What’s New from Visa, Mastercard, and Amex: Key Updates Merchants Need to Know
The major card networks—Visa, Mastercard, and American Express—have rolled out critical updates in recent months that directly impact how businesses process payments. Whether you're managing a single location or a multi-unit operation, staying ahead of these changes can mean the difference between compliance and unexpected fees.
At PlutosPay, we monitor these developments closely so our clients don’t get caught off guard. Here are the most important changes every merchant should be aware of:
1. Visa’s Expanded Surcharge & Dual Pricing Guidance
Visa recently tightened compliance standards for businesses implementing surcharge and dual pricing models. Merchants are now required to:
Clearly disclose both cash and card prices at the point of entry and at the point of sale
Ensure terminal receipts reflect both prices or clearly distinguish the total card price
Register surcharge programs in advance if applicable
PlutosPay ensures your setup adheres to all current Visa rules, avoiding penalties or forced shutdowns.
2. Mastercard’s Crackdown on Miscoded Transactions
Mastercard has increased scrutiny on transactions that appear to be miscoded—especially when merchants attempt to present credit-like charges as debit or utility transactions to lower interchange costs. Violations can lead to fines or reclassification.
We audit your MCC usage and processor configuration to ensure everything aligns with Mastercard’s current standards.
3. Amex Simplifying Small Business Acceptance
American Express has introduced updated terms and bundled rates for SMBs, including:
Streamlined acceptance programs with fewer fee tiers
Faster onboarding for certain processor partners
Targeted fraud controls for high-risk industries
We help clients evaluate whether Amex’s new programs could benefit their business—and ensure they’re not overpaying for acceptance.
4. Network-Wide Emphasis on Real-Time Dispute Resolution
All three networks are pushing processors and gateways to adopt real-time chargeback APIs and dispute resolution tools. This shift will:
Reduce timelines for merchants to respond to disputes
Require tighter documentation standards
Favor merchants with organized transaction and refund workflows
PlutosPay trains staff, manages documentation protocols, and oversees chargeback responses to help merchants stay ahead of this evolving environment.
Why This Matters
Processor and card network rules are no longer static. They shift rapidly—and merchants who aren't paying attention end up with higher fees, failed audits, or even account terminations.
PlutosPay acts as your payments watchdog—making sure your systems, staff, and strategy are always aligned with the latest network rules.
Need help evaluating your current setup or responding to any of these changes? Reach out today at PlutosPay.com.