What if I told you that saying ‘yes’ to phone payments could boost your sales by 20%?
Sounds too good to be true, right? But here’s the thing: customers love convenience. And for many, that means paying over the phone.
Think about it. A customer calls to book a service, order a product, or renew a subscription. They’re ready to pay—right then and there. But if you can’t take their card details over the phone, what happens?
They hang up. You lose the sale. And your competitor gains a customer.
The good news? Taking card payments over the phone isn’t just possible—it’s easy, safe, and incredibly profitable.
In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to set it up, avoid common pitfalls, and start turning those phone calls into sales.
Ready to stop losing customers and start growing your business? Let’s dive in.
Why Your Business Needs to Accept Phone Payments
Let’s cut to the chase: If you’re not taking card payments over the phone, you’re leaving money on the table.
Here’s why:
- Convenience: Some customers, especially older one,s don’t want to fuss with online payments. They’d rather pick up the phone and pay in minutes.
- Flexibility: Whether you run a takeaway, a salon, or a consulting business, phone payments let you close the deal wherever your customers are.
- Increased Sales: Impulse buys happen. A customer calls to ask about your service, loves what they hear, and wants to pay right away. If you can’t take their card details, that sale is gone.
- Competitive Edge: Offering multiple payment options isn’t just nice—it’s necessary. Stand out by making it easy for customers to pay however they want.
Bottom line? Phone payments aren’t just an option—they’re a must-have for growing your business.
What You Need to Get Started To Take Payments Over the Phone
Ready to start taking card payments over the phone? Here’s the checklist:
1. Merchant Account
This is your gateway to processing card payments. Think of it as your business’s bank account for card transactions. No merchant account? No phone payments.
For merchant accounts, you can contact Paymentsave, the most trusted payment solution company in the UK.
2. Virtual Terminal
A virtual terminal is like a digital cash register. It’s a secure online tool where you enter your customer’s card details to process payments. No fancy hardware is needed—just a computer or smartphone.
3. PCI Compliance
This one’s non-negotiable. PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) ensures you’re handling card data safely. Skip this, and you’re risking fines, fraud, and customer trust.
4. Reliable Internet Connection
A slow internet = frustrated customers. Make sure your connection is fast and stable to keep transactions smooth and stress-free.
That’s it. Four things, and you’re ready to start taking payments over the phone. Simple, right?
Step-by-Step: How to Take Card Payments Over the Phone
Taking card payments over the phone is easier than you think. Here’s the exact process:
1. Log in to Your Virtual Terminal
Open your virtual terminal on your computer or phone. This is where the magic happens.
2. Ask for the Customer’s Card Details
Politely request:
- Card number (the 16-digit number on the front).
- Expiry date (MM/YY).
- CVV (the 3-digit code on the back).
- Billing address (for AVS checks).
3. Enter the Details Securely
Type the information into your virtual terminal. Double-check for accuracy.
4. Verify the Transaction
Use AVS (Address Verification System) and CVV checks to ensure the details match the card issuer’s records. This step is your fraud prevention shield.
5. Complete the Sale
Hit “Process Payment.” Once approved, email a receipt to your customer.
That’s it. Five steps, and you’ve just turned a phone call into a sale.
How to Keep Phone Payments Safe and Secure
Taking card payments over the phone is convenient, but only if it’s secure. Here’s how to protect your business and your customers:
1. PCI DSS Compliance
This isn’t optional. PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) ensures you’re handling card data safely. Non-compliance can lead to fines, fraud, and lost trust.
Read this article to know what it is and what the requirement for PCI Compliance is.
2. Fraud Prevention Tips
- Never ask for PINs or online banking details. Legit businesses don’t need this info.
- Train staff to spot red flags. Rushed calls, suspicious behavior, or vague answers could signal fraud.
- Use AVS and CVV checks. These tools verify the customer’s billing address and card security code, adding an extra layer of protection.
3. Build Customer Trust
Reassure customers by explaining your security measures. Let them know their data is safe with you.
Bottom line? Safe phone payments protect your business, your customers, and your reputation.
The Benefits of Using a Virtual Terminal
Why should you use a virtual terminal for phone payments? Here’s the short answer: it’s a game-changer.
1. Ease of Use
Process payments from anywhere—your office, home, or even a coffee shop. All you need is an internet connection.
2. Security
Built-in fraud prevention tools like AVS and CVV checks keep transactions safe.
3. Scalability
Add multiple users and grow with your business. No limits, no hassle.
4. Cost-Effective
Skip the expensive hardware. A virtual terminal is all you need to get started.
In short, it’s fast, secure, and designed to grow with you. What’s not to love?
Common Challenges (and How to Overcome Them)
Taking card payments over the phone isn’t without its hurdles. But with the right approach, you can tackle them head-on.
1. Customer Hesitation
Some customers are wary of sharing card details over the phone. Solution: Reassure them by explaining your security measures (e.g., PCI compliance, AVS checks).
2. Fraud Risks
Scammers love phone payments. Solution: Use PCI-compliant systems and train staff to spot red flags (e.g., rushed calls, suspicious behavior).
3. Technical Issues
Glitches happen. Solution: Choose a reliable payment provider with 24/7 support to keep things running smoothly.
Bottom line? Challenges are inevitable, but with the right tools and mindset, they’re manageable.
Ready to Start?
Don’t let another sale slip away because you couldn’t take a payment over the phone.
With Paymentsave, setting up your virtual terminal is quick, easy, and secure. Start accepting card payments over the phone today and watch your sales grow.
👉 Get Started with Paymentsave Now
Your customers are calling. Are you ready to answer?
