Frequently Asked
Questions
Answers to the most frequently
asked questions.

Why did Bluewater choose to partner with Priority Payment Systems?

Priority Payment Systems is a leader in bankcard processing, and one of the fastest growing merchant processors in the country. Priority demonstrates an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction and support through their customer service center. Priority is committed to the ongoing support of nonprofit organizations as demonstrated by their Project Give Back program. Priority Payment Systems provides complete noncash payment solution which includes; Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, check, and debit transactions at an affordable price point.

What is a merchant account?

A merchant account allows you to accept credit card donations. It handles the transfer of funds from a donor’s account to the nonprofit organization’s bank account.

What do I need to do in order to receive a quote?

If you are already accepting donations via credit cards, you simply need to download the quote form from here, fill in your contact information, and fax it back to us along with a copy of your two most recent credit card processing statements.

If you are not currently accepting credit card donations, please call us at 1-866-519-9624 and a Bluewater account representative will assist you. Once we have your information, a customized processing solution to meet your organizations’ needs will be presented in as little as 1 business day.

Is there a cost to program my credit card terminal?

There are no costs involved with programming your new or existing credit card terminals. Plus, there are no required monthly minimums.

How long will it take to approve my account?

Accounts are usually approved within 2 business days of submission.

Am I required to sign a long-term contract?

No. Nonprofit organizations are not required to sign up for a specific term of service and may terminate their account at any time with no cost or fees.

What level of savings can I expect?

While the actual savings percentage can vary greatly depending upon the organization's existing rate structure, Bluewater is so confident that we can save your organization money, we pledge to make a $100 donation to your charity if we cannot save your organization money on its credit card processing costs.

When will I receive monies for my transactions?

The funds from your organizations’ credit card donations are deposited into the checking account you designate within 48 hours after the bankcard transactions have been batched out at the end of each day.

Can I use my existing terminals?

Typically, you can simply reprogram your existing equipment. Your Bluewater account representative can quickly confirm if your terminal is reprogrammable and then set-up the terminal to work with your new merchant account.

What is AVS?

AVS is Address Verification Service is a process that verifies the cardholder’s billing address when donations are made through the internet, by phone or by mail. AVS helps to combat fraud in card-not-present transactions and reduces card processing transaction fees.
Learning Center Learn more about accepting credit cards for donations or sales.