What is a Merchant Service Provider, and What Do They Do?

A merchant service provider is a company that helps businesses access and manage the services required to accept card payments. This can include facilitating Merchant Accounts, providing gateways or technology, and coordinating with banks and processors involved in payment processing.

The specific role of a merchant service provider varies. Some act as PayFacs, some provide infrastructure, and others, like Easy Pay Direct, focus on guidance, gateway services, and coordination between merchants and banking partners. Merchant service providers do not all have the same authority or responsibilities.