01 / Provider comparison
Put the same questions
in front of every provider.
Capture written answers and conditions before comparing offers. This is an information-gathering worksheet, not a provider ranking, eligibility test or approval decision.
Status key: U = Unanswered · R = Needs review · W = Confirmed in writing.
Use W only after reviewing a written answer covering the criterion. A written limitation or “no” can still be W. Record the document, date and important conditions beneath each status.
| Criterion & questions to resolve | Provider A ________________ | Provider B ________________ | Provider C ________________ |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 Business eligibility Business, use case, customer locations, expected volume, review and documents. | U / R / WEvidence / conditions: | U / R / WEvidence / conditions: | U / R / WEvidence / conditions: |
| 02 Complete fees & contract All transaction and service fees, minimums, return costs, renewal and cancellation. | U / R / WEvidence / conditions: | U / R / WEvidence / conditions: | U / R / WEvidence / conditions: |
| 03 Funding & returns Cutoffs, settlement, availability, holds, limits, returns and repayment obligations. | U / R / WEvidence / conditions: | U / R / WEvidence / conditions: | U / R / WEvidence / conditions: |
| 04 Authorization & verification Authorization, retained evidence, required validation, revocation and changes. | U / R / WEvidence / conditions: | U / R / WEvidence / conditions: | U / R / WEvidence / conditions: |
| 05 Technical fit & reporting Checkout or invoices, recurring billing, status updates, reconciliation and testing. | U / R / WEvidence / conditions: | U / R / WEvidence / conditions: | U / R / WEvidence / conditions: |
| 06 Support & accountability Onboarding owner, funding and return escalation, hours, channels and responsibilities. | U / R / WEvidence / conditions: | U / R / WEvidence / conditions: | U / R / WEvidence / conditions: |
Count written answers, not “wins.” More documentation does not establish better terms or a better provider. Review the actual conditions and identify unresolved tradeoffs.
02 / Setup checklist
Prepare the questions.
Then prepare the process.
Use this checklist to organize a provider conversation. Required documents, controls and permissions depend on your business and proposed arrangement. Checking a box does not mean an account is approved.
A. Define the payment use case
B. Gather the provider’s requirements
C. Establish the operating controls
D. Verify the workflow before launch
This worksheet is educational. It does not replace your provider’s agreement, applicable network rules or advice tailored to your business.