Start with two numbers
Find total card volume and total fees for the month. Fees ÷ volume = your effective rate. That's the number to compare.
The three layers
- Interchange — paid to the card-issuing bank, set by the networks
- Assessments — network fees
- Processor markup — the negotiable part
Lines worth questioning
- Non-qualified or mid-qualified surcharges
- PCI non-compliance and statement fees
- Monthly minimums
- Equipment leases
Next step
Send us a recent statement total and volume, and we'll walk through your effective rate and whether a change fits how you get paid.
Common questions
How do I calculate my effective processing rate?
Effective rate = total monthly processing fees ÷ total monthly card volume × 100. Include every fee line and separate invoices for the same period.
Which statement fees can I negotiate?
Provider markup and fixed fees may be negotiable. Interchange and network assessments are set by the card networks, not Profit Theory.
Why does my deposit differ from card sales?
Refunds, chargebacks, reserves, fees and settlement timing can change the deposit. Match the sales report, settlement report and bank deposit.
Do I need to share customer card details?
No. Use aggregate volume and fee totals. Never send card numbers, bank logins or customer records through this website.
Estimates only. Results vary. No guarantee of approval, rates or savings.
Examples use hypothetical numbers. Educational content, not financial, legal or tax advice. Profit Theory is not a lender; lenders set their own requirements and make all credit decisions.