I Have Multiple Locations, Do I Need Multiple Accounts?

One merchant account may suffice if your business operates a chain of locations under one company name and brand.

If you have two separate, independent locations (possibly branded differently by location), you'll need two distinct merchant accounts. This is necessary for three reasons:

1. It prevents chargebacks from customers who may not recognize a location on their statement. Banks now often provide detailed information about charges, and seeing an incorrect location could trigger a costly and time-consuming chargeback.

2. Visa, Mastercard, and Amex require each independent location to have its own merchant account per their regulations.

3. In addition to these points, there's a third practical reason. Merchant accounts can't link to more than one bank account simultaneously. Therefore, if you want to ensure deposits are allocated by location, you’ll face difficulties with accounting reconciliation if you deposit from two locations into a single account. Having two merchant accounts lets you set up a separate bank account for each location, easing accounting processes and reporting.