ALOA Newsletter

Doctors at the ALOA Ophthalmic Procedures Course Excited about the Future of Optometry

The ALOA's sold out Ophthalmic Procedure Course was held this past weekend. The 32 hour course was taught by faculty from the Northeastern State University Oklahoma College of Optometry (NSUOCO).

Important Update on Credit Card Surcharging Rules

We were recently alerted that the credit card companies have tightened their oversight of surcharging programs. The use of secret shoppers is one method being used to monitor merchant compliance with surcharge requirements. Merchants that do not adhere to the surcharging rules may be fined up to $50,000 for a first offense.

The article below reviews the five rules all surcharge programs must follow - including giving advanced notice to your credit card companies. Credit card surcharges are allowed in Alabama. If you are currently collecting a surcharge or are considering doing so, please read this article for further details.

THANK YOU TO OUR 2022 ALOPAC CONTRIBUTORS!

Are You Getting a Good Deal with Your Payment Processor?

Of everything that goes into running an optometry practice, it’s easy to take processing and accepting credit card payments for granted. But not all payment processors are created equally—a quick check now can save you money and time down the road.

Here are three things to keep an eye out for:

Teaser Rates—Processors often offer low rates off the bat, but be wary of rates that jump up after a certain time period. And make sure your quoted rate applies to all cards your patients might use for payment, including rewards credit cards.

Fees—You might have a good rate on paper, but excess fees can quickly add up. Be on the lookout for set-up fees, compliance fees, annual fees, chargeback fees, batch fees, and similar.

Contract—Before you sign any contract, make sure you know the full details, including duration and whether you can cancel without an expensive penalty.

AOA Excel’s preferred payment processor is Chase. Chase offers negotiated low rates and won’t charge excess fees. AOA Members can take advantage of this deal along with 24/7 in-house customer support—have your questions answered and find out how Chase payment processing can benefit you at aoa.org/paymentprocessing.

PO Box 240907 • Montgomery, AL 36124-0907