High-risk merchant accounts & payment processing
Declined, frozen or shut down by Stripe, Square or PayPal? Specialist processors review high-risk businesses individually. Find your industry, learn what underwriters need, and get free quotes.
Merchant accounts for CBD, supplements, subscriptions, travel and other high-risk businesses. A specialist reviews every application.
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Find your industry
What "high-risk" really means
Processors label a business high-risk when they expect more chargebacks, fraud, regulatory exposure or financial loss. It's about your industry and business model, not your character. Common triggers include restricted products, recurring billing, future delivery, high ticket sizes and past chargebacks.
High-risk merchant accounts typically involve more detailed underwriting, higher rates than flat-rate processors, and sometimes a rolling reserve. In return, you get an account that's approved for what you actually sell.
Read the full guide →What underwriters usually ask for
High-risk processing questions
Why did Stripe or Square close my account?
Payment facilitators review accounts continuously. If your industry is on their restricted list, or chargebacks or refunds spike, they may hold funds or close the account. A dedicated high-risk merchant account is underwritten for your business model upfront.
What is a rolling reserve?
A percentage of each day's sales held by the processor for a set period, then released on a rolling basis. It protects the processor against future chargebacks. Terms vary, so ask for them in writing.
Can I get approved if I'm on the MATCH list?
It's harder but sometimes possible with specialist providers. Be upfront about your history and show what you've changed to reduce chargebacks or fraud.
Does applying cost anything?
Requesting quotes through PaymentNinja is free for businesses, with no obligation. Each provider sets its own pricing and terms if you're approved.
Get matched with the right processor
Two quick steps. We'll share your request with processing partners that fit your industry and volume, including high-risk specialists.