Choosing the Right CBD and Cannabis Payment Processor: Why Square Falls Short and Cannabis Business Solutions Excels
July 3, 2023
Shifting the focus to maximize your profits, build a long term business with lower rates and more customer service.
In the ever-expanding hemp and cannabis industry, selecting a reliable and cost-effective payment processor is vital for your business’ success. Unfortunately, Square, a popular choice for many industries, is not an ideal solution for the specific needs of CBD and cannabis merchants.
Cannabis Business Solutions (CBS) as the superior alternative, offers merchants safe compliance, lower rates, exceptional customer service, and the freedom to switch processors at any time. CBS spends time with merchants to learn about their goals and needs including retail, ecommerce and mobile processing for hemp and cannabis businesses. Clients include CBD retailers, medical dispensaries, adult-use recreation retailers, physicians, cultivators, processors and ancillary companies that support the industry with unique products and services.
What Customers Say About Square’s high fees and website limitationsSquare's CBD processing fees, though publicly available, are not suitable for the hemp and cannabis industry. Square’s rates can range anywhere from 3.8% + $0.30 to 4.4% + $0.15 per transaction. These unfair fees can significantly impact the profitability of CBD and cannabis merchants.
Recognizing the need for a payment processor that caters specifically to the hemp and cannabis industry, Cannabis Business Solutions (CBS) offers clients more favorable rates compared to Square. With rates ranging from 3.0% to 3.5% + $0.10 per transaction, CBS significantly reduces processing costs, allowing businesses to maximize their profits.
Square has faced criticism for several aspects of their services
- Website template limitations: Square's website templates cannot be transferred to another payment processor, forcing businesses to start from scratch and potentially impacting their online presence. Many medical cannabis physicians have become hostage to Square by using their patient in-take form. It’s easy to get in, but almost impossible to get out.
- Account suspension and fund holds without notice: Square has been criticized for suspending merchant accounts without clear explanations or advance notice, causing disruptions to businesses' operations and financial stability. Square's practice of placing holds on funds has frustrated many merchants causing inconvenience and cash flow disruptions.
- Limited customer support: Users have reported difficulties reaching Square's customer support or receiving timely assistance, particularly for complex issues or account suspensions.
In addition to competitive rates, CBS distinguishes itself with its commitment to customer service, integration with most shopping carts and POS systems. The CBS team goes the extra mile by providing personal service over the phone, including weekends. This personalized approach allows clients to have direct conversations with knowledgeable professionals, ensuring their questions are promptly addressed and their needs are met.
One of the many advantages of using CBS services is the absence of application fees and long-term contracts. Merchants do not pay any upfront costs, and they are not bound by lengthy commitments. The flexibility to leave at any time is empowering for businesses, as they are not tied to a specific processor. This freedom provides them with the opportunity to explore alternative options without financial penalties.
It's time to empower your CBD and cannabis business with a payment processor that understands and caters to your specific needs. Choose Cannabis Business Solutions for unbeatable rates, exceptional service, and the freedom to thrive in the rapidly evolving hemp and cannabis industry. Your success starts with the right partner by your side!
For a complimentary consultation visit CBScannabis.com or contact Catherine M. Zito, CEO Cannabis Business Solutions, Inc. at (813) 486-2416 / cz@catherinezito.com
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
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.
The growing hemp and cannabis business faces some tricky issues when it comes to getting paid. But don't worry! Cannabis Business Solutions offers a straight forward approach to make the application process simple and smooth. CBS helps hemp, Delta, medical and recreational cannabis and related businesses with easy and efficient payment processing, whether you're selling in stores, online or mobile. Nobody likes the stress of their credit card account or bank suddenly closing for no reason. Catherine Zito, CEO of Cannabis Business Solutions, Inc. and the organizer of the three largest U.S. hemp and cannabis networking groups with over 6,000 members says this issue happens too often. Starting a business can be overwhelming, especially with payments. But a good payment processor should handle all the complicated items, like compliancy, keeping customers data safe, and offering an alternative to cash transactions. This is crucial, as relying solely on cash can expose staff and the business to the risk of theft. A hemp or cannabis friendly bank is required before making an application for merchant credit card processing. CBS works with over 60 banks and credit unions across the country. “Our job is to find the perfect fit for each merchant and give competitive rates to make sure they make the most money,” says Catherine Zito. Banks aren't all the same, so our good relationships make it easy for businesses to find a bank and apply for merchant processing without any fees or long contracts. We're here to give special help that fits each business's needs. We strongly advise seeking out a reliable individual or company to assist you with payment processing in the ever-evolving cannabis and hemp industry. For more information or to schedule a complimentary consultation, visit CBScannabis.com .