High-risk card payments — clear routes to approval, realistic pricing, and the right provider fit
If you’ve been declined by standard providers, or you’re operating in a sector that needs specialist underwriting, we help you understand what’s required and introduce you to suitable payment providers. Straightforward guidance, clear next steps, and support through onboarding.
Who this page is for
“High-risk” doesn’t mean anything is wrong — it usually means a provider needs more information, extra controls, or a different underwriting approach. This is typically relevant if you’ve been declined, you process subscriptions, you’re in a regulated category, or your chargeback/refund exposure is higher than average.
Declined by a mainstream provider
We help you understand why and identify a route that’s more likely to be approved.
Subscription or recurring billing
Recurring models often need stronger policies and proof of delivery to reduce disputes.
Regulated / specialist sectors
Some categories require extra documentation, compliance checks, and tailored underwriting.
Cross-border or higher-value orders
International traffic and high AOV can change risk scoring and approval requirements.
What we assess (and why it matters)
High-risk approvals are usually won or lost on clarity. We help you present your business properly and match you with providers that underwrite your model — rather than forcing a bad fit.
Business & trading model
- What you sell and how you fulfil / deliver
- Billing model (one-off, subscription, deposits, pre-orders)
- Customer locations (UK / international)
- Projected turnover, average transaction value, seasonality
Risk indicators providers care about
- Refund policy clarity and expected refund rates
- Chargeback exposure and dispute handling
- Delivery timelines and proof of delivery
- Website clarity (T&Cs, contact details, policies)
Fees, reserves & contract terms
- How pricing is structured (rate, monthly fees, rolling reserve)
- Reserve type (rolling / capped / upfront) and release schedules
- Settlement times and funding timelines
- Contract length, termination terms and exit fees
Compliance & documentation
- KYC checks (directors, shareholders, business verification)
- Evidence of supply chain, licensing (where applicable)
- Processing history (statements) if you have it
- Risk controls (fraud prevention, customer support process)
How the high-risk process works
High-risk onboarding is usually more detailed — we keep it structured so you don’t waste time with providers that can’t approve you.
Quick discovery
We confirm your model, projected volumes, payment method (online / in-person), and any previous declines.
Provider match
We identify suitable providers and explain what they’re likely to require — including any reserves or conditions.
Application support
We help you prepare documents and reduce back-and-forth, improving the chance of a smooth approval.
What to prepare (to speed up approval)
Having these ready reduces delays and makes underwriting easier. Don’t worry if you don’t have everything — we’ll advise what’s essential.
High-risk payments FAQs
Why was I declined by a standard provider?
Declines can happen due to category risk, limited processing history, website/policy issues, high projected volumes, or risk scoring. We’ll help pinpoint the likely reason and the best route forward.
What is a rolling reserve?
A rolling reserve is a percentage of transactions held for a period to cover chargebacks and refunds. It’s common in higher-risk models and varies by provider.
Do high-risk accounts cost more?
Often yes — because the provider is taking on higher exposure. The key is finding pricing and terms that are realistic for your business model and growth plans.
Can you guarantee approval?
No — approvals are always at the provider’s discretion. What we can do is match you with providers that underwrite your type of business and help you present the right information clearly.