I had applied and have been using First Data merchant services for 2 years. Never had any problems or issues, and always ran relatively low revenues (less than $10K per month).
Recently, I started a new entity, and opened a different merchant account specifically for that entity. Success came quickly - within 2 months, I was processing $45K per month through the account.
First Data took notice of all the activity, and asked for marketing material, signed invoices, and more proof that I was legit. I happily complied, not realizing I was being set up.
Out of nowhere, I received a letter saying they were terminating our merchant agreement. I considered this unfair, however, I realize it is their right to work with who they want to work.
However, the kicker came a week later - they stole $20K our of my checking account with no warning! I called them and tried to see why the charge had taken place, but they simply said they were "holding some money back in case of chargebacks". I have NEVER had a single chargeback on any of my accounts.
I called my bank to report the fraud - they said they would investigate. That is where we are at.
I will probably have to file a lawsuit in order to get the money back. However, just be warned that First Data (they seem to go by a number of names, but it is First Data, Express Merchant Services, and yourpay.com) claims the right to STEAL from you whenever they choose.
First data is a rip off. Yourpay.com is a rip off. Express Merchant Processing Solutions is a rip off.
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