Merchant Account for Auto Dealership Surcharging Program (Instant

Auto dealerships don’t just sell vehicles; they manage large, complex financial transactions every single day. From down payments and service invoices to parts and add-ons, dealerships handle some of the highest ticket volumes in retail. But when it comes to payment processing, many dealers run into the same roadblock: processors label them as too risky or impose fees that erode already-thin margins.

In fact, Kelley Blue Book reports that the average new-car transaction price hit $49,740 in December 2024, so every 2–3% in processing fees represents more than $1,000 lost on a single sale. This is exactly why dealerships need a payments partner that helps them control these costs.

At 2Accept, we enable dealerships to access instant approval and go live in as little as 48 hours, while also implementing a compliant surcharging program that helps control costs on credit-card transactions. With ACH and eCheck options, fraud protection, and real human support, you get a payment partner who understands the auto industry and its unique challenges.

Why Auto Dealerships Struggle to Get Approved for Merchant Accounts

Dealerships occupy a tough category in the payments world. On paper, they’re “high risk,” even when they’re established, profitable businesses. Here’s why:

• High-ticket transactions: A single vehicle sale or service invoice can run thousands of dollars, which increases a processor’s exposure if chargebacks occur.
• Mixed payment flows: Dealers don’t just sell cars; they also process deposits, warranties, financing add-ons, and parts/service payments. This variety triggers stricter underwriting.
• Greater fraud and chargeback risk: Auto transactions attract more scrutiny because of their size. Even a small percentage of disputes can lead to significant financial losses. According to a Nilson Report summary via GlobeNewswire, payment-card fraud losses worldwide reached $33.83 billion in 2023, with U.S. merchants alone bearing 42.32% of those losses, facts that explain why acquirers heighten controls on high-ticket categories.
• Processor restrictions: Many mainstream processors have blanket policies that exclude or heavily limit auto sales and F&I add-ons.

Because of these factors, dealerships often face application rejections, frozen funds, or inflated reserves with traditional providers. That’s why so many turn to specialists like 2Accept, who know how to underwrite and support automotive businesses properly.

The 2Accept Difference for Auto Dealership Surcharging

At 2Accept, we don’t back away from industries that others label high-risk businesses. Instead, we’ve built a platform and process that helps dealerships get approved quickly and set up to succeed. Here’s what makes us different:

• Fast approvals: Dealerships can be approved and live in as little as 48 hours once the required documents are submitted.
• Automotive coverage: We explicitly serve auto businesses with payment processing solutions tailored to large transactions.
• Compliant surcharging support: Our experts guide you through card-network and state requirements to ensure your program is transparent and rule-aligned.
• White-glove service: From onboarding to ongoing optimization, you work directly with a payment expert, not just a support queue.
• 24/7 customer support: When issues come up, you’ll always be able to reach a real human who understands your account.

This combination of speed, compliance, and service is what keeps dealerships stable and scalable, even when handling complex transactions.

Core Features & Value for Your Dealership

2Accept provides the tools auto dealers need to protect margins, reduce risk, and improve customer experience.

Compliant Surcharging Program

Credit-card fees on large transactions can quickly eat into profits. With 2Accept, you can implement a surcharge program that’s fully compliant with card-brand rules and state regulations. Clear disclosures ensure transparency for customers while helping you offset interchange costs.

ACH & eCheck for High-Ticket Sales

ACH and eCheck payments are a smart alternative for large transactions, such as vehicle purchases or high-value service invoices. They cost significantly less than credit-card fees and provide predictable processing for dealerships that handle big-ticket sales. In fact, Nacha reported 8.3 billion ACH payments totaling $21.6 trillion in Q2 2024, with Same-Day ACH volumes climbing to 107.8 million in April alone, highlighting the scale and reliability of this rail.

Fraud & Chargeback Protection

Large transactions are prime targets for fraud. 2Accept provides tools to monitor activity, prevent fraudulent charges, and assist in dispute resolution, so your dealership isn’t left carrying the loss.

Seamless Integrations

Whether you process payments at the dealership, online, or through service invoices, we integrate with major POS platforms, eCommerce systems, and payment gateways. That means smoother transactions and less manual work for your team. The impact is clear: almost half of U.S. shoppers (48%) abandon their carts due to unexpected costs, according to Baymard/eMarketer, making transparent and integrated checkout systems critical for retention.

Access to Compliance Expertise

Questions about signage, disclosures, or surcharging rules? 2Accept connects you with payments attorneys and compliance experts who can help your dealership stay aligned with regulations.

How Approval Works, in Just Four Steps

Getting approved with 2Accept is fast, simple, and designed to minimize downtime for your dealership.

1. Apply Online in Minutes

Submit a short application with your dealership’s basic details, no complicated forms or drawn-out requests.

2. Meet Your Payment Expert

You’ll be paired with a dedicated expert who will configure your account for surcharging, ACH, service invoicing, and any dealership-specific needs.

3. Submit Required Documents

Provide standard underwriting items like bank statements, prior processing history, and identification. Your payment expert will guide you through the exact requirements.

4. Go Live in 48 Hours

Once approved, you can begin processing payments in-store, online, and via mobile links within about two business days. Note: The 48-hour timeline begins once all documentation is submitted. Some accounts may require additional underwriting or compliance checks that can extend the timeline.

Ongoing Growth & Partnership Support

Getting approved is just the start. At 2Accept, we position ourselves as a long-term partner for your dealership.

• 24/7 customer service means help is always available when you need it.
• Dedicated account experts continue to work with you on optimizing surcharge settings, ACH limits, and fraud filters as your business grows.
• Proactive monitoring helps reduce disputes and minimize downtime.
• No-code tools allow you to launch payment links, invoices, and hosted checkout without needing a developer.

Whether you’re selling vehicles, expanding service operations, or rolling out new finance programs, we scale with your dealership.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can we add a surcharge to credit-card sales?

Yes, in many cases, where permitted by card-network rules and state law. 2Accept helps dealerships set up surcharging programs with the right disclosures and receipts to remain compliant.

Can we use ACH/eCheck for vehicle purchases or service invoices?

Absolutely. ACH is often ideal for high-ticket transactions because it keeps costs predictable and far lower than card interchange fees.

How fast can we start?

Many dealerships are live in as little as 48 hours after providing the required documents and completing underwriting.

Do you integrate with our existing systems?

Yes. 2Accept works with major POS systems, gateways, and online platforms. Your payment expert will ensure everything syncs with your existing workflow.

What kind of support do we get after launch?

Every dealership receives white-glove onboarding and 24/7 customer service, including hands-on guidance for disputes, surcharging updates, and fraud prevention.

Scale Your Auto Dealership with a Compliant Surcharging Program

Dealership margins are too important to waste on inflated processing costs. With 2Accept, you can implement a compliant surcharging program, add ACH for high-ticket savings, and start processing in as little as 48 hours, all backed by experts who know your industry. Whether you’re a single-location dealer or managing multiple rooftops, 2Accept gives you the confidence and tools to keep transactions smooth, compliant, and cost-efficient. Contact us today to launch your dealership’s surcharging program.