Paul Smith

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About Paul Smith

Paul Smith is a payments expert with over a decade of experience underwriting, procuring, and advancing the payments industry. Having been on-the-ground in the past getting high-risk merchants approved, he has invaluable payment industry knowledge.

Articles by Paul Smith

Healthcare provider preparing for a virtual consultation with a patient
Before You Apply: A Complete Telehealth Merchant Account Opening Checklist

Telehealth is no longer a niche corner of healthcare, but a core means by which patients receive care. From virtual doctor visits to online therapy and digital prescriptions, telehealth businesses are processing more payments than ever.

Customer completing a transaction with their credit card.
Most Common Reasons Credit Repair Merchant Accounts Get Declined

If you're a credit repair business looking to secure a proper merchant account, chances are you understand how difficult the underwriting process can be. Payment processors (and their accompanying banks) tend to reject credit repair businesses applying for specialized merchant accounts because of the inherent high risk, both in processing and in action.

A stack of tobacco cigars
Best Tobacco Merchant Account Providers in 2025

Tobacco merchants experience more difficulties than many other industries when it comes to payment processing. Card networks view tobacco businesses similarly to cannabis shops, with age restrictions, higher-than-average chargeback rates, and regulatory scrutiny that comes with selling a restricted product.

A travel agent holding two passports in front of clients at a desk.
The 8 Best Travel Merchant Account Providers in 2025

Here’s a look at the eight best travel merchant account providers in 2025 and what makes each one worth considering. Choosing wisely could mean the difference between a smooth takeoff and a turbulent year for your business.

A peptide bottle and a credit card.
Peptide Merchant Account Guide: Secure High-Risk Payments

This guide is the complete rundown on peptide merchant accounts: what they're all about, why they're so tricky, and how to find a payment processor that actually works for your business.

Customer using their phone to explore payment options.
Best CBD Merchant Account Providers in 2025

Your business is as niche as your product. To succeed, you need a payment processing platform with unique features and few holdups. This is where finding a CBD payment processor, like us at Adaptiv Payments, is essential.

Visa VAMP Program
Understanding the Visa VAMP: Key Insights and Impacts for Merchants

Visa’s Acquirer Monitoring Program (VAMP), also known as the Visa Vamp, is a key tool for managing fraud and disputes. In 2025, big changes are coming for merchants and acquirers. Learn what these changes are and why you need to stay informed to stay compliant and avoid penalties.

hemp plant that delta 8 can be derived from
Choosing the Right Delta 8 Merchant Account for Your Business

Discover how to select the best Delta 8 merchant account for your business needs. Make informed decisions and optimize your payment processing today!