Monthly Processing Statement Fees Explained (And Why Most Are Predatory) Shark Processing, Zen Payments, Revolve, and High Wire Payments: Which One Is The Best?
Ever look at your merchant processing statement and think: what is all this stuff? From IRS fees to PCI penalties and “monitoring” fees, some processors make a killing on line items you barely understand. Here’s a full breakdown of what those charges really mean — and how High Wire Payments does it better with flat, honest pricing.
Table of Contents
- What Is the IRS Annual Fee?
- What Is the Monthly Fee?
- What Is PCI Compliance / Non-Compliance?
- What Is CBD Monitoring?
- What Is Website Monitoring?
- What Is Monthly Online Access?
- What Is an AVS Transaction Fee?
- Fee Comparison + Proof
- Frequently Asked Questions
Fee Comparison + Proof
Below are direct screenshots from competitors like Revolve, Zen Payments, and Shark Processing — showing just how many hidden fees can stack up.
How to find the processing rate:
On each statement, scroll to the “Plan Summary” section. Look for the line labeled Disc %. The number after that is the actual processing rate being charged.
Zen Payments Statement — Monthly Fees
Zen Payments Statement — Processing Rate
Revolve Statement — Monthly Fees
Revolve Statement — Processing Rate
Shark Processing — Monthly Fees
Shark Processing — Processing Rate
Processor Fee Comparison
| Feature | Shark | Zen | Revolve | High Wire |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Processing Rate | 4.99% + $0.15 | 3.95% + $0.15 | 6.95% + $0.15 | 1.50% + $0.10 |
| Monthly Fee | $49.00 | $125.00 | $115.00 | $25.00 |
| PCI Program | $5.95 | $5.95 | $15.00 | Included |
| Website Monitoring | $15.00 | $0.00 | $15.00 | Included |
| CBD Monitoring | $50.00 | $50.00 | $50.00 | Included |
| AVS Fee | $0.10 | $0.10 | $0.10 | Included |
| Non-PCI Compliance Fee | $25.00 | $25.00 | $25.00 | $25.00 |
| Risk Compliance | $50.00 | $0.00 | $50.00 | $0.00 |
What Is the IRS Annual Fee?
This fee covers IRS-mandated 1099-K reporting. It’s typically small ($1.95) but sometimes inflated or hidden among other charges.
What Is the Monthly Fee?
This should be a basic admin fee — but often acts as a cover charge before more junk gets tacked on. High Wire Payments keeps it simple: one flat $25 monthly fee, all-in.
What Is PCI Compliance or Non-Compliance?
If you’re not certified as PCI-compliant, many providers charge $25/month penalties. Even if you are compliant, they may charge $5.95–$15/month for their “PCI Program.” Either way, it’s a cash grab.
What Is CBD Monitoring?
For CBD and other high-risk industries, some processors tack on “monitoring” fees (like $50/month) just for labeling your business type. High Wire Payments charges zero industry-specific junk fees.
What Is Website Monitoring?
This $15/month fee claims to verify your website for compliance. In practice, it’s usually automated — and unnecessary. High Wire Payments doesn’t charge it, period.
What Is the Monthly Online Access Fee?
Yes, they really charge $10–$20/month just to access your own statements. High Wire Payments provides full access without extra charges.
What Is the AVS Transaction Fee?
AVS (Address Verification Service) helps fight fraud — useful, yes — but often monetized as a per-transaction charge. AVS fees happen per each transaction and can quickly add up. Make sure your AVS fee is under $0.15.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it so difficult to get a merchant account for high-risk businesses?
Standard processors avoid industries like CBD, credit repair, kratom, and more. Leah with High Wire Payments specializes in getting you approved even when others won’t.
Why can’t I just use PayPal or Stripe?
These platforms suspend high-risk accounts without warning. Using them puts your income and business at risk.
How long does the approval process take?
Typically 24–72 hours with complete documentation.
Do you charge for PCI compliance?
No. We don’t penalize your business with unnecessary compliance fees. We’ll guide you through certification if needed.
Do you offer custom pricing?
Yes! We tailor rates based on your monthly volume and risk profile — all transparent, no contracts.