TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Version: 2.1
Last Modified: 10-06-2022
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VyaPay Terms of Service
These terms of service are an agreement (this Agreement) between the entity accepting this Agreement (Merchant) and VyaPay LLC (Company). At the end of this Agreement there is a glossary where the capitalized terms in this Agreement appear.
Company Services are subject to this Agreement, so please read it carefully.
1. Services
The Services are a cloud-based payment system by which Company, Acquirer and Processor enable Merchants to receive payments Company may also, where requested by a Merchant, perform other services on behalf of Merchant as per the terms hereof and the selections of the Merchant made through its Account.
2. Account
So long as Merchant is not in breach of this Agreement, Merchant shall be granted a unique and private Account accessible through the Service. The Account shall be a record of Merchant Transactions and Fees. Company shall provide Merchant with access codes for the Account. Merchant may not disclose such codes or permit any third party to use them on penalty of forfeiting access to the Account. Merchant assumes full responsibility for the use of its Account and the access codes thereto and shall indemnify Company for any and all claims, losses or other liabilities arising therefrom including but not limited to any access provided to a Third-Party Servicer. Merchant shall not use any Third-Party Servicer unless it has all necessary Payment Network registrations, as determined by Company. Except as required to deliver the Services or as otherwise required by law, Company shall not grant any third- party access to the Account of Merchant. Notwithstanding the foregoing, where a Third-Party Servicer is indicated on the Site as being integrated with the Services, Merchant shall have the right to enable an integration of the account with such Third-Party Servicer provided, however, that Merchant remains liable for all acts of the Third-Party Servicer as if they were performed by the Merchant hereunder.
3. Prohibited Activities
It is forbidden for a Merchant to use the Services to directly or indirectly, knowingly or unknowingly assist in any illegal activity or any Prohibited Activity (all of which are listed below in the Glossary in Exhibit C to this Agreement).
Merchant may not itself or through any other Person: (i) copy, modify, adapt, translate, reverse engineer, decompile, or disassemble, in any way, any portion of the Services and/or content made accessible by Company including any information, pictures, videos, text, graphics, software programs used by Company in connection with the Services and material and data obtained from or through the Services (collectively, the Content), or publicly display, reproduce, create derivative works from, perform, distribute, or otherwise use such Content, other than as permitted by Company in writing; (ii) make any use of the Content and/or Services on any other website or networked computer environment for any purpose, or replicate or copy the Content without Company’s prior written consent;
(iii) interfere with or violate any other services or user’s right to privacy or other rights, or harvest or collect personally identifiable information about users of the Services without their express consent, including using any robot, spider, site search or retrieval application, or other manual or automatic device or process to retrieve, index, or data-mine; (iv) defame, abuse, harass, stalk, threaten, or otherwise violate the legal rights of others; (v) transmit or otherwise make available in connection with these Services any virus, worm, Trojan Horse, time bomb, web bug, spyware, or any other computer code, file, or program that may or is intended to damage or hijack the operation of any hardware, software, or telecommunications equipment, or any other actually or potentially harmful, disruptive, or invasive code or component;
(vi) interfere with or disrupt the operation of the Service, or the servers or networks that host the Services or make them available, or disobey any requirements, procedures, policies, or regulations of such servers or networks; (vii) sell, license, or exploit for any commercial purposes any use of or access to the Services other than permitted by Company; (viii) forward any data generated from the Service without the prior written consent of Company’s; (ix) sub-license any or all of the Services to any third party; or (x) transfer or assign the Account password, even temporarily, to a third party.
4. Application
On sign-up and throughout the term of this Agreement, Merchant shall supply, through the Application, and by such other means as Company may require, information concerning the Merchant, its Guarantor, and principals. Merchant shall notify Company of any changes in such information.
5. Prohibited Merchants
All of the following Persons are prohibited from using the Services: (i) Persons who appear on the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), Specially Designated Nationals List (SDN); (ii) Persons who are less than 18 years of age; (iii) Persons, or their Affiliates who have been previously terminated for cause by Company or any of its Affiliates; and (iv) Persons who are not both domiciled and resident in the United States.
6. Customers
Company is not party to the Merchant Relationship with Customer that necessitates the Transaction and Company shall have no obligations thereunder or in respect thereof. Merchant shall indemnify and hold harmless Company, Processor, Acquirer and their respective shareholders, directors, officers and employees harmless from any and all claims, losses or other liabilities arising from or in relation to the Merchant Relationship or any Product, including any and all costs associated with the legal defense related to such claims. Each Transaction processed hereunder shall be a payment by Customer to Merchant that is processed by Company and Processor and received by its Acquirer. Merchant hereby appoints Company and Acquirer as its agent for the purposes of processing and receiving payment by Transactions on behalf of the Merchant from its Customers. Company shall have the right, but not the obligation, to issue Receipts to Customers of all Transaction funds received from them.
7. Company Regulatory Status
Merchant understands and agrees that Company is a payment processor that provides outsourced solutions for its merchant customers using a proprietary cloud-based payment system and accompanying technologies that allows Merchant to receive ACH and Card payments from its Customers. All funds transfers are performed by the Acquirer based on Company’s instructions. Any payment amounts received from Merchant’s Customers in connection with the Services sponsored by Acquirer shall be maintained in a custodial funding account held by Acquirer. Company’s actions in connection with funds transfers are done on behalf of and as an agent of Acquirer and Merchant. At no point during the payment process or otherwise does Company receive, hold or transmit Merchant or Customer funds, and Company does not serve as a money transmitter, nor is Company a bank or money services business. As a technology partner, Company implements functions on behalf the Acquirer and provides ancillary services to Merchant.
8.Merchant
8. Merchant Release of Customer on Payment to Company
ON RECEIPT BY COMPANY OR ACQUIRER OF TRANSACTION FUNDS BY OR ON BEHALF OF A CUSTOMER, THE CUSTOMER IS THEREBY RELEASED FROM ANY LIABILITY TO THE MERCHANT IN RESPECT OF THE TRANSACTION FUNDS PAID. THE CUSTOMER OF THE MERCHANT IN EACH TRANSACTION IS NAMED AS A THIRD-PARTY BENEFICIARY UNDER THIS AGREEMENT WITH THE MERCHANT SO THAT THE CUSTOMER CAN ENFORCE THE TERMS HEREOF AGAINST THE MERCHANT. NO DELAY IN PAYMENT BY COMPANY ON A GIVEN TRANSACTION AMOUNT TO MERCHANT, FOR ANY REASON, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION SEIZURE OF COMPANY ASSETS OR BANKRUPTCY OF COMPANY, SHALL SERVE TO DIMINISH THE FOREGOING OR ENTITLE MERCHANT TO COLLECT ANY AMOUNT FROM A CUSTOMER IN RESPECT OF WHICH A RECEIPT HAS BEEN ISSUED BY COMPANY.
Customer will be debited or charged by the Acquirer for each Transaction per Company’s instructions. The Merchant agrees that the Customer’s obligation to the Merchant is treated as paid at the time of the release of Transaction information to Company and initiation of processing thereof by the Acquirer. After the initiation of processing by the Acquirer, Merchant agrees not to attempt to collect or otherwise seek payment from the Customer, because Merchant agrees Customer’s obligation to the Merchant has been satisfied.
Transactions may be disputed at any time up to 90 days from the date of Transaction, regardless of state, by the Customer. Disputes resolved in favor of the Customer may result in reversal of the disputed Transaction, regardless of state.
Company reserves the right to limit or restrict Transaction size or volume at any time.
9. Card Services
Subject to Merchant compliance with technical specifications prescribed by Company, Acquirer, Processor and the Rules, Merchant shall cause information concerning Card Transactions to be communicated to the Acquirer or the Processor whereupon, Company shall cause Acquirer to acquire the funds related to such Transactions through the Payment Networks and settle such funds to Merchant. Company makes no representation or guarantee with respect to Customer’s Card having sufficient available funds, that a Transaction will be authorized or processed, or that the Transaction will not later result in a chargeback or reversal.
If Merchant is a non-profit organization, it shall retain sole and exclusive responsibility for classifying themselves and their Transactions, issuing any required reports and receipts, and making any required tax or other filings.
Merchant shall be exclusive to Company and shall not use services of third parties that are similar or competitive with the Services.
10. Credit Card Consent
In connection with Merchant procuring Services from Company, Merchant understands that one or more consumer reports as defined in the Federal Fair Credit Reporting Act as amended (FCRA), 15 U.S.C. 1681 and following, may be obtained by Company from consumer reporting agencies (each a CRA). Merchant (which term shall include its shareholders, officers and Guarantors in this consent) understands that this report may include information with respect to public record information, criminal records, motor vehicle operation history, education records, names and dates of previous employers, reason for termination of employment and work experience, and/or credit worthiness, capacity and standing, character, general reputation, personal characteristics, or mode of living, such information may be used to evaluate whether Merchant is an appropriate candidate for transacting with Company and this determination may be adverse to Merchant. The information obtained will not be provided to any parties other than to designated authorized representatives of Company, the Processor and the Acquirer.
Merchant further understands that the CRA may not give out information about Merchant to Company without Merchants written consent. Merchant hereby authorizes Company now, or at any time while it is party to an agreement with Company or otherwise engaged by Company, to obtain a consumer report on Merchant. This authorization does not include the release of Merchants medical information. A copy, fax or scan of this consent shall be considered as effective and valid as the original. Merchant understands that in the event any adverse action is taken against Merchant based in whole or in part on the consumer report, Merchant shall be provided with the name of the CRA and a copy of the report as well as a description of Merchants rights under the FCRA. On request, California, Minnesota, and Oklahoma residents, can obtain a copy of any consumer credit report requested by Company. On request, New York residents can be informed if a consumer credit report has been requested on them by Company as well as the name of the agency providing the report. Merchant and its Guarantors have read and understand the above and authorize Company to perform the above investigations.
Merchant must provide accurate and complete information. If Company cannot verify that this information is complete and accurate, Company may deny Merchant use of Company Service, or close Merchant Account.
11. ACH Services
As part of the Services, Company provides for the processing of ACH entries on behalf of Merchant to enable Merchant to receive payments from its Customers (“ACH Services”). In connection with the ACH Services, Acquirer is the Originating Depository Financial Institution (ODFI) for electronic funds transfer debit and credit entries requested by Merchant through the ACH network. Merchant agrees to the following with respect to any ACH Services requested by Merchant:
(a) Merchant authorizes Company to instruct Acquirer to originate ACH entries on behalf of Merchant to the Receiver’s account subject to the instructions provided by Merchant to Company;
(b) Merchant agrees to abide by Nacha Rules. In addition, Company may provide Merchant its own standard operating and implementation guidelines for the Services with respect to specific Nacha Rules which will govern and apply to this Agreement as if set forth herein. Company can provide Merchant with excerpted provisions of the ACH Rules upon Merchant request;
(c) Merchant will not request Company to instruct Acquirer to originate ACH entries that violate applicable law;
(d) Merchant agrees that Merchant is only authorized to originate CCD (Corporate Credit or Debit Entry) entries and all ACH entries shall be for commercial purposes only;
(e) Company shall establish from time-to-time maximum permitted return rates and communicate same to Merchant in writing. Merchant understands and agrees that in the event actual returned ACH transactions exceed such established return rates, Company or the Acquirer may suspend the processing of any ACH transactions.
(f) Prior to submitting an ACH entry to Company for processing, Merchant shall secure all authorizations and approvals from its Customer and deliver any notifications pertaining to that entry which are required by the Nacha Rules and/or applicable laws and regulations. Merchant shall retain such consents and authorizations for two (2) years from the termination or revocation of the authorization and provide copies of such authorizations to Company and Acquirer upon reasonable request. Merchant shall be responsible for the accuracy and propriety of all ACH entries submitted to Company for processing.
(g) Merchant acknowledges that Company has specific processing deadlines imposed by the Acquirer. Files received by the deadline will be transmitted that day to the Federal Reserve Bank for settlement on the effective settlement date. Files received after the deadline will be processed the next Banking Day (as that term is defined in the Nacha Rules).
(h) Merchant shall immediately reimburse Company for any returns or shortfalls related to any ACH transactions and shall authorize Company and Acquirer to initiate ACH debit transfers from its Merchant’s Deposit Account or Reserve (if any) in the amount of any such returns or shortfalls. Company reserves the right to delay the availability of funds for deposit without prior written notice to Merchant if Company or Acquirer, in their sole discretion, deems itself at financial or other risk for any of the ACH Services performed under this Agreement.
(i) If Merchant does not comply (or cure non-compliance) with the Nacha Rules, Company or Acquirer may suspend the origination of ACH entries and/or terminate such ACH services; and
(j) Company and Acquirer have the right to audit Merchant’s compliance with the terms above.
(k) Additional definitions and terms of service can be found in Exhibit C: ACH Policy.
12. Fees
Merchant shall pay Fees for the Services. Fees shall be paid to Company by offsets from Transaction fund settlements to the Designated Account, however, if there are insufficient Transaction funds to cover Fees, then Merchant shall pay the Fees no later than the fifth (5) day following the month during which they accrued. Referral Platform may also have provided disclosure to Merchant concerning Fees. In the event of any inconsistency between Fees disclosed to Merchant by Referral Platform and those disclosed by Company, the higher of the two shall apply. Company also charges, as part of Fees, a 1% surcharge for any Transaction on foreign (international) cards, a $0.35 fee for every successful account updated using the account updater feature, a $30.00 chargeback/retrieval, as well as $50.00 for each ACH reject.
13. Direct Merchant Status
If Merchant have either (1) $1,000,000 or greater in charge volume in a rolling twelve month period, or (2) greater than
$100,000 in American Express charge volume in any three consecutive months, Merchant shall be converted to a direct Card acceptance relationship with American Express and, upon conversion, Merchant will be bound by the then-current American Express Card acceptance agreement and American Express will set the discount and other fees payable by Merchant for American Express Card acceptance.
By agreement to this Agreement, Merchant also agrees to the terms and conditions of the Merchant Services Agreement set forth in Exhibit A which constitutes a legal binding contract between Merchant, on the one hand, and VyaPay’s appointed Acquirer and its designated Processor, on the other hand.
Merchant shall comply with the Rules, including those posted at the following sites and are incorporated herein by reference: usa.visa.com, www.mastercard.com, www.americanexpress.com and www.discover.com.
Merchant agrees with the specific requirements of the American Express Merchant Regulations, US set out in Exhibit B and Exhibit 1 to this Agreement. This Agreement is also an agreement to the Terms as specified in Exhibit C: ACH Policy
14. Transaction Authorizations
Merchant shall not submit Transactions hereunder unless they are submitted in the correct manner including the Merchant being in possession of transaction receipts and not submitting Transactions until they are complete, (i.e. the goods or services are shipped / provided) the Transaction is in the correct currency and within the correct time limit, such as may be required from time to time.
Acquirer shall hold, receive, disburse and settle Transaction funds on Merchant behalf pursuant to Company’s instructions. Where deemed necessary by Acquirer may generate a paper draft or electronic funds transfer to process each Transaction. Subject to this Agreement, Merchant also authorizes Company to instruct Acquirer to debit or credit any payment card or other payment method Company accepts.
Merchant authorizes Company to instruct Acquirer to initiate electronic ACH entries to the Deposit Account and to initiate adjustments for any Transactions credited or debited in error. Merchants authorization will remain in full force and effect until Merchant notify Company that Merchant revoke it by contacting Company through the Account.
Merchant understands that Company requires a reasonable time to act on Merchant’s revocation.
15. Merchant Data Consent
Merchant expressly consents for Company, Acquirer, Processor and all third parties that assist in the delivery of the Services to collect, use, store and disclose Company information, including that provided in the Application, information concerning Customers, Transactions and the business of the Merchant in order to supply the Services, generate reports, to reduce fraud, provide customer support, create and share aggregated data concerning the Services and assessing the risk associated with the Merchant. Payment Networks shall have the right to use Merchant name, address, and internet addresses.
16. Settlement
Each Account must be linked to a verified Deposit Account. Company will instruct Acquirer to transfer funds to the Merchant’s bank account according to the schedule the Merchant selects from those available in the Account. If Acquirer cannot transfer the funds to the Merchant’s bank account (due to inaccurate or obsolete bank account information entered by the Merchant, or for any other reason), Company may refund the funds to the Customer or escheat them as provided below. None of Acquirer, Company, Processor or the Customer will have any liability to Merchant for funds so refunded. Settlements to a bank account shall be limited or delayed based on Merchant perceived risk and history with Company as determined by the sole and absolute discretion of Company or Acquirer. Unless otherwise agreed in writing by Company, Transaction settlement shall be by ACH to the Deposit Account.
17. Merchant Transaction Disclosure
Merchant must not:
17.1 require a Cardholder to complete a postcard or similar device that includes the Cardholders Account Number, Card expiration date, signature, or any other Card account data in plain view when mailed;
17.2 add any tax to Transactions, unless applicable law expressly requires that a Merchant be permitted to impose a tax. Any tax amount, if allowed, must be included in the Transaction amount and not collected separately;
17.3 request or use a Card account number for any purpose other than as payment for its goods or services;
17.4 disburse funds in the form of travelers cheques, if the sole purpose is to allow the Cardholder to make a cash purchase of goods or services from that Merchant;
17.5 disburse funds in the form of cash, unless the Merchant is dispensing funds in the form of travelers cheque, Travel Money cards, or foreign currency. In this case, the Transaction amount is limited to the value of the traveler’s cheques, Travel Money cards, or foreign currency. Plus any commission or fee charged by the Merchant, or the Merchant is participating in the Cash Back service;
17.6 enter into any Transaction for a Transaction that was previously charged back to the Acquirer and subsequently returned to the Merchant, irrespective of Cardholder approval. Merchant may pursue payment from the Customer outside the system of the Services;
17.7 accept a Visa Consumer Credit Card or Commercial Visa Product, issues by a U.S. Issuer, to collect or refinance an existing debt;
178 accept a Card to collect or refinance an existing debt that has been deemed uncollectable by the Merchant providing the associated goods or services;
17.9 enter into a Transaction that represents collection of a dishonored check; or
17.10 change any aspect of what goods or services it sells or how they are sold without prior written consent of
18. Reserve Account
Where deemed necessary or appropriate by Acquirer, Processor, or Company, Company shall instruct Acquirer to create a reserve account (the Reserve) to protect Acquirer, Processor, or Company from actual or potential liabilities hereunder. The Reserve will be in an amount determined by Company in its sole and absolute discretion to cover anticipated chargebacks, returns, unshipped Product and/or unfulfilled services or credit risk based on Merchant processing history.
The Reserve may be raised, reduced, or removed at any time by Acquirer, Processor, or Company. Where the Reserve is not adequately funded, Merchant shall pay all amounts requested by Company for the Reserve within one (1) business day of a request for such amounts and Acquirer, Processor, and Company may build the Reserve by off-sets from Transaction settlements or by debiting the Designated Account, or any other account of the Merchant, by ACH.
Merchant grants Company a security interest in and lien on any and all funds held in any Reserve, and also authorize Company to make any withdrawals or debits from the Reserve, without prior notice to Merchant, to collect amounts that Merchant owes Company under this Agreement, including without limitation for any reversals of deposits or transfers. Merchant will execute any additional documentation required for Company to perfect Company security interest in any funds in the Reserve. This security interest survives for as long as Company hold funds in Reserve; however, it does not apply to any funds for which the grant of a security interest would be prohibited by law. Merchant irrevocably assigns to Company all rights and legal interests to any interest or other earnings that accrue or are attributable to Merchant Reserve. After account closure, the Reserve amount will remain in the reserve account for a period of six months, or longer, past the last Merchant account activity date to cover any rejected fees, fines, penalties and/or chargebacks.
19. Cardholder Data Security and Compliance
If Merchant collects, stores, uses, or discloses any Cardholder Data Merchant shall comply with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (PCI DSS) and shall certify such compliance when requested by Company. Merchant shall use only PCI DSS compliant Third Party Servicers in connection with the storage, processing, or transmission of Cardholder Data and shall be exclusively liable for any security breaches of its systems or any other PCI-DSS violations.
Merchant has exclusive responsibility for security of Cardholder Data and other information on Merchant systems or those under its control. Merchant is aware of and shall comply with all applicable laws, Rules, and rules in connection with Merchant collection, security, and dissemination of any personal, financial, or transaction information. Without limitation, Merchant shall maintain policies and procedures to reduce the risk of loss from illegal and Payment Network brand-damaging transactions, which may pose significant fraud, regulatory, or legal risk, or may cause reputational damage to Company or any third party. Merchant shall adhere to MasterCard Business Risk Assessment and Mitigation (BRAM), which shall be deemed part of the Rules.
Merchant shall maintain adequate security to prevent a breach of Customer or Cardholder data. In the event of any actual or suspected breach of data in possession or control of Merchant or one of its Third Party Services, Merchant shall immediately notify Company thereof and also comply with all applicable laws and Rules concerning the breach.
Merchant shall obtain from each Customer all consents required under the Rules and applicable law for the collection, use, storage and disclosure of any and all information provided by Customers or obtained by Merchant or its agents or Third Party Servicers under the Merchant Relationship or otherwise. Merchant shall indemnify and hold Company, Processor, and Acquirer harmless from and against any liability arising on account of or in relation to the failure by Merchant to obtain consents from Customers related to their information or Cards.
Company reserves the right, at its sole but reasonable discretion, without prior consent of Merchant, to make reasonable changes to the Services or implement other risk management controls deemed necessary by Company or its suppliers to manage risk. Merchant shall comply with all such changes.
20. Taxes
Merchant has the exclusive responsibility to calculate, charge, collect and remit state and other taxes applicable to Product sales. Company may have tax reporting responsibilities in connection with the Service such as an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) on Form 1099-K.
21. Merchant Product
Merchant are solely responsible for its Product and all customer service issues related thereto including pricing, order fulfillment, order cancellation by Merchant or the customer, returns, refunds and adjustments, rebates, functionality and warranty, technical support and feedback concerning experiences with Merchant personnel, policies or processes.
Merchant shall post its customer service telephone number on its website.
22. Refunds and Returns
Merchant agrees to process returns of and provide refunds and adjustments for goods or services in accordance with this Agreement and the Rules. The Rules require that Merchant will:
(i) maintain a fair return, cancellation or adjustment policy; (ii) disclose Merchant return or cancellation policy to Customers at the time of purchase; (iii) not give cash refunds to a Customer in connection with a payment card sale, unless required by law; and (iv) not accept cash or any other item of value for preparing a payment card sale refund. Merchants refund policies must be the same for all payment methods.
23. Chargeback Liability
The amount of a payment may be charged back to Merchant if: (i) it is disputed by a Customer; (ii) it is reversed for any reason;
(iii) it was not authorized or Company have any reason to believe that the transaction was not authorized; or (iv) it is unlawful, suspicious, or in violation of the terms of this Agreement. Merchant is responsible for all chargebacks, whether or not the chargeback complies with the Rules. Merchant shall immediately pay Company the amount of all chargeback and related Fees, fines, or penalties assessed by the Company, Acquirer, Processor, or the Payment Networks. If Merchant do not have sufficient funds in Merchant Account, Company can offset the amounts thereof from other Transaction amounts owing to Merchant hereunder, debit the amount by ACH from the Deposit Account or oblige Merchant to make immediate payment thereof.
If Company determines that Merchant is incurring an excessive amount of Chargebacks, Company, Processor, or Acquirer may establish controls or conditions governing Merchant Account, including without limitation, by: (i) assessing additional Fees; (ii) creating a Reserve in an amount reasonably determined by Company to cover anticipated chargebacks and related fees; (iii) delaying payment; and (iv) terminating or suspending the Service or closing the Account.
Merchant shall assist in the investigation of any and all chargebacks or other actual or potential Transaction disputes and shall timely provide such information to Company as Company may request.
24. Recoupment of Funds Owing to Company
Where amounts are owing from Merchant to Company, Acquirer, or Processor hereunder, each of Company, Acquirer, and Processor shall have the right to immediately, without prior consent or notice, offset or debit such amounts from funds: (i) deposited by Merchant; (ii) due to Merchant under this Agreement; (iii) the Reserve; or (iv) available in Merchant bank account, or other payment instrument registered with Acquirer. Merchant’s failure to pay in full amounts that Merchant owes Company, Acquirer, or Processor on demand will be a breach of this Agreement. Merchant will be liable for each of Company’s, Acquirer’s, and Processor’s costs associated with collection in addition to the amount owed, including without limitation attorneys’ fees and expenses, collection agency fees, and interest at the lesser of one-and-one-half percent (1.5%) per month or the highest rate permitted by applicable law. In its discretion, each of Company, Acquirer, and Processor may make appropriate reports to credit reporting agencies and law enforcement authorities and cooperate with them in any resulting investigation or prosecution. Merchant hereby expressly agree that all communication in relation to delinquent accounts will be made by electronic mail or by phone, as provided by Merchant to Company, Acquirer, and Processor. Such communication may be made by Company, Acquirer, or Processor, or by anyone on behalf of such parties, including but not limited to a third-party collection agent.
25. Escheatment
If there is no activity in an Account for the period of time set forth in the applicable unclaimed property laws, and Merchant have a credit, Company may notify Merchant by sending an email to Merchant registered email address. Company may also notify Merchant by U.S. mail. Company will give Merchant the option of keeping the Account open, withdrawing the funds, or requesting a check. If Merchant does not respond to Company notice within the time period specified in the notice, Company may close the Account and Acquirer will escheat Merchant funds in accordance with applicable law.
26. Record Keeping
Merchant shall have exclusive responsibility for: (i) compiling and retaining permanent records of all transactions and other data, and (ii) reconciling all transaction information that is associated with Account. If Merchant believe that there is an error or unauthorized transaction activity associated with Merchant Account, Merchant shall immediately notify Company.
Company will attempt to correct processing errors that Company discovers by instructing the Acquirer to debit or credit Merchant Account. Company will only correct transactions that are processed incorrectly if and when Merchant notifies Company of such an error in a timely fashion.
27. Privacy
Merchant shall post a privacy policy to its website and shall honor the terms thereof. Company shall comply with its own privacy policy posted on the Site.
28. Term
The initial term of this Agreement shall begin as of when it is accepted by both parties hereto and shall end three (3) years thereafter after which it shall renew for additional and successive one (1) year terms. Either party can terminate this Agreement at the end of the then current term on not less than ninety (90) days’ notice.
29. Termination by Company
Company has the right to terminate this Agreement at any time for any reason or for no reason. On any termination hereof, Merchant shall immediately cease using the Services and the Account. Company shall have the right to delete all Account information on any termination hereof, but it also has the right to retain copies thereof for up to five (5) years. None of Company, Acquirer and Processor, shall have any liability to Merchant on account of a termination hereof. This Agreement shall terminate immediately if a Payment Network, Processor, or Acquirer requires Company to terminate this Agreement.
30. Termination by Merchant
Merchant may terminate this Agreement by closing Merchant Company Account at any time. When Merchant closes the Account, any pending Transactions will be cancelled. Any funds that Acquirer holds in custody for Merchant at the time of closure, less any applicable Fees and other liabilities of Merchant, will be paid out to Merchant according to Merchant payment schedule. Company may also instruct Acquirer to withhold such funds pending investigation of Merchant Transactions or potential liabilities hereunder.
31. Liabilities of Termination
On any termination hereof, Merchant shall remain liable hereunder for any and all Fees or costs accrued prior to or following termination and any other amounts owed by Merchant to Company, Acquirer, Processor, or a Payment Network.
Liquidated Damages. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement or any other remedy provided hereunder, in the event that Company reasonably believes Merchant is violating or has violated any applicable Rule, ACH Rule, Regulation E, or any other applicable Law, rule or regulation, or is in breach of any of its representations and warranties made in this Agreement relating to Merchant’s compliance with all applicable Rules, ACH Rules, Regulation E, or any other applicable laws, rules or regulations, Merchant shall pay to Company, as liquidated damages, an amount up to, but not exceeding, 30% of any Reserve Account funds at the time of termination of the Agreement. Additionally, Company shall be entitled to Liquidated Damages, as provided in this Paragraph, upon Merchant’s termination for cause for any of the following reasons:
i. Merchant has violated any provision of this Agreement or Company is otherwise entitled to terminate this Agreement pursuant to any provision of this Agreement;
ii. any information which Merchant provided to Company, including in the Merchant Application, was false, incomplete or misleading when received;
iii. at any time during the Term, Merchant has had a monthly ratio in any single month of Chargebacks to total Transactions exceeding Payment Network requirements or one percent (1%), or Chargebacks exceed three percent (3%) of any monthly dollar amount of total Transactions; v5.02.18 13
iv. Merchant or any of Merchant’s officers or employees has been involved in processing Transactions arising from illegal, fraudulent or otherwise unauthorized Transactions;
v. Merchant is or will be unable or unwilling to perform its obligations under this Agreement or applicable Law or the Rules;
vi. any of Merchant’s representations or warranties made in connection with this Agreement was not true or accurate when given;
vii. Merchant has defaulted on any agreement it has with Company;
viii. if any circumstances arise regarding Merchant or its business that create harm or loss of goodwill to any Payment Network;
ix. Merchant appears on any Payment Network’s security reporting;
x. Merchant engages in any activity that causes Company to be in breach of Company’s policies and procedures, the Rules, or any applicable Laws, rules, or regulations;
xi. Company has evidence or has reached the conclusion, in its sole and absolute discretion, but based upon reasonable facts, that Merchant has engaged in fraudulent activity to include failure to deliver goods and services as advertised or promised, or Merchant has engaged in fraudulent advertising practices; or
xii. Company becomes aware that Merchant is accepting payments for goods or services not approved in advance by Company and where Company, any Payment Network, the Rules, or applicable Laws, rules, or regulations specifically prohibits the sale of such, or where Merchant accepting payments for such unapproved goods or services creates a risk of legal, financial, operational, reputational, or any other harm to Company. The parties agree that calculating Company’s damages for Merchant’s violation of any applicable Rule, ACH Rule, Regulation E, or any other applicable Law, rule or regulation, or breach of Merchant’s representations and warranties regarding Merchant’s compliance with all applicable Rules, ACH Rules, Regulation E, or any other applicable Laws, rules or regulations, would be uncertain and difficult to ascertain, that the liquidated damages described in this Paragraph are reasonably related to Company’s actual damages, and are a reasonable estimate of the damages which Company would in fact suffer in the event of Merchant’s failure to comply with all applicable Rules, ACH Rules, Regulation E, or any other applicable Laws, rules or regulations, or Merchant’s breach of Merchant’s representations and warranties regarding Merchant’s compliance with all applicable Rules, ACH Rules, Regulation E, or any other applicable Laws, rules or regulations. The parties agree that the liquidated damages set forth in this Section are intended to compensate Company for its injuries and damages suffered and are not a penalty imposed against Merchant. The liquidated damages described above are cumulative of Company’s other remedies available under the Agreement, and are not Company’s exclusive remedy or damages. Company may either, in the alternative, or as arising out of different breaches of the Agreement, Rules, or violations of any applicable Laws, rules, or regulations, seek to recover Company’s actual or other damages against Merchant.
32. IP
Company reserves all rights not expressly granted to Merchant in this Agreement. Company owns the title, copyright and other worldwide intellectual property rights in the Service and all copies of the Service. This Agreement does not grant Merchant any rights to Company’s trademarks or service marks, nor may Merchant remove, obscure, or alter any of Company’s trademarks or service marks included in the Service. All comments and suggestions concerning the Services provided to Company shall be the property of Company and Merchant shall not have any rights therein.
33. Indemnification
Merchant shall indemnify, defend and hold Company, Acquirer, Processor, Payment Networks and all third parties that assist in providing the Services, as well as Customers and their respective employees, directors, agents harmless from and against any and all claims, costs, losses, damages, judgments, tax assessments, penalties, interest, and expenses (including without limitation reasonable attorneys’ fees) arising out of any claim, action, audit, investigation, inquiry, or other proceeding instituted by a third party person or entity that arises out of or relates to: (i) any actual or alleged breach of Merchant representations, warranties, or obligations set forth in this Agreement, including without limitation any violation of Company policies or the Rules; (ii) Merchant’s wrongful or improper use of the Service; (iii) any transaction submitted by Merchant through the Service (including without limitation the accuracy of any product information that Merchant provide or any claim or dispute arising out of products or services offered or sold by Merchant); (iv) Merchant’s violation of any third-party right, including without limitation any right of privacy, publicity rights or intellectual property rights; (v) Merchant’s violation of any applicable law; or (vi) any other party’s access and/or use of the Service with Merchant’s access code.
34. Merchant Statments
Merchant represents and warrants that: (i) Merchant is eligible to register and use the Service and has the authority and capacity to enter into and perform under this Agreement; (ii) the name identified by Merchant when Merchant registered is Merchant name or business name under which Merchant sells goods and services;
(iii) any sales transaction submitted by Merchant shall represent a bona fide sale by Merchant; (iv) any Transactions submitted by Merchant will accurately describe the Product sold and delivered to a Customer; (v) Merchant shall fulfill all of Merchant obligations to each Customer for which Merchant submit a Transaction and will resolve any consumer dispute or complaint directly with the Customer; (vi) Merchant and all transactions initiated by Merchant shall comply with all applicable laws and the Rules; (vii) except in the ordinary course of business, no Transaction submitted by Merchant through the Service will represent a sale to any principal, partner, proprietor, or owner of Merchant entity; and (viii) Merchant will not use the Service, directly or indirectly, for any fraudulent or illegal undertaking or in any manner so as to interfere with the use of the Service.
35. No Warranties
THE SERVICES ARE PROVIDED ON AN AS IS AND AS AVAILABLE BASIS. USE OF THE SERVICE IS AT MERCHANTS OWN RISK. TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, THE SERVICE IS PROVIDED WITHOUT WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, WHETHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, OR NON-INFRINGEMENT.
- Limitation of Liability COMPANY SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, EXEMPLARY OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO, LOSS OF SALES, GOODWILL, PROFITS OR
- COMPANYS LIABILITY UNDER THIS AGREEMENT FOR ANY CLAIM SHALL NOT EXCEED THE LESSER OF THE AMOUNT OF FEES ACTUALLY PAID BY MERCHANT HEREUNDER DURING THE THREE (3) MONTHS PRIOR TO THE EVENT GIVING RISE TO LIABILITY OR $100,000. ACQUIRER AND PROCESSOR SHALL HAVE NO LIABILITY TO MERCHANT UNDER THIS AGREEMENT.
- COMPANY SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGES CAUSED DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY BY: (I) AN ACT OR OMISSION OF MERCHANT OR ITS AFFILIATES OR ANY CUSTOMER; (II) MERCHANT USE OF OR MERCHANT INABILITY TO USE THE SERVICES; (III) DELAYS OR DISRUPTIONS IN THE SERVICES, (IV) VIRUSES OR OTHER MALICIOUS SOFTWARE OBTAINED BY ACCESSING THE SERVICES; (V) BUGS, ERRORS, OR INACCURACIES OF ANY KIND IN THE SERVICES; (VI) ACT OR OMISSIONS OF THIRD PARTIES; (VII) A SUSPENSION OR OTHER ACTION TAKEN IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE TERMS OF THIS AGREEMENT WITH RESPECT TO MERCHANT ACCOUNTS;
- COMPANY’S NEED TO MODIFY PRACTICES, CONTENT, OR BEHAVIOR, OR MERCHANT DIMINISHED ABILITY TO DO BUSINESS, AS A RESULT OF CHANGES TO THIS AGREEMENT OR COMPANY’S POLICIES OR SERVICES MADE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THIS AGREEMENT OR APPLICABLE LAW;
- BREACHES BY MERCHANT OF THIS AGREEMENT; (X) INCORRECT OR INCOMPLETE TRANSACTION INFORMATION;
(XI) ACTS OR OMISSIONS OF THIRD PARTY SERVICERS, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE REFERRAL PLATFORM; OR (XII) COMPANY OR ONE OF ITS BANKING OR OTHER SUPPLIERS ELECTING TO SUSPEND PROVIDING SERVICES IN RESPECT OF MERCHANT OR A CUSTOMER ON THE BASIS OF ITS LEGAL, COMPLIANCE, OR RISK POLICIES.
- Merchant and Company shall settle all disputes relating in any way to this Agreement or arising from or in respect of this Agreement exclusively by binding arbitration.
ANY ARBITRATION UNDER THIS AGREEMENT WILL ONLY BE ON A INDIVIDUAL BASIS; CLASS ARBITRATIONS, CLASS ACTIONS, PRIVATE ATTORNEY GENERAL ACTIONS, AND CONSOLIDATION WITH OTHER ARBITRATIONS ARE NOT PERMITTED, AND MERCHANT ARE WAIVING MERCHANT RIGHTS TO HAVE MERCHANT CASE DECIDED BY A JURY AND TO PARTICIPATE IN A CLASS ACTION AGAINST COMPANY. All Disputes shall be resolved finally and exclusively by binding individual arbitration with a single arbitrator administered by the American Arbitration Association (www.adr.org) (AAA) according to this provision and the applicable arbitration rules. The arbitrator’s award shall be binding on the parties and may be entered as a judgment in any court of competent jurisdiction. Arbitration shall take place in the state of Georgia, USA before a single arbitrator who is a lawyer practicing commercial law.
In the event that Merchant or Company are not able to resolve a Dispute with American Express, or a claim against Company or any other entity that American Express has a right to join, Exhibit B will apply.
- Governing Law. This Agreement and any dispute arising hereunder shall be governed by the State of Georgia law without regard to its choice of law or conflicts of law principles that would require application of law of a different
- Limitation on Time to Initiate a Dispute. Unless otherwise required by law, an action or proceeding by Merchant relating to any dispute or claim by Merchant hereunder must commence within one year after the cause of action accrues failing which Merchant foregoes any rights in respect
- Electronic Signature. When provided to Merchant for execution in electronic form, this Agreement, and all related electronic documents, shall be governed by the provisions of the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act (E-Sign). By pressing Submit, Accept or I Agree, Merchant agrees (i) that the Agreement and related documents shall be effective by electronic means, (ii) to be bound by the terms and conditions of this Agreement and related documents, (iii) that Merchant has the ability to print or otherwise store the Agreement and related documents, and (iv) to authorize Company to conduct an investigation of Merchants credit history and that of its principals with various credit reporting and credit bureau agencies for the sole purpose of determining acceptance of this Agreement and ongoing performance hereunder.
- Third Party Services. Company is not liable for Third Party Servicers or their services even if the Site contains links to them or the Services are integrated with them. The inclusion of any link or integration to a Third-Party Servicer does not imply an approval, endorsement, or recommendation by Company. Merchant agrees that Merchant access any such website at Merchant own
- All notices and other communications required or permitted hereunder to be given to a party to this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be sent by electronic mail to the following addresses, if to Company: [email protected], if to Merchant to the e- mail address indicated on the Application. Any notice sent in accordance with this Section shall be effective upon transmission and electronic confirmation of receipt, or if transmitted and received on a non-business day, on the first business day following transmission and electronic confirmation of receipt. Any notice of default of Company sent to Company shall also be sent by courier to the address of Company appearing on the Site with proof of delivery.
- Amendment of Agreement. Company reserves the right to modify the Services or change or add to the terms of this Agreement at any time with electronic notice through the Account, or by such other means as it may select, in a manner and at such time as Company deems reasonable. If Merchant does not terminate this Agreement following any such change, then Merchant shall be deemed to have accepted the change. This Agreement may also be amended by written agreement between the parties hereto.
- Independent Contractors. The relationships of the parties to this Agreement shall be solely that of independent contractors, and nothing contained in this Agreement shall be construed otherwise. Nothing in this Agreement or in the business or dealings between the parties shall be construed to make them joint ventures or partners with each other. Neither party shall do anything to suggest to third parties that the relationship between the parties is anything other than that of independent
- The individual executing this Agreement on behalf of Merchant personally guarantees performance by the Merchant hereunder and shall be joint and severally liable with Merchant for all liabilities of the Merchant hereunder (the Guarantee).
- The Merchant may not assign or otherwise transfer any or all its rights or obligations under this Agreement without Company’s prior written consent, and any assignment without such prior written consent will be null and void. Company may assign any of its rights or obligations hereunder to a third party on electronic notice to Merchant through the Account.
- Performance by Company Affiliates. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement, Merchant agrees and acknowledges that Company may provide some of the Services through its Affiliates or other third-party service providers. Merchant agrees and acknowledges that providing the Service through any third party or Affiliate shall not be considered an assignment of this Agreement unless agreed upon in writing and Company shall be the sole entity liable for any provisions in this Agreement which apply to Company including to the performance of the Services and execution of the
- Electronic Communication. Merchant agrees to receive all communication under this Agreement by electronic means, including but not limited to agreements and policies, such as this Agreement and Company Privacy Policy, including updates thereto; (i) annual disclosure; (ii) transaction receipts or confirmations; (iii) communication in relation to delinquent accounts (which may also be by phone, and may be made by Company or by anyone on its behalf, including a third party collection agent); (iv)Account statements and history; and (v) tax statements. Merchant shall make sure that its primary email address is up to date in the Account and
shall check its email periodically and not less than once per week. If any email from Company or other communication is blocked by a spam filter or other issue outside of the control of Company, Merchant shall be deemed to have received the communication all the same. If Merchant prefers written forms of tax forms, it shall notify Company of such preference via the contact information on the Site and in the Account.
- Whole Agreement. This Agreement and its schedules the entire understanding and agreement between the parties and supersedes any and all prior discussions, agreements, promises and correspondence, whether oral or written, with regard to the subject matter hereof or otherwise, including (without limitation) any memorandum of understanding between the parties.
- Headings in this Agreement are included for reference purposes only and are not to be used in interpreting this Agreement. The recital and schedules to this Agreement constitute an integral part thereof.
- No Waiver. No failure, delay of forbearance of either party in exercising any power or right hereunder will in any way restrict or diminish such party’s rights and powers under this Agreement, or operate as a waiver of any breach or nonperformance by either party of any terms of conditions hereof.
- In the event that any provision of this Agreement is held invalid or unenforceable in any circumstances by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of this Agreement shall not be affected thereby, and the unenforceable provision shall be enforced to the maximum extent permissible under law. Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed or be deemed to create any rights or remedies in or for the benefit of any third party.
- This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original but all of which together will constitute one and the same instrument. A scanned or faxed version of this Agreement shall be deemed as an acceptable original thereof.
- Any provision that is reasonably necessary to accomplish or enforce the purpose of this Agreement shall survive and remain in effect in accordance with its terms upon the termination of this Agreement. For greater certainty but without limitation, the indemnification, limitation of liability and confidentiality clauses shall survive termination hereof.
- 1.22 Third-Party Beneficiaries. Each of Acquirer and Processor shall be an express third-party beneficiary of this Agreement and shall be entitled to rely on and directly enforce Sections 11, 31, 33, 35 and Exhibit A of this Agreement. Other than as stated in the preceding sentence, this Agreement shall not be construed as giving any Person other than the parties to this Agreement (if different from Merchant), their successors and permitted assigns, and, to the extent set forth in this Agreement, Indemnitees, any legal or equitable rights, remedies or claims under or in respect of this Agreement.
By entering into this Agreement, Merchant acknowledges and agrees that it is also entering into: (i) Exhibit A, the Sub-Merchant Processing Agreement among Merchant, Company, First Data Merchant Services, LLC, and MetaBank, National Association and (ii) Exhibit B, American Express OptBlue Program Terms and Conditions, among Merchant, Company, and First Data Merchant Services, LLC., and Exhibit C, ACH Policy.
Exhibit A: Sub-Merchant Processing Agreement
Company, First Data Merchant Services LLC (as Processor), and Pathward, National Association (as Bank) (Company, Processor and Bank collectively we, us or our) will provide Merchant (Sub-Merchant, you or your) with certain Card processing services. Capitalized terms used in this Sub-Merchant Processing Agreement are referred to in Appendix 1 and Exhibit D: Glossary.
By entering into this Sub-Merchant Processing Agreement (the Agreement), you agree to comply with the (1) Rules as they pertain to Card information you receive through the Company service and (2) Your Payments Acceptance Guide.
Bank and Processor are party to this Agreement for the purpose of facilitating funding of amounts owed for properly submitted transactions, less amounts owed to us under this Agreement. As such, you waive any and all claims for damages against Bank and Processor arising from or related to this Agreement. Nothing in this paragraph will limit the rights and remedies available to Bank or Processor in this Agreement.
Acceptance of Cards You agree to comply with Your Payments Acceptance Guide and all Rules, as such may be changed from time to time. You understand that we may be required to modify Your Payments Acceptance Guide and the Agreement from time to time in order to comply with requirements imposed by the Payment Networks. In offering payment options to your customers, you may elect any one of the following options: (1) Accept all types of Visa and Mastercard cards, including consumer credit and debit/check cards, and commercial credit and debit/check cards; (2) Accept only Visa and Mastercard credit cards and commercial cards (If you select this option, you must accept all consumer credit cards (but not consumer debit/check cards) and all commercial card products, including business debit/check cards); or (3) Accept only Visa and Mastercard consumer debit/check cards (If you select this option, you must accept all consumer debit/check card products (but not business debit/check cards) and refuse to accept any kind of credit cards). The acceptance options above apply only to domestic transactions.
If you choose to limit the types of Visa and Mastercard cards you accept, you must display appropriate signage to indicate acceptance of the limited acceptance category you have selected (that is, accept only debit/check card products or only credit and commercial products).
For recurring transactions, you must obtain a written request or similar authentication from your customer for the goods and/or services to be charged to the customer’s account, specifying the frequency of the recurring charge and the duration of time during which such charges may be made.
Settlement Upon our receipt of the Transaction Data for Card transactions, we will process the Transaction Data to facilitate the funds transfer from the various Payment Networks for the Card sales. After we receive credit for such Transaction Data, subject to our other rights under this Agreement, we will provide provisional credit to your Settlement Account.
You must not submit transactions for payment until the goods are delivered shipped, or the services are performed. If the Cardholder disputes being charged for merchandise or services before receiving them, a Chargeback may result.
Chargebacks Sub-Merchant is solely responsible to pay the amount of any Chargebacks resulting from Transactions submitted by Sub-Merchant under this Agreement. Chargebacks can be received for a number of reasons. The following are some of the most common reasons for Chargebacks: (1) a refund is not issued to a customer upon the return or non-delivery of goods or services; (2) an authorization/approval code was required and not obtained; (3) the transaction was allegedly fraudulent; (4) the customer disputes the Card sale or the signature on the sale documentation, or claims that the sale is subject to a set-off, defense or counterclaim; or (5) The customer refuses to make payment for a Card sale because in the customer’s good faith opinion, a claim or complaint has not been resolved, or has been resolved but in an unsatisfactory manner.
Reserve You acknowledge that in addition to any other rights afforded us hereunder, we may establish a reserve account to satisfy your obligations or potential obligations under this Agreement (the Reserve), which may be funded by: (i) our demand and your immediate payment for such amounts; (ii) our debiting the account identified as the Settlement Account; (iii) our withholding your settlement payments until all amounts are paid, (iv) our delaying presentation of your refunds until you make a payment to us of a sufficient amount to cover the Reserve; and (v) our pursuit of any remedies we may have at law or in equity. The Reserve will contain sufficient funds to cover any unbilled processing costs plus our estimated exposure based on reasonable criteria for Chargebacks, fines, returns and unshipped merchandise and/or unfulfilled services. We may (but are not required to) apply funds in the Reserve toward, and may set off any funds that would otherwise be payable to you against, the satisfaction of any amounts which are or become due from you pursuant to this Agreement. The Reserve will not bear interest, and you will have no right or interest in the funds in the Reserve; provided that upon satisfaction of all of your obligations under this Agreement, we will pay to you any funds then remaining in the Reserve. Any funds in the Reserve may be commingled with other funds, and need not be maintained in a separate account. Effective upon our establishment of a Reserve, you irrevocably grant to us a security interest in any and all funds, together with the proceeds thereof, that may at any time be in our possession and would otherwise be payable to you pursuant to the terms of this Agreement. You agree to execute and deliver to us such instruments and documents that we may reasonably request to perfect and confirm the security interest and right of setoff set forth in this Agreement. The parties’ rights and obligations under this Section shall survive termination of this Agreement.
Financial Information Upon request, you will promptly provide us with any necessary permissions or consents, financial statements or other information reasonably requested by us to perform credit risk, security, qualification, and other reviews related to the provision of the Services, transactions submitted, fulfillment of obligations to us or Cardholders, or your financial condition. You authorize us and our processor to obtain information from third parties when performing credit risk, security, qualification, and other reviews. We, our processor or the Bank may perform a reasonable audit of the your records related to its performance under this Agreement with 30 days’ advance written notice to you, during your normal business hours. Financial statements shall be prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. You will also provide other information concerning your business and your compliance with the terms and provisions of this Agreement as we may reasonably request.
Data Security and Privacy You represent to us that you do not have access to Card information (such as the cardholder’s account number, expiration date, and CVV2) and you will not request access to such Card information from us. In the event that you receive such Card information in connection with the acceptance or submittal of Card Transactions provided under this Agreement, you agree that you will not use it for any fraudulent purpose or in violation of any Rules, including but not limited to Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (PCI DSS) or applicable law. If at any time you believe that Card information has been compromised, you must notify us promptly and assist in providing notification to the proper parties. You must ensure your compliance and that of any third party service provider utilized by you, with all security standards and guidelines that are applicable to you and published from time to time by Visa, Mastercard or any other Payment Network, including, without limitation, the Visa U.S.A. Cardholder Information Security Program (CISP), the Mastercard Site Data Protection (SDP), and (where applicable), the PCI Security Standards Council, Visa, and Mastercard PA-DSS (Payment Application Data Security Standards) (collectively, the Security Guidelines). If any Payment Network requires an audit of you due to a data security compromise event or suspected event, you agree to cooperate with such audit. You may not use any Card information other than for the sole purpose of completing the Transaction authorized by the customer for which the information was provided to you, or as specifically allowed by Rules, Your Payments Acceptance Guide or required by law.
Term; Events of Default This Agreement shall be in effect upon acceptance of each document by all parties and shall remain effective through the initial term of 3 years and shall thereafter automatically continue until terminated by either party upon the provision of thirty (30) days’ notice to the other party.
If any of the following events shall occur (each an Event of Default):
(i) a material adverse change in your business, financial condition, business procedures, prospects, products or services; or
(ii) any assignment or transfer of voting control of you or your parent; or
(iii) a sale of all or a substantial portion of your assets; or
(iv) irregular Card sales by you, excessive Chargebacks, noncompliance with any applicable data security standards, as determined by us, of any Payment Network, or any other entity, or an actual or suspected data security breach, or any other circumstances which, in our sole discretion, may increase our exposure for your Chargebacks or otherwise present a financial or security risk to us; or
(v) any of your conditions, covenants, obligations or representations or warranties in this Agreement are breached in any material respect or are incorrect in any material respect when made or deemed to be made; or
(vi) you shall file a petition or have a petition filed by another party under the Bankruptcy Code or any other laws relating to bankruptcy, insolvency or similar arrangement for adjustment of debts; consent to or fail to contest in a timely and appropriate manner any petition filed against you in an involuntary case under such laws; apply for or consent to, or fail to contest in a timely and appropriate manner, the appointment of, or the taking of possession by, a receiver, custodian, trustee or liquidator of itself or of a substantial part of its property; or make a general assignment for the benefit of creditors; or take any corporate action for the purpose of authorizing any of the foregoing; or
(vii) a violation by you of any applicable law or Payment Network Rule or our reasonable belief that termination of this Agreement or suspension of services is necessary to comply with any law including without limitation the rules and regulations promulgated by the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the US Department of the Treasury or your breach, as determined by Servicers, of your requirement to comply with all applicable laws.
then, upon the occurrence of (1) an Event of Default specified in subsections (iv), (vi), (vii), or (viii) we may consider this Agreement to be terminated immediately, without notice, and all amounts payable hereunder shall be immediately due and payable in full without demand or other notice of any kind, all of which are expressly waived by you, and (2) any other Event of Default, this Agreement may be terminated by us giving not less than 10 days’ notice to you, and upon such notice all amounts payable hereunder shall be due and payable on demand.
Neither the expiration nor termination of this Agreement shall terminate the obligations and rights of the parties pursuant to provisions of this Agreement which by their terms are intended to survive or be perpetual or irrevocable. Such provisions shall survive the expiration or termination of this Agreement. All obligations by you to pay or reimburse us for any obligations associated with transactions you have submitted to us are intended to survive termination of this Agreement.
If any Event of Default shall have occurred and regardless of whether such Event of Default has been cured, we may, in our sole discretion, exercise all of our rights and remedies under applicable law, and this Agreement.
The Payment Networks often maintain lists of merchants who have had their merchant agreements or Card acceptance rights terminated for cause. If this Agreement is terminated for cause, you acknowledge that we may be required to report your business name and the names and other information regarding its principals to the Payment Networks for inclusion on such list(s). You expressly agree and consent to such reporting if you are terminated as a result of the occurrence of an Event of Default or for any reason specified as cause by the Payment Networks. Furthermore, you agree to waive and hold us harmless from and against any and all claims which you may have as a result of such reporting. In the event we provide notice to you of an increase in the fees for Services, you may terminate this Agreement without further cause or penalty by providing us 30 days advance written notice of termination. You must terminate within 30 days after we provide notice of the fee increase. However, maintaining your account with us or your continued use of our Services after the effective date of any increase shall be deemed acceptance of the increased fees for Services, throughout the term of this Agreement. We may terminate this Agreement at any time and for any or no reason upon the provision of thirty (30) days prior notice. We may also temporarily suspend or delay payments to you during our investigation of any issue and/or designate an amount of funds that we must maintain in order to protect us against the risk of, among other things, existing, potential, or anticipated Chargebacks arising under this Agreement or other amounts that may be owing to us under this Agreement.
Warranties; Exclusion of Consequential Damages; Limitation on Liability This Agreement and any addenda is an agreement for services and except as expressly provided in this Agreement, and any addenda, we and our affiliates disclaim all representations or warranties, express or implied, made to merchant or any other person, including without limitation, any warranties regarding quality, suitability, merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose or otherwise (regardless of any course of dealing, custom or usage of trade) of any services or any goods provided incidental to the Services provided under this Agreement. Notwithstanding anything in this in this Agreement and any addenda to the contrary, in no event shall we or our affiliates be liable under any theory of tort, contract, strict liability or other legal theory for lost profits, lost revenues, lost business opportunities, exemplary, punitive, special, incidental, indirect or consequential damages, each of which is hereby excluded by agreement of the parties, regardless of whether such damages were foreseeable or whether any party or any entity has been advised of the possibility of such damages.
Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement and any addenda to the contrary, we and our affiliates’ cumulative liability, in the aggregate (inclusive of any and all claims made by Sub-Merchant against us and/or our affiliates, whether related or unrelated) for all losses, claims, suits, controversies, breaches, or damages for any cause whatsoever (including, but not limited to, those arising out of or related to this Agreement any addenda) and regardless of the form of action or legal theory shall not exceed the lesser of (i) $100,000; or (ii) the amount of fees received by us pursuant to any addenda attached and incorporated herein for services performed in the immediately preceding 12 months.
Confidentiality Each party acknowledges and agrees that the other may be providing to it and that it may become aware of the confidential and proprietary information of the other party, including but not limited to, the terms of this Agreement, financial information and other information related to each party’s business operations. Each party agrees that it will maintain the confidentiality of such information and neither party shall disclose any such information to any other person or entity (other than to those of its employees, agents, contractors, representatives and Affiliates to whom disclosure is reasonably necessary in furtherance of the performance of this Agreement). Notwithstanding the foregoing, the requirements of non-disclosure shall not apply to any information which: (a) at the time of disclosure is already in the possession of the receiving party; (b) is independently developed by the receiving party without reliance on the disclosed confidential or proprietary information; (c) is or becomes publicly available through no wrongdoing of the receiving party or (d) becomes available to receiving party on a non-confidential basis from a person, other than the disclosing party, who is not bound by a confidentiality obligation or otherwise restricted from transmitting the information to the receiving party. Furthermore, this section shall not prohibit the receiving party from making legally required disclosures pursuant to subpoena, court order or the order of any other authority having jurisdiction; provided that receiving party shall provide disclosing party with prompt notice, unless prohibited by law or court order, thereof so that disclosing party may seek an appropriate protective order or other remedy. If in the absence of a protective order or other remedy or waiver of the terms of this section, if receiving party determines in its sole discretion that it is required by law, regulation, legal process or regulatory authority to disclose any such confidential or proprietary information, receiving party may disclose such information upon written notice to disclosing party unless prohibited by law or court order.
Visa and Mastercard Disclosure Member Bank Name: Pathward, National Association
Bank mailing address:
5501 S. Broadband Lane, Sioux Falls, SD 57108
Bank Phone Number: 1-866-550-6382
B. Treatment of The American Express Brand
Except as expressly permitted by Applicable Law, Merchant must not:
indicate or imply that it prefers, directly or indirectly, any Other Payment Products over the Card,
try to dissuade Card Members from using the Card, criticize or mischaracterize the Card or any of American Express services or programs, try to persuade or prompt Card Members to use any Other Payment Products or any other method of payment (e.g., payment by check), impose any restrictions, conditions, disadvantages or fees when the Card is accepted that are not imposed equally on all Other Payment Products, except for electronic funds transfer, or cash and check, suggest or require Card Members to waive their right to dispute any Transaction,
engage in activities that harm the American Express business or the American Express Brand (or both), promote any Other Payment Products (except Merchant’s own private label card that Merchant issues for use solely at Merchant’s Establishments) more actively than Merchant promote the Card, or convert the currency of the original sale Transaction to another currency when requesting Authorization or submitting Transactions (or both).
Merchant may offer discounts or in-kind incentives from Merchant’s regular prices for payments in cash, ACH funds transfer, check, debit card or credit/charge card, provided that (to the extent required by Applicable Law): (i) Merchant clearly and conspicuously disclose the terms of the discount or in-kind incentive to Merchant’s customers, (ii) the discount or in-kind incentive is offered to all of Merchant’s prospective customers, and (iii) the discount or in-kind incentive does not differentiate on the basis of the issuer or, except as expressly permitted by applicable state statute, payment card network (e.g., Visa, MasterCard, Discover, JCB, American Express). The offering of discounts or in-kind incentives in compliance with the terms of this paragraph will not constitute a violation of the provisions set forth above in this Section B., Treatment of the American Express Brand.
C. Treatment of The American Express Marks
Whenever payment methods are communicated to customers, or when customers ask what payments are accepted, Merchant must indicate Merchant’s acceptance of the Card and display our Marks (including any Card application forms provided to Merchant) as prominently and in the same manner as any Other Payment Products. Merchant must not use the American Express Marks in any way that injures or diminishes the goodwill associated with the Mark, nor (without prior written consent from Processor) indicate that American Express endorse Merchant’s goods or services. Merchant shall only use the American Express Marks as permitted by the Agreement and shall cease using our Marks upon termination of the Agreement.
D. Treatment of American Express Card Member Information
Any and all Card Member Information is confidential and the sole property of the Issuer, American Express or its Affiliates. Except as otherwise specified, Merchant must not disclose Card Member Information, nor use nor store it, other than to facilitate Transactions at Merchant’s Establishments in accordance with the Agreement.
E. Arbitration Agreement (As to Claims Involving American Express)
In the event that Merchant or Processor is not able to resolve a Claim against American Express, or a claim against Processor or any other entity that American Express has a right to join, this section explains how Claims may be resolved through arbitration. Merchant or American Express may elect to resolve any Claim by binding individual arbitration. Claims will be decided by a neutral arbitrator.
If arbitration is elected by any party, neither Merchant nor Processor nor American Express will have the right to litigate or have a jury trial on that Claim in court. Further, Merchant, Processor, and American Express will not have the right to participate in a class action or in a representative capacity or in a group of persons alleged to be similarly situated pertaining to any Claim subject to arbitration under this Agreement. Arbitration procedures are generally simpler than the rules in court. An arbitrator’s decisions are final and binding, and the arbitrator’s final decision on a Claim generally is enforceable as a court order with very limited review by a court. Other rights Merchant, Processor, or American Express would have in court may also not be available in arbitration.
i. Initiation of Arbitration. Claims may be referred to either JAMS or AAA, as selected by the party electing arbitration. Claims will be resolved pursuant to this Arbitration Agreement and the selected organizations rules in effect when the Claim is filed, except where those rules conflict with this Agreement. Contact JAMS or AAA to begin an arbitration or for other information. Claims may be referred to another arbitration organization if all parties agree in writing, if American Express selects the organization and Merchant selects the other within 30 days thereafter or if an arbitrator is appointed pursuant to section 5 of the Federal Arbitration Act, 9 U.S.C. 1-16 (FAA). Any arbitration hearing will take place in the federal judicial district where Merchant’s headquarters is located or New York, NY, at Merchant’s election.
ii. Limitations on Arbitration. If any party elects to resolve a Claim by arbitration, that Claim will be arbitrated on an individual basis. No Claim is to be arbitrated on a class or purported representative basis or on behalf of the general public or other persons allegedly similarly situated. The arbitrator’s authority is limited to Claims between Merchant, Processor, and American Express. An arbitration award and any judgment confirming it will apply only to the specific case brought by Merchant, Processor or American Express and cannot be used in any other case except to enforce the award as between Merchant, Processor and
American Express. This prohibition is intended to, and does, preclude Merchant from participating in any action by any trade association or other organization against American Express. Notwithstanding any other provision in this Agreement, if any portion of these Limitations on Arbitration is found invalid or unenforceable, then the entire Arbitration Agreement (other than this sentence) will not apply, except that Merchant, Processor, and American Express do not waive the right to appeal that decision.
iii. Previously Filed Claims/No Waiver. Merchant, Processor, or American Express may elect to arbitrate any Claim that has been filed in court at any time before trial has begun or final judgment has been entered on the Claim. Merchant, Processor, or American Express may choose to delay enforcing or to not exercise rights under this Arbitration Agreement, including the right to elect to arbitrate a claim, without waiving the right to exercise or enforce those rights on any other occasion. For the avoidance of any confusion, and not to limit its scope, this section applies to any class- action lawsuit relating to the Honor All Cards, non- discrimination, or no steering provisions of the American Express Merchant Regulations, or any similar provisions of any prior American Express Card acceptance agreement that was filed against American Express prior to the Effective Date of the Agreement to the extent that such claims are not already subject to arbitration pursuant to a prior agreement between Merchant and American Express.
iv. Arbitrators Authority . The arbitrator will have the power and authority to award any relief that would have been available in court and that is authorized under this Agreement. The arbitrator has no power or authority to alter the Agreement or any of its separate provisions, including this arbitration agreement.
v. Split Proceedings for Equitable Relief. Merchant, Processor, or American Express may seek equitable relief in aid of arbitration prior to arbitration on the merits if necessary, to preserve the status quo pending completion of the arbitration. This section shall be enforced by any court of competent jurisdiction, and the party seeking enforcement is entitled to seek an award of reasonable attorney’s fees and costs to be paid by the party against whom enforcement is ordered.
vi. Small Claims. American Express will not elect arbitration for any Claim Merchant properly files in a small claim court so long as the Claim seeks individual relief only and is pending only in that court.
vii. Governing Law/Arbitration Procedures/Entry of Judgment. This Arbitration Agreement is made pursuant to a transaction involving interstate commerce and is governed by the FAA. The arbitrator shall apply New York law and applicable statutes of limitations and honor claims of privilege recognized by law. The arbitrator shall apply the rules of the arbitration organization selected, as applicable
to matters relating to evidence and discovery, not federal or any state rules of procedure or evidence, provided that any party may ask the arbitrator to expand discovery by making a written request, to which the other parties will have 15 days to respond before the arbitrator rules on the request. If Merchant Claim is for $10,000 or less, Merchant may choose whether the arbitration will be conducted solely based on documents submitted to the arbitrator, through a telephonic hearing, or by an in-person hearing under the rules of the selected arbitration organization. At the timely request of a party, the arbitrator will provide a written opinion explaining his/her award. The arbitrator’s decision will be final and binding, except for any rights of appeal provided by the FAA. Judgment on an award rendered by the arbitrator may be entered in any state or federal court in the federal judicial district where Merchant’s headquarters or Merchant’s assets are located.
viii. Confidentiality. The arbitration proceeding and all information submitted, relating to, or presented in connection with or during the proceeding, shall be deemed confidential information not to be disclosed to any person not a party to the arbitration. All communications, whether written or oral, made in the course of or in connection with the Claim and its resolution, by or on behalf of any party or by the arbitrator or a mediator, including any arbitration award or judgment related thereto, are confidential and inadmissible for any purpose, including impeachment or estoppel, in any other litigation or proceeding; provided, however, that evidence shall not be rendered inadmissible or non-discoverable solely as a result of its use in the arbitration.
ix. Costs of Arbitration Proceedings. Merchant will be responsible for paying Merchant’s share of any arbitration fees (including filing, administrative, hearing or other fees), but only up to the amount of the filing fees Merchant would have incurred if Merchant had brought a claim in court. American Express will be responsible for any additional arbitration fees. At Merchant’s written request, American Express will consider in good faith making a temporary advance of Program Merchant’s share of any arbitration fees or paying for the reasonable fees of an expert appointed by the arbitrator for good cause.
x. Additional Arbitration Awards. If the arbitrator rules in Merchant’s favor against American Express for an amount greater than any final settlement offer American Express made before arbitration, the arbitrators award will include: (1) any money to which Merchant is entitled as determined by the arbitrator, but in no case less than $5,000; and (2) any reasonable attorney’s fees, costs and expert and other witness fees incurred by Merchant.
xi. Definitions. For purposes of this section xii. only, (i) American Express includes its Affiliates, licensees, predecessors, successors, or assigns, any purchasers of any receivables, and all agents, directors, and representatives of
any of the foregoing, (ii) Merchant includes Merchant’s Affiliates, licensees, predecessors, successors, or assigns, any purchasers of any receivables and all agents, directors, and representatives of any of the foregoing, and (iii) Claim means any allegation of an entitlement to relief, whether damages, injunctive or any other form of relief, against American Express or against Processor or any other entity that American Express has the right to join, including, a transaction using an American Express product or network or regarding an American Express policy or procedure.
F. Establishment Closing
If a Merchant closes any of its Establishments, Merchant must follow these guidelines:
Notify payment processing company immediately.
Policies must be conveyed to the Card Member prior to completion of the Charge and printed on the copy of a receipt or Charge Record the Card Member signs. See Section 4.8, Return and Cancellation Policies of the Merchant Requirements for additional information.
If not providing refunds or exchanges, post notices indicating that all sales are final (e.g., at the front doors, by the cash registers, on the Charge Record and on websites and catalogs).
Return and cancellation policies must be clearly disclosed at the time of sale.
For Advance Payment Charges or Delayed Delivery Charges, delivery of the goods or services which have already charged to the Card Member is required or Credit must be issued for any portion of the Charge for the goods or services not delivered.
Exhibit C: Glossary
“ACH” means the Automated Clearing House;
“Account” means a unique and private account provided by Company accessible through the Service;
“Affiliate” means, with respect to any party, any corporation, company, partnership or other entity which is directly or indirectly controlled by such party or is directly or indirectly controlled by a person or entity that is the same as that which controls the party. For the purposes of this definition, control shall mean ownership of half or more of the voting interests in an entity;
“American Express” means American Express Travel Related Services Company Inc.;
“Application” means an electronic of paper form completed by the Merchant in relation to procuring the Services which shall form a part hereof and constitute representations by the Merchant hereunder;
Network that has sponsored Company as a payment services provider, payment facilitator or otherwise to supply the Services and that acquires Card Transaction funds through Payment Networks. Bank shall also include Processor;
“Card” means a payment card or account number issued by a Payment Network member to a Cardholder pursuant to a valid agreement between the Cardholder and the Issuing Bank;
“Cardholder Data” means information associated with a Card, such as account number, expiration date, and CVV2;
“Deposit Account” means a deposit account of Merchant at a financial institution in the U.S. identified for use in conjunction with this Agreement by the Merchant through the Site or the Application;
“Fees” means the fees of Company for which Merchant is liable in exchange for the Services. Fees are set out in the Application or the Site. Fees are subject to change on thirty (30) days prior notice through the Account only; if Merchant continues to use the Services after such thirty (30) days it shall be deemed to agree to the change in Fees. Fees may also change, with or without prior notice, if Payment Networks or other third parties impose additional fees on Company for the supply of the Services or on amendments to applicable law that require Company to amend the Fees;
“Issuing Bank” means a member of a Payment Network that issues Payment Network-branded Cards pursuant to the Rules;
“MasterCard” means MasterCard International Incorporated;
“Merchant Relationship” means the commercial or legal relationship between Merchant and Customer by which Merchant supplies Product to Customer giving rise to the Transaction;
“Payment Network” means Visa, MasterCard, American Express and such other payment networks as Company indicates are compatible with the Services;
“Person” is to be broadly interpreted and includes an individual, a corporation, a partnership, a trust, an unincorporated organization, the government of a country or any political subdivision thereof, or any agency or department of any such government, and the executors, administrators or other legal representatives of an individual in such capacity;
“Processor” means a payment processor that has contracted with Company to assist Company in delivering the Services;
“Bank” or “Acquirer” means a member of a Payment
“Product” means any product or service offered for sale or sold by Merchant;
“Prohibited Activity” means any adult content; airlines, including charter airlines; alimony, child support, or other court-ordered payments; bidding fee auctions, including penny auctions; brand or reputation damaging, potential or otherwise, including bestiality, child pornography, escort services, mail order brides, and occult; buyers’ clubs, discount clubs or membership clubs; check cashing, or payment for a dishonored check or for an item deemed uncollectible by another merchant; computer repair or maintenance services; commodity trading or security trading; cruise lines; credit counseling or credit repair agencies; credit protection or identity theft protection services; counterfeit or possibly counterfeit goods, or products that infringe on the intellectual property rights of others; debt collection, consolidation, or reduction services; deceptive, unfair, predatory products, services or activities, or prohibited by the card payment networks; digital currency; discount medical or dental plans including discount insurance; discount coupon merchants or online sites; distressed property sales and marketing; door to door sales; drugs, alcohol, or drug paraphernalia, pseudo- pharmaceuticals, substances designed to mimic illegal drugs, or items that may represent them; factoring, liquidators, bailiffs, bail bondsmen; financial services or instruments, such as cash advances, bill payment, loans or loan payments, money orders, money transfers, prepaid cards, wire transfers, or sales of money orders or foreign currency; gambling or betting, including lottery tickets, casino gaming chips, off-track betting, sports forecasting or odds making, fantasy football, memberships on gambling- related internet sites and wagers at races, contests, sweepstakes, and offering prizes as an inducement to purchase goods or services; hate, violence, racial intolerance, or the financial exploitation of a crime; high interest rate non-bank consumer lending including payday lending and title loans; infomercial merchants; internet pharmacies or pharmacy referral sites; inbound or outbound telemarketing businesses including lead generation businesses; investment or get rich quick merchants, businesses or programs; licensed or franchised goods or services, such as apple products; marijuana dispensaries and related products or services; marketing activities involving pay only for shipping and/or free trial periods; medical equipment; multi-level marketing businesses, pyramid or Ponzi schemes; merchants offering special incentives; negative option, renewal, or continuity subscription practices; obscene or pornographic items; pawn shops; pharmaceuticals, including medical marijuana; prepaid phone cards or phone services; prostitution, escort services, massage parlors, and other potentially sexually related services; real estate or motor vehicle sales; rebate or upsell programs; scrip-dispensing terminal; selling of mobile minutes; selling or sales of social media activity; stored value or quasi-cash; timeshares, timeshare resales and related marketing; tobacco, cigarettes, or e-cigarettes; unlawful activities or items, or activities or items that encourage, promote, facilitate or instruct others regarding the same; violent acts towards self or others, or activities or items that encourage, promote, facilitate or instruct others regarding the same; virtual currency or credits that can be monetized, re-sold or converted to physical or digital goods or services or otherwise exist in the virtual world; weapons, including replicas and collectible items, or ammunition or other accessories; weight loss programs; if merchant fall within the following exclusions, merchant will not accept the American Express card; equities (including stocks, bonds, or any other ownership position in a corporation); goods or services to be delivered more than two (2) months in the future, with an intention of gaining return on investment; internet auctions; political parties; telecommunications (including wireless, cable and internet); travel industry (including car rental, lodging, and other travel tour operators); in addition, merchant may not use the service for; impersonating any person or entity or falsely claiming an affiliation with any person or entity; collecting, or attempting to collect, personal information about merchants or third parties without their consent, or using such information except as necessary to use the service; sending unsolicited offers, advertisements, proposals, or junk mail or spam to others. this includes, but is not limited to, unsolicited advertising, promotional materials, or other solicitation materials, bulk mailing of commercial advertising, chain mail, informational announcements, charity requests, and petitions for signature; accepting payments for goods or services provided by someone other than merchant; providing merchant itself or others with a cash advance from a credit card; any illegal purpose, or violating any local, state, national, or international law, statute, or regulation, including, without limitation, laws governing intellectual property, taxation, and data collection and privacy; defaming, harassing, abusing, threatening, or defrauding others; posting, transmitting, or distributing content that is false, misleading, unlawful, obscene, indecent, lewd, pornographic, hateful, abusive, inflammatory, or that violates the rights of others (including rights of publicity or privacy); damaging, disabling, overburdening, or impairing Company, including without limitation, using the service in an automated manner; interfering with another merchant’s enjoyment of the service, by any means, including by uploading or otherwise disseminating viruses, adware, spyware, worms or other malicious code; competing with Company or Company’s business partners; sending or receiving what Company considers to be funds for something that may have resulted from fraud or other illegal behavior; abusing the payment card system or violating the rules, in the reasonable opinion of the card payment networks or Company; operating outside the united states; acting as a money services business or money transmitter; transferring funds between bank accounts held in the same name; creating an account that is linked to another account that has engaged in any of the foregoing activities. Company may use evidence other than merchant account information to determine whether merchant control an account in someone else’s name, including but not limited to internet protocol addresses, common business names, phone numbers, and mailing addresses; or any activity deemed by Company to be unauthorized, illegal, or criminal;
“Referral Platform” means a Third Party Servicer (i) that referred Merchant to Company; and (ii) with which Merchant has an agreement pursuant to which it provides certain services.
“Rules” means Payment Network and other payment networks’ by-laws, operating regulations and/or all other rules, policies and procedures, including but not limited to the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard, the VISA Cardholder Information Security Program, the MasterCard Site Data Protection Program, and any other program or requirement that may be published and/or mandated by the Payment Networks or other private or public associations or organizations applicable to the Services.
“Service” means payment processing services of Company and its processor and acquiring bank, the Site, any software, programs, services, documentation, tools, hardware, internet-based services, components thereto provided directly or indirectly to Merchant by Company Site means http://m11.c30.myftpupload.com;
“Third Party Servicer” means a third party that provides a product or service that Merchant wishes to procure which product or service may or may not be compatible or integrated with the Service;
“Visa” means Visa U.S.A., Inc., Visa International