CBD & Hemp Merchant Processing Solutions
The CBD and hemp industry represents one of the fastest-growing sectors in the U.S. economy, with projected sales exceeding $20 billion by 2025. However, despite the 2018 Farm Bill legalizing hemp-derived CBD products containing less than 0.3% THC, payment processing remains a significant challenge for businesses in this space. HighRiskChamps specializes in providing reliable, compliant merchant processing solutions specifically designed for CBD and hemp businesses of all sizes.
Why CBD & Hemp Businesses Are Considered High-Risk
Understanding why CBD businesses face payment processing challenges is crucial for finding the right solution:
- Regulatory Complexity: Varying state laws and FDA regulations create a complex legal landscape
- Banking Restrictions: Many financial institutions remain hesitant due to federal banking regulations
- Reputational Risk: Banks worry about association with cannabis-related businesses
- Higher Chargeback Rates: Industry average chargebacks exceed 0.9%, above standard thresholds
- Age Restrictions: Products require age verification and compliance monitoring
- Product Claims: Health benefit claims can trigger FDA scrutiny and processor concerns
Types of CBD & Hemp Businesses We Serve
Retail & E-commerce
- CBD oil retailers
- Hemp product stores
- Online CBD marketplaces
- Dispensaries (hemp-only)
- Health and wellness shops
Manufacturing & Wholesale
- CBD oil manufacturers
- Hemp processors
- White label producers
- B2B distributors
- Private label brands
Specialty Products
- CBD edibles and gummies
- Topical creams and lotions
- Pet CBD products
- CBD vape products
- Hemp clothing and textiles
Services & Ancillary
- CBD subscription boxes
- Hemp farming operations
- CBD testing laboratories
- Industry consulting
- CBD affiliate programs
Our Comprehensive CBD Payment Solutions
1. Multiple Payment Options
- Credit/Debit Card Processing: Accept all major cards with secure, PCI-compliant processing
- ACH & eCheck: Lower-cost alternatives for regular customers and B2B transactions
- Mobile Payments: Accept payments via mobile devices for trade shows and events
- Cryptocurrency: Optional crypto payment acceptance for tech-savvy customers
- Buy Now, Pay Later: Installment payment options to increase average order value
2. E-commerce Integration
Seamless integration with popular platforms:
- Shopify (with CBD-friendly payment gateway)
- WooCommerce
- BigCommerce
- Custom API integration
- Shopping cart plugins
- Subscription billing for recurring orders
3. Risk Management & Compliance
- Age Verification: Integrated age verification systems to ensure compliance
- Fraud Prevention: AI-powered fraud detection specifically trained on CBD transaction patterns
- Chargeback Management: Proactive alerts and dispute resolution support
- Compliance Monitoring: Regular reviews to ensure adherence to changing regulations
- Document Management: Secure storage of licenses, lab reports, and compliance documents
Industry-Specific Features
CBD Business Advantages with HighRiskChamps
✓ No Volume Caps
Process unlimited transactions without monthly limits
✓ Domestic & Offshore Options
Multiple acquiring bank relationships for stability
✓ Dedicated Account Manager
Industry expert assigned to your account
✓ Fast Funding
Next-day or even same-day funding available
Compliance & Legal Considerations
What We Require:
- Valid business license and EIN
- Certificate of Analysis (COA) for products
- Proof of hemp source (2018 Farm Bill compliant)
- Product labels and marketing materials
- Business bank account statements (3-6 months)
- Processing history (if applicable)
What We DON'T Support:
- Products with >0.3% THC content
- Marijuana or cannabis products (non-hemp)
- Unsubstantiated medical claims
- Sales to minors
- Synthetic cannabinoids
Pricing & Rates for CBD Businesses
Our transparent pricing structure for CBD merchant accounts:
| Processing Volume | Rate | Transaction Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Up to $50,000/month | 3.5% - 4.5% | $0.25 - $0.35 |
| $50,000 - $250,000/month | 2.9% - 3.9% | $0.20 - $0.30 |
| $250,000+/month | Custom rates available | Negotiable |
*Rates depend on business type, processing history, and risk assessment
Success Stories
Case Study: Online CBD Retailer
A CBD oil e-commerce store came to us after being dropped by their processor. We provided:
- • Same-day approval and setup
- • 40% reduction in processing fees
- • Chargeback rate reduced from 1.2% to 0.6%
- • Increased approval rates by 15%
Getting Started: Our Simple Process
- Application: Complete our simple online application (5 minutes)
- Document Review: Submit required compliance documents
- Underwriting: Our team reviews within 24 hours
- Approval: Receive approval and merchant account details
- Integration: Our tech team helps with setup (same day)
- Processing: Start accepting payments immediately
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I get approved if I've been declined elsewhere?
A: Yes! We have a 99% approval rate for CBD businesses and specialize in previously declined merchants.
Q: How quickly can I start processing?
A: Most CBD businesses are approved within 24 hours and can start processing the same day.
Q: Do you hold reserves?
A: Reserve requirements vary by business. New businesses may have a 5-10% rolling reserve for the first 6 months.
Q: Can I process both online and in-store?
A: Yes! We provide omnichannel solutions for CBD businesses including e-commerce, retail POS, and mobile payments.
Payment Solutions
Specialized services for cbd & hemp businesses:
- High-Risk Merchant Accounts
- Payment Gateway Integration
- Chargeback Prevention
- Multi-Currency Processing
- Virtual Terminal
- Recurring Billing