Many people who run alternative businesses (those that don’t take place in a storefront, for example) have already discovered the joys of mobile solutions for accepting credit card payments on the go, sans the hassle of having to haul around and hook up a card reader. Square is probably the most popular program to date since all users have to do is download the app and jack a tiny square of hardware into their iPhones (to swipe cards). With a flat fee for transactions, a feature that links to business bank accounts to make deposits, and the ability to send receipts via email, this application offers mobile businesses the ability to take credit card payments where before they may have been cash-only operations. But if you’re looking to take the next step when it comes to mobile payment solutions for your iPhone, it’s time to turn your attention to Flint, which may have a lot more to offer.

To begin with, this app is free to download and it comes with no attendant hardware. You no longer have to bother with swiping a card when you use Flint; all you need to do is use your built-in camera to capture an image of the credit card number (provided it is a Visa or MasterCard since these are the only two credit institutions supported by the app). And if customers are worried about security, you can inform them that the image is not saved to your phone or the app. It is sent directly to banking partners, along with the CVV code, expiration date, and of course, a customer signature, after which the image is deleted. From there you will be charged a small fee per transaction (1.95% + $0.20 for debit and $2.95% + $0.20 for credit), the money will go into your account within two business days, and you can send your client a receipt via email.

But there’s a lot more to this handy app than simply taking payments. You can start by personalizing your receipts (to feature your logo, for example), and creating menus of pre-set items for purchase. If you are an in-home nail specialist or massage therapist, for example, you might create a list of services to select from for quick and easy billing. Or if you sell pottery at local craft fairs you can enter items like bowls, mugs, and so on beforehand to make transactions more expedient. You can also include items like tips, taxes, and even discounts to tack on. And if you need to review the charges with your clients or customers, simply double click an item to see details like base price, tax, and tip. There’s also a void options to remove accidental or erroneous charges.

In addition, you’ll no doubt enjoy the social media connectivity that helps you to market your business and improve customer relations. The online portal feature ostensibly allows you to view your transaction history and access reports. But you’ll also save email addresses of customers when you send their receipts and you can add this information to your mailing list for future marketing efforts. And thanks to integration with Facebook, customers will be prompted to review, like, or share with every receipt you send them. If you’re tired of getting the same, high-priced, familiar quotes from companies offering you credit card readers or other solutions for your alternative business, don’t hesitate to try Flint for free and see what the app has to offer. You’re sure to get hooked when you realize just how simple and functional this application is.

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