The method
How it is worked out
Interchange-plus = interchange + processor markup; Blended = one rate over everything
- interchange
- Set by card networks, paid to the issuing bank
- markup
- What the processor keeps
Interchange Plus Calculator
Work out what your processor adds on top of interchange, and whether a blended rate or interchange-plus is cheaper for your card mix. The result updates as you type so you can compare scenarios quickly.
Keep in mind
What it leaves out
- Scheme feesCard-scheme assessments add a few basis points not shown here.
- DowngradesKeyed and unqualified transactions attract higher interchange.
- Monthly minimumsSome interchange-plus contracts carry a monthly minimum.
Use the calculator to compare scenarios rather than as a guaranteed forecast.
About the Interchange Plus Calculator
See what your processor adds on top of the card network's interchange fee, and whether interchange-plus or a single blended rate is cheaper for your card mix. Blended rates are simple; interchange-plus shows you the margin.
How it works and an example to tryShow less
How to use the result
Interchange-plus costs are interchange (percentage plus fixed) and the processor's markup (percentage plus fixed), applied to sales and transaction count. The blended alternative applies one rate and one fixed fee. The tool compares totals and shows the processor's margin.
Example to try
£60,000 of sales, 1,500 transactions, interchange 0.6% + 10p, markup 0.3% + 10p: interchange-plus costs £840. A blended 1.4% + 20p costs £1,140. Interchange-plus saves £3,600 a year and reveals a £330 monthly margin to negotiate.
Put it to work
Try it on a real situation
Load an example
What moves the result most
Worked out from your figures above. Tap a row to try it.
Who uses it, and when
Growing merchants above roughly £20,000 a month in card sales, finance managers reviewing acquiring contracts and anyone who has been offered a blended rate without a breakdown.
Mistakes worth avoiding
- Assuming a low blended rate is cheap without knowing your interchange.
- Comparing on credit-card assumptions when most of your sales are debit.
- Missing scheme fees and monthly minimums in an interchange-plus contract.
Questions
What does the Interchange Plus Calculator do?
Work out what your processor adds on top of interchange, and whether a blended rate or interchange-plus is cheaper for your card mix.
How should I use the result?
Interchange-plus costs are interchange (percentage plus fixed) and the processor's markup (percentage plus fixed), applied to sales and transaction count. The blended alternative applies one rate and one fixed fee. The tool compares totals and shows the processor's margin.
Does TechBullion store the information I enter?
The core calculation or transformation runs in your browser. Normal website security and analytics may still record page-level events, but the tool does not need to create a public record from your inputs.
What mistakes do people make with an interchange plus calculator?
Assuming a low blended rate is cheap without knowing your interchange. Comparing on credit-card assumptions when most of your sales are debit. Missing scheme fees and monthly minimums in an interchange-plus contract.
Is the result guaranteed?
No. Use the result as a practical check or planning aid and verify important decisions with the relevant primary source, provider or professional advice.
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Results are estimates based on the figures entered, for general information only, and not financial, investment, tax or legal advice. See our terms of use.