Shopify Reserves Explained: What Triggers Them and How to Prevent Them
Shopify reserves can lock up 10–30% of your revenue for months with no warning and no negotiation. Learn what triggers them, how to prevent them, and why a dedicated merchant account is the only way to get real control over your reserve terms.
Why a Successful Product Launch Is a Red Flag to Your Payment Processor
To your payment processor, a product launch, a viral ad, and a seasonal rush all look the same — a volume spike that could be fraud. Here is a 5-step framework for setting up your merchant account so your next launch does not get your funds frozen or your account shut down.
Decline Code 57: Transaction Not Permitted — What It Means and How To Fix It
Credit card decline code 57 means the transaction isn’t permitted on the cardholder’s card — usually because of MCC restrictions, card type limitations, or geographic blocks. Learn what causes it, when to retry, and how merchants can reduce code 57 declines to recover lost revenue.
AI Compliance Risks That Get Businesses Shut Down by Stripe
The MEDVi FDA warning letter is a wake-up call for every business using AI. Regulatory actions like this make payment processors nervous across the board — tightening risk thresholds for all merchants leveraging AI, not just the ones in trouble. Here’s what you need to know to stay in your processor’s good graces.
How to Read Your Merchant Statement (Quick Guide for E-Commerce Merchants)
Your merchant statement holds every fee your processor charges — but only if you know where to look. This guide breaks down each section of your statement, shows you how to calculate your effective rate, and flags the red flags that signal you’re overpaying.