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Merchant Processing Agreement


INTRODUCTION

This Merchant Processing Agreement “Agreement” is entered into between the merchant (“Merchant”) identified on the signed Merchant Processing Application (“MPA”), Evolve Bank and Trust 6070 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN 38119 (“Evolve” or “Merchant Bank”), and NMA 10100 W Charleston Blvd, Suite 210 Las Vegas, NV 89135 (“Processor” or “NMA”). NMA and Evolve may be collectively referred to as “Settlor.” NMA and Evolve reserve the right to allocate Settlor’s duties and obligations as they, in their sole and exclusive discretion, deem appropriate. NMA and Evolve may jointly or individually assert or exercise any right(s) or remedies provided to Settlor under this Agreement.

Merchant is engaged in the business of providing goods and/or services to customers at location(s) owned or leased and operated by Merchant. Merchant desires to accept those credit and/or debit cards indicated on the Schedule of Rates and Fees bearing the name and logo of the Visa®, MasterCard®, American Express® or Discover® credit card associations or the issuer of any other Card of any association or network that Settlor authorizes Merchant to accept for processing under this Agreement as a means of payment for those goods and/or services sold by Merchant. Settlor is engaged in the business of providing, for a fee, electronic debit and credit card authorization, processing, data capture, clearing and settlement services.

Merchant agrees to honor all valid Cards it elects to accept pursuant to this Agreement, without discrimination, and to submit at the close of each business day all sales and credits for Card transactions, and all necessary information for all other types of transactions, as applicable (“Items”) exclusively to Settlor or their applicable vendor(s), which applicable party or parties shall acquire or process with full recourse to Merchant, according to the terms of this Agreement.

DEFINITIONS

“Approved Monthly Sales Processing Volume Limit” or “Approved Monthly Sales Volume Limit” means the maximum Monthly Sales Processing Volume or maximum Monthly Sales Volume that Merchant is approved to process during a Calendar month pursuant to this Agreement.

“Associations” means, collectively, MasterCard International Inc. (“MasterCard”), VISA U.S.A., Inc. (“VISA”), DFS Services LLC d/b/a Discover Network (“Discover”) (including any card issuer of payment cards processed and settled through the Discover network, which may include PayPal, Inc. (“PayPal”), and Diners Club International (“DCI”)), and American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. (“American Express”) and certain similar entities.

“Authorization” means approval by, or on behalf of, the Issuing Bank to validate a Transaction for a merchant or another affiliate bank. An Authorization indicates only the availability of the Cardholder’s credit limit at the time the Authorization is requested and is not a guarantee that a Transaction is valid.

“Authorization Center” means a department or service provider to be contacted by Merchant to obtain Authorization codes on Transactions from the Issuing Bank and which transmits such Authorization to Merchant via electronic equipment or by voice Authorization.

“Authorization Fee” means the charge Merchant is billed each time an Authorization is performed.

“AVS” means the process by which Merchant verifies the address of a Cardholder as part of the Authorization.

“Batch” means usually a day’s worth of Transactions, including Sales Records and Credit Records, to be processed by the Card Processor.

“Business Day” means any day on which Merchant Bank is open for business, other than Saturdays, Sundays or holidays.

“Cards” means Association or Other Network branded cards that enable consumers to purchase goods and services from Merchants.

“Cardholder” means the individual whose name is embossed on a valid Card and any authorized user of such Card.

“Card Organization” means any entity formed to administer and promote Cards (including without limitation Visa, Discover and MasterCard).

“CVV2” means card verification value.

“CVC2” means card verification code.

“Chargeback” means the procedure by which a Sales Record or other indicia of a Transaction (or disputed portion thereof) is denied or returned to Merchant Bank or the Issuing Bank after it was entered into the appropriate settlement network for payment, in accordance with the Rules, for failing to comply with the Rules including, without limitation from Cardholder disputes, the liability of which is Merchant’s responsibility.

“Credit Card” means all cards issued by a non-U.S. bank and all Visa, Discover or MasterCard cards other than Debit Cards.

“Credit Record” means all documents or the Electronic Record of such documents used to evidence any refund or price adjustment given by Merchant to a Cardholder for a previous sale Transaction, which must conform to the Rules. The format for each Credit Record must be approved by Merchant Bank or supplied by Processor.

“DDA” means a demand deposit account at Merchant Bank designated by Merchant as the account to be debited and credited by Processor or Merchant Bank for Transactions, and by Processor and Merchant Bank for fees, Chargebacks, and other amounts due under or in connection with this Agreement (i.e. fines, penalties, attorney’s fees, etc).

“Debit Card” means any Visa, Discover or MasterCard cards issued by a non-U.S. bank, any Visa, Discover or MasterCard card that accesses a consumer’s asset account within 14 days of purchase, including but not limited to stored value, prepaid, payroll, EBT, gift and Visa consumer check cards, and debit cards validly issued by the debit card networks.

“Discount Fee” means the amount charged to Merchant for processing its daily credit Transactions, which is computed as a percentage of the gross amount of Merchant’s Sales Records and Credit Records.

“Discover Program Marks” mean the brands, emblems, trademarks, and/or logos that identify Discover Cards.

“Electronic Record” means data which is transcribed in a form acceptable to Processor and suitable for electronic processing.

“Interchange Fee” means the fee which is paid daily by Merchant Bank to a Card Organization for entering Sales Records and Credit Records into their respective settlement networks.

“ISO/MSP” means an independent Card organization/member service provider operating under the Operating Rules.

“Issuing Bank” means the Cardholder’s bank, or the bank which has issued a Card to an individual.

“Items” means submissions at the close of each business day of all sales and credits for Card transactions, and all necessary information for all other types of transactions, as applicable.

“Merchant” means the person or entity named in the MPA and, if approved by Settlor, who enters into this Agreement with Settlor.

“Merchant Account Number” or “Merchant Identification Number” or “MID” means the number assigned and issued by Settlor to Merchant, if and only if, Merchant is approved and this Agreement is accepted by Settlor, that numerically identifies Merchant to Processor and Merchant Bank for accounting, billing, customer service and other related purposes in connection with the Services. Issuance of the approved Merchant Account Number to Merchant will evidence the acceptance and approval of Merchant for the Services under this Agreement.

“Monthly Sales Processing Volume” or “Monthly Sales Volume” means the gross dollar amount of Card Sales, before return, refund, or exchange that are generated by Merchant and processed by Processor during a calendar month pursuant to this Agreement.

“POS device” means an electronic device, computer, telephone, or related equipment approved by the Settlor for transmission of Transaction data.

“Products” means goods and/or services sold, rented or rendered by Merchant.

“Recurring Transaction” means a Transaction whereby Merchant charges a Cardholder’s Card periodically for recurring goods or services (e.g., monthly insurance premiums, yearly subscriptions, annual membership fees, etc.) which are to be delivered or performed periodically.

“Reserve Account” means an account established at and managed by Merchant Bank for the deposit of funds received from Merchant pursuant to this Agreement as collateral to protect Settlor against actual or contingent liability or losses (i.e. reserves) that might be incurred by Merchant Bank or Processor should Merchant be unable or fail to pay Chargebacks, adjustments, fees and other charges and obligations due to Settlor under this Agreement.

“Rules” means the written rules and regulations, system manuals, procedures and requirements, releases and interpretations thereof and other requirements (whether contractual or otherwise) imposed or adopted by any Card Organization as the same may be amended from time to time.

“Sales Record” means all documents or the Electronic Record of such documents used to evidence the sale of Products through the use of Cards. The format for each Sales Record must be approved by Merchant Bank or supplied by Processor.

“Services” means the collective activities undertaken by Merchant Bank and Processor (including by or through authorized third party service providers) to authorize, process and settle United States denominated Visa, Discover and MasterCard Transactions undertaken by Cardholders at Merchant’s location in the United States and all other activities necessary for Processor and Bank to perform the functions required by this Agreement for all other Cards, if any, that may be covered by this Agreement.

“Transaction” means the initiation of a sale inquiry or a consummation of a sale/rental of Products or of a credit to a Cardholder by Merchant by means of a Sales Record or Credit Record, respectively, as well as a Batch closing to Processor; any Card, debit, ACH, EFT or other electronic transaction as applicable in the context of this Agreement.

“Transaction Fee” means the cost charged to Merchant on a per Transaction basis.

TERM AND TERMINATION

Term
The term of this Agreement, including any equipment rental, shall be for three (3) years commencing on the acceptance of this Agreement by Settlor and the issuance of a merchant identification number to Merchant and shall remain in full force and effect until termination. This Agreement shall be automatically renewed thereafter for successive three (3) year periods unless Merchant delivers written notice of termination at least sixty (60) days but not more than one hundred twenty (120) days prior to the expiration of the then existing term.

Discontinuing of Processing
In the event Merchant (i) discontinues or ceases processing of Card Transactions prior to the end of the term hereof, or (ii) gives notice of discontinuance of processing (including an invalid or ineffective termination notice), Settlor will suffer a substantial injury for which it is impracticable or difficult to fix actual damages. In an effort to liquidate in advance the sum that should represent such damages, Merchant agrees to pay Settlor the Early Termination Fee described below. Merchant acknowledges that it has been given notice of the Early Termination Fee and agrees that such Early Termination Fee is fair and reasonable and does not constitute a penalty. Merchant agrees that Settlor may immediately collect the Early Termination Fee and other outstanding fees from the Settlement Account, Reserve Account or any other account to which Settlor has access.

Termination by Settlor
Settlor may terminate this Agreement without prior notice at any time and for any reason, which termination may be effective immediately. At Settlor’s discretion, termination of the relationship between Settlor and Merchant’s ISO/MSP (as defined below) may terminate this Agreement. Settlor may suspend the processing of Card transactions or close terminals of Merchant without prior notice if so directed by any of Card Associations, for breaches, defaults or suspected breaches or defaults of this Agreement, for other reasonable cause and in the event of termination of this Agreement. Merchant’s rights to make Card transactions and any other rights in this Agreement shall cease upon termination, and Merchant shall return any of Settlor’s property, equipment or forms. All obligations of Merchant under this Agreement for transactions prior to termination (including, without limitation, document retention, retrieval, and responsibility for all Chargebacks) and Merchant’s obligations of Indemnity and Confidentiality set forth herein shall be binding on Merchant and shall survive termination. Merchant expressly acknowledges that Merchant Bank is required to report the business name of Merchant and the names and identification of its principals to the Terminated Merchant File (the “MATCH System”) maintained by MasterCard when Merchant Bank determines that Merchant has been terminated for one or more of the reasons specified in Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Discover Operating Rules. Merchant also acknowledges that, if Settlor determines that Merchant has failed to fulfill its obligations arising from this Agreement, Settlor may submit a derogatory report on Merchant and its principals to a consumer and/or business credit reporting agency. Settlor shall not be liable to Merchant for any damages (including prospective sales or profits) due to termination of this Agreement or reporting to the MATCH System or a credit reporting agency by Settlor. It is the express agreement of Settlor and Merchant that the acquisition of Items hereunder is a financial accommodation and, in the event Merchant becomes a debtor in any bankruptcy or similar proceeding, then (i) such event shall be deemed a default for purposes of this agreement and section 365(B)(1) of the United States bankruptcy code or any applicable successor statutory provision thereto, and (ii) it is the intent of the parties that, unless otherwise agreed by Settlor, this Agreement should not be assumed or enforced by any other person and Settlor should be excused from performance hereunder. If Merchant Bank sponsors Merchant in to any Card program or Card Association, such sponsorship shall extend only so long as this Agreement is in effect.

Termination by Merchant
Merchant has no right to terminate this Agreement except as provided in this subsection. If Settlor fails to perform Settlor’s obligations hereunder, and Merchant intends to terminate this Agreement, then Merchant must deliver written notice to Settlor stating such intent, identifying the non-performance, and giving Settlor the opportunity to remedy such non-performance for a period of sixty (60) days following the date notice is delivered. Upon expiration of such sixty (60) day cure period, if the performance has not been remedied, Merchant may terminate the Agreement upon providing written notice to Settlor.

Early Termination Fee
The Early Termination Fee is calculated as follows: the average of the three highest months of processing volume during the previous or current term of the Agreement, multiplied by 0.003, multiplied by the number of full and partial months remaining on the term of the Agreement, or $250, whichever is greater. (If Merchant has been processing for less than three months, then the average of all months of processing volume will be used.)

Equipment Fee
Upon discontinuance of processing by Merchant or termination of this Agreement, Settlor may impose, collect and receive from Merchant the value of any equipment rented from or through Settlor that is not returned to Settlor within ten (10) days of the discontinuance of processing or the termination of this Agreement. Settlor may withhold any such amount from settlement amounts due Merchant pending return of such equipment. Merchant agrees to pay this fee.

SERVICES

Processing, Settlement and Other Services
Unless agreed by Settlor in writing, Card transactions will be processed and settled through Card Association networks via electronic authorization and data capture methods. Additional Merchant locations require Settlor approval, must be owned or leased and operated by Merchant under Merchant’s same name and must conduct the same business. Unless otherwise agreed in advance by Settlor, Merchant will balance and settle each terminal every business day. Transactions at one Merchant location may not be processed through a terminal at another Merchant location. Merchant agrees not to process transactions of other entities, persons or merchants. Merchant must be equipped with properly installed and programmed terminals or other equipment capable of transmitting, receiving and communicating Card transaction data to Settlor. If Merchant provides any software or equipment or utilizes third party system vendors, Merchant is solely responsible for all aspects of compatibility, installation, operation, security and systems integrations that will comply with the Operating Rules and Settlor’s processing requirements. If required, Merchant has directly entered into a separate agreement with any Card Association(s) which allows Merchant to accept and process Card transactions. For all Card transactions (including Debit Cards, travel vouchers or lodging reservation service), the terms and conditions of the Rules apply. Merchant obtains no rights in amounts settled between Settlor and Card Associations unless and until Settlor transfers amounts to Merchant.

PCI/Data Security Compliance
Every Merchant that accepts Credit Cards is required to participate in a Data Security Monitoring and Oversight Program. For certain retail businesses, this can be limited to creating and enacting Data Security Policies and Procedures and completing an Annual Self-Assessment Questionnaire. For Internet merchants this can include recurring Security Scans and other measures. For their own protection, Settlor requires its Merchants to participate in a PCI Support Program including $100,000 in Data Breach Insurance protection. All Merchants accepting Visa, MasterCard, Discover or American Express transactions must complete a Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard Self-Assessment Questionnaire and evaluation by the Acquirer in order to determine the applicable data security requirements for each entity and confirm that Merchant’s card terminals, PIN pads, software, website, methods of accepting cards, and management & storage of Cardholder data are compliant with industry requirements.

Operating Manual
Merchant may receive and agrees to read and review an Operating Manual and any other Attachments received from Settlor. These Attachments and the Operating Manual (as amended, modified or supplemented from time to time) form a part of this Agreement and are incorporated herein by reference as set forth in full. Settlor and Merchant agree to the terms and conditions in the then–current Operating Manual. For example, the Operating Manual contains a description of Items subject to chargeback, certain promises and responsibilities of Merchant and other terms and conditions related to the processing of Card transactions, such as terms and conditions related to Merchant examining all Cards, obtaining authorization (for example, by “swiping” each Card) and authorization numbers for all Card transactions, and handling special situations (such as cardholder identification, sales without Cards, recovery of Cards upon request, returns and credits, and recurring transactions). Submission of Card transactions to Settlor for processing constitutes Merchant’s agreement to the terms and conditions of this Agreement and the Operating Manual and Attachments. Transactions for any non-face to face transaction (e.g., Internet, mail, telephone and preauthorized orders) are subject to special requirements, including those specified in the Operating Manual.  Merchant may not impose minimum or maximum amounts for Card transactions.  Merchant may impose surcharges for any Card transaction where the surcharges are in compliance with the Rules and state and federal laws.

Same Day Funding
“Same Day Funding” Service is available to eligible Merchants as determined by Settlor risk and underwriting standards; not all Merchants will qualify.  If an eligible Merchant elects “Same Day Funding” service, NMA shall settle batches that Merchant batches out before 7:00 am eastern time Monday through Friday on the same day that the batch cycle ends.  Same Day Funding is not available for batch cycles that conclude on Saturday and Sunday.  Settlor reserves the right to re-evaluate Merchant’s eligibility at any time and if it so chooses to discontinue the “Same Day Funding” Service.  A previously eligible Merchant will lose its eligibility to participate in “Same Day Funding” if Merchant incurs an ACH reject. Any Merchant that loses its eligibility may reapply for “Same Day Funding” one year from losing eligibility.

FEES AND RATES

For the services provided by Settlor, Merchant agrees to offer for purchase all Items that comply with this Agreement and to pay to Settlor the non-refundable fees, charges and discounts specified on the Schedule of Rates and Fees and any applicable Exhibit or Attachment, including, the MPA, amendments, or to which Settlor otherwise agrees in writing. Electronic or other submission of Items constitutes an endorsement to Settlor. Merchant authorizes Settlor to supply any endorsement on Merchant’s behalf. Merchant agrees to reimburse Settlor for the amount of any credit Items, any Items subject to Chargeback and for any and all applicable fees, penalties, assessments, charges or fines specified in this Agreement, in the Operating Manual, the Rules or imposed by any Card Association (including, without limitation, those for foreign transactions or excess Chargeback fees), plus an administrative charge. Settlor shall have the right to pass through to Merchant any increases in fees or costs due to changes in the Rules, charged by any Card Association or in anticipation of any Card Association charge or liability. Settlor reserves the right to increase rates and fees if there is any material variance from the information provided by Merchant in the MPA or other information (such as projected volume or average ticket size) upon which rates were initially determined. Rates and fees are based on qualified transactions (“Qualifications”). Rates and fees are subject to increase if such Qualifications are not met. If any fee, including the discount rate or interchange rates, charged by Card Associations is based on Qualifications, and Merchant fails to meet the requirements for reduced fees, Merchant agrees that the fee may be adjusted to the proper amount and Merchant agrees to pay the increased amount, including any additional or applicable surcharge of Settlor. Settlor may back bill Merchant for these amounts plus Settlor’s billback fee. Notwithstanding anything else to the contrary, Fees are subject to change. Settlor may adjust rates and fees to offset increased costs to Settlor to provide services hereunder. Merchant agrees to pay all taxes and other charges imposed by any governmental authority on the services provided under this Agreement. Equipment rentals include applicable taxes. Merchant agrees to reimburse Settlor for all interchange or discount costs and expenses related to the enforcement of this Agreement, including, without limitation, investigation costs, reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs, settlements, arbitration awards, Card Association fees or fines and court costs. Clearing and settlement services and availability of funds are subject to the procedures of Settlor and any respective financial institution of Settlor or Merchant. Settlor does not guarantee the timeliness of settlement including by Merchant’s depository institution. Settlor is not responsible for third party processors, networks, systems, Card Associations, settlement switches, telecommunications or other forces beyond its reasonable control. Subject to Settlor’s obligation to make payment in accordance with the terms of this Agreement, Merchant assigns to Settlor all right, title and interest in and to the Items purchased and acquired by Settlor with the right to endorse Items. Settlor may refuse to accept and purchase Items or revoke its prior acceptance for Items which do not comply with the terms of this Agreement, the Operating Manual, the other Attachments, the Rules, or applicable law or if a Cardholder disputes liability. Settlor shall deposit Items that fully comply with this Agreement no later than two banking business days after Merchant submits such Items to Settlor. All funds advanced by Settlor to Merchant for the purchase of Items are provisionally credited subject to Settlor’s right of payment here under and contingent claims for Chargebacks, adjustments, and final settlement. Settlor has the right to receive payment on all Items acquired until Chargeback, in which case, Merchant shall have the right to collect the charged back Item from its customer, provided that Settlor has been paid in full. Merchant will not attempt to collect any Items. If Merchant receives any payment, Merchant will hold it in trust for, and promptly deliver it, to Settlor. Settlor will process all Items and upon, acceptance and purchase, credit the Settlement Account for (i) the aggregate face amount of Items acquired less (ii) the aggregate face amount of credit Items, Chargebacks, refunds, disputes, billing errors, adjustments, fines, processing fees and other amounts due Settlor. At the times designated by Settlor, Settlor may deduct as a credit to the Settlement Account, or as a deduction from any amounts owed Merchant, any amounts owed to Settlor by Merchant for processing fees, Chargebacks and Card Association interchange fees and assessments for all Items acquired during the applicable preceding period(s). Where Settlor charges a fee on a per Item (whether sales or credit) basis, the fee will be based on the applicable fee multiplied by the number of transactions. Where Settlor charges a fee based on a discount rate, the face amount of Card transactions is multiplied by the discount rate to determine the applicable fee. Fees shall become due and accrue at the time the Item is submitted to Settlor by Merchant. Settlor may delay or divert payment as provided in this Agreement.

SETTLEMENT ACCOUNT

Merchant agrees to designate and maintain an account (the “Settlement Account”) that accepts automated clearing house (“ACH”) transfers (which does not have to be a separate account, but may be a general or commingled account) with a balance of available funds sufficient to accommodate Merchant’s obligations under this Agreement, either with Merchant Bank, or at Merchant Bank’s election, at an institution acceptable to Merchant Bank. If there are not sufficient available funds in the Settlement Account to cover Merchant’s obligations hereunder, Settlor may make deductions from payments due Merchant from Card transactions without notice. Merchant agrees to promptly pay Settlor on demand for all amounts owed under this Agreement.

RESERVE ACCOUNT

At any time and for any reason (including, without limitation, notice of termination or actual termination of this Agreement, unauthorized transactions, cessation of business, insolvency, excessive Chargebacks, suspected or actual fraud, or competing claims regarding funds generated via Merchant’s processing activities), Settlor may require Merchant to establish a reserve account, increase the funding amount of an existing reserve account, or provide other security to pay Chargeback amounts and other amounts due or anticipated to become due hereunder to Settlor. Settlor shall notify Merchant either orally or in writing of the establishment or increased funding of the Reserve Account, except in the event of (a) notice of termination or actual termination of this Agreement, (b) unauthorized transactions, (c) cessation of business, (d) suspected or actual breach or default, or cessation of processing under this Agreement. If notice is required, Settlor may notify Merchant either before or after the establishment or increased funding of the Reserve Account, but not later than three (3) business days after the establishment or increased funding of the Reserve Account. Merchant agrees to deposit and maintain in such non-interest bearing accounts, at Settlor’s sole discretion, either (a) with Merchant Bank (which Merchant Bank may commingle with other funds) or, at Merchant Bank’s election (b) at a financial institution designated by Merchant Bank, such additional funds or other security as Settlor may require. Settlor shall specify in its notice, in Settlor’s sole discretion, the amounts to be funded and the timing for establishment or increased funding of such Reserve Account; provided, Settlor may require that such Reserve Account be funded (whether initially or due to increased funding requirements) immediately (including, without limitation, in instances of unauthorized transactions, suspected or actual fraud or termination for cause). Settlor may without notice also fund the Reserve Account (whether initially or due to increased funding requirements) with deductions from payments due Merchant from Card transactions or by a charge against the Settlement Account or any other available account of Merchant, including, without limitation, amounts in accounts at affiliated institutions. Settlor will hold or be entitled to hold the funds in the Reserve Account until such time as Settlor is satisfied that Merchant has no further obligations to Settlor under this Agreement. Merchant’s failure to fund the Reserve Account (whether initially or due to increased funding requirements) may result in immediate termination of this Agreement at Settlor’s sole discretion.

SETTLEMENT AND RESERVE ACCOUNTS

Merchant authorizes Settlor to initiate and make deposits and withdrawals from the Settlement Account, the Reserve Account and any account to which Settlor has access which may be transmitted electronically or accessed through ACH, or to delay or place holds on any amounts in such accounts in order to protect any of Settlor’s rights and to obtain payment of any amount due Settlor under this Agreement, including, without limitation, fees, charges and discount rates, without any further notice or demand. Merchant agrees that any depository bank shall comply with instructions originated by Settlor directing dispositions of the funds in those accounts without any further consent required by Merchant unless required by applicable law. If required, Merchant authorizes Settlor to enter into any agreement with any depository institution for this purpose, including on behalf of Merchant, to effect the security interest granted to Settlor below. Merchant agrees to enter into any such agreement. Merchant will confirm to any institution holding any account of Merchant the existence of this authorization and direct it to comply with Settlor’s directions. Merchant will not change any such confirmation or direction without Settlor’s prior written consent. Any such confirmation, direction or authorization will remain in effect for at least 180 days after termination of this Agreement or, in Settlor’s discretion, longer to process trailing activity. Settlor may, without notice, delay or stop making payments to Merchant or setoff, retain or otherwise hold (or direct Merchant’s financial institution to place a hold on) any funds (i) to protect itself against losses, Chargebacks, any amounts due or to become due under this Agreement, (ii) based on Merchant’s financial condition or (iii) in the event Merchant submits transactions that are not authorized or do not conform to this Agreement, the Operating Manual, the Rules or applicable law, including transactions subject to verification by any Card Association or cardholder. Merchant agrees that Settlor shall not be liable for any losses, either direct or indirect, due to holding of funds, suspension of processing, termination of this Agreement or any dishonor of any Item by a financial institution or Merchant’s depository bank as a result of these actions. Merchant agrees to promptly notify Settlor of any discrepancy within thirty (30) days of receipt of any statement regarding Merchant’s accounts, or such statements will be deemed to have been accepted as accurate by Merchant. Any account is subject to review, verification, acceptance and audit by Settlor. Settlor may return Items to Merchant for correction.

Merchant hereby grants to Settlor a lien and security interest in all of Merchant’s right, title and interest in or to any of the following assets or properties: (i) the Settlement Account, (ii) the Reserve Account, (iii) all Items (including future Items), (iv) any rights to receive credits or payments under this Agreement and (v) all deposits and other property of Merchant that Settlor or its affiliates possess or maintain (including all proceeds of the foregoing). Merchant shall execute, acknowledge or deliver any documents or take any actions Settlor may from time to time request to better assure, preserve, protect, perfect, maintain or enforce this security interest. To the extent permitted by law, Merchant irrevocably authorizes Settlor to file any financing statements (at Merchant’s expense) in any relevant jurisdiction or any other documents or instruments related to this security interest. Settlor shall also be the beneficiary of any insurance, surety bond or similar indemnity or guaranty (whether voluntary or required by law) of Merchant or for the benefit of Merchant’s customers, and Merchant hereby assigns to Settlor the rights to make claims or receive the benefits thereof with respect to Card transactions hereunder. Merchant represents and warrants that (i) Merchant has good and valid rights and title to the property described herein, (ii) Merchant has full power and authority to grant to Settlor the security interest pursuant hereto and to execute, deliver and perform its obligations in accordance with the terms of this Agreement, without the consent or approval of any other person or entity, (iii) no other person or entity has a security interest or lien in any of the property described herein and (iv) this security interest is a first lien security interest and secures Merchant’s obligations to Settlor under this Agreement. Settlor shall have all rights of a secured party and Merchant must obtain the prior written consent of Settlor before granting any subsequent security interest or lien in the property described herein. Merchant agrees that it is Merchant’s intent that these accounts and secured property shall to the extent allowed by applicable law not be subject to any preference, claim, or stay by reason of any bankruptcy or insolvency law. Merchant agrees to act consistently with the understanding that said accounts and secured property under this Agreement are free of all such preferences, claims or stays by reason of and as allowed by any such law.

CHARGEBACKS

Settlor shall have the right, at any time and without notice, to chargeback to Merchant the full amount of any Item designated by Settlor or a Card Association or Card issuing bank or which fails to meet the requirements of this Agreement, the Operating Manual, the Rules or applicable law (“Chargeback”) and to deduct, divert, withdraw or setoff the full amount of any such Chargeback from (a) payments due Merchant from Card transactions, (b) the Settlement Account, (c) the Reserve Account or (d) any other account or amounts due Merchant. Merchant agrees to be liable for and pay Settlor for all Chargebacks. Merchant agrees to pay (a) the full amount of any Chargeback, including any fine or fee associated therewith and (b) the costs and expenses of Settlor (including, without limitation, administrative charges, investigations, retrieval and legal fees and costs) related to any Item subject to (i) legal process (including reproduction of records), (ii) a bankruptcy or insolvency proceeding or (iii) Chargeback. If Settlor or any Card Association determines or suspects any Item to be questionable, such Item is subject to Chargeback. Settlor shall retain any discount or fee related to a Chargeback transaction. Disputes relating to Chargebacks shall be governed by the Rules, including Merchant’s obligation to provide required documentation. If any of the Card Associations assess a fine in connection with Merchant’s activities, including, without limitation, due to Chargebacks or credits/returns that exceed the industry standards or constitute excessive Chargebacks under the Operating Manual or Rules, Merchant shall be obligated to pay such fine, plus any other applicable charges. In addition, Merchant agrees to pay any fines or other amounts imposed by any Card Association for its activities, including without limitation, Chargebacks. Merchant agrees to obtain authorization for all Card transactions. Any Card transaction not properly authorized is made with full recourse to Merchant. Merchant acknowledges and agrees that authorization for a Card transaction (i) indicates only the availability of credit at the time of the authorization, (ii) does not warrant that the person presenting the Card is the rightful cardholder, (iii) is not an unconditional guaranty of payment to Merchant and (iv) does not guaranty that any Card transaction will not be subject to Chargeback. Merchant shall not submit a transaction that is an attempt to collect a Chargeback or which represents the financing of an existing obligation to Merchant, including a dishonored check.

RISK MONITORING

Settlor may monitor Merchant’s Card transactions for risk management purposes. If, compared to information contained in the MPA, such as annual volume (measured on an annual, prorate monthly or other basis), average ticket size, number of transactions, actual activity differs, or Settlor notices other unusual or suspicious activity (including, without limitation, unauthorized transactions, excessive Chargebacks, suspected or actual fraud, and/or breach or default), Settlor is authorized to take protective actions including closing terminals, blocking transactions, holding funds (including, without limitation, charging additional discount rates and/or fees as a reserve or additional reserve), and investigating these matters. Merchant agrees to hold Settlor and its affiliates harmless from and against any and all claims related to risk monitoring.

MERCHANT OBLIGATIONS

Advertising and Promotion
Unless waived by a Card Association or Settlor, Merchant agrees to adequately display the most current Card emblems, decals and other materials to inform the public that Card(s) that Merchant elects to accept pursuant to this Agreement will be honored as required by the Rules. Merchant shall only indicate that Cards are accepted and shall not indicate that any Card Association endorses Merchant’s merchandise or services. While this Agreement is in effect, Merchant shall make no other use of the emblems or marks of any Card Association or Settlor without Settlor’s prior written consent. Any use of these emblems or marks shall be in compliance with the requirements of the Rules and the specifications of the Card Associations and/or Settlor. Merchant shall immediately discontinue use of all such marks, emblems or names upon (a) direction of Settlor or any Card Association or (b) termination of this Agreement. If Merchant has requested signage for the purpose of indicating their acceptance of Debit Cards, Merchant must display such signage for a minimum of three months.

Covenants Warranties Representations
Merchant represents, warrants and covenants that (a) it has not been terminated by any other Card processor or bank with respect to the processing of Card transactions; (b) no Card transaction shall be for the purpose of obtaining or providing cash or a cash advance to Merchant or to Merchant’s employees, owners or customers; (c) Merchant shall not engage in accepting mail orders or telephone orders or engage in Internet or electronic commerce transactions for processing of Card transactions pursuant to this Agreement without Settlor’s prior written approval; and (d) all Card transactions shall be originated by Merchant in a bonafide transaction in which Merchant has sold or leased goods or services directly to customers who have presented their Card for use in payment thereof. As a condition to transmitting any Item to Settlor, Merchant hereby continuously warrants, covenants and represents compliance with all of the representations, warranties and covenants contained in this Agreement, the Operating Manual, the Rules, and applicable law, rules and regulations. Settlor may charge back any Item at any time where a breach of any representation, warranty or covenant exists with respect to such Item. Merchant shall not submit any Item which is not a bonafide, direct sale transaction between the Merchant and the cardholder in the Merchant’s ordinary course of business (Merchant shall not submit any Card transactions arising from or with an agent or representative of Merchant unless approved in advance in writing by Settlor), or which is (a) a transaction between a cardholder and an entity or source other than Merchant, (b) a fraudulent transaction or (c) a duplicate transaction. Merchant shall not submit a credit Item for which there is no corresponding sales Item. A credit Item shall not exceed the amount of the corresponding sales Item. Merchant has and shall retain all required licenses and qualifications to sell its products and services and perform its obligations under this Agreement and shall comply with applicable law. Merchant is responsible for the actions of its employees, agents and representatives (whether or not acting within the scope of their duties). Merchant shall provide business and financial information promptly upon Settlor’s request. Merchant shall notify Settlor at least thirty (30) days in advance of any material change in name, jurisdiction, type of organization, location, ownership, nature of business (including, without limitation, monthly or annual processing volume), products and/or services offered, marketing of Merchant’s products or services, adverse changes (e.g., going out of business or deteriorating financial condition) or any change in information furnished on any application or other information submitted to Settlor. Merchant agrees to abide by Settlor’s or Settlor’s service provider’s terms and conditions with respect to Special Programs. Merchant shall immediately notify Settlor upon the commencement of any voluntary or involuntary bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings. Merchant represents and warrants that the Tax Filing Name (“TFN”), Taxpayer Identification Number (“TIN”), and Federal Tax ID furnished on the Merchant’s application to Settlor are true and correct. Merchant acknowledges and agrees that if either the TFN or Federal Tax ID or TIN is incorrect, Settlor may withhold income tax from the settlement amounts due Merchant and assess a fee.

Electronic Commerce
Processing of Card Transactions through websites, over the Internet or by similar electronic means of commerce requires disclosure by Merchant and explicit written approval of Settlor. Merchant shall be solely responsible for security and maintaining confidentiality of Card transactions processed by means of electronic commerce. Merchant shall be required by the Card Associations to have Merchant’s website contain certain information. Merchant shall be solely responsible for utilizing any and all fraud prevention options offered by any third party or web software vendor selected by Merchant, and Merchant agrees to activate all such fraud prevention options. Settlor shall not be responsible for security or fraud in electronic commerce transactions or for any third party providing electronic commerce services to Merchant. Merchant shall disclose all third parties that have access to cardholder data. Chargebacks or losses from fraudulent activity related to electronic commerce (including, without limitation, website hacking) are the complete, full and sole responsibility of Merchant. Merchant agrees to these requirements. Merchant agrees to indemnify, defend and hold Settlor and its parent companies, subsidiaries and affiliates (including, without limitation, the officers, directors, employees, attorneys, shareholders, representatives, and agents of all of the foregoing) harmless from and against any and all liabilities, judgments, arbitration awards, settlements, actions, suits, claims, demands, losses, damages, costs (including, but not limited to, court costs and out of pocket costs and expenses), expenses, litigation expenses, and attorneys’ fees, including, but not limited to, attorneys’ fees incurred in any and every type of suit, proceeding, or action, including, but not limited to, bankruptcy proceedings, in connection with, by virtue of, or arising from, either directly or indirectly, electronic commerce activities of Merchant or losses and Chargebacks resulting there from.

Future Delivery
Merchant agrees that it shall not submit Items to Settlor in connection with the sales of goods or services for future delivery to customers or custom made goods without the prior, express written consent of Settlor. If Merchant is so approved for future delivery, Merchant agrees to maintain operations, finances and capital sufficient to provide for the delivery of such goods and services at the agreed upon future date, without reliance upon any proceeds resulting from Items previously submitted for processing under this Agreement.

System and Terminals
Merchant agrees to use terminals and related software systems or equipment acceptable to Settlor. Merchant may, but is not obligated to, obtain equipment from Settlor. If Merchant does, Merchant agrees to pay the fees specified in the Schedule of Rates and Fees for such equipment and accept the terms stated in the Operating Manual with respect to the equipment. Merchant authorizes Settlor to make payment for any equipment utilized by Merchant to Settlor, any other seller or lessor through ACH deduction from the Settlement Account. Upon cessation of processing prior to the end of the term of this Agreement, Merchant agrees to pay all uncollected or remaining rental equipment fees. If rented equipment is not returned within ten (10) days of cessation of processing or upon termination of this Agreement, Merchant agrees to pay Settlor the value of the equipment not returned.

Software
If Merchant incorporates an interface between software solutions for data transfer or any other means, it shall be the Merchant’s sole and exclusive responsibility to create, maintain, and support such interface and Merchant shall defend, indemnify, and hold Settlor harmless from and against any and all demands, claims, losses, liabilities, damages, costs and expense of every kind and nature, including, but not limited to, claims of infringement, attorney’s fees, court costs, and litigation expenses, arising from, in connection with, or by virtue of, either directly or indirectly, the use of any such interface. Any such interface must be fully compatible with the processing systems and networks established and used by Settlor. Merchant agrees that Settlor is not liable for damages of any type or kind caused, by virtue of, or in connection with, either directly or indirectly, the use, malfunction, or failure of any interface utilized by Merchant to operate or function in whole or in part and that Settlor has no responsibility to service, maintain or repair any interface utilized by Merchant. In the event that Settlor elects in its sole and exclusive discretion to implement any interfaces elected by Merchant (it being understood that Settlor has no such obligation to do so), if the implementation process requires consulting assistance from Settlor, the Merchant shall be billed at Settlor’s then current rates which shall be calculated from the time the consultation assistance began. Further, any consultation assistance provided by Settlor shall not negate in any way the non-liability on the part of Settlor with respect to the utilization by Merchant of any interface.

Exclusivity
During the term of this Agreement, Merchant shall not engage or use any other Visa, MasterCard, American Express or other Card Association Card processor or servicer in the United States except Settlor, and Settlor shall be the sole provider of the types of services provided hereunder for all locations of Merchant.

Association Regulations
Merchant agrees to be bound by the requirements and terms of the Operating Manual and Rules of all applicable Card Associations, as amended, modified, supplemented, updated or replaced from time to time. As required by the Rules, Settlor is authorized to inform any Card Association or other relevant party of the name of Merchant and its principals if this Agreement is terminated by Settlor. Merchant understands that the Card Associations publish a list of names (including principals) of merchants terminated for cause. Merchant understands that being placed on this list could affect its or its principals’ ability to obtain credit card processing in the future. Merchant agrees to indemnify Settlor and its affiliates (pursuant to the provisions hereof) and any Card Association from any and all claims that Merchant or any other person may have as a result of Merchant or its principals being placed on any such list. Merchant represents and warrants that neither it nor its principals have been placed on any such list previously. Merchant agrees to retain and retrieve records as required by the Operating Manual and Rules and to allow Settlor to examine them. If Merchant Bank sponsors Merchant in to any debit or other Card program, such sponsorship shall extend only as long as the term of this Agreement. Settlor and Merchant hereby designate the Card Associations as third party beneficiaries under this Agreement having the right to enforce the terms of this Agreement against Merchant.

Indemnification
In addition to any other indemnities in this Agreement (including, without limitation, the Operating Manual) or in the Rules, Merchant agrees to indemnify, defend and hold Merchant Bank and Processor, and each of their respective parent companies, subsidiaries and affiliates (including, without limitation, the respective officers, directors, employees, attorneys, shareholders, representatives and agents of all of the foregoing) harmless from and against any and all liabilities, judgments, arbitration awards, settlements, actions, suits, claims, demands, losses, damages, costs (including, but not limited to, court costs and out of pocket costs and expenses), expenses of any and every type, litigation expenses, and attorneys’ fees, including, but not limited to, attorneys’ fees incurred in any and every type of suit, proceeding, or action, including but not limited to, bankruptcy proceedings, in connection with, by virtue of, or arising from, either directly or indirectly: (a) an Item that does not conform to the requirements of this Agreement, the Operating Manual, the Rules or applicable laws; (b) any Card transaction or any act or omission of Merchant in connection with a cardholder; (c) Merchant’s breach or default or an alleged breach or default of or under any term, covenant, condition, representation, warranty, obligation, undertaking, promise or agreement contained in this Agreement (including the Operating Manual and Attachments and the MPA) or in any agreement (whether oral or written) with any cardholder, any agreement with any Card Association, or in any other agreement with Settlor, any breach or threatened breach by Merchant of the Rules or any violation by Merchant of laws, rules and regulations applicable to Merchant; (d) the rescission, cancellation or avoidance of any Card transaction or Item, by operation of law, adjudication or otherwise; (e) any claim, counterclaim, complaint, dispute or defense, including, without limitation claims brought by Merchant, whether or not well founded, with respect to this Agreement, a Card transaction or any Special Programs; (f) damages, including, without limitation, those for death or injury caused by the good or service purchased with the Card; or (g) for all web based, Internet or electronic commerce transactions, including Merchant’s insecure transmission of Card transaction data and/or storage of cardholder information. For purposes of this Agreement, including the foregoing indemnities, Merchant is responsible and liable for the acts and omissions of its employees, agents, and representatives (whether or not acting within the scope of their duties).

SETTLOR LIABILITY

SETTLOR SHALL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE OR LIABLE FOR ANY ACTION TAKEN BY SETTLOR (OR THE RESULTS THEREOF), WHICH IS AUTHORIZED BY THIS AGREEMENT. SETTLOR MAKES NO WARRANTIES EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR STATUTORY IN CONNECTION WITH THIS AGREEMENT AND, WITHOUT LIMITING THE FOREGOING, SETTLOR DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. SETTLOR MAY UTILIZE SYSTEMS OF OTHERS, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, CARD ASSOCIATIONS AND PROCESSORS. SETTLOR SHALL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE OR LIABLE FOR ANY INFORMATION PROVIDED BY OTHERS OR FOR THE USE OF ANY SYSTEM OR EQUIPMENT OF SETTLOR OR OTHERS OR FOR ANY CIRCUMSTANCES BEYOND ITS CONTROL. IN NO EVENT SHALL SETTLOR BE LIABLE FOR LOST PROFITS, CONSEQUENTIAL, SPECIAL, PUNITIVE, EXEMPLARY, INCIDENTAL OR SIMILAR DAMAGES EVEN IF SETTLOR HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. THE SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE LIABILITY OF SETTLOR AND REMEDY OF MERCHANT HEREUNDER SHALL BE GENERAL MONEY DAMAGES FOR SETTLOR’S WILLFUL MISCONDUCT NOT TO EXCEED THE AMOUNT OF FEES, WHICH SETTLOR HAS CHARGED, ON THE ITEM OR FOR THE SERVICE, SUBJECT TO CLAIM OR DISPUTE, REGARDLESS OF THE CHARACTERIZATION OF SUCH CLAIM OR ACTION. SETTLOR SHALL HAVE NO LIABILITY FOR ANY TAXES ARISING UNDER THIS AGREEMENT (WHICH LIABILITY WILL BE THAT OF MERCHANT), OTHER THAN TAXES BASED ON SETTLOR’S INCOME.

SPECIAL PROGRAMS

From time to time, Settlor may offer, directly or from other service providers, other services or programs to Merchant (collectively, “Special Programs”). If Merchant elects and Settlor approves Merchant to receive any Special Program(s), Merchant agrees to the terms, conditions and fees specified by Settlor and any provider of those services with respect to all such Special Program(s). In order to receive some Special Programs, Merchant may need to enter into a separate agreement with the provider of services. All terms and conditions of this Agreement apply with respect to all Special Programs. Merchant agrees to pay fees for all Special Programs as specified in the Schedule of Rates and Fees (attached to the MPA and incorporated in this Agreement) or as provided to Merchant by Settlor or by any third party service provider as the rates and fees for those programs. Merchant holds Settlor and its affiliates harmless from any and all claims related to the Special Programs. Some special programs include:

Gift Card.
With Settlor’s approval, Merchant may utilize Settlor’s “Gift Card” Program. All Gift Card transactions using Settlor’s Gift Card Program must be processed on point of sale equipment certified as acceptable for loading, redeeming, and performing balance inquiries on the Gift Card Program’s Gift Cards. Integration of the Gift Card Program to any proprietary or VAR software is the responsibility of the Merchant. Collection of all amounts loaded onto Gift Cards at the point of sale shall be the responsibility of the Merchant at the time the Gift Card is sold to the consumer. All Gift Cards loaded and sold to consumers remain valid as long as a balance is maintained on the Gift Card. All unredeemed amounts through the sale of Gift Cards are the property of the Merchant. The Merchant shall be responsible for adhering to applicable law, including state escheat laws, before claiming unredeemed Gift Card amounts.

Electronic Check.
With Settlor’s approval, all electronic check transactions using Settlor’s eCheck Program must be processed on point- of-sale equipment certified as acceptable for entry and collection of consumer paper draft data for conversion to ACH file format. Conversion capability is limited to consumer paper draft Items as defined by National Automated Clearinghouse Association (“NACHA”) Operating Rules. Settlor assumes no liability for checks accepted by Merchant for check conversion that are not defined as acceptable by the NACHA Operating Rules. Items accepted at the point of sale converted to electronic transactions must be deposited within seventy-two (72) hours of acceptance. Merchant agrees that the eCheck Program is strictly a conversion program and offers no verification, guaranty, or warranty that funds are available in the account on which any Item converted to an electronic transaction is drawn. Settlor shall have no liability in the event funds are not available for any reason.

Returned Item Program.
With Settlor’s prior approval, Merchant may utilize Settlor’s returned Item representment program, provided Merchant complies with NACHA rules (including, but not limited to, posting a sign at point of sale and obtaining signed customer authorizations) and applicable law.

GENERAL PROVISIONS

Amendment
Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, this Agreement, the Operating Manual and other Attachments may be amended by Settlor at any time by giving written notice to Merchant effective on the date stated in the notice. The Rules may be amended by the Card Associations at any time. Submission of any Items to Settlor on or after the effective date of any amendment to this Agreement, the Operating Manual, the other Attachments, or the Rules constitutes acceptance of any such amendment.

Assignment
This Agreement shall be binding upon Merchant and Settlor and their respective heirs, successors and assigns. Neither this Agreement nor Merchant’s right to receive payments pursuant to this Agreement shall be assigned by Merchant without Settlor’s express prior written consent and any purported assignment without such consent shall be void. Settlor may assign this Agreement to any affiliate or successor that is conducting a merchant acquiring business upon the giving of notice to Merchant.

Audits
Without limiting the generality of the Operating Manual, Merchant shall provide financial statements and other information concerning Merchant (including its affiliates), Merchant’s business and Merchant’s compliance with the terms and provisions of this Agreement as Settlor may reasonably request. Merchant authorizes Settlor to obtain from third parties financial and credit information relating to Merchant in connection with this Agreement and Settlor’s continuing evaluation of Merchant. Upon request, Merchant shall provide Settlor or its representatives reasonable access to Merchant’s facilities and records for the purpose of performing any inspection and/or copying of Merchant’s books and/or records deemed appropriate by Settlor.

Choice of Jurisdiction
Settlor and Merchant hereby agree that any action or dispute arising from, or related to, this Agreement shall only be litigated in an appropriate federal or state court located in Clark County, Nevada.

Choice of Law
This Agreement is a contract made under, governed by and construed in accordance with Nevada law.

Confidentiality
Merchant agrees to keep confidential (and store in a secured area with limited access) and shall not copy, publish, sell, exchange, disclose or provide to others or use any information, documents or data, provided or disclosed to Merchant, or any account information (including account numbers) related to Cards or cardholders for any purpose other than performing Merchant’s obligations under this Agreement. Merchant shall not retain or store magnetic stripe data after a Card transaction has been authorized. If Merchant stores any electronically captured signature of a cardholder, Merchant may not reproduce such signature except upon specific request of Settlor. Merchant shall comply with all Rules related to the foregoing, including, without limitation, the Cardholder Information Security Program (“CISP”), the Site Data Protection Service (“SDP”), the American Express Data Security Requirements (“DSR”), the Discover Information Security and Compliance Program (“DISC”), the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (“PCI DSS”), the Payment Application Data Security Standard (“PADSS”), and the PCI Pin Entry Device Requirement (“PCIPED”).”In addition, Merchant shall not disclose to any third party and shall retain in strictest confidence all information and data belonging to or relating to the business of Settlor (including without limitation, the terms of this Agreement), and shall safeguard such information and data by using the same degree of care that Merchant uses to protect its own confidential information.

Merchant shall not use Settlor’s name or marks without Settlor’s prior written consent and, if consented to, Merchant shall obtain no right, title, or interest in Settlor’s names or marks.

Merchant authorizes Settlor to obtain from and share all financial, credit, sales, experience and other information about Merchant with its affiliates, the Card Associations and with others as otherwise allowed by applicable law. Merchant acknowledges that Settlor or any of the Card Associations may use such information (i) to screen and/or monitor Merchant in connection with Card marketing and administrative purposes and (ii) to promote such Card Association, perform analytics and create reports, and for any other lawful business purposes, including marketing purposes; provided, Merchant may elect to opt out of such marketing communications in accordance with the opt-out procedures provided in such communications. Merchant authorizes Settlor to contact or communicate with Merchant’s customers with respect to Card transactions.

In the event Settlor provides (either directly or indirectly), software, systems or other proprietary information (collectively “Software”) to Merchant, in addition to any terms and conditions specified to Merchant for the use thereof (to which Merchant agrees by using such Software), Merchant agrees (i) to keep such Software strictly confidential and secure as Merchant would its own proprietary information and require any employees or agents with access to the Software to agree to abide by the provisions of this subsection (and Merchant agrees to be responsible for any breaches hereof by them), (ii) not to use or disclose such Software except for purposes allowed by this Agreement or by the terms and conditions of such Software, (iii) that Merchant acquires no proprietary interest in the Software, (iv) the terms and conditions of this Agreement apply to the Software, (v) to indemnify, defend, and hold Settlor and its parent companies, subsidiaries, and affiliates (including, without limitation, the respective officers, directors, employees, attorneys, shareholders, representatives, and agents of all of the foregoing) and hold each of them harmless from and against any and all demands, claims, loss, liability, damages, costs and expenses (including attorney fees and costs) whatsoever related to, in connection with or arising from, either directly or indirectly, the Software or the use or results thereof, (vi) not to infringe, copy, reverse engineer, disassemble or try to determine the source code with respect to the Software, and (vii) to cease to use the Software upon termination of this Agreement and to return or destroy it as directed by Settlor.

Effective Date
This Agreement shall not be effective as to the obligations of Settlor hereunder until accepted by Merchant Bank and Processor.

Entire Agreement
This Agreement (including the Operating Manual and any Attachments, as the same may be amended from time to time), the Rules, as the same may be amended from time to time, and the MPA, set forth the entire understanding of Settlor on the one hand and Merchant on the other hand with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersede any prior oral or written communications. This Agreement may not be amended, modified or waived except as provided above or otherwise by a writing signed by Merchant, Processor, and Merchant Bank.

Facsimile and Electronic Transmissions
Settlor and Merchant agree that facsimile transmissions are acceptable for purposes of this Agreement and that facsimile signatures shall be deemed to be originals and have the full force and effect thereof. The Federal E-Sign Act (HR-1714) on Final Digital Signature provides that electronic signatures on documents hold equivalent legal status as traditional handwritten signatures. Settlor and Merchant agree that electronic signatures and transmissions may be utilized and shall be deemed to be originals.

Force Majeure
The parties to this Agreement shall be released from liability hereunder for failure to perform any of the obligations herein where such failure to perform occurs by reason of any force majeure event, including, without limitation, act of God ,fire, flood, storm, earthquake, tidal wave, communication failure, sabotage, war, military or terrorist operation, national emergency, mechanical or electronic break down, civil commotion, or the order requisition, request or recommendation of any government agency or acting governmental authority or either party’s compliance therewith, or governmental regulation or priority or any other cause beyond either party’s reasonable control whether similar or dissimilar to such causes.

Notices
Except as otherwise provided herein, notices shall be given in writing, addressed to the party to receive the notice at its address listed on the signature page of this Agreement, or to such other place as either party shall hereafter designate, by personal delivery, first class mail (postage prepaid) or by overnight courier or facsimile. Notices shall be deemed given when either mailed, delivered or receipt confirmed respectively.

Severability
The provisions of this Agreement are severable and if any one or more of such provisions, or the application thereof to any person, are determined to be invalid, void or unenforceable, in whole or in part, the remaining provisions of this Agreement, and such provisions as applied to other persons, shall remain binding and enforceable.

Survival
All of Settlor’s rights and remedies under this Agreement shall be cumulative to any other rights and remedies afforded to Settlor by law or equity, and Settlor’s rights and remedies may be exercised concurrently, independently, or successively under this Agreement.

Validity
If any provision of this Agreement is void or unenforceable, such determination shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision of this Agreement.

Waiver
No failure or delay by Settlor in exercising any power, right or remedy under this Agreement shall operate as a waiver. All waivers by Settlor must be in writing and signed by Settlor.

Waiver of Jury Trial
Settlor and Merchant hereby waive any right to a trial by jury in any action concerning any rights under this Agreement, to the full extent allowable by law.

Card Brand Fines
NMA will pass-through all fines levied by Card Brands to the Merchant.  Additionally, NMA reserves the right to charge the Merchant administrative fees associated with settling Card Brand fines.

AMERICAN EXPRESS

High CV Merchants
Merchant acknowledges that it may be converted from the OptBlue Program with Settlor to a direct American Express Card acceptance relationship with American Express if and when it becomes a “High CV Merchant” pursuant to OptBlue Program eligibility requirements. Upon such conversion, (i) Merchant will be bound by American Express’ then-current card acceptance agreement; and (ii) American Express will set pricing and other fees payable by Merchant for American Express Card acceptance.

American Express Opt-Out
Merchant may opt out of accepting American Express Cards at any time without directly or indirectly affecting its rights to accept other Cards pursuant to this Agreement.

ISO/MSP
Merchant understands and agrees that other than NMA, any independent sales organization or member service provider (each, an “ISO/MSP”) that solicits or provides services to Merchant is an independent contractor and is not an agent of Evolve. Any ISO/MSP must comply with the Rules. Merchant must notify Settlor of its use of any agent that will have access to cardholder data. No ISO/MSP has any authority to (i) make representations on behalf of Settlor; (ii) bind Settlor or (iii) execute this Agreement or alter its terms. Settlor is not responsible or liable for the acts or omissions of the ISO/MSP.

Merchant Processing Agreement v. 2022-05-01

 

Schedule of Rates and Fees:


Bank Reject Fee (Per Item) $35.00
Dial Pay Voice Authorization Fee $1.75
ARU Fee $1.75
PCI Non-Compliance $45
PCI Compliance $6.95
Micros Transaction Fee $0.10
Guardian Monthly $15.00
Guardian Tokenization TXN $0.20
Multipass Monthly $5.00
Multipass TXN Fee $0.05
TSEP Monthly $5.00
TSEP TXN Fee $0.20
TSYS Guardian FPE Term $15.00
Webpass Monthly $10.00
Dial Pay Admin $0.50
Dial Pay IVR Auth $1.75
Dial Pay Referral Auth $5.00
Return/Failed TXN Fee $0.25
PayPal Part Fee Pass through Card Brand Fee
PayPal Part Rate Pass through Card Brand Fee
Level III Purch Card TXN Fee $0.20000
Debit Auth $0.10000
Debit Capture $0.01500
EBT Cash Disbursement Purch. $0.03750
EBT CAP $0.05000
EBT Food Stamp Purchase $0.03750
EBT Non Purchase $0.10000
EBT TXN Auth $0.10000
MAS Worked CB $30.00
Individual Plan – Clearing/Settlement TXN Fee $0.03750
Individual Plan – Ind. TXN Plan $0.01500
Disputes/Arbitration Per Item $30.00
Mailing Fees Per Item Pass through expense
MAS Reversal – Merlin Per Item $15.00
Prearb Dispute vs. Allocation Per Item $1.95
1099K Monthly Per Item $1.75
Risk Management Per TXN $0.10
High Risk Management Per Month $199.00,as applicable
High Risk Management Rate Increase 3.95%
Quickbooks Plugin $10.00
Site Survey $100.00
Mobile Per TXN Fee $100.00
3rd Party Vendor Agreement Verification $25.00
Secret Shopping Fee $100.00
Non-qualified TXN $0.10
Chargeback Interception
Alerts $45 / Occurrence
Chargeback Reversals $5.00 / ea
Gateway Service Fees
Setup $35
Monthly $10
Txn Fee $0.25
Mystery Shopping Fee $100 / occurrence
Representment Fee $8
Post Termination Refunds $10
Member Profile Change $25
Third Party Agreement Verification $25
Site Survey $100 (at the time of activation and only when applicable)
Account Update Fee $25
Reserve Account Management Fee $250/mo

Administrative Risk Reserve Transaction Fee

$2.50 / Transaction
PULSE*
Pulse Debit Network Annual Fee $29.00
STAR*
Star Debit Network Annual Fee $29.00
NYCE*
Nyce Debit Network Annual Fee $29.00
ACCEL/EXCHANGE*
Accel/Exchange Debit Network Annual Fee $29.00
AMERICAN EXPRESS®️*
Network Fee Pass through Card Brand Fee
Non-Swiped Transaction Fee Pass through Card Brand Fee
Inbound Fee Pass through Card Brand Fee
Assessment Fee Pass through Card Brand Fee
Data Quality Fee Pass through Card Brand Fee
Excessive Chargeback Pass through Card Brand Fee
Merchant Access Pass through Card Brand Fee
Non-Compliance Pass through Card Brand Fee
CVC2 Pass through Card Brand Fee
VISA*
Acquirer Processing Fee (NAPF Credit) Pass through Card Brand Fee
International Acquirer SVC Fee Pass through Card Brand Fee
International Acquirer SVC Fee Multicurrency Pass through Card Brand Fee
International Acquirer SVC Fee SNG Cash Pass through Card Brand Fee
International Acquirer SVC Fee SNG Currency Pass through Card Brand Fee
International Auth Verification Pass through Card Brand Fee
Cash Advance Fee (ISA) Pass through Card Brand Fee
Intl SVC Sales Pass through Card Brand Fee
Misuse of Auth Fee Pass through Card Brand Fee
Zero Floor Limit Fee Pass through Card Brand Fee
Credit and Debit Assessment Fee Pass through Card Brand Fee
Transaction Integrity Fee Pass through Card Brand Fee
Assessment Fee Pass through Card Brand Fee
US Acquirer Service Fee (Credit) Pass through Card Brand Fee
Acquirer Credit Voucher Fee (Credit) Pass through Card Brand Fee
Acquirer Credit Voucher $0.03950
Acquirer Processing Fee (NAPF Debit) Pass through Card Brand Fee
Acquirer Credit Voucher Fee (Debit) Pass through Card Brand Fee
Acquirer Debit Voucher $0.03950
US Acquirer Service Fee (Debit) Pass through Card Brand Fee
Network Fee CP (Card Present) Varies based on # of locations
Network Fee CNP (Card Not Present) Varies based on CNP volume
AP IASF I Pass through Card Brand Fee
Base II Transmission Pass through Card Brand Fee
FANF CP/CNP Pass through Card Brand Fee
LAC IAF Base Pass through Card Brand Fee
LAC IAF Enhanced Pass through Card Brand Fee
US IASF III Pass through Card Brand Fee
US IASF IV Pass through Card Brand Fee
AP IAF Cash Pass through Card Brand Fee
AP IAF PUR Pass through Card Brand Fee
AP IASF Enhanced Pass through Card Brand Fee
AP IASF II Pass through Card Brand Fee
AP IASF III Pass through Card Brand Fee
Dom Auth Verification Pass through Card Brand Fee
MASTERCARD®️*
Network Access Usage Fee (NABU) Pass through Card Brand Fee
Cross-Border Fee Domestic & Foreign Pass through Card Brand Fee
Acquirers Program Support Fee Pass through Card Brand Fee
Acquirer License Fee Pass through Card Brand Fee
Acc Status Inq SVC Intraregional $0.10
Acc Status Inq SVC Interregional $0.10
Processing Integrity Fee $0.10
Digital Enablement Fee Pass through Card Brand Fee
Global Wholesale Travel B2B Fee 1.99%
Annual Merchant Location Fee $5.80
Annual Payment Facilitator Merchant Location Fee $5.80
Assessment Fee Pass through Card Brand Fee
Acquirer Brand Volume Above 1000 Pass through Card Brand Fee
Acquirer License Fee Pass through Card Brand Fee
ASIS Pass through Card Brand Fee
AVS Card Present or CNP $0.10000
DISCOVER®️*
Data Usage Fee Pass through Card Brand Fee
International Processing Fee Pass through Card Brand Fee
International Service Fee Pass through Card Brand Fee
Assessment Fee Pass through Card Brand Fee
Intl SVC – Cash Pass through Card Brand Fee
Intl SVC – Sales Pass through Card Brand Fee
Surcharge Fees
Credit Surcharge Discount Rate 3.99%
Debit Surcharge Discount Rate Pass through + .399%
Surcharge Technology Fee $39.99
Software Fees
Mobile Setup Fee $15
Wireless/Mobile Transaction Fee $0.05
Wireless/Mobile Monthly Fee $10
Quickbooks Plugin Monthly $10

*“Pass Through” is a direct pass through of the card brand fees which are available by clicking the below interchange links.
MasterCard Interchange Rates
Visa Interchange Rates

Schedule of Rates and Fees v. 2022-05-01

Prohibited & Restricted Merchants Download PDF