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Hidden Card Machine Fees to Watch For

Last updated: 5 min read

The advertised rate is the bit they want you to see. These are the charges that quietly turn up on the bill — and how to avoid being caught out.

The usual suspects

  • Chargeback fees (often £10–£20) when a payment is disputed
  • PCI compliance or non-compliance fees on traditional merchant accounts
  • Per-authorisation fees on top of the percentage
  • Minimum monthly service charges below a turnover threshold
  • Early termination fees on fixed contracts
  • Higher rates on premium, commercial and international cards

How to protect yourself

Ask for the full fee schedule in writing, not just the headline rate. Favour no-contract providers if you're unsure, and check whether 'free' instant payouts are actually free.

TP

The POS editorial team

Independent UK payments research. We test, read the small print and write it up in plain English.

Last updated:
The POS

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