GoKawiilReport: US merchants paid record $198.25 billion in card processing fees in 2025
A Nilson Report analysis cited by the Merchants Payments Coalition shows US merchants paid $198.25 billion in credit and debit card processing fees in 2025, up from $62.1 billion in 2009. A former payments executive argues that card network interchange rates have barely risen over that period, meaning processor markups and add-on fees account for most of the increase. The piece lists five questions merchants should ask processors in writing before signing a contract.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The widening gap between flat network interchange rates and soaring total fees suggests much of merchants' card-processing costs come from negotiable markups rather than fixed network pricing, according to the author's industry experience. This could give small businesses leverage to cut costs simply by demanding transparency before signing contracts, though actual savings would depend on individual negotiations with processors.
- US merchant card fees hit $198.25 billion in 2025, up 219% since 2009.
- Visa and Mastercard's top interchange rates have risen only slightly over 17 years.
- A former processing executive says most overpayment comes from processor markups that can be negotiated.
Source: entrepreneur.com — Robert L. Day, 2026-10-09
Published there as: “5 Things to Ask Your Credit Card Processor Before Signing a Contract”
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