FlashBanc Credit Card Processing Reviews & Complaints

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Overall Score
3.8
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How did they treat you?
Pros and Cons
Pros: Cons:
Customer loyalty programs Equipment leasing terms
All major cards processed Undisclosed fees reported
POS and mobile solutions High termination fee ($299-$499)
Online gateway available Complaints of overcharging
Virtual terminal services Variable processing rates

Overview

In this review of FlashBanc, we will provide a detailed overview of the company's credit card processing services. We will cover the range of services they offer, including point-of-sale (POS) systems, mobile payment solutions, and e-commerce capabilities. The review will identify the types of businesses that might benefit from these services. Additionally, we will examine client and customer reviews to highlight common trends and potential concerns. The article will also address the company's pricing structure, contract terms, and specific features provided. By the end of this review, you will understand whether FlashBanc meets your payment processing needs.

About FlashBanc

FlashBanc is a merchant account provider headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida. In operation since 2008, the company is a reseller of First Data (now Fiserv) merchant services with an estimated $4 million in annual revenue. In April 2020, FlashBanc was acquired by Celero Commerce.

FlashBanc Products and Services

Payment Processing

FlashBanc provides payment processing services for all major debit and credit cards across various business types. Their services include point-of-sale (POS) systems, EMV card readers and swipers, mobile payment solutions, ACH and e-check processing, e-commerce solutions, cash advances, and gift and loyalty programs.

POS System Solutions

FlashBanc's POS system solutions go beyond basic credit card processing. These systems are capable of managing inventory, tracking sales, and streamlining the checkout process. They are designed to accommodate businesses of different sizes and sectors, including retail, restaurants, and hospitality.

Mobile Payment Processing

FlashBanc offers mobile payment processing for businesses that operate on the go. Using a smartphone or tablet, businesses can accept card payments with a secure, encrypted card reader. This solution is particularly suitable for food trucks, market stalls, and other mobile operations.

Online Payment Gateway

To support eCommerce transactions, FlashBanc provides an online payment gateway. This service enables businesses to securely accept and process online payments. It supports various checkout options, including one-time payments and recurring billing, offering flexibility for online merchants.

Virtual Terminal Services

For businesses that handle mail or phone orders, FlashBanc offers virtual terminal services. This allows businesses to manually enter credit card details into a secure online form, processing payments without needing the physical card.

Customer Loyalty Program Solutions

FlashBanc also provides customer loyalty programs aimed at increasing customer retention and encouraging repeat business. These services include gift card programs and customer reward systems, giving businesses the tools to build and maintain customer loyalty.

FlashBanc Customer Reviews

Here's What Their Clients Say

Customer Reviews Summary
Total Online Complaints 10+
Live Customer Support Yes
Most Common Complaint Undisclosed Fees
Recent Lawsuits No

Reviewing FlashBanc Customer Feedback

Our search revealed over 10 negative FlashBanc reviews, with some customers describing the company as a scam or ripoff. These reviews come from both clients and former or current employees. Client grievances often center around higher-than-expected processing rates, undisclosed fees, and unauthorized or incorrect withdrawals, sometimes even after account closures. Notably, there’s been an increase in complaint volume in the last two years, especially from merchants encountering similar issues. This trend has influenced a reduction in FlashBanc’s rating in this section. We encourage those with experiences with FlashBanc to share their reviews in the comments.

FlashBanc’s Legal and Regulatory Standing

No class-action lawsuits or FTC complaints have been identified against FlashBanc. For non-litigious dispute resolution, clients can consider reporting to relevant supervisory organizations.

Assessing FlashBanc’s Customer Support

FlashBanc’s website provides phone contact information, but it’s unclear if these lines are serviced directly by FlashBanc or by their partner, First Data (Fiserv). This lack of clarity impacts the perception of their customer support capabilities.

FlashBanc Contact Information

  • (800) 808-1622 – Toll-Free Customer Support
  • (800) 228-0210 – Terminal Help Desk
  • Customer support email at [email protected]

While FlashBanc offers several support channels, the effectiveness of these services doesn’t currently place them among top-rated payment processors for customer service. Enhancing transparency and efficiency in their customer support could improve their ranking.

FlashBanc Online Ratings

Here's How They Rate Online

Online Ratings Summary
BBB Reports 1

One BBB Complaint

FlashBanc was formerly an accredited business with the Better Business Bureau since 2011 but is no longer accredited. As of this review, the company has an “A+” rating with the BBB and has had 0 complaints filed against it in the last 36 months.

What Merchants Say

FlashBanc has received 1 informal review on its profile. The 1 review calls FlashBanc a ripoff:

This organization ripped me off, lied to me, and stole money from me. DO NOT USE THEM

Clients in this situation should look into how to make their payment processor release their money.

An “A” Performance

Since FlashBanc has been in business for roughly seven years and is showing 0 complaints, we agree with the BBB’s rating as of this update. Business owners should still be aware, however, that there are good reasons to be skeptical of the BBB’s rating system.

FlashBanc Fees, Rates & Costs

A Closer Look at The Contract

Cost & Fees Summary
Cancellation Penalties Yes
Monthly & Annual Fees Yes
Processing Rates Variable
Equipment Leasing Yes

FlashBanc Contract Terms

The standard contract offered by FlashBanc through First Data (Fiserv) includes an early termination fee of $299, a monthly minimum fee of $25, a monthly statement fee of $9, a chargeback fee of $25, and employs a tiered pricing structure. Specifics regarding the contract length and PCI Compliance fees are not detailed in the available document, suggesting that FlashBanc likely proposes a multi-year agreement with an annual PCI Compliance fee.

Given First Data (Fiserv)’s extensive service range, FlashBanc’s contract conditions might adjust based on several factors, including a business’s scale, industry, and operational history. Rates provided under a standard First Data (Fiserv) agreement may include swiped and keyed-in rates starting from 2.69% plus $0.19 to 3.69% plus $0.19, respectively, with potential variations for businesses processing over $50,000 monthly. Contracts might also entail non-cancellable equipment leases through First Data Global Leasing.

Virtual Terminal and Payment Gateway Pricing

FlashBanc promotes virtual terminal and payment gateway services via Authorize.Net on its website. Standard terms through Authorize.Net, which FlashBanc might modify as a reseller, typically include a transaction rate of 2.90% plus $0.30, alongside a $25 monthly gateway fee and a batch fee of $0.15.

Early Termination Fee

There have been reports from merchants indicating that the early termination fee might be as high as $499, contrary to the stated $299, a discrepancy FlashBanc has not contested. FlashBanc clarifies that such fees are applicable primarily when it compensates for a client’s early termination fee with a previous processor upon transitioning to FlashBanc.

Industry-Average Terms

While the fees and rates associated with FlashBanc are considered industry average, a noticeable uptick in complaints concerning contract terms has been observed. This trend warrants a “C” rating for FlashBanc in this regard. Merchants are advised to meticulously review contract terms and seek clarifications where necessary to avoid unforeseen costs.

For more competitive rates and terms, business owners might find value in exploring our curated list of top merchant account providers.

FlashBanc Employee Reviews & Sales Tacitcs

Should You Work For Them?

Jobs & Marketing Summary
Uses Independent Resellers Yes
Telemarketing Likely
Misleading Marketing No
Discloses All Important Terms No

Outside Sales Staff

FlashBanc primarily markets its services through independent sales agents. This hiring practice is usually linked to elevated complaint rates among clients, as independent sales agents generally receive little training or oversight. We are currently able to locate more than 10 FlashBanc reviews from clients who accuse the company’s sales agents of failing to disclose important costs and engaging in high-pressure sales tactics. We have also found at least three FlashBanc complaints filed online by current or former FlashBanc sales agents. These employees describe poor agent support and delays in commission payments.

This does not compare favorably to our list of best credit card processors.

No Deceptive Advertising

To its credit, the company does not appear to engage in deceptive advertising strategies in its official materials. However, the steady increase in complaints related to undisclosed fees or misleading sales pitches has lowered its score in this section. If you suspect that you are being charged undisclosed FlashBanc fees, we recommend seeking a third-party statement audit to find and eliminate hidden costs.

Our FlashBanc Review Summary

Our Final Thoughts

FlashBanc rates as an above-average credit card processing provider according to our rating criteria. The company offers standard rates and fees through First Data (Fiserv), a well-known and reputable processor in the industry. However, despite its solid foundation, FlashBanc has been showing an increasing number of complaints online. These complaints primarily revolve around issues such as unexpected fees, contract terms, and customer service challenges. This trend is concerning and suggests that there may be underlying issues in the company’s operations or its handling of customer relations.

Business owners considering FlashBanc should exercise caution and ensure they fully understand the terms of any agreement before signing. It is crucial to compare FlashBanc’s pricing and contract conditions with those of top-rated merchant account providers to ensure they are getting the best possible deal. While FlashBanc has the potential to be a reliable payment processing partner, the growing volume of complaints suggests that merchants should remain vigilant and consider alternative providers if necessary. Thorough research and careful comparison of various providers will help business owners make informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls.

Location & Ownership

FlashBanc is a registered ISO/MSP of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., in Concord, California, and is located at 100 Westwood Place, Suite 200 Brentwood, TN 37027. Michael Gross is the CEO and co-founder, while Jason Wright is listed as the COO and Kevin Jones is listed as CEO of Flashbanc.

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Testimonials & Complaints

How Did FlashBanc Treat You?

11 User Reviews

  • George Wright

    I worked there for a very short time. The pay structure is when you sell one you get your first $100 for an approved application. Then when the account gets activated you get your second $100. I sold my first deal and I got the first $100. Flashbanc proceeded to mess up the deal. The company that shipped the equipment did not put the customer’s menu on the equipment. I did everything that I could do to resolve the issue. Flashbanc did not resolve the new clients problems. The new client got upset and canceled the order. All due to Flashbanc’s errors the new customer canceled his order, and I did not receive my second $100. In my opinion this is very poor business ethics on Flashbancs part.

  • Donald Smith

    PrePaid Legal Services Inc. Independent Associate Director

    i have been receiving multiple request for employment. When i try to upload my resume the system wont let it upload.
    I call the number listed but only get musical recording.
    Curious, anyone out there ever work for this business?

  • Steve Buero

    Please do not use these guys!!! Over charging, MAJOR HIDDEN FEES! run away as far as you can! HORRIBLE service and HORRIBLE customer service. This place has to be a fly-by-night company or something! They want to charge an early termination fee with no contract and was told no contract commitments!

  • gino

    Stay away! I have been with Flashbanc for 6 months. Every single month I am overcharged hundreds of dollars and I have to call and spend hours and sometimes days to get my money back. The do not respond and when they finally do, I get partial money back. they are a complete rip off. Save yourselves from being a victim of fraud. DO NOT DO BUSINESS WITH FLASHBANC.

  • JL Stephan

    Absolutely horrible experience from a merchant perspective – I was told there was no contract but was charged $499 for “early termination fee” – totally bogus. I mailed back their loaner terminal – which I understood there would be a charge for if not received in time – but received no consideration. Every time I contacted – passed around from rep to rep. Don’t all for their high pressure tactics!

  • Judi O'Cconnor

    I have worked for Flashbanc for 2 1/2 years and set up Louie Long’s account. He wrote this before I made a customer service call. He told me his issues. I did not realize that he processed so little. There are many months he processes nothing. There are minimum fees related to credit card processing. On two different occasions Flashbanc worked with this merchant. He is now happy. Flashbanc has no “go by the book” rules, instead works with each merchant to tailor to his/her needs.

  • Alison

    Although it was nice to get another quote from a competitor, the sales tactics were very pushy. I was contacted multiple times via email and phone calls by 2 different representatives from the company. They were very persistant and pushy with trying to get us to sign the contract. When we finally decided not to they kept asking “why wouldn’t you, we are saving you money”. The constant calls and emails were intrusive. Multiple times when they called I told them that I would email them, yet they would call me back in a couple days.
    Very frustrating and will NOT every do business with them.

  • Todd J

    Person who set up account lied to me about there being no contract. When I went to cancel Flashbanc was nice enough to tell me I needed to pay $500 for early termination and a $300 charge for set up. They are all lairs and just say what ever to sign you up. Then hose you when you try to cancel. Would never ever ever ever use this company again or suggest it to anyone else.

  • Louie Long

    Do not use this company, biggest mess I’ve every gotten into. Every month they find some way to add new charges, my last months credit card transactions only totaled 668.75 for which Flashbanc charged me 50.80. Please take my advice and stay away for these people.

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