Merchant Compliance Checklist
At Merchant Haus, we make compliance straightforward. This checklist guides our merchants through the steps needed to open and maintain a secure merchant account.
Step 1: Application Essentials
What you’ll need to get started
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- Completed and signed merchant application form
- Business formation documents (Articles, LLC Certificate, or state license)
- Proof of address (utility bill or lease; no P.O. boxes)
- Government-issued ID for owners (25%+ ownership)
- Federal Tax ID (EIN) or SSN (sole proprietors)
- U.S. business bank account (voided check or bank letter)
- Business and product description
- Marketing materials (website, social media, or photos)
Step 2: Risk & Compliance Screening
Checks to protect your business and customers
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- KYC / CIP verification
- Background & credit checks
- OFAC sanctions screening
- Business category risk assessment
- Review against restricted/prohibited activities
Step 3: Agreements & Onboarding
Confirming your partnership with us
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- Merchant Service Agreement (MSA)
- Acceptable Use Policy (AUP)
- Privacy Policy
- PCI DSS responsibilities acknowledgment
- Legal agreements signed by an authorized officer
Step 4: PCI & Data Security
Keeping cardholder data safe
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- Proof of PCI DSS compliance (SAQ or AOC)
- Use PCI-approved POS hardware/software
- Written policies for card data handling
- Employee training in fraud and security
Step 5: Platform Setup
Preparing your tools for success
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- Gateway or terminal integration
- Merchant portal login testing
- Review of reporting & settlement tools
- Configure chargeback/security notifications
Step 6: Ongoing Compliance
Your responsibility as a merchant
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- Annual PCI validation
- Keep business info updated
- Monitor transactions for fraud/chargebacks
- Review policy updates (MSA, AUP, Privacy)
- Respond to compliance reviews quickly
Step 7: Best Practices (Recommended)
Extra steps for stronger protection
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- Enable AVS, CVV, and 3D Secure
- Use tokenization or secure vaults
- Add fraud prevention tools (velocity checks, geolocation)
- Attend webinars and training sessions
At Merchant Haus, compliance is not just about checking boxes—it’s about protecting your business and giving you peace of mind.
Merchant Application
U.S. retail only. Provide the details below — we’ll review and issue your Merchant ID (MID) & access credentials during onboarding.