [Getting Approved](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/getting-approved/) - Last week we received a call from a merchant asking for a new merchant account: their business was opening the following day. As a new business owner, they had been inundated with all of the things that have to happen to get the doors open and adding the credit card terminal had slipped their mind.
- [Why Personal Development is Critical For Success](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/why-personal-development-is-critical-for-success/) - Jim Rohn was an AMAZING teacher and this week, I wanted to share one of his articles that really made a profund difference in my life and the life of our team! Have an incredible week and enjoy your Personal Growth Journey! We generally change ourselves for one of two reasons: inspiration or desperation. Well,
- [A Day In the Life!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/a-day-in-the-life/) - I remember thinking that small business ownership was going to work out a certain way - you know, the poolside margaritas and lots of money just flowing in from every place. It's safe to say that the daily life of an entrepreneur sometimes turns out differently than we expect! Here is a glimpse into a
- [Character Is Your Masterpiece to Build](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/character-is-your-masterpiece-to-build/) - March 23, 2015 Character Is Your Masterpiece to Build by Jim Rohn Could creating your character be likened to an artist creating a sculpture? I believe that character is not something that just happens by itself, any more than a chisel can create a work of art without the hand of an artist guiding it.
- [EMV: A Video Overview](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/emv-a-video-overview/) - Understanding WHY EMV is being adopted here in the US as well as HOW it works is the first step in making sure you are properly educated on the changes happening to our cards and they way we use them! Click on the picture above for a brief 2 minute video on EMV! Let us
- [Maximize Results!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/maximize-results/) - Last weekend, I read the most AMAZING book. I was flying back from an event where Darren Hardy was the featured speaker and his message was powerful. The simple steps he outlines in his book have the power to transform your business and your personal life! Click on the image above to get your copy;
- [Wally's Gift](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/wallys-gift/) - Today, we say goodbye to a wonderful friend and a great American. Wallace L Tharp (Wally) was born August 21, 1921 and he passed away peacefully in his sleep on January 21, 2015. His 93 years were filled with all kinds of adventures, lots of love, wisdom and friendship. I met Wally 15 years ago
- [Controlling What I Can!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/controlling-what-i-can/) - As business owners, we have lots to deal with every day and it is amazing how many of us (I'm looking in a mirror right now ) try to change things we have no control over! In the MERCHANT SERVICES world, there are quite a few of those frustrating unchangeables!! Interchange rates, technology changes, confusing
- [2015:  A BRIGHT New Year!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/2015-a-bright-new-year/) - Welcome to the first full week of 2015! One of the greatest things about a New Year- is the feeling of a clean slate. Businesses have a fresh opportunity to deliver on their promises and set up some exciting goals for the upcoming year. At TMC, we have an exciting agenda planned for 2015. Part
- [Why I Believe In Christmas](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/why-i-believe-in-christmas/) - We are just over a week away from Christmas! It is such a wonderful and beautiful time of year. At Total Merchant Concepts, we have been wishing our merchants and anyone who calls into our office a 'Merry Christmas' for 18 years. The responses we've received have always been heartwarming. People really do enjoy a
- [Proper Use of Your Merchant Account](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/proper-use-of-your-merchant-account/) - There are lots of ways cash flow can be affected in business. Let's make sure the way you are using your own merchant account is NOT one of them! When you first open your merchant account, you should be walked through some basic usage guidelines (We have a 29 Step Installation Checklist here at TMC),
- [5 Things To Know About Mobile Wallets](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/5-things-to-know-about-mobile-wallets/) - Hang on for an amazing technilogical ride! NO- we are not talking about flying cars but the payments industry is changing at a very exciting pace. Here are 5 Things To Know About Mobile Wallets! 1. No pen or stylus required There are two ways to use your smart phone at checkout. The first involves
- [IRS BACKUP WITHHOLDING ALERT](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/irs-backup-withholding-alert/) - Backup withholding is finally upon us and merchants who still have not submitted proper documentation to fix a TIN (Federal Tax ID Number) mismatch will begin receiving notifications as early as this week. Merchants who do not have matching information on file with their credit card processing companies will be subject to IRS backup withholding,
- [Great Competition is GOOD!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/great-competition-is-good/) - In business, there is a tendency to look at competition as a bad thing. The truth is, there are so many amazing benefits to having truly great competition: on the field, in the classroom and yes- even in the work place. Recently, we've had some industry giants enter the payments space and it would be
- [Save Time:  Ask the RIGHT Questions!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/save-time-ask-the-right-questions/) - My daughter Sabrina is five years old and will be starting Kindergarten in the fall. Over the weekend, I purchased a shower curtain with a map of the United States; each state has a picture of a distinctive state quality on it. When asked if she knows where we live, she replied, “Vancouver, Washington.” I
- [Taking the Next Step](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/taking-the-next-step/) - Over the weekend, my son graduated from High School - it was a whirlwind of activities and emotions! Tyler's 'Next Step' is college and developing his plans for a bright future. It has been some time since many of us graduated but I think the concept of considering our 'Next Step' is one that we
- [The 5 Principles of Performance](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/the-5-principles-of-performance/) - Guest Blogger: Zig Ziglar Much of success is about performance. It’s about what we do and what we are able to inspire others to do. There are some simple performance principles I have learned in my life, and I want to share them with you. They really bring success, and what it takes to be
- [How YOU Doin' ?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/how-you-doin/) - If you have ever watched Friends, you know that Joey loved to say How YOU Doin’? On the sitcom, it was always a funny question with no real repercussions if the answer was not positive but in the every day life of small business owners across America, the question takes on a much more serious
- [Password Protection](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/password-protection/) - What did we do before EVERYTHING had a password? How in the world did we stay safe from hackers and all the 'bad guys' trying to get into our stuff? Today, it seems that we have passwords for everything so many in fact, that we often suffer from password paralysis! According to The Telegraph, the
- [It's All About Our Kids!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/its-all-about-our-kids/) - When I was growing up, it was very common for our parents to take us to their work- in fact, we spent lots of time there and we learned how to do lots of cool and interesting things. Thinking back, I really loved the times my Dad would take us on trips to his suppliers.
- [7 Steps To Remembering Names](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/7-steps-to-remembering-names/) - GUEST BLOGGER: BY LAURA HALE BROCKWAY (Printed in Entrepreneur Magazine) There’s no easy way to admit this, but I am horrible with names. I shake hands with someone I’ve just met, the person says his or her name, and within 10 seconds I’ve forgotten the name. And since I’ve just started a new job, I
- [4 Steps To Making Great Decisions](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/4-steps-to-making-great-decisions/) - Every day we make decisions that shape our lives; when you are a business owner, you 'get' the opportunity to make even more. Making strong, empowered decisions will lead you in the direction of your goals and aspirations. On the other hand, poorly made or rushed decisions can have devastating effects. Take something seemingly simple
- [Removing Conflict & Confusion from Contracts](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/removing-conflict-confusion-from-contracts/) - You don't need a law degree to navigate the fine print of most contracts however, you can certainly get yourself into hot water if you don't treat contracts with care! Whether you are entering a contractual obligation for things like; rent, building leases and vehicle purchases or you are doing what many brave business owners
- [Disagreeing Agreeably](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/disagreeing-agreeably/) - Jim Rohn was one of the all time greats so it is our pleasure to share some words of wisdom from the legend! Thank you Jim Rohn- for leaving us with so many great lessons! 5 Tips for Disagreeing Agreeably It's inevitable - at some point disagreements are going to come up in the workplace.
- [Improving Teams - Improving Results](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/improving-teams-improving-results/) - Our blog this week was going to be focused on sales but after watching the Superbowl, we decided to tweak the topic a bit. Watching Coach Carroll talking about the win, I was struck by his focus and by the attitude he fosters and 'coaches' on his team and it reminded me of what our
- [More Than Meets the Eye!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/more-than-meets-the-eye/) - This past weekend, our entire team gathered together to review the past year and set our sites on an incredible 2014! The theme for this year's meeting was Transformers: More Than Meets the Eye trans·for·ma·tion /?trænsf?r'me???n/ [trans-fer-mey-shuhn] noun 1. the act or process of transforming. 2. the state of being transformed. 3. change in form,
- [Find Your Niche'](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/find-your-niche/) - It is impossible to be everything to everyone! Finding your unique niche' is incredibly important to the success of your company. LOTS OF COMPETITION If your industry is anything like the Credit Card Processing industry; you have a TON of competition. Your potential clients are looking for your product and or service, delivered in a
- [Integrity:  It Matters!!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/integrity-it-matters/) - INTEGRITY is one of 'those' words! You know- the ones that make a promise just by speaking them. Lots of people and businesses utter these promising words and yet so few really do what is necessary to deliver. As our Total Merchant Concepts team reflects on 2013 and makes plans for another incredible year, we
- [Learning From the Latest Breach](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/learning-from-the-latest-breach/) - Over the weekend, my 17 year old son made an observation that speaks to the recent Target breach as well as our attitude towards card breaches as a society. He said, "Mom- I drove by Target today and I was surprised! The parking lot was jam packed with people. The news said Target was responsible
- [The TMC Difference](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/the-tmc-difference/) - It's that time of year- time for reflection! We met with our team and discussed the areas where we shine and the areas where we need to step it up. As you look at Your New Year, we trust that your team is taking the necessary steps to bring even more value and more service
- [Prevent ID Theft During the Holidays](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/prevent-id-theft-during-the-holidays/) - It seems sad to have to be concerned with ID theft during this joyous time of year but the truth is, this is one of the most active times of the year for fraudsters! The credit card processing industry deals with fraud every single day but it also pays to consider fraud from a very
- [Accepting PayPal Cards](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/accepting-paypal-cards/) - The credit card processing industry is in a constant state of change. Late last week, our processors announced the ability for our merchants to accept the PayPal card through the Discover network. Most merchants will have this ability automatically while some merchants on specific networks (usually due to POS system types), will need to have
- [Prevent EMail Viruses!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/prevent-email-viruses/) - There are few things as infuriating as finding that cyber criminals have slithered their way into your business. This past week, businesses in the UK and in the United States fell victim to an email virus known as 'ransomwear'. Unsuspecting staffers opened official looking emails and that's when the fun (NOT) began. Without proper backups
- [What's Your Back Up Plan?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/whats-your-back-up-plan-2/) - Accepting credit cards is just a natural part of the check out process; so what happens when your processing system STOPS WORKING? It was a busy Sunday morning at a popular coffee stand when the barista realized she had a problem-her credit card machine was not working. She called the number on the side of
- [Personal Responsibility- GET SOME!!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/personal-responsibility-get-some/) - Shaggy's song: It Wasn't Me, is so ridiculously funny- it is sad. It also tells the story of what is happening in our society today. People are looking further and further away from the 'man in the mirror' to fix the challenges they face. Today, I want to take a look at how personal responsibility
- [Time For a Change!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/time-for-a-change/) - Change is something that most people......"LOVE"...... Daylight Saving Time is one of the easiest changes that people get to deal with each year but have you ever wondered why we change the clocks twice a year (time to change the batteries in your smoke alarms as well!)? I did a bit of surfing on the
- [CVV2 - Explained](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/cvv2-explained/) - Credit card fraud is a 52.8 BILLION dollar industry so its no surprise that there are lots of tools available that are designed to prevent credit card fraud. The Card Verification Value (CVV2) is the 3 digit code on the back of the credit card (4 digits on the front of AMEX cards). The 3
- [Exceptional Service](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/exceptional-service/) - It is simply amazing how accustomed we have become to mediocre or poor service. As a society, we have come to expect lackluster service and are surprised when we find someone who cares enough to make their job worthwhile! Last week I called the Secretary of State's office to get a general question answered and
- [Take Out The Trash!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/take-out-the-trash/) - Over the weekend, I had the opportunity to learn a few lessons while doing one of the most basic of things- TAKING OUT THE TRASH! It happened innocently enough, the garbage had piled up and it was glaringly apparent that the time to empty the trash container was upon me! The guys were out of
- [What Really Matters](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/what-really-matters/) - It is with a heavy heart that I write this week's TMC Blog. As a BUSINESS- each week brings a laundry list of plans and projects that need to be completed. This week, I want to use our Blog space to encourage our team, our merchants and our vendors to focus on What Really Matters.
- [Seattle Seahawks & Championship Teams](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/seattle-seahawks-championship-teams/) - Congratulations to our Seattle Seahawks!! It was a great game against our Division rivals! As I was watching the game, I realized that BOTH teams are filled with amazing athletes. BOTH teams have great coaches and BOTH teams planned to win so what was the difference? In business, just like a great football team, there
- [Remembering 9/11](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/remembering-9-11/) - This week, we remember the sacrifices made the day our nation came under attack. 9/11/01 We are so thankful to live in the United States of America. Our history rings strong with brave men and women who answer the call- who put their lives on the line in the moments of truth that define us.
- [Rock Climbing Business Lessons](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/rock-climbing-business-lessons/) - We can learn so many things from almost every activity we engage in and Rock Climbing has lots of amazing lessons! We have a young lady on our team who is passionate about Rock Climbing and she will be leaving our team at the end of the month so she can pursue her passions. In
- [Accepting Responsibility](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/accepting-responsibility/) - Accepting Responsibility — A Story of Bill Russell by Jim Rohn Most people dread accepting responsibility. That’s just a fact of life, and we can see it in operation every day. Yes, we can see avoidance of responsibility all the time in both our personal and professional lives. And here’s something else we can see
- [Cartoons & Conflict!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/cartoons-conflict/) - Conflict is one of those necessary elements of life that every creature gets to deal with. HOW we deal with whatever conflicts arise, determines the quality of our lives. One of my earliest recollections of conflict happened each Saturday morning as we sat in front of the TV waiting to watch the antics of Tom
- [Life: Outside Your Comfort Zone](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/life-outside-your-comfort-zone/) - This weekend, I was honored to witness the final touches on a multi-million dollar expansion project that is nearing its amazing finish. Our merchant stepped firmly outside of their 'Comfort Zone' so they could expand their vision, their business and their dreams. In order to reach our goals and dreams, often times we have to
- [Are You Versatile?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/are-you-versatile/) - My friends tease me incessantly about my 'relationship' with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. Even my son got in on the action when he purchased a life size, cardboard stand up of Mr. Johnson for my birthday. So what is it about "The Rock" that causes me to smile? Some think it is his mastery of
- [Evaluating Your Associations](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/evaluating-your-associations/) - Evaluating Your Associations by Jim Rohn If you were to evaluate the major influences in your life that have shaped the kind of person you are, this has to be high on the list: the people and thoughts you choose to allow into your life. Mr. Shoaff gave me a very important warning in those
- [Creating Opportunity](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/creating-opportunity/) - Creating Opportunityby Jim Rohn An enterprising person is one who comes across a lump of clay and sees the making of a wonderful sculpture. An enterprising person is one who drives through an old decrepit part of town and sees a new housing development. An enterprising person is one who sees opportunity in all areas
- [Four Emotions That Can Lead to Life Change](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/four-emotions-that-can-lead-to-life-change/) - The Four Emotions That Can Lead to Life Changeby Jim Rohn Emotions are the most powerful forces inside us. Under the power of emotions, human beings can perform the most heroic (as well as barbaric) acts. To a great degree, civilization itself can be defined as the intelligent channeling of human emotion. Emotions are fuel
- [Got Paper?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/got-paper/) - One of life's little irritations is being out of the necessary supplies to run your business. This blog is dedicated to thermal paper; the most common type of paper used in today's credit card terminals. What is Thermal Paper?(We visited Wikipedia for the technical answer) Thermal paper is a special fine paper that is coated
- [Green Business = Green Savings](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/green-business-green-savings/) - So many businesses are throwing around the words “Eco-friendly”, “sustainability”, and “Going Green”, nowadays that it may seem like nonsense. Making your business environmentally friendly can be beneficial to more than just the planet however. There are so many things one can do to lower their impact on the environment while saving themselves a little
- [Scam Alert](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/scam-alert/) - Last week we talked about why businesses have to be approved to obtain a merchant account. Shortly after our Blog was published, a friend of mine (Thank you Rosemary!!) sent me the following article. Credit card fraud costs everyone a ton of money each year and it is important to understand the various ways that
- [All Hands On Deck](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/all-hands-on-deck/) - Delivering EXCELLENCE requires an 'All Hands On Deck' attitude! We are super excited to introduce 5 new team members to our TMC referral partners and merchants! The process of training new people to represent your company or brand is not easy but it is something that business owners must get good at, if they want
- [6 Billion Dollar Settlement](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/6-billion-dollar-settlement/) - During the past 2 weeks, merchants across America received the 27 page legal notice regarding the 6+Billion Merchant Discount Antitrust Lawsuit- it was a riveting read! In this blog- we will hit the high points and make sure you know what actions you need to take.Cheri PerryWednesday, February 13, 2013
- [EMV Technology](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/emv-technology/) - Our credit cards are CHANGING!! It won't happen today and many of us will not go willingly but chipped credit cards are on the way! DEFINITIONCheri PerryTuesday, February 12, 2013
- [Credit Card Disputes: Reducing Conflict](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/credit-card-disputes-reducing-conflict/) - Conflict is a part of life and in the credit card processing world, we sure have our fair share of conflict! A 'Credit Card Dispute' happens when a customer is not happy with their purchase (for any reason) and they choose to contact their card issuing bank to reverse the credit card transaction. These disputes
- [Surcharge: Yes or No](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/surcharge-yes-or-no/) - In July of last year, we reported the changes that were coming with regards to the ability of merchants to ' surcharge' or add a fee when their customers paid with a credit card. (See the article here) For years, the practice was prohibited by Visa/MasterCard but just like the rest of the credit card
- [Keeping A Journal](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/keeping-a-journal/) - There are few things as therapeutic as writing everything down. For centuries, great treasures of words have been found in the journals of historical figures and those we love. Today, I would like to share an article by Jim Rohn that gives you several compelling reasons to start and keep a journal. Please enjoy this
- [Handling the End!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/handling-the-end/) - Now that we have escaped the dark prediction of the Mayans, we have another 'END' to contend with; the end of the year! In one week, we will say goodbye to 2012 and welcome a New Year. In other words, we have 7 days to tie up the last 365! Here are 5 steps to
- [Let's Get Reconnected!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/lets-get-reconnected/) - After the events of December 14th, 2012 in Newtown Connecticut- it seems difficult to make sense of the senseless violence in our world. Anger, hatred, opposing viewpoints and every other reason we have to be at odds with each other, just doesn't make the loss of 20 innocent children any easier to explain. Our weekly
- [The Future of Plastic](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/the-future-of-plastic/) - The credit card processing industry is changing rapidly. Last week, I had a merchant ask me if I thought there would be any major changes in the credit card processing in the next several years. My immediate response was OF COURSE- it is one of the reasons why we love the industry so much. We
- [Who Is In Charge?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/who-is-in-charge/) - Growing up, I was the oldest of my 5 siblings and if you asked me who was in charge, I would tell you that it was me; of course! But in our every day world, we sometimes believe that outside sources, other people and even the weather are 'in charge' of what happens in our
- [Finishing Strong](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/finishing-strong/) - The time between Thanksgiving and New Years can often be so busy that we get very little done! Sounds crazy, but between the Holidays and the promise of a fresh '365', we sometimes miss the importance of finishing the current year off strong! This year, your team at TMC is focusing on making December the
- [Bring on Black Friday](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/bring-on-black-friday-2/) - It seems hard to believe that we are just a few days away from our annual Thanksgiving Day celebration! After the family gatherings, the feasting & festivities (and of course the mid afternoon naps!)- many people begin the planning and preparation for BLACK FRIDAY! Let's take a look at the origin of the term and
- [Dealing With Disputes](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/dealing-with-disputes/) - Keeping our customers happy can prevent disputes and save lots of time, energy & money! When a customer feels as if they did not get what they paid for or they do not recognize an item on their statement, they can initiate a chargeback or dispute so they do not have to pay for the
- [What's The Plan Stan?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/whats-the-plan-stan/) - What’s the plan, Stan? Just like someone doesn’t go into a marriage thinking of divorce; no one starts a business thinking it is going to fail. When the time is right to start a new business do your homework!! While planning for success, make sure to take everything into account that could impact your business
- [The Gift Card Season Begins!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/the-gift-card-season-begins/) - It is that time of year: GIFT CARD season If your business currently has a gift card program- remember to place your holiday card orders NOW. If you are considering a gift card program; you should order your cards NOW. As we get closer to the Silly Season, the line gets longer for ordering gift
- [Working Overtime](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/working-overtime/) - Years ago, before our business venture began, we had grand visions of what being a business owner would be like. Go into the office, check in with the staff, meet a client for lunch, cut out early and spend the rest of the early afternoon on the river; relaxing. After we woke up from that
- [EMail Etiquette Basics](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/email-etiquette-basics/) - What am I? Your use me every day... I can be very efficient or easily turned into a time sucker... If screened properly I can provide valuable information... Left unscreened I can make your life a spam filled mess... EMAIL! Sometimes it pays to consider the basics of business communication. Most businesses use & rely
- [iPhone 5: Waiting on NFC](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/iphone-5-waiting-on-nfc/) - My son has taken a real interest in mobile technologies, especially when it relates to our business and mobile payments. He is always sending me text messages with links to interesting articles and today, I would like to share one related to the recent release of the Apple iPhone 5. It is also fun to
- [The Responsibility of Free Speech](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/the-responsibility-of-free-speech/) - Over 200 years ago, our founding fathers felt strongly enough about our personal freedoms, that they fought for them! Today, we live under the protections (although somewhat splintered) their passions afforded us. One of the greatest privileges we enjoy was granted to us in the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States of
- [Surcharging](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/surcharging/) - For years, Visa & MasterCard prohibited the practice of surcharging: tacking on an additional fee when customers choose to pay with their credit card. The recent 6 Billion Dollar Settlement has changed all of that. Merchants (in most states) can now assess a surcharge on their customers. The states that are still prohibited (due to
- [Satisfaction Versus Loyalty](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/satisfaction-versus-loyalty/) - Simply telling people that "We have GREAT Customer Service" falls on deaf ears these days- why? Because the easiest thing in the world is to promise a GREAT Customer Service experience!! Do any of these situations sound familiar? Thank you for calling ABC Company, your business is VERY important to us- please HOLD.TRANSLATION: Thank you
- [Seeing Your Organization as a Performance Chain](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/seeing-your-organization-as-a-performance-chain/) - blog | Wed, 07/04/2012 - 14:25 | By Chris LaVictoire Mahai How can you drive the best possible outcomes for your customers and your business? The most successful organizations control their performance chain rather than letting their performance chain control them. Back up a second – what is a performance chain? I define a performance
- [The Best Gift](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/the-best-gift/) - Personal development has long been a very important part of my life. I believe it helps with the every day rigors of life; to me it is like a good multi vitamin! I just FEEL better when I am reading a book, working through a class or attending a seminar to focus on personal improvement.
- [We're NOT Square](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/were-not-square/) - OK- so how fun is that new square thing? You have to take your hat off to innovators in the industry and appreciate the fact that they have helped keep the credit card industry Fresh & Exciting. But make no mistake, TMC is definitely NOT going square! The only challenge with the various 'One Size
- [9 Ways to Find Your Flow](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/9-ways-to-find-your-flow/) - I read an article recently in the TopPerformance newsletter (May 2012 edition) that really struck me as useful. So many times, we get bogged down in our daily work lives and lose our way. Perhaps this is why so many people have lost their passion for work or worse- for life! Finding our flow can
- [Embracing & Preparing For Change](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/embracing-preparing-for-change/) - I recently went to a co-worker’s baby shower. She received a card that read, “A baby changes everything except its own diaper”. The card got lots of laughs but it got me thinking about how people react to change. In my professional life I have worked in several different industries and each one was very
- [Strategies For Business Success](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/strategies-for-business-success/) - This past week I spoke with two long time business owners who, like a lot of businesses across the country, are still struggling. Questions came up like, what do consumers really want? How do I price my products and services in this economy? And the toughest question; is small business ownership in America still 'worth
- [Become the Expert in Your Field](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/become-the-expert-in-your-field/) - I always get so much great information out of my favorite magazine: SUCCESS Cheri PerryMonday, May 21, 2012
- [How to Turn Nothing into Something](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/how-to-turn-nothing-into-something/) - One of my favorite Motivational Speakers is Jim Rohn. While he has passed, his words of wisdom live on. I hope you enjoy this selection! How to Turn Nothing into Something by Jim Rohn Have you ever wondered how to turn nothing into something? First, in order to turn nothing into something, you've got to
- [Dealing With Conflict](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/dealing-with-conflict/) - Conflict is a natural part of any business environment and most people have a difficult time dealing with conflict so what do we do? We get GOOD at dealing with conflict!! Here are some helpful insights- First Things First: INTERNAL CONFLICT Before we can deal with external conflict, we have to be able to get
- [VISA'S NEW FEE:  FANF (Fixed Acquirer Network Fee)](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/visas-new-fee-fanf-fixed-acquirer-network-fee/) - It is a good thing that accepting credit cards has proven to increase the amount of money that customers spend at most businesses! The complex pricing structure and numerous fees associated with the credit card processing industry, have always been a concern to businesses. Most merchants in the U.S. are about to repay some of
- [Is The Customer Always Right?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/is-the-customer-always-right/) - As a small business owner, I have always been told that 'the customer is always right'. As a consumer, I am well aware of the fact that many businesses do not live by this rule AND- it is in fact possible that I am NOT always right (OUCH!!). So what is the answer? YES- the
- [Basic Fraud Prevention](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/basic-fraud-prevention/) - Every time you turn around, someone's credit card is being compromised- CREDIT CARD FRAUD is organized crime (A 52 Billion Dollar Industry) and as business owners we need to take the necessary steps to protect our clients and our businesses. STOP fraud by being aware! Know the things you can do to prevent fraud BEFORE,
- [Building Teamwork](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/building-teamwork/) - There are 120 hours in a 5 day work week and we spend 1/3 of those hours with our Co Workers. So it is no surprise that TEAMWORK is a huge topic of discussion within the business world. Here are 5 things you can do to increase, encourage and improve TEAMWORK- where you work! 1-
- [Authorization, Capture & Settlement](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/authorization-capture-settlement/) - Last week we talked about Interchange- the base for all credit card processing. Today, we are going to discuss the process & fees related to Authorizing, Capturing & Settling credit card transactions. We will use our Bicycle Shop again today to give you a real life example of how this process works!! Let's start with
- [The Power of Social Media](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/the-power-of-social-media/) - We have recently made some COOL updates to our Facebook page (www.Facebook.com/TotalMerchantConcepts) and our team is currently investigating the impact that Social Media has on businesses- stand by for great tips, advice and offers coming in the very near future AND- enjoy this great article we found! By Anthony Godley in Social Networking What is
- [Get SERIOUS about PCI Compliance](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/get-serious-about-pci-compliance/) - Last week's 'Whopper of a Breach' article regarding the $200K in fines levied against a Burger King Franchisee, caused alot of our merchants to call in and ask more questions about PCI Compliance. Could this happen to me? Is my business compliant? Do I need to do anything else to make sure my customer's cards
- [IRS Reporting](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/irs-reporting/) - In February of last year, we discussed the IRS reporting requirements statute, which was added in November of 2009 to the Housing Assistance Tax Act of 2008. In a nutshell, this statute required all credit card processing companies to report the merchant services activities of all merchants beginning January 1st, 2011. Processors are also required
- [Excellent Service is Delivered With Passion](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/excellent-service-is-delivered-with-passion-2/) - When I train our referral partners to send their members to our company, I make some HUGE promises related to the level of service they can expect from my team. I've even been accused of implying that my staff can 'Walk on Water'! Well they do not walk on water (that position was filled over
- [Welcome to 2012:  Resolutions Anyone?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/welcome-to-2012-resolutions-anyone/) - Welcome to 2012! A New Year has begun and for many it means time for resolutions and refocusing! Here at TMC, we are looking at ways to be of MORE service and add more value to those who partner with our company. We are excited to let you know that our merchants & referral partners
- [Black Friday 2011 Results](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/black-friday-2011-results/) - Cheri PerryMonday, November 28, 2011
- [Leave the Door Open](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/leave-the-door-open/) - While 'Keeping Your Business For The Life of Your Business' is a lofty goal- it is one that we work very diligently on here at TMC. So when the unthinkable happens (a merchant decides to go elsewhere for services ), we always take the time to assess the situation to see if there are additional
- [Stolen Credit Card Data](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/stolen-credit-card-data/) - My favorite airline is Southwest! In addition to Excellent service, affordable airfare and a majority of staff members who LOVE their job, they also provide literary favors for those of us who love to read! Of course I am talking about the SkyMall & Spirit magazines. In the October edition of the Spirit magazine, they
- [How Would You Like To Be Remembered?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/how-would-you-like-to-be-remembered/) - Often times, I find myself so engrossed in work that I let the reason I'm working slip from my mind. It is pretty easy to do and if we do it often enough, we can lose touch with the reason we began a business (got married, had children etc.). The short story below reminded me
- [Branding Your Business](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/branding-your-business/) - We have been doing some research on 'Branding' this week. One of the best articles I found is listed below- I hope it helps you with your business! Branding: Creating and Maintaining Your Company's Image Make no mistake. The process of developing, implementing, and maintaining a brand is a full-time job and an important one
- [Saving Money W/Durbin](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/saving-money-w-durbin/) - There are TONS of fees in the credit card processing industry so now that the Durbin Amendment has gone into effect- we are happy to report that the government intervention into our industry is turning out to have one positive impact for our merchants! While the chaos and the added fees caused by the Durbin
- [Customer Recovery & Retention](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/customer-recovery-retention/) - Most industries have a lot of competition. The merchant services industry, however, seems to have been dealt an extra measure! Over the years we have found that many merchants appreciate the additional service they have come to expect from our company and yet- they still have to deal with an endless supply of phone solicitors,
- [Keep Your Cash Flow- Flowing](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/keep-your-cash-flow-flowing-2/) - It is critically important that your cash flow- flows! Cheri PerryTuesday, September 13, 2011
- [We Will Never Forget](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/we-will-never-forget/) - God Bless the friends and families of those whose lives were taken 10 years ago today. God Bless the friends and families of those who have lost their lives since; defending the freedoms of a great nation. God Bless our leaders and help them to make the types of decisions that will help America get
- [Remembering 9/11](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/remembering-9-11-2/) - 10 years goes by in a flash! Tyler was 5 years old and we lived in Vancouver Washington at the time. Our home had two floors and I was sleeping upstairs when Dean ran up the stairs to tell me that the US was at war. It was a surreal moment- I carried Tyler's little
- [SCAM ALERT- Don't Be A Victim!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/scam-alert-dont-be-a-victim/) - SCAM ALERT - Don't be a victim! There seems to be a rash of credit card scams lately - the most common over the past few weeks is one that you can absolutely avoid. Here is the scenario: A customer walks into your business or financial institution and attempts to make a purchase/cash advance. When
- [White Water Rafting FUN!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/white-water-rafting-fun/) - This past weekend- our team took a trip down the White Salmon River. I am happy to report that all of our staff members made it through the adventure unscathed- well almost We had 4 rafts full of our team- lots of fun, splashing and some hard paddling. When it came time to make the
- [US Credit Rating Decrease Affects Us All](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/us-credit-rating-decrease-affects-us-all/) - I was in Reno Friday evening when I heard the news of our country's credit downgrade. Immediately, I began to wonder how the rating drop would impact the businesses that we work with and our economy overall. After some searching on the internet- I found this YouTube video (under 3 minutes) that explains the situation
- [THE 5 HABITS OF SUCCESS](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/the-5-habits-of-success/) - The Five Habits of Success by Paul J. Meyer and Kevin Rhea Develop and reinforce these five habits of success. When you do, you will not have to make new decisions every morning. You instinctively know what you are going to do and how you are going to do it! 1. The habit of positive
- [Durbin Delayed Again](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/durbin-delayed-again/) - The federal reserve board met yesterday and put together their 'interim' final rulings on the Durbin Amendment. There was some movement on the proposed debit cap and a deadline extension was granted for the implementation of the Durbin Amendment itself. How frustrating for all parties involved to have this financial reform drag on and on-
- [Making More Sales](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/making-more-sales/) - As a business owner or manager, your aim is to generate profit for your business, and preferably lots of it. Before that can happen though, the business has to have revenue. Revenue comes from making sales Sales come from customers Repeat sales are made to satisfied customers Profits result when overheads and costs are less
- [Durbin Amendment](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/durbin-amendment/) - Ready, Fire, Aim! Last week, the bill that would have given congress more time to evaluate the ramifications of the Durbin Amendment, was defeated. This means that congress now has just a few weeks to figure out how the Durbin Amendment will be implemented. Industry giants are frustrated, financial institutions are frustrated and consumers are
- [Dealing With Conflict](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/dealing-with-conflict-2/) - Conflict is a part of our every day lives; families, children, coworkers, business partners and even strangers have many reasons to find themselves in the middle of a 'conflict'. For some, conflict is an 8 letter word- one that conjures up feelings of discomfort and pain. For others, it is a word that is synonymous
- [Preventing Cyber Crime](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/preventing-cyber-crime/) - The Internet is a wonderful thing and our team uses it every day! Unfortunately, the Internet is also a place filled with hidden dangers and all kinds of risks as it relates to security, privacy and protection of your personal and business data & computers. We thought you might appreciate and benefit from a few
- [Leasing:  Let TMC Help You With the Math!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/leasing-let-tmc-help-you-with-the-math/) - We just chatted with a business owner, who once loved her prior processor. The key phrase is “once loved” because we just helped her do the math on her equipment lease. Her old processor “helped” her out with a low monthly lease payment of $44 a month; which she has been happily paying for the
- [PCI Compliance Nightmares](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/pci-compliance-nightmares/) - PCI Compliance is something that most merchants are familiar with these days. Each year, merchants are required to prove that they are handling credit card data properly, that their systems are secure and that the processes they have in place protect the card data. It all sounds good right? Protect card holder information, make sure
- [My Credit Card Was STOLEN- What Do I Do?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/my-credit-card-was-stolen-what-do-i-do/) - Last week, Sony announced it may have lost up to 77 million people’s personal information, including their debit and credit cards. Confidentiality and information integrity is always important but here are some timely tips: What to do if you think your credit or debit card is stolen (Information provided from the State Department of Financial
- [Sign Your Credit Cards](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/sign-your-credit-cards/) - In our first online poll, we asked how you handled the signature panel on the back of your credit cards and the results are in: SIGN YOUR CARD (they said to sign it) 30%? WRITE CID (I'm not giving the crooks my signature!) 40% SIGN & WRITE CID (It was a tight fit- but I
- [5 Things to Avoid When Setting Up A Merchant Account](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/5-things-to-avoid-when-setting-up-a-merchant-account/) - Learning what 'TO DO' when opening a merchant account is valuable information. Thank you to all of the people who shared their feedback on the article a few days ago. Now- on to the TOP 5 THINGS NOT TO DO when opening a merchant account. It may seem like common sense but let's get serious-
- [The Top 5 Things To DO When Looking For Merchant Account](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/the-top-5-things-to-do-when-looking-for-merchant-account/) - I remember when Dean and I started our business nearly 15 years ago. The credit card processing industry was confusing then and it is even more so now! -Qualified-Non-Qualified-PCI-ACH-Batch Fee-Mimimums-Chargebacks...the list could go on and on! We thought you might appreciate a short list of the TOP 5 THINGS TO DO WHEN LOOKING FOR A
- [Earthquake in Japan](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/earthquake-in-japan/) - Our hearts and prayers go out to the people of Japan as they deal with the 8.9 Earthquake and subsequent aftershocks. We watched the first Tsunami and have heard that many other areas are under watches and warnings as the water makes the journey across the ocean. Hawaii was just placed under a warning which
- [BEWARE OF THE SQUARE](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/beware-of-the-square/) - It is exciting to see all of the new mobile technologies, but in an industry with over 52 billion dollars of credit card fraud per year, it pays to listen to the experts! VeriFone is a global leader in secure electronic payment technologies and we are encouraging you to read their letter regarding the SquareUp
- [Facebook, Twitter, Linked In- Oh My! (2 of 2)](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/facebook-twitter-linked-in-oh-my-2-of-2/) - Last week, we talked about Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and the various different thought processes behind using each of the top 3 Social Media sites. This week I promised a few tips on simplifying the use of these many tools so let's get to it! There are many ways to keep Social Media from becoming an
- [Facebook, Twitter, Linked In- Oh My! (1 of 2)](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/facebook-twitter-linked-in-oh-my-1-of-2/) - Have you ever felt overwhelmed by all of the Social Media options that are available? Me too- so last week I attended a 'bootcamp' sponsored by Constant Contact and it really helped me understand the value of using Social Media to improve communication and relationships with the people we have the opportunity to work with-
- [Rates & Terms Explained](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/rates-terms-explained/) - Last week, I received a call from a longstanding merchant who asked me this question: What do all of the terms mean on my statement? I LOVED the question- especially coming from such a loyal merchant who admitted to reading very few statements since they hired us 9 1/2 years ago! So here is your
- [Happy Birthday Ronald Reagan!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/happy-birthday-ronald-reagan/) - 100 Years ago today, Ronald Wilson 'Dutch' Reagan was born in Tampico Illinois. He would go on to be an athlete, a well known actor, a husband, a father and one of the most powerful leaders of our time. I was too young to vote for Ronald Reagan but I loved listening to him talk
- [New IRS Reporting Requirements](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/new-irs-reporting-requirements/) - As we watch the first month of 2011 come to an end- it is important to remember that this New Year ushers in a new era regarding credit card payments and reporting to the IRS. The following is an overview of the IRS merchant transaction reporting requirements statute, which was added in November of 2009
- [Mobile Payments](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/mobile-payments/) - If you were watching the news last week, you heard about Starbucks launching their Mobile Payment application in over 7000 locations! The mobile app had been tested in lots of stores prior to that but this past week they felt it was time to turn it up a notch! I loaded the Starbucks application on
- [Ring The Bell!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/ring-the-bell/) - This time of year, there are fundraising opportunities everywhere! Last week, our team had the opportunity to ring the bell for the Fort Vancouver Lions Club (in conjunction with the Salvation Army) and we had a blast! With a willing staff, candy canes and Christmas music we did our best to help the Salvation Army
- [Good News (Financially)](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/good-news-financially/) - Some months back I was at a business conference and one of the presenters said that he had decided 'Not To Participate in the Recession'. I LOVED that idea and the power it contained! While the financial worries of the day are not completely behind us, there is some good news! Here at TMC, we
- [Pin Pad Compliance](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/pin-pad-compliance/) - For months, we have been talking about PCI/PED Compliance and how security mandates are requiring changes to the equipment we use to process PIN (Personal Identification Number) based debit transactions. Now that the compliance deadlines have passed, many of our merchants are receiving compliant PIN pads in the mail and are being given the option
- [SIGN YOUR CARD!!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/sign-your-card/) - As businesses, we are paying TONS for credit card fraud prevention! We need to remember that there are simple things we can do to prevent the improper use of credit cards, thereby reducing some of that darn credit card fraud! I was reminded of this recently when I watched a customer get upset after being
- [Slip Showing?](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/slip-showing/) - Slip Showing? This article was taken from the FTC's web site. Here at TMC we want to remind all of our merchants to be aware of the truncation laws so that you can protect yourself against fines and disgruntled customers! If you need any assistance with making sure the full card number is not listed
- [Welcome to the TMC Blog!](https://gettmc.com/tmc-blog/general/welcome-to-the-tmc-blog/) - The New & Improved TMC web site is here... Stay tuned for continued updates from the new TMC Blog! Friday, August 13, 2010

## Pages

- [Home](https://gettmc.com/) - Stop STRUGGLING with Frustrating Payment Processing! Start FOCUSING on What Matters Most Growing Your Business! Simplify Your Credit Card Payments CONTACT US Stop STRUGGLING with Frustrating Payment Processing! Start FOCUSING on What Matters Most Growing Your Business! CONTACT US Know Your Rates Reviews Grow Your Business We are dedicated to helping your business thrive We
- [Taking Care Of Business (With TMC)](https://gettmc.com/taking-care-of-business-with-tmc/) - FREE Live Monthly Trainings 30 minutes or less. One clear topic each month. Running a business comes with a lot of moving parts. This monthly series breaks things down one focus at a time so you can learn, apply, and move forward with confidence. Every session includes practical guidance and free tools to help you
- [Meet Our Staff](https://gettmc.com/about-us/meet-our-staff/) - Finding individuals who are committed to Excellence is not an easy task! Time and time again, we are asked — ‘Where did you find your staff?’ and every time the answer is simple — We got lucky AND we seek out integrity based people that are eager to embrace our service culture. Dean PerryGone Fishing!
- [Thank You](https://gettmc.com/thank-you-for-registering-for-taking-care-of-business/) - You’re Registered You are now registered for Taking Care of Business with TMC. You’ll receive a confirmation email shortly with your live training link, reminders, and access to replays and free resources. While you’re here, we’d love to invite you to check out our blog for helpful tips, education, and tools for growing your business.
- [TMC Holiday Hours](https://gettmc.com/tmc-holiday-hours/) - For your convenience, we have our Holiday hours listed below. As always, 24-hour Technical Support for merchants will be available. (Use the After Hours Support Numbers on the side of your terminal or in your Quick Reference Guide).Christmas HoursTotal Merchant Concepts will be Closed on December 25th and December 26th in observance of Christmas Day.New Years
- [Support](https://gettmc.com/support-2/) - FD 150 1 How to Activate Wifi on a FD150
- [Keap CRM](https://gettmc.com/keap-crm/)
- [Social Media Assistance](https://gettmc.com/business-growth-tools/social-media-assistance/) - Social Media Assistance There are lots of small ways your business can engage using the most common social media tools. We can assist with free advice and tips and we can offer some basic Social Media assistance for busy business owners who just need someone to take care of it for them! Fill out the
- [Career](https://gettmc.com/about-us/career/) - Join Our Team Finding employees is pretty easy but finding EAGLES, team members who give their best effort and figure out how to leave their DNA on the job- now that is a higher calling altogether! At TMC, we are excited to be putting together an engaged, dynamic group of highly motivated team players so we can
- [Secure Statement Form](https://gettmc.com/secure-statement-form/) - Secure Statement Form Use the form below to upload your members statement(s), if you need any assitanceor have any questions, please call your TMC team at 888-249-9919. Your Name Your Email Important Notes Upload Statements Send
- [Dejavoo QD4](https://gettmc.com/services-solutions/credit-card-processing/terminal-solutions/dejavoo-qd4/) - Say Hello to Dejavoo QD4 Have Questions? Contact Us Here
- [Terminal Solutions](https://gettmc.com/services-solutions/credit-card-processing/terminal-solutions/) - Terminal Solutions There are hundreds of different types of credit card terminals you can use for processing your transactions! Unlike some processors who utilize proprietary equipment to force your length of stay with their company, Total Merchant Concepts only sells terminals that can be used with most processing companies in the market. In addition to
- [Rate Calculator](https://gettmc.com/rate-calculator/) - Review your Rates Use our rate calculator to figure out what your effective rate is. Credit card processing fees can impact a business’s bottom line. By reducing these fees, businesses can improve their profitability. Contact our team for a FREE statement review. We typically see a savings of 25% or more! Contact Our Team Monthly
- [Gift / Loyalty Cards](https://gettmc.com/business-growth-tools/gift-loyalty-cards/) - Boost Your Business with Custom Gift Cards Your customers want an easy, meaningful way to share your business.With TMC’s Custom Gift Card Program, you’ll give them a reason to come back, and invite their friends to join them. Why Your Business Needs Gift Cards Running a business without gift cards means missing out on loyal
- [My Centric Credit Union](https://gettmc.com/my-centric-credit-union/) - Centric Federal Credit Union is pleased to introduce our partner for all of your electronic payment needs! Total Merchant Concepts is an Integrity based company with a reputation for Excellence. We’ve partnered with their team to ensure that our Centric Federal Credit Union Members have the very best options related to payment acceptance. Please review
- [CU LeaderShip](https://gettmc.com/cu-leadership/) - Are your Business Members getting the Transparency, Integrity, Service, and Attention they deserve from the Payment Processor you refer them to? You can ensure they will with TMC! The credit union space is one where business owners EXPECT an elevated level of service and TRUST their credit union to steer them in the right direction. Cost
- [Support](https://gettmc.com/support/) - TMC Support CenterWe’re here to make business easier for you.Have a question? Need a refresher? Want to learn something new?You’ve come to the right place. Below you’ll find how-to guides, video walkthroughs, and tips to help you make the most of your TMC tools and services.You’ve got this—and we’ve got your back.How can we help
- [Valor VL550](https://gettmc.com/valor-vl550/) - Valor VL550 - TMC Marketing Empower Your Business with the Valor VL550 Modernize your payment processing and enhance customer satisfaction with TMC's trusted solutions. Tired of Outdated Payment Systems? As a business owner, you strive to provide the best experience for your customers. But clunky, outdated payment terminals can slow you down and frustrate your
- [Lemonade](https://gettmc.com/lemonade/) - Empowering Youth Entrepreneurs in Grants Pass Name Email Message Get Started Today! 📲 Accept card payments with a simple QR code (No Equipment Needed!)🐷 Get your money deposited directly into your NWCCU account🎁 FREE setup (waived by TMC)💡 Learn how to price your lemonade and run your business like a boss! Services Provided By:
- [Business Growth Tools](https://gettmc.com/business-growth-tools/) - Business Growth Tools FREE BUSINESS ASSESSMENT In order to get where we want to go- we have to KNOW where we are! We have a FREE BUSINESS ASSESSMENT for you! Take the FREE Business Assessment to find the strengths and weaknesses in the following critical areas of your business:LEADERSHIP: Everything you do to Lead & Guide your business.ADMINISTRATION: Everything you do
- [Welcome Pacific Crest Federal Credit Union Members](https://gettmc.com/welcome-pacific-crest-federal-credit-union-members/) - Pacific Crest Federal Credit Union is pleased to introduce our partner for all of your electronic payment needs! Please review the options below and feel free to contact your Pacific Crest Federal Credit Union Team or our partners at Total Merchant Concepts. Credit & Debit Card AcceptanceAccepting credit cards can increase your business by as much as 45%!
- [5 Things You MUST Know When Accepting Credit Cards for Your Business!](https://gettmc.com/5-things-you-must-know-when-accepting-credit-cards-for-your-business/) - 5 key things you need to know about accepting Credit Cards for your Business.Accepting credit cards is essential for today’s businesses—but knowing where to start and who to trust can feel overwhelming.While rates are fairly competitive across the board, what really matters is making informed decisions that protect your profits and support your growth.Your team
- [Time Change Instructions](https://gettmc.com/time-change-instructions/) - If you have an E-commerce or Mobile processing solution, there is no need to manually update the time. If you need assistance or have any questions, please give our team a call @ 888-249-9919. The following are the time change instructions for the Vx500 Series, First Data, Dejavoo, Clover, Poynt, Pax, Ingenico, Valor
- [TMC $50.00 Gift Card Giveaway](https://gettmc.com/training/) - Serving Your Business Members Please fill in the form and you will be entered into our drawing for a $50.00 Visa Gift Card.We are excited to see what you will implement. First & Last Name Branch Location Business Email What I Learned In Training Today? Click For Your Chance To Win
- [Sitemap](https://gettmc.com/sitemap/) - PagesHomeTMC BlogTMC StoreRate CalculatorSecure Statement FormLemonadeCU LeaderShipThank YouContact UsServices & SolutionsE-CommerceCredit Card ProcessingSmartphone / Mobile OptionsSoftware SolutionsClover Processing SolutionsClover FlexClover StationClover MiniTerminal SolutionsFD150PAX A920Ingenico Desk 3500Dejavoo QD4Dejavoo Z8Invoices & Recurring BillingLeasingContactless PaymentsMerchant Cash AdvanceNear Field CommunicationsPayroll ServicesStart Selling Online TodayChecksKeap CRMSupportEducational ResourcesCredit Card Issuer Response CodeFraud PreventionPCI ComplianceGlossaryWhitelisting EmailsCash DiscountBusiness Growth ToolsSocial Media AssistanceDISC Profile
- [Latest Posts](https://gettmc.com/blog/) - Search Search Technology Can Be Confusing Sir Smiley February 22, 2026 Technology has given business owners more ways than ever to accept payments, but with that flexibility often comes confusion. Smartphones, tablets, terminals, card readers. It can feel like alphabet soup, especially when everyone is promising that their solution is “the best.” The truth is,
- [Clover Processing Solutions](https://gettmc.com/services-solutions/credit-card-processing/clover-processing-solutions/) - Processing Solutions More Detail aboutClover Mini The POS that’s small enough to fit into any space but powerful enough to run your business. Mini with LTE gives you the added connectivity support of your own cellular network. Use it as a backup or in areas without WiFi or an ethernet connection. More Detail aboutClover Flex
- [Free DISC Assessment](https://gettmc.com/free-disc-assessment/) - FREE DISC ASSESSMENT Welcome to our FREE DISC assessment page. First Name * Last Name * Email * Assesment Tutorial Click play to watch the video for your DISC instructions. In order to determine your Communication Style, please complete the following: Drag each option to rank each word that is MOST like you to
- [Reviews](https://gettmc.com/reviews/) - Reviews Posted on Jim McDonough Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. TMC has the friendliest staff in the business. They are super helpful and always there when I need them. I would highly recommend TMC to all my fellow business associates. I love my TMC Team.Owner's replyThank you Sir! Serving
- [Clover Mini](https://gettmc.com/services-solutions/credit-card-processing/clover-processing-solutions/clover-mini/) - Mini The all-in-one mini POS system for any business. Mini is small enough to fit into any space but packs plenty of POS power to run your full house, front to back. Swipe, dip, tap, or take cash—accept all the ways your customers like to pay. Mini can be as minimal or full-featured as you
- [TMC Store](https://gettmc.com/tmc-store/)
- [Contact Us](https://gettmc.com/contact-us-2/) - Thank you for your interest in Total Merchant Concepts. If you have any questions regarding our products or services that you cannot find answers to on our site, please fill out the form below. A representative from our company will be in contact with you within the next 2 business days. Your business is important
- [E-Commerce Payment Processing](https://gettmc.com/e-commerce-payment-processing/) - In the past, E-Commerce (processing online) was something of a confusing mess of multiple and often expensive options. Today, E-Commerce is fairly simple and very affordable!TMC makes processing your credit cards online affordable! From comprehensive shopping carts, quick setup shopping carts, TMC Shop Now or API set ups to simple DONATE NOW functions for our
- [Ingenico Desk 3500](https://gettmc.com/services-solutions/credit-card-processing/terminal-solutions/ingenico-desk-3500/) - Say Hello to Ingenico 128 MB Memory256 MB Flash Memory 2.8” Display (320 x 240 resolution)Connection: Ip/Wifi Magstripe/ Chip/ NFCThermal receipt printer Have Questions? Contact Us Here
- [PAX A920](https://gettmc.com/services-solutions/credit-card-processing/terminal-solutions/pax-a920-2/) - The Power of PAX A920 1 GB Memory8 GB Flash memory (Micro SD up to 32GB) Connection; 4G/ Wi-fiMagstripe/ Chip/ NFC 5” HD Touchscreen (720 x 1080 resolution)Thermal receipt printer Looking for More? We've got you covered Contact us Here
- [Dejavoo Z8](https://gettmc.com/services-solutions/credit-card-processing/terminal-solutions/dejavoo-z8/) - Feels like Dejavoo 192 MB Memory128 MB Flash Memory Connection: Ip/Wifi Magstripe/ Chip/ NFCThermal receipt printer Want more Info? Give us a call Contact us Here
- [FD150](https://gettmc.com/services-solutions/credit-card-processing/terminal-solutions/fd-150/) - Get to know FD150 Want More? Contact us here 128 MB Memory256 MB Flash MemoryCortex A5 500 MHz2.7” display (320 x 240 resolution)Connection: IP/ Dial/ WifiMagstripe/ Chip/ NFCTouchscreenThermal receipt printerCompatible with RP10 Pin Pad
- [Welcome Mid Oregon Credit Union](https://gettmc.com/welcome-mid-oregon-credit-union/) - Mid Oregon Credit Union is pleased to introduce our partner for all of your electronic payment needs! Total Merchant Concepts is an Integrity based company with a reputation for Excellence. We’ve partnered with their team to ensure that our Mid Oregon Credit Union Members have the very best options related to payment acceptance. Please review
- [Thank You](https://gettmc.com/thank-you/) - We have received your request and one of our Team Members will be contacting you soon! If you need immediate assistance please call us at:1-(888)-249-9919
- [PCI Compliance](https://gettmc.com/educational-resources/pci-compliance/) - PCI Compliance PCI DSS stands for Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard. It was developed by the major credit card companies as a guideline to help organizations that process card payments prevent credit card fraud, hacking and various other security vulnerabilities and threats. A company processing, storing, or transmitting payment card data must be PCI
- [TMC Mission Statement](https://gettmc.com/about-us/tmc-mission-statement/) - The TMC Mission Statement MISSION Our mission at TMC is to provide integrity-based solutions that help our clients reduce frustration, increase their bottom line and enhance their passion for being in business. VISION TMC is an energetic, encouraging, and exciting environment where our team members share their passion for personal growth, strong partnerships, and exceptional
- [Coming Soon](https://gettmc.com/coming-soon/) - Coming Soon!
- [Customer Service](https://gettmc.com/about-us/customer-service/) - Customer Service Welcome to Total Merchant Concepts Excellence is Our Minimum Standard! Many businesses promise excellent customer service… at TMC, it is our PASSION! From the moment you begin speaking with our representatives, all the way through to becoming a merchant or a referral partner, you will experience our top-notch service. Our Commitment to Excellence will be apparent each
- [Non-Profit Programs](https://gettmc.com/non-profit-programs/) - Non-Profit Programs Make the difference you want in the world (and attract the dollars it takes!) by keeping your donor’s experience in mind and making payments EASY At TMC, we have wonderful programs in place for the Non-Profit Organizations we serve. Here are some of the things we can assist your non-profit with:Online GivingMobile /
- [Invoices & Recurring Billing](https://gettmc.com/services-solutions/invoices-recurring-billing/) - Automate Payments with Invoicing & Recurring Billing As a business owner, having ways to save you time and money is important, and one great way to do this is by setting up automation and invoicing for your payments! Here are a few reasons recurring and invoicing payments can help our business and save your business TIME and Money.
- [Start Selling Online Today](https://gettmc.com/services-solutions/start-selling-online-today/) - Introducing TMC Shop Now Everything you need to add a store to your site OR create a website if you don't have one! Sell on social media networks Use your social networks to give your customers another convenient way to buy your products while syncing directly to your central inventory. Sell on Facebook, Instagram, and MORE!
- [Clover Flex](https://gettmc.com/services-solutions/credit-card-processing/clover-processing-solutions/clover-flex/) - Flex A Flexible Point of Sale Device that is as Dynamic as Your Business. Clover Flex is the all-in-one device with the built-in capabilities to help you serve your customers better.Whether at the counter, in line, at the table, or in the salon chair.Easy to hold, and easy to hand over to customers to dip,
- [DISC Profile and Team Assessment Solutions](https://gettmc.com/business-growth-tools/disc-profile-and-team-assessment-solutions/) - One of the biggest challenges in business revolves around staffing! We can help you get to know your team with some simple and effective tools that not only have the ability to improve business but the personal lives of your team members as well! Click the button below to try a FREE assessment Free DISC
- [Purchase DISC](https://gettmc.com/business-growth-tools/purchase-disc-2/) - Welcome to our DISC ASSESSMENT PURCHASING PAGE! To learn more about your personality wiring, see below for additional detailed assessment opportunities! Which version should I pick? Major Benefits ConciseVersion StandardVersion ExtendedVersion LeadershipVersion Provides essential feedback on your personality style, your strengths and ahow to be your best.Includes your ideal environment and your personality graphs. ✓
- [Educational Resources](https://gettmc.com/educational-resources/) - This section is designed to give you more than you asked for! Please feel free to check out our educational resources; we hope they help you understand our industry better and provide valuable information to help you grow your business! Fraud Prevention Card Issuer Response Codes Cash Discount Surcharging PCI Compliance Glossary
- [Credit Card Processing](https://gettmc.com/services-solutions/credit-card-processing/) - Flexibility is VITAL in servicing the many different needs of businesses across the country. That is why Total Merchant Concepts has multiple options to serve the needs of your referrals and your businesses. The more options we can provide, the better equipped we are to handle the variety of processing needs in the marketplace. If
- [CUBG](https://gettmc.com/cubg/) - Are your Business Members getting the Transparency, Integrity, Service, and Attention they deserve from the Payment Processor you refer them to? You can ensure they will with TMC! The credit union space is one where business owners EXPECT an elevated level of service and TRUST their credit union to steer them in the right direction. Cost
- [MAPS](https://gettmc.com/maps/) - Are your Business Members getting the Transparency, Integrity, Service, and Attention they deserve from the Payment Processor you refer them to? You can ensure they will with TMC!The credit union space is one where business owners EXPECT an elevated level of service and TRUST their credit union to steer them in the right direction. Cost
- [Referral Relationships](https://gettmc.com/referral-relationships/) - Referral Relationships We are PASSIONATE about taking care of your Business Members. The Credit Union space is one where Business Owners EXPECT an elevated level of service and they TRUST their Credit Unions to steer them in the right direction. All of our business comes via referral these days with over 180+ Credit Unions across the country sharing TMC with their
- [Contact Us](https://gettmc.com/contact-us/) - Thank you for your interest in Total Merchant Concepts. If you have any questions regarding our products or services that you cannot find answers to on our site, please fill out the form below. A representative from our company will be in contact with you within the next 2 business days. Your business is important
- [About Us](https://gettmc.com/about-us/) - What Total Merchant Concepts Is All About Meet our Team Total Merchant Concepts was founded in 1996 by owners Dean and Cheri Perry. The decision to open a credit card processing business grew from the frustration of trying to find a reputable option for their existing business at the time. Total Merchant Concepts began with
- [Terminal Paper](https://gettmc.com/terminal-paper/) - 5 rolls of Paper: 2 1/4 x 74' Thermal Click here 5 rolls of Paper: 2 1/4 x 74' Thermal Click here 5 rolls of Paper: 2 1/4 x 74' Thermal Click here 5 Rolls of Paper: 3-1/8 x 230' Thermal Click here 5 Rolls of Paper: 3-1/8 x 230' Thermal Click here 1 case
- [Privacy Policy](https://gettmc.com/about-us/privacy-policy/) - Effective date: April 03, 2019 Total Merchant Concepts, Inc (“us”, “we”, or “our”) operates the http://GetTMC.com website (hereinafter referred to as the “Service”). This page informs you of our policies regarding the collection, use, and disclosure of personal data when you use our Service and the choices you have associated with that data. We use your data to
- [Cash Discount](https://gettmc.com/educational-resources/cash-discount/) - Talk about a Win-WinGive your cash paying customers a discount and pass on your card processing fees. Your posted price covers your card costs.When your customer pays with cash, they get up to a 3% discount. Card (Posted) Price Large Coffee: $10.30Total: $10.30 Cash Price (Discount) Large Coffee: $10.30 Cash Discount: 3% Total: $10.00 *Cash Discount programs
- [Surcharging](https://gettmc.com/surcharging/) - Surcharging Done Right Offset up to 3% of your payment processing fees&Reduce your overhead for individual sales while still accepting all payment types. Curious About Surcharge Alternatives? Check out our Cash Discount Program Cash Discount Click below to view Equipment Options Click here
- [Community Involvement](https://gettmc.com/community-involvement/) - Being part of a community means lots of things here at TMC It means treating others the way we want to be treated.It means constantly looking for ways to be of service to our clients & our team.It means finding ways to give back to the communities where we live, work and earn a living!Check
- [Fraud Prevention](https://gettmc.com/educational-resources/fraud-prevention/) - Credit Card Fraud is a 52.8 BILLION dollar industry; Organized Crime!We have all heard the stories of individuals having their credit cards compromised or businesses somehow losing all of their customer’s vital credit card information. The card associations have many suggestions and mandates related to the prevention of Credit Card Fraud and this section will
- [Certified Business Specialist](https://gettmc.com/referral-relationships/certified-business-specialist/) - Our certified business specialist (CBS) Training fits nicely into your training and development program and can be used as part of your onboarding process for new team members as well as longstanding team members.This 12-session course will leave your team feeling confident and capable of helping the businesses in your community. As an added bonus,
- [TMC Auction Assist](https://gettmc.com/tmc-auction-assist/) - Make your next EVENT an even greater gift to your cause!Streamlining the auction process can really make your next event EASIER and more profitable! Contact Our Team With our TMC Auction Assist- we can automate many of the functions, speed up the checkout process, and help you identify more ways to increase the revenues for
- [Checks](https://gettmc.com/services-solutions/checks/) - Paper checks are in decline, but they remain an important part of the US payments landscape. Many businesses want to accept checks with a bit more confidence so we have several options for business owners to consider. Keep in mind that not all businesses need these various services! If you are a business owner who
- [Smartphone / Mobile Options](https://gettmc.com/services-solutions/credit-card-processing/smartphone-mobile-options/) - Go Mobile with TMC We do EVERYTHING from our mobile phones today: receive our emails, coordinate our calendars, peruse the internet, and YES- we can accept our credit cards using our mobile phones today as well.You can use your smartphone by itself in conjunction with an online payment gateway-eliminating the need for any extra devices
- [Software Solutions](https://gettmc.com/services-solutions/credit-card-processing/software-solutions/) - For computer-based processing, look no further than TMC. We support a vast array of software and are adding to the list daily. Additionally, our technical support and R&D teams will be happy to work on an integration with your software provider if it is not one we currently work with. Contact Our Team for More
- [Home (old)](https://gettmc.com/home/) - Stop STRUGGLING with Frustrating Payment Processing! Start FOCUSING on What Matters Most Growing Your Business! Simplify Your Credit Card Payments CONTACT US Stop STRUGGLING with Frustrating Payment Processing! Start FOCUSING on What Matters Most Growing Your Business! CONTACT US KNOW YOUR RATES REVIEWS GROW YOUR BUSINESS Know Your Rates Reviews Grow your Business We are
- [Coverage Map](https://gettmc.com/about-us/coverage-map/) - Total Merchant Concepts has grown across the country by repeat and referral business! AL AK AZ AR CA CO CT DE DC FL GA HI ID IL IN IA KS KY LA ME MD MA MI MN MS MO MT NE NV NH NJ NM NY NC ND OH OK OR PA RI SC SD
- [Website Accessibility](https://gettmc.com/about-us/website-accessibility/) - Total Merchant Concepts is committed to providing access to all individuals visiting our website including persons with disabilities. If you are experiencing difficulty accessing content on our site, please do not hesitate to contact us by emailing us at: CustomerCare@TotalMerchantConcepts.com or call us at 888-249-9919 and we will make sure you get the content you need. We have
- [Credit Card Issuer Response Code](https://gettmc.com/educational-resources/credit-card-issuer-response-code/) - Credit Cards can be declined for numerous reasons. Here are the most common codes along with the response reason. Table of Contents 0 - 9 Code Response Code 0 Approved 1 Refer to Card Issuer 2 Refer to Issuer's special conditions 3 Invalid Merchant 4 Pick Up Card 5 Do Not Honor 6 Error 7
- [Clover Station](https://gettmc.com/services-solutions/credit-card-processing/clover-processing-solutions/clover-station/) - Station Run a smart restaurant with a smart POS! The all-in-one POS system comes with a cash drawer and receipt printer and contactless payment acceptance. No extra costs. No hidden fees. Large, versatile display The 14″ high-definition makes your work fast and easy, from inventory and employee management to payments and reporting. Custom orders are done rightCreate custom orders quickly
- [Auction Assist](https://gettmc.com/business-growth-tools/auction-assist/) - Make your next EVENT an even greater gift to your Cause! Streamlining the auction process can really make your next event EASIER and more profitable! With our TMC Auction Assist- we can automate many of the functions, speed the checkout process and help you identify more ways to increase the revenues for your organization! Let our
- [E-Commerce](https://gettmc.com/services-solutions/e-commerce/) - In the past, E-Commerce (processing online) was something of a confusing mess of multiple and often expensive options. Today, E-Commerce is fairly simple and very affordable!In order to have a good understanding of how processing online works, please visit our HOW IT WORKS document where you will learn the 4 basic components of an online
- [Whitelisting Emails](https://gettmc.com/educational-resources/whitelisting-emails/) - We want to make sure we can reach you! In order to help ensure proper delivery of emails to your inbox, you can add senders of legitimate emails to your Whitelist, also called the Approved or Safe Sender list. Click below to view instructions on how to do whitelist emails for several popular Internet Service Providers
- [Glossary](https://gettmc.com/educational-resources/glossary/) - Table of Contents A ABA Routing Number A unique nine-digit number assigned to each banking institution, used to identify the bank and direct ACH debits and credits. The ABA routing number is usually found at the bottom left of a personal or business check before the account number. ACH Automated Clearing House – group of
- [Payroll Services](https://gettmc.com/services-solutions/payroll-services/) - Payroll and HR Support for Small Business Owners Running a small business isn’t easy — there are so many things to take care of. Today’s environment requires partners who can help you navigate obstacles and keep things running smoothly. Someone to help you with payroll, taxes, HR, and benefits. And that’s why we’re proud to
- [Near Field Communications](https://gettmc.com/services-solutions/near-field-communications/) - Near field communication (NFC) is a set of standards for smart phones and similar devices to establish radio communication with each other by touching them together or bringing them into close proximity, usually no more than a few centimetres. Present and anticipated applications include contactless transactions, data exchange, and simplified setup of more complex communications such
- [Merchant Cash Advance](https://gettmc.com/services-solutions/merchant-cash-advance/) - Merchant Cash Advance (MCA) is something of a PayDay loan. You borrow money against your future credit card revenue. The companies that make these types of loans, review your annual credit card processing volume and determine how much they will loan you. While credit is always reviewed, the companies that make these types of loans
- [Leasing](https://gettmc.com/services-solutions/leasing/) - At TMC, we do have the ability to lease equipment however it is NOT our recommendation: here’s why! Leases are NON Cancellable contracts (no matter what a sales person might tell you). Leases are typically written for a 4 year term PLUS a 10% buyout at the end of the lease. Leases do not stop because your
- [Contactless Payments](https://gettmc.com/services-solutions/contactless-payments/) - What is Contactless Payment (NFC)? As the name suggests, it is a payment that you take using either a smartphone or a chip card that doesn’t require physical contact from your customer to your payment solution. Some of the most popular mobile contactless payment methods are Samsung Pay, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Fitbit Pay, or any bank
- [Services & Solutions](https://gettmc.com/services-solutions/) - There are many options for accepting payments from your customers! At TMC, we have a wide variety of affordable solutions AND our team is trained to assist you in selecting the options that best suit the needs of your business! We specialize in making payment acceptance easier & more efficient for your business.

## Landing Pages

- [DISC](https://gettmc.com/elementor-landing-page-6076/) - What is DISC? Watch the video below to learn more about DISC from Cheri Perry. Expert In: DISC, Workplace Culture, Business Strategy, Ziglar Legacy Coach and Trainer [INSERT INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO HERE]
- [Elementor Landing Page #223](https://gettmc.com/elementor-landing-page-223/) - Simplify Your Payment Processing and Grow Your Business Stop struggling with frustrating payment processing and start focusingon what matters most – your business. Schedule a free Call benefit 1 A short description of the benefit. benefit 2 A short description of the benefit. benefit 3 A short description of the benefit. Use this section to

## My Templates

- [Footer](https://gettmc.com/?elementor_library=footer) - Content area
- [Mobilde](https://gettmc.com/?elementor_library=mobilde) - Content area
- [Single Post](https://gettmc.com/?elementor_library=single-post) - Single Post Tom Vu June 15, 2023 Technology has given business owners more ways than ever to accept payments, but with that flexibility often comes confusion. Smartphones, tablets, terminals, card readers. It can feel like alphabet soup, especially when everyone is promising that their solution is “the best.” The truth is, there isn’t one right
- [CASH ADVANCE TEMPLATES](https://gettmc.com/?elementor_library=cash-advance-templates) - Are your Business Members getting the Transparency, Integrity, Service, and Attention they deserve from the Payment Processor you refer them to? You can ensure they will with TMC! The credit union space is one where business owners EXPECT an elevated level of service and TRUST their credit union to steer them in the right direction. Cost
- [CU Basic Template](https://gettmc.com/?elementor_library=cu-basic-template) - Mid Oregon Credit Union is pleased to introduce our partner for all of your electronic payment needs! Total Merchant Concepts is an Integrity based company with a reputation for Excellence. We’ve partnered with their team to ensure that our Mid Oregon Credit Union Members have the very best options related to payment acceptance. Please review
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- [Contact Us Page](https://gettmc.com/?elementor_library=contact-us-page) - Thank you for your interest in Total Merchant Concepts. If you have any questions regarding our products or services that you cannot find answers to on our site, please fill out the form below. A representative from our company will be in contact with you within the next 2 business days. Your business is important
- [Credit Union Landing Pages](https://gettmc.com/?elementor_library=credit-union-landing-pages) - Centric Federal Credit Union is pleased to introduce our partner for all of your electronic payment needs! Total Merchant Concepts is an Integrity based company with a reputation for Excellence. We’ve partnered with their team to ensure that our Centric Federal Credit Union Members have the very best options related to payment acceptance. Please review
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- [temp](https://gettmc.com/?elementor_library=temp) - Stop STRUGGLING with Frustrating Payment Processing! Start FOCUSING on What Matters Most Growing Your Business! Simplify Your Credit Card Payments CONTACT US Stop STRUGGLING with Frustrating Payment Processing! Start FOCUSING on What Matters Most Growing Your Business! CONTACT US KNOW YOUR RATES REVIEWS GROW YOUR BUSINESS Know Your Rates Reviews Grow your Business We are
- [Blog Subscribe](https://gettmc.com/?elementor_library=blog-subscribe) - Content area
- [Search Results](https://gettmc.com/?elementor_library=elementor-search-results-1236) - Technology Can Be Confusing February 22, 2026 No Comments Technology has given business owners more ways than ever to accept payments, but with that flexibility often comes confusion. Smartphones, tablets, terminals, card readers. It Read More » Mobile Credit Card Processing: How to Choose the Right Solution for Your Business February 15, 2026 No Comments
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- [test](https://gettmc.com/?elementor_library=test) - Stop STRUGGLING with Frustrating Payment Processing Start FOCUSING on What Matters Most Your Vision in Business! Simplify Your Credit Card Payment Processing and Grow Your Business CONTACT US KNOW YOUR RATES HAPPY CUSTOMERS GROW YOUR BUSINESS We are dedicated to helping your business thrive We offer a wide range of payment processing solutions that are
- [Free Guide on Leverage Social Media](https://gettmc.com/?elementor_library=free-guide-on-leverage-social-media) - Content area
- [TMC Footer](https://gettmc.com/?elementor_library=tmc-footer) - TOTAL MERCHANT CONCEPTS Download our free guide on how to leverage the power of social media for payment processing. Click here Services & Solutions Business Growth Tools Educational Resources Referral Relationships TMC Store About Us Company Information Total Merchant Concepts 9415 NE Fourth Plain Blvd Vancouver, Washington 98662 Local: 360.253.5934 Fax: 800.659.5859 Toll Free: 1.888.249.9919 Connect with
- [TMC Header](https://gettmc.com/?elementor_library=tmc-header) - 888-249-9919 Contact Us Search Search Reviews WHY the Smiley? Lots of people ask us “What in the heck does a SMILEY FACE have to do with Credit Card Processing and why does everything TMC does, have a Smiley attached to it?”- we love the question and here is the simple answer. MOST business owners do
- [Elementor Loop Item #502](https://gettmc.com/?elementor_library=elementor-loop-item)
- [Header](https://gettmc.com/?elementor_library=header-3)
- [Header](https://gettmc.com/?elementor_library=header-2) - Content area
- [TMC](https://gettmc.com/?elementor_library=tmc) - Simplify Your Payment Processing and Grow Your Business Stop struggling with frustrating payment processing and start focusing on what matters most - your vision. Contact us Our Services This text briefly introduces visitors to your main services. Service 1A short description of the service and how the visitor will benefit from it. Service 2A short
- [Default Kit](https://gettmc.com/?elementor_library=default-kit)

## Docs

- [How to Activate Wifi on a FD150](https://gettmc.com/docs/how-to-activate-wifi-on-a-fd150/) - Follow the steps below to set up your FD150 on a wireless network. 1. Return to the Home Screen Press CLEAR until you are back at the main Home screen. 2. Open the Settings Menu Press the orange wrench/hammer icon in the upper right corner of the screen. 3. Select WiFi Tap WiFi from the

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://gettmc.com/category/uncategorized/)
- [TMC Blog](https://gettmc.com/category/tmc-blog/)
- [Service](https://gettmc.com/category/tmc-blog/service/)
- [Business Building Tips](https://gettmc.com/category/tmc-blog/business-building-tips/)
- [General](https://gettmc.com/category/tmc-blog/general/)

## Tags

- [Customer Service](https://gettmc.com/tag/customer-service/)
- [Excellent Customer Service](https://gettmc.com/tag/excellent-customer-service/)
- [Delivering Exceptional Customer Service](https://gettmc.com/tag/delivering-exceptional-customer-service/)
- [Our Passion Is Service](https://gettmc.com/tag/our-passion-is-service/)

## Docs Categories

- [FD 150](https://gettmc.com/docs-category/fd-150/)