Merchant Services
Get paid faster - with rates you can actually understand
Most payment processors make their money on confusion. Complicated fee structures, bundled costs, and flat rates that quietly take more than their fair share - especially as your business grows. We do things differently. As your accounting and bookkeeping partner, we understand how processing costs flow through your financials. That's why we've partnered with Helcim to bring you merchant processing that's built around transparency, simplicity, and real savings.
Who This Is For:
- Retail stores and storefronts accepting in-person card payments
- Service-based businesses (contractors, consultants, salons, clinics)
- E-commerce and online businesses selling goods or digital products
- Fast-growing businesses whose processing volume is increasing
- Nonprofits accepting cards or ACH for donations
Why Choose This Service
No monthly fees — ever
No long-term contracts or cancellation fees
Transparent, Interchange-Plus pricing
Rates that automatically decrease as you grow
Seamlessly reconciled with your bookkeeping
Accept cards, ACH, Apple Pay & Google Pay
Online invoicing and recurring billing included
Apply in minutes — no paperwork
Save up to 40% vs. flat-rate processors
What's Included
Transparent, Interchange-Plus Pricing
You pay the actual wholesale cost of each transaction, plus a small, clearly disclosed markup — nothing more. Unlike flat-rate processors, interchange-plus pricing passes the real cost of the transaction directly to you, so you're not subsidizing the processor's margin on every swipe.
No Monthly Fees. No Contracts. No Surprises.
There are no setup fees or monthly charges for accepting payments. You only pay for what you process. And there are no contracts or cancellation fees — because we believe you should stay because the service is good, not because you're locked in.
Rates That Decrease As You Grow
Volume discounts activate automatically each month based on your processing activity — no negotiation, no custom contracts required. The more you process, the less you pay per transaction.
Integrated With Your Accounting
Because we'd love to manage your bookkeeping in-house, we can make sure your processing activity is properly categorized, reconciled, and reflected in your financial statements every month. One relationship, fully connected.
Guided Onboarding From a Trusted Advisor
You won't be handed off to a call center. We'll walk you through setup, help you understand your statement, and make sure the solution fits your business — just like we do with every service we offer.
Everything You Need to Get Paid
Accept credit cards, debit cards, and ACH payments. Tools include online invoicing, a virtual terminal for phone or keyed orders, recurring billing, and the ability to accept contactless payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay. Powered by Helcim.
Optional Add-ons
Business Tax Prep + Filing
Done-for-you business tax prep and filing services that keep your company compliant, maximize savings, and provide clear guidance.
Nonprofit Tax Prep + Filing
Nonprofit done-for-you tax prep and filing services for IRS 990-series returns, ensuring compliance while highlighting impact.
Bookkeeping & Accounting
Reliable bookkeeping and accounting services for businesses and nonprofits, helping you stay organized and make informed decisions.
Payroll Services
Reliable payroll services for businesses and nonprofits, ensuring accurate employee payments and tax compliance.
Tax Relief & Resolution
Each year, millions of taxpayers receive letters or notices from the IRS. If it requires attention, Financial Umbrella can help.
New Business Formations
Helping entrepreneurs and business owners launch new businesses and nonprofits with streamlined formation services.
State Sales Tax Filings
Take the hassle out of sales tax filing by ensuring accurate, on-time compliance with state and local regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply?
Go to our exclusive link through our merchant services partner, Helcim. The application is completed online and you can sign up directly from your phone or computer without filling out lengthy contract paperwork.
Do I have to be an existing Portside client?
Not at all. This service is available to any qualifying small business. That said, existing clients benefit from seamless integration with their bookkeeping and financial reporting.
How is this different from Square or Stripe?
Those processors use flat-rate pricing, which is simple but often more expensive — especially as your volume grows. Our processing uses interchange-plus pricing, which passes you the actual wholesale cost of each transaction plus a transparent markup. Most businesses save 20–40% compared to flat-rate processors.
Is there a monthly fee to use this service?
No. There are no monthly fees, setup fees, or cancellation fees. You only pay a small percentage per transaction processed.
Portside Tax and Accounting is an independent accounting firm partnered with Helcim Inc. to refer merchant processing services. Helcim provides all payment processing services directly to approved merchants under its own terms and conditions. Portside Tax and Accounting does not provide merchant processing services, hold client funds, or act as a financial institution. All merchant account approvals, rates, and payment systems are subject to Helcim’s underwriting policies and compliance requirements.
Professional Resources
Our services are designed to meet professional standards and regulatory requirements. For additional information about tax compliance and best practices, we recommend consulting:
- Internal Revenue Service (IRS) - Official tax information and forms
- American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) - Professional accounting standards
- Small Business Administration (SBA) - Business compliance resources
- IRS Exempt Organizations - Nonprofit tax requirements