You can elect to accept only checks and money orders mailed to you as payment for your products or services. However,
this will restrict your sales dramatically. Online shopping is about convenience. While some potential customers are
still reluctant to use their credit cards online, most understand online shopping is very safe.
There are two primary ways of processing credit cards:
Manual - This method requires the additional purchase of a credit card terminal or terminal software (usually around $1000).
The advantage is you have complete control over what is processed and when. When a customer places the order, you get an email with the
information needed to run the credit card through your credit card terminal.
Automatic - This method involves the use of a gateway service. When a customer places an order, the online storefront automatically
sends the customer's info to the credit card processor. The card is approved or rejected and the order completed accordingly. Money for
the transaction minus any service/discount/transaction fees usually appear in your designated bank account within 3 days.
