Solution for Millions of Cannabis Consumers Who Want To Pay for Products with a Credit or Debit Card
February 11, 2022
5 tips From a CEO on how medical and recreation cannabis merchants can obtain payment processing for in-store purchases, deliveries and curbside pickup.
“Every month 14 million consumers search online for a cannabis dispensary that takes credit or debit cards,” said Catherine M. Zito, CEO of Cannabis Business Solutions, Inc. It’s a good problem to have with 48 out of 50 states now allowing for some form of medical cannabis and 20 states legal for adult-use.
Projected sales to reach $16 - $25 billion dollars by 2025.
A speaker at the 2021 Medical Cannabis Conference and Expo in Naples, Florida, Catherine Zito shared with attendees that U.S. sales for medical marijuana is projected to reach over 16 billion dollars and recreation cannabis to over 25 billion dollars by 2025.
“Numerous banks and processors have been shut down for trying to be cannabis friendly and hundreds of merchant accounts have been closed without notice,” said Zito. It’s no surprise, that consumers want to buy cannabis products just like they do any other natural supplement for pain, anxiety, inflammation, relaxation and sleep. Research shows that every month there are 68 million consumers searching for the daytime strain sativa and over 40 million searches for the nighttime strain known as indica.
A reputable referral can help you receive good rates and account approval.
“After seven years in the industry, we’re now partnering with several U.S. banks and processors who will approve payment processing for CBD, hemp, Delta 8, medical and recreation cannabis merchants,” said Zito. It’s hard to believe you still have to know someone in the business, but that’s how it works right now. Merchants who are referred by a reputable source like our company, have a better chance of receiving reasonable rates and account approval.
5 tips on how a cannabis merchant can apply to receive credit and debit card processing approval.
1. Don’t take anything personal. This is business so keep your thoughts focused on your ultimate goal of receiving payment processing. If you’re asked to make a content change on your website, do it and don’t argue about it. These are conservative financial establishments that follow strict state and government guidelines. If not compliant with the law, their business can be heavily fined or closed.
5 tips on how a cannabis merchant can apply to receive credit and debit card processing approval.
1. Don’t take anything personal. This is business so keep your thoughts focused on your ultimate goal of receiving payment processing. If you’re asked to make a content change on your website, do it and don’t argue about it. These are conservative financial establishments that follow strict state and government guidelines. If not compliant with the law, their business can be heavily fined or closed.
2. Get your website ready. It’s the first place a bank or processor will look for a certificate of analysis (COA) on each product page or listed on one dedicated page. Remove all claims and words such as anxiety and pain relief. It’s okay to show an image of a person with a medical condition, but it’s best to avoid placing words on the image or in the description. We understand you want to educate consumers about your products, so we recommend doing so through email, print or in person. Remember to add a disclaimer stating that your brand does not make claims to cure any medical condition.
3. Have these documents in hand. The payment processing application is completed online. Be ready to upload a valid driver’s license, social security number, LLC or Inc. document and a copy of any transactions including cash, PayPal, Square or other pay app. Screenshots or pictures of documents will not be accepted.
In addition, you'll need a bank account in the name of your business.
4. Proof of business location. You may receive a surprise visit from a representative from the bank or processing office to validate your business location. They don't make appointments nor announce themselves. If you run a clean business you won’t have any problems.
5. Be Transparent. Regardless of ownership percentage or involvement, all partners’ information is required on the application.
A medical marijuana dispensary can apply for retail debit card payment processing, but not for online ecommerce transactions. Although this is how it is now, rules can change so it’s a good idea to check in with your processor every 4-6 months. A CBD, hemp, Delta 8 or ancillary business can apply for both credit and debit card processing for in-store and online payments. Rates can range from 3.0%-3.5% per transaction.
For more information or a free consultation visit CBScannabis.com
A medical marijuana dispensary can apply for retail debit card payment processing, but not for online ecommerce transactions. Although this is how it is now, rules can change so it’s a good idea to check in with your processor every 4-6 months. A CBD, hemp, Delta 8 or ancillary business can apply for both credit and debit card processing for in-store and online payments. Rates can range from 3.0%-3.5% per transaction.
For more information or a free consultation visit CBScannabis.com
Currently 24 states have legalized adult-use cannabis and 39 have approved it for medical use, with more expected to follow. As the industry grows, dispensaries are seeing more transactions, and a rising need for faster, more cannabis compliant checkout options that also help boost revenue . If you're still relying on cash-only setups or slow ACH apps, it's time to upgrade. Dispensaries today need payment systems that are scalable, compliant, and built to meet the expectations of both customers and regulators. Catherine Zito, CEO of Cannabis Business Solutions, Inc. (CBS), breaks down what’s working right now and how to prepare for what’s next.
A Smarter Way to Get Paid Today’s cannabis shoppers are used to paying with a debit card and want the same convenience in your store. With a Cashless ATM and debit card solution , customers can pay using their card and PIN. Transactions are rounded to the nearest $5 or $10, and any change is handed back at the register. It’s easy to use, cannabis compliant, and secure. Unlike services such as AeroPay or CanPay, which require app downloads and bank account connections, the Cashless ATM solution provides a debit card experience . Forget the apps, the delays, and the typical 3-4% transaction fees, just simple, straightforward payments. “Our mission is to build compliant, high-performing financial ecosystems that actually help dispensaries scale ,” says Zito. “This isn’t just about replacing cash. It’s about improving operations and profitability .”
Instead of paying a traditional processing fee on every transaction, dispensaries using this system buy a low-cost rate and set their own customer service fee, similar to how ATMs work, but without the maintenance issues, cash handling risks, or downtime that come with physical machines.
Boost Your Bottom Line: How the Revenue Model Works
Many dispensaries using a Cashless ATM system are earning over $10,000 a month in extra revenue, all without changing their menu or raising prices. To estimate your potential earnings, take your average number of daily transactions and multiply by the profit per transaction (usually between $0.75 and $1.00), then multiply by 30 days. For example, 200 transactions a day at $1.00 profit equals $6,000 in added monthly revenue straight to your bottom line. You can also accept tips through the terminal, either as a flat amount or a percentage, giving your staff more flexibility and boosting morale. All-in-One Terminals Built for Dispensaries The cashless ATM runs on a portable, all-in-one terminal designed for cannabis retail and delivery . It accepts chip, tap, swipe, and PIN payments, and includes built-in tools like a touchscreen, barcode scanner, and receipt printer. Staff can log in easily, and owners get access to the Terminal Access Portal to manage multiple locations from one place . It also integrates seamlessly with systems like Treez, FlowHub, and MyBudPOS (giving you one login for all your stores). Getting Started: Documents and Banking
The application process is simple. Here’s what you’ll need: Free online application (approval in 1 to 4 weeks) Cannabis business license Driver’s license and W9 Voided check or bank letter with routing/account numbers 3 months of bank statements 3 months of processing statements (if available) A cannabis-friendly bank is required to submit a merchant application. CBS can provide a complimentary introduction to one of their national banking partners to help you get started. If you're ready to bring modern, compliant payments to your dispensary and boost your bottom line, visit CBScannabis.com for a free consultation.
Join us at FMCCE! Connect with medical cannabis leaders, physicians, and patients for expert talks on the future of cannabis, clinical care, and policy. Get the latest OMMU update, practice tips, and earn CMEs/CEUs. Topics include pain, PTSD, women’s health & more. Don’t miss it! What - 8th Florida Medical Cannabis Conference & Expo When - May 30 - June 1, 2025 Where - Rosen Centre Hotel, 9840 International Dr., Orlando, Florida Agenda & General Info - https://fmcce.com Registration includes : Admission to all sessions and exhibition List of attendees (names and affiliations only) 2-continental breakfasts and 2-two drink tickets to receptions 3-refreshment breaks, name badge and program Conference proceedings and video recordings Access to hotel room block (based on availability) Tickets - Receive 25% off with discount code FCEIMG More info and registration (in-person or virtual admission Exhibit and Sponsor Specials - Showcase your products or services. Message Catherine Zito cz@catherinezito.com or mobile (813) 486-2416. Join the largest U.S. cannabis and hemp networking and education Meetups. Free Signu p
With insights from over 120 thought leaders including industry powerhouses like George Archos (Verano), Charlie Bachtell (Cresco Labs), Boris Jordan (Curaleaf), Tim Seymour (CNBC/Seymour Asset Management), and more, you'll be networking with the best in the business. What - Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference When - June 8-10, 2025 Whe r e - Marriott Magnificent Mile, 540 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611 General Info Tickets - Receive 20% off. Enter discount code CBS20 REGISTER TODAY Join the largest U.S. networking and education Meetups. Free Signup ! For more info or exhibitor/sponsorship specials contact - Catherine M. Zito at c z@catherinezito.com or (813) 486-2416
FREE Tickets to Alternative Products Expo Miami! Join hemp and cannabis enthusiasts at the Alt Pro Expo, the ultimate trade show, April 3-5, 2025, at Mana Wynwood Convention Center in Miami, FL. Connect with top brands, buyers, and industry leaders in the premier smoke shop scene while exploring the latest innovations in counterculture products. Take advantage of exclusive show discounts, expand your network, and gain valuable industry insights. Register now for your free tickets! https://www.meetup.com/cannabis-entrepreneurs-investors/events/306173027/?eventOrigin=group_upcoming_events
Currently 24 states have legalized adult-use cannabis and 39 have approved it for medical use, with more expected to follow. As the industry grows, dispensaries are seeing more transactions, and a rising need for faster, more cannabis compliant checkout options that also help boost revenue . If you're still relying on cash-only setups or slow ACH apps, it's time to upgrade. Dispensaries today need payment systems that are scalable, compliant, and built to meet the expectations of both customers and regulators. Catherine Zito, CEO of Cannabis Business Solutions, Inc. (CBS), breaks down what’s working right now and how to prepare for what’s next.
A Smarter Way to Get Paid Today’s cannabis shoppers are used to paying with a debit card and want the same convenience in your store. With a Cashless ATM and debit card solution , customers can pay using their card and PIN. Transactions are rounded to the nearest $5 or $10, and any change is handed back at the register. It’s easy to use, cannabis compliant, and secure. Unlike services such as AeroPay or CanPay, which require app downloads and bank account connections, the Cashless ATM solution provides a debit card experience . Forget the apps, the delays, and the typical 3-4% transaction fees, just simple, straightforward payments. “Our mission is to build compliant, high-performing financial ecosystems that actually help dispensaries scale ,” says Zito. “This isn’t just about replacing cash. It’s about improving operations and profitability .”
Instead of paying a traditional processing fee on every transaction, dispensaries using this system buy a low-cost rate and set their own customer service fee, similar to how ATMs work, but without the maintenance issues, cash handling risks, or downtime that come with physical machines.
Boost Your Bottom Line: How the Revenue Model Works
Many dispensaries using a Cashless ATM system are earning over $10,000 a month in extra revenue, all without changing their menu or raising prices. To estimate your potential earnings, take your average number of daily transactions and multiply by the profit per transaction (usually between $0.75 and $1.00), then multiply by 30 days. For example, 200 transactions a day at $1.00 profit equals $6,000 in added monthly revenue straight to your bottom line. You can also accept tips through the terminal, either as a flat amount or a percentage, giving your staff more flexibility and boosting morale. All-in-One Terminals Built for Dispensaries The cashless ATM runs on a portable, all-in-one terminal designed for cannabis retail and delivery . It accepts chip, tap, swipe, and PIN payments, and includes built-in tools like a touchscreen, barcode scanner, and receipt printer. Staff can log in easily, and owners get access to the Terminal Access Portal to manage multiple locations from one place . It also integrates seamlessly with systems like Treez, FlowHub, and MyBudPOS (giving you one login for all your stores). Getting Started: Documents and Banking
The application process is simple. Here’s what you’ll need: Free online application (approval in 1 to 4 weeks) Cannabis business license Driver’s license and W9 Voided check or bank letter with routing/account numbers 3 months of bank statements 3 months of processing statements (if available) A cannabis-friendly bank is required to submit a merchant application. CBS can provide a complimentary introduction to one of their national banking partners to help you get started. If you're ready to bring modern, compliant payments to your dispensary and boost your bottom line, visit CBScannabis.com for a free consultation.
Join us at FMCCE! Connect with medical cannabis leaders, physicians, and patients for expert talks on the future of cannabis, clinical care, and policy. Get the latest OMMU update, practice tips, and earn CMEs/CEUs. Topics include pain, PTSD, women’s health & more. Don’t miss it! What - 8th Florida Medical Cannabis Conference & Expo When - May 30 - June 1, 2025 Where - Rosen Centre Hotel, 9840 International Dr., Orlando, Florida Agenda & General Info - https://fmcce.com Registration includes : Admission to all sessions and exhibition List of attendees (names and affiliations only) 2-continental breakfasts and 2-two drink tickets to receptions 3-refreshment breaks, name badge and program Conference proceedings and video recordings Access to hotel room block (based on availability) Tickets - Receive 25% off with discount code FCEIMG More info and registration (in-person or virtual admission Exhibit and Sponsor Specials - Showcase your products or services. Message Catherine Zito cz@catherinezito.com or mobile (813) 486-2416. Join the largest U.S. cannabis and hemp networking and education Meetups. Free Signu p
With insights from over 120 thought leaders including industry powerhouses like George Archos (Verano), Charlie Bachtell (Cresco Labs), Boris Jordan (Curaleaf), Tim Seymour (CNBC/Seymour Asset Management), and more, you'll be networking with the best in the business. What - Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference When - June 8-10, 2025 Whe r e - Marriott Magnificent Mile, 540 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611 General Info Tickets - Receive 20% off. Enter discount code CBS20 REGISTER TODAY Join the largest U.S. networking and education Meetups. Free Signup ! For more info or exhibitor/sponsorship specials contact - Catherine M. Zito at c z@catherinezito.com or (813) 486-2416
FREE Tickets to Alternative Products Expo Miami! Join hemp and cannabis enthusiasts at the Alt Pro Expo, the ultimate trade show, April 3-5, 2025, at Mana Wynwood Convention Center in Miami, FL. Connect with top brands, buyers, and industry leaders in the premier smoke shop scene while exploring the latest innovations in counterculture products. Take advantage of exclusive show discounts, expand your network, and gain valuable industry insights. Register now for your free tickets! https://www.meetup.com/cannabis-entrepreneurs-investors/events/306173027/?eventOrigin=group_upcoming_events
Finding a reliable, cannabis compliant payment processor is crucial. While Square, CanPay, and Dutchie are an option, they fall short for cannabis businesses. Cannabis Business Solutions (CBS) offers compliant, profitable and seamless solutions. No application fee. Free consultation. and introductory equipment specials. CBScannabis.com
Explore a safer alternative for payment processing in the cannabis and hemp industry. Say goodbye to the risks and unreliability of non-compliant providers like Dutchie, Square, or PayPal, which can freeze your funds without notice. At Cannabis Business Solutions, we offer reliable, fully compliant payment solutions tailored for cannabis and hemp businesses, backed by live customer support—even on weekends. Plus, benefit from free referrals to trusted cannabis-friendly banks nationwide!
Discover how Cannabis Business Solutions offers a superior payment processing experience for dispensaries compared to Dutchie's Plaid system. With purpose-built reliability, real cannabis compliance, and faster transaction times, our debit option minimizes failures and enhances customer satisfaction. Experience a seamless checkout process that boosts sales and customer loyalty. Try us risk-free for 60 days and see the difference! For more information, visit CBScannabis.com.
Florida is on track to become the nation's largest marijuana market! Join 200 attendees, sponsors, and vendors, for this exciting networking and educational event. Industry leaders will discuss key topics; 22 new MMTC licenses, cannabis rescheduling to Class III, the SAFE Banking Act, MMTC mergers, and the Amendment 3 adult-use initiative. Don't miss this opportunity to grow your business in the expanding cannabis market! What - The Future of Adult Use and Medical Marijuana in Florida When - Monday, January 13, 2025 from 7:30am-5:00pm. Where - Donald L. Tucker Civic Center. 505 W Pensacola St, Tallahassee, FL 32301 Host - Medical Marijuana Business Association of Florida Meetup - Stop by the Cannabis Business Solutions booth and meet your Meetup host, Catherine Zito, along with Scott Curtis, COO of First Port City Bank. More info - Cannabis Entrepreneurs and Investors Networking Group Ticket Special - Receive $25 any ticket with discount code: CBSINC . General admission inc. breakfast, lunch, speakers and networking. $275 p.p. Non-Profits $200 p.p. Register today !
Looking for safe, compliant banking for your cannabis business? At Cannabis Business Solutions, Inc., we offer free introductions to over 60 privately held cannabis-friendly banks. Whether you're running a medical dispensary or adult-use cannabis retail business, we can connect you with secure financial services to ensure long-term success. Learn more at cbscannabis.com.
CBD-Infused Beverages for in-store retailers and ecommerce businesses. Catherine Zito, CEO of Cannabis Business Solutions shares about the trends, consumers, payment processing and sales projections.